Marrying the Matchmaker

About the Book:

Marrying the Matchmaker (A Shanahan Match Book #4)

Title: Marrying the Matchmaker
Series: A Shanahan Match Book #4
Author: Jody Hedlund
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
Release Date: February 3rd, 2026
Genre: Historical Romance

As the middle child of the Shanahan family, Zaira does her best to keep the peace. She doesn’t share her dream of becoming a published author with her family to spare herself their disapproval. When she’s caught in a scandal involving the local matchmaker, Bellamy McKenna, she must put her storytelling ability to good use and feign a match with him to avoid wagging tongues and her parents’ anger.

Feeling the growing pressure to marry as a well-known, yet single matchmaker to St. Louis’s Irish community, Bellamy reluctantly agrees to a temporary match with Zaira. But even though the matchmakers in his family might be able to find love for others, they have a history of disastrous relationships for themselves. When secrets and danger force Zaira and Bellamy to work together, is it finally the matchmaker’s turn to be lucky in love?

Hedlund delivers another captivating romance with sizzling chemistry in this romantic conclusion to her beloved matchmaking series.

Book Review:

I can’t believe that this series has come to an end. This might be my favorite in the series. Marrying the Matchmaker is the fourth and final book in Jody Hedlund’s A Shanahan Match series. I loved the banter and chemistry between Zaira and Bellamy.

I wasn’t exactly sure what to expect since there was still so much we didn’t know about Zaira and Bellamy but they were a perfect fit. They got on each other’s nerves at times but they also wanted what was best for the other. I loved the progression of their relationship and reading about them falling for each other. They were attracted to each other, but as they spent time together they saw the other’s kind heart and values.

Both Bellamy and Zaira had some growing to do. They had some secrets they were keeping, some that they were keeping together. They had to figure out if they were going to choose truth and if a relationship could truly work. I loved the growth that they showed throughout the book as they learned to come to terms with what they truly wanted for the future. The romance was perfect, they definitely had sparks.

I liked the progression of the story and I didn’t want to put it down. The side characters were sweet, it was cool to see more of Bellamy’s family. I loved how Zaira and Bellamy came together to help children. I am excited to see what Hedlund will write next.

I would totally recommend this book! Marrying the Matchmaker is a closed door inspirational historical romance.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher through Netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

Love in the Saddle

About the Book:

Love in the Saddle (Christmas at Coldwater Creek Book 7)

Title: Love in the Saddle
Series: Christmas at Coldwater Creek #7
Author: Britney M. Mills
Release Date: December 9th 2024
Genre: Contemporary Romance

In the charming town of Coldwater Creek, two former rodeo stars discover that sometimes the greatest adventures lead you back home.

Holly Ashton thought the holidays back in Coldwater Creek would help her figure out her next steps. Missing the NFR finals for the first time in years has left her questioning if she’s ready to hang up her hat—or take one last shot at barrel racing glory. But as Christmas lights twinkle and the small town buzzes with festive cheer, she’s reminded of everything she’s been missing on the road: family, stability, and maybe even love.

Hunter McBride traded the fast-paced rodeo circuit for the steady rhythm of a woodworking shop. Building furniture and helping the town prepare for its first Christmas market feels more rewarding than he ever expected. But seeing Holly again stirs up old feelings—and the realization that she’s the one he’s always wanted.

As Holly and Hunter team up to bring holiday magic to the market, their connection deepens. But with Holly eyeing a return to the circuit and Hunter rooted in Coldwater Creek, their dreams may be pulling them in opposite directions.

Can they find a way to chase their hearts without losing themselves—or each other—this Christmas?

Book Review:

Another lovely Christmas romance in the Coldwater Creek series! I have been enjoying getting to know the families and to see the continuing story.

Holly was a fun narrator! I loved her passion and determination. She had been at the top of her game for so long, but was no longer seeing the results she wanted. She had to discover what her next steps were. All around her were friends and family at a different life stage. What did she really want for the next stage of her life? I felt like her struggle was really realistic and I felt for her.

Hunter was sweet! I admired his dedication to his work and how willing he was to support the town. He was content with where he was, but did feel the changes that were happening around him. He and Colter had a close relationship and as Colter was considering changes, it shook him a bit. Holly also changed things for him and he was suddenly wondering what a relationship might look like.

I liked seeing them get together. They had to work together throughout the book and they got to see each other’s strengths. It was sweet to see their families as well! Both had support from them and I liked getting to see old characters again! This is a sweet holiday romance that has only kissing. It is part of a series, but can be read as a standalone.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.

Jingle Blades

About the Book:

Jingle Blades: A Sweet Christmas Romantic Comedy (The Peppermint Playbook)

Title: Jingle Blades
Series: The Peppermint Playbook #1
Author: Tomi Tabb
Release Date: November 5th, 2025
Genre: Romantic Comedy

Six athletes are about to find love this Christmas at the Mynt Peak Resort….

US National Figure Skating Champion Chloe Reynolds arrives at the picturesque Mynt Peak Resort for a charity event. Love? It’s definitely not on her radar. After all, Chloe’s track record with romance is… nonexistent. Over the years, she’s learned that the only person she can truly count on is herself.

Still, a tiny, hopeful part of her secretly wonders if she might catch a glimpse of Drew Sullivan, her best friend Emma’s older brother and the subject of her unrequited crush. He’s never noticed her, and frankly, it’s probably for the best.

Drew Sullivan is trying to get back on his feet. Laid off from his marketing job and living at home, he’s hit an all time low as the delivery guy for his parent’s floral shop. When he finds himself fixing an aquarium at Mynt Peak Resort as a favor to his sister (and a certain suspiciously floaty fish), the last person he expects to literally come crashing into him around the corner is Chloe.

She’s still the talented skater he remembers—smart, breathtakingly beautiful, and utterly out of his league. But when he receives an unexpected invitation to spend some time with Chloe enjoying some tasty peppermint hot chocolates, and a little playful interference from Emma, sparks begin to fly.

Could this be the beginning of a holiday romance neither of them saw coming?

Book Review:

I thought this novella was so adorable! I really loved seeing Chloe and Drew come together and support each other.

I sympathized with Chloe. She was dealing with a lot of imposter syndrome, and she also had been alone a lot of her life. I really loved her relationship with Emma and how they cared for one another. I need Emma to have her own book! But it was sweet to see how Drew came in the picture and really showed up for Chloe as well. But at the same time, Chloe had to learn confidence in herself and being okay with who she was.

I thought Drew was really sweet! He was not where he wanted to be in life, and he was trying to work through that. I liked getting to see him flourish. Even though his romance with Chloe was fast, I felt like it fit both of the characters. They had always liked each other, but they needed this push with some Christmas magic to truly see each other. This was a quick and cute read that I would totally recommend!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.

Calculated Risk

About the Book:

Calculated Risk: A Christian Romantic Suspense (Black Tower Security Book 5)

Title: Calculated Risk
Series: Black Tower Security #5
Author: Tara Grace Ericson
Release Date: January 12th, 2026
Genre: Romantic Christian Suspense

She trusts the numbers. He trusts no one. Now their second chance could cost them everything.

Norah Winslow built her life on precision and loyalty. As a senior analyst at Summit Capital, she believes numbers never lie—until her findings point to corruption tied to the highest levels of power. Determined to protect the mentor who gave her a career, Norah refuses to walk away… even when it makes her a target.

Marshall Kelley hasn’t forgiven the woman who broke his heart. As a Black Tower Security operative, he lives by one rule: keep control. But when Norah’s digging puts her in the Syndicate’s crosshairs, Marshall can’t let her face the danger alone.

Drawn into a web of betrayal, war profiteering, and deadly secrets, Norah and Marshall must work together to expose the truth. But old wounds, unhealed faith, and an unseen enemy threaten to tear them apart.

Can they risk trusting each other—and God—for a love strong enough to survive the fight?

Book Review:

Oh my goodness, this book was so exciting! I was on the edge of my seat, I didn’t know what was going to happen or how the book would end. Calculated Risk is the fifth book in Tara Grace Ericson’s Black Tower Security series.

I loved both Marshall and Norah! They were both fighting for what they believed was right and they were definitely struggling to make sense of everything. They had history and it was hard to move forward. I loved the growth of both Norah and Marshall. They were challenged to learn to trust God again and trust each other. Their relationship felt real. I love the inspirational themes woven into the book.

Marshall was calm but he had to learn that he couldn’t be in control of everything. It was sweet to see him fighting for Norah. Norah was a bit complicated and harder to understand, but she grew on me. I loved how she fit Marshall perfectly. Numbers made sense to her but she also strived to do the right thing.

The book was so engaging and I didn’t want to put it down. Ahhh, I need the next book! There are so many questions that need to be answered. I would totally recommend this book! But be warned, you aren’t going to want to put it down. Calculated Risk is a clean Christian romantic suspense.

Book Highlights:

He protects her

She loves numbers

Second chance romance

Fake relationship

Family

Forgiveness

Learning to trust God

I received a complimentary copy

Love in a Letter

About the Book:

Love in a Letter: Christmas in the Mail (Christmas at Coldwater Creek Book 6)

Title: Love in a Letter
Series: Christmas at Coldwater Creek #6
Author: Britney M. Mills
Release Date: October 24th 2023
Genre: Contemporary Romance

Connected by an enduring friendship. Will the power of a few letters bring them closer?

Davey Burke never imagined life would lead him down such a challenging path. Widower. Stroke survivor. Single parent. There have been ups and downs, but his late wife’s best friend, Lacey White, was a key figure. And until now, he’s never seen her as more than a friend.

Lacey White uses her job to hide from the world. Losing her best friend left a hole in her life and a fear of losing anyone else. She begins receiving letters from her late best friend urging her to step outside her comfort zone. Her world shifts as she regains her passion for art, as well as finding a connection with her neighbor.

Will Davey and Lucey turn a blind eye to what could be, or will they embrace the challenges and carve a path to a new life…together?

TW: death of a loved one from cancer, talk of past stroke, past divorce.

Book Review:

This one was so sweet! I loved the romance between the more mature characters and the history that they shared.

I was so excited for Lacey’s POV! After getting to know her a bit in Love in a Contract, it was so sweet to see her story! She had gone through a lot and was wary, for good reason I felt like! Lacey had to raise her sons pretty much on her own and she had developed a strength of character. She found herself a bit closed off though and throughout the book the letters pushed her to rediscover herself.

Davey also was pushed out of his comfort zone by his wife’s letters. Sherrie sounds like such a lovely lady and I loved getting to know her a bit through the memories of those who loved her. As Davey was being stretched, he and Lacey were able to establish a deeper friendship and further romantic relationship. I loved his relationship with his kids and how they supported one another.

This was a sweet story with such fun scenes! I loved the letters and the family relationships. This also had a really fun small-town feel. It is a contemporary romance that strongly features the past death of a spouse.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.

Elisabeth: Mother of John

About the Book:

Title: Elisabeth: Mother of John
Author: H. B. Moore
Release Date: November 1st, 2025
Genre: Biblical Fiction

Her greatest sacrifice became her greatest legacy.

Zacharias has loved Elisabeth all his life. When negotiations are made for their marriage, the childhood friends trust that their future will be bright. But as their story unfolds in their village near Jerusalem, the life they build together is marked by both the joy of love and the sorrows of loss and longing, for as the years pass by, the steadfast couple is never blessed with the thing they desire above all: a child.

Now beyond childbearing years, it seems that the couple’s righteous desire will never be granted—until a divine promise is made, and they learn that their fate will transcend the bounds of age and mortal comprehension. Elisabeth and Zacharias are destined to play a pivotal role in the fulfillment of ancient scripture, and they soon come to understand that God’s plan is far grander than they ever dreamed.

Book Review:

I thought this book was so interesting! Even though I have not read a lot of Biblical fiction, I really enjoyed this one. I appreciated too how Moore acknowledged that some parts of these are fiction and included the verse references at the back of the book. This book encouraged me to read again the wonderful story of Jesus’ coming, and I hope it encourages you to do the same.

I sympathized with Elisabeth! I really liked how we got to see a little of her when she is younger and when she is older. I felt like the time jump in the book made sense for the storyline and these characters. And it was nice that Elisabeth and Zachariah did actually feel older after the time jump. They had grown a lot from the shy and uncertain couple that we first meet.

As I read this book, it reminded me again of the sheer amazingness of what occurred. When you are reading the Bible, it is sometimes hard to put yourself in the characters’ shoes. However, this book highlights how Mary and Elisabeth must have been so overjoyed and also overwhelmed at getting the opportunity to be a part of this time in history. I also loved the addition of Mary and some other Biblical characters that were in Luke. While at first I was surprised, the more I thought about it the more it made sense. This small, Jewish community probably all knew each other.

I would totally recommend this book! There are some artistic changes though, so I would also recommend reading the true and full story of Jesus’ coming in the Gospels.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.

Love in a Contract

About the Book:

Love in a Contract: Christmas on the Trail (Christmas at Coldwater Creek Book 5)

Title: Love in a Contract
Series: Christmas at Coldwater Creek #5
Author: Britney M. Mills
Release Date: November 17th, 2022
Genre: Contemporary Romance

Trails aren’t always smooth. Neither is life.

Brooke White has been struggling to keep her late husband’s ATV rental business afloat for the past year. And now she’s blindsided to find out on what would’ve been his twenty-fifth birthday that he was to receive an inheritance from his late grandfather. But his terms cause her to pause as she’ll get the money only if she enters into a year-long marriage to receive it.

Adam Burke spends his time working on his family’s dairy farm and fixing up the farm equipment throughout the valley. Any extra time he has goes to fixing the ATVs Brooke—his best friend’s widow—rents out. When she mentions the conditions of her husband’s will, Adam is more than willing to help, especially since he blames himself for the accident.

Will a marriage of convenience lead them to forgiveness and happily-ever-after, or will they let the past destroy any chance of a future together?

Book Review:

This one was so cute! I loved getting to see Adam and Brooke’s story and Noah was adorable! The tropes in this were also so sweet. I loved the aspects of friends-to-more and marriage of convenience.

Adam was so sweet and thoughtful. He was quieter, but really thought things through. I loved the way he cared for Brooke and Noah and even the way that he still valued his friendship with Tucker. I loved getting to see more of the Burke family with every book. They are so fun and supportive.

I really felt for Brooke. She was still facing the ramifications of Tucker’s death and all the business decisions. She had been grieving and finally was forced to evaluate if she was ready to move forward. I loved her relationship with Lacey and the support she gave. She cared so much for Noah and really wanted to honor her husband’s memory. It was so sweet to see the progression of their romance. They really were able to come alongside one another.

This contemporary romance can be read as a standalone like the rest, but is part of a series. It deals with the past loss of a spouse and family instability. There is only kissing.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.

Fraternizing with the Enemey

Fraternizing with the Enemy (Most Likely To)

About the Book:

Title: Fraternizing with the Enemey
Series: Most Likely to #5
Author: Sarah Sutton
Release Date: October 18th, 2025
Genre: YA

I’m starting my senior year at Brentwood High with three certainties:

I finally made it into the Top Tier, Brentwood’s most elite popularity circle.
I’m co-captain of the cheer squad with my best friend-slash-queen bee, Jade Dyer.
I’m in desperate need of a boyfriend.

Now that my mom’s archaic dating ban is officially over, I’m ready for more than perfect hair and pom-poms—I want Brentwood’s next It-Couple status.

Enter Logan. I tripped—literally—into his arms at Brentwood High’s open house, and suddenly the world blurred around us. Mega cute, annoyingly funny, and the kind of boy who’d be the perfect half of my It-Couple dream.

The problem? He showed up to Brentwood on a dare, and he actually goes to Jefferson High. Brentwood’s sworn enemy. Their football team’s quarterback.

Off-limits doesn’t even begin to cover it.

But when my friends crown me “Most Likely to Peak in High School,” I panic. Desperate to prove them wrong, I make the dumbest decision ever: date Logan, a Jefferson Bulldog, in secret. Exposure therapy, I tell myself. Just long enough to show I can break rules, that I don’t just blindly follow orders, that I can think for myself. That I won’t peak in high school.

Except every laugh, late-night text, and stolen moment makes me question everything I thought I knew—my friendship with Jade, the social hierarchy I’ve clung to, and the past I tried to bury. And the closer I get to a boy I was never supposed to love, the more I realize the people I trust most might be the ones who could ruin everything.

Book Review:

Oh my goodness! I absolutely adored this book. I have been waiting for years for Madisons’ book, and it did not disappoint. I really liked how we also got to see a short epilogue of some of the other characters too.

I thought Madison was so relatable. She was trying hard to figure out who she was and who she wanted to be. After years of being Jade’s sidekick, she was finally kinda trying to do her own thing. Her struggles and slip ups felt real and made sense for her character. I feel like I was also able to have a lot more grace for her because we get to see her POV. I liked how Landon pushed her to be a better person too, but she didn’t change for him. She changed for herself because she didn’t like who she was becoming. Her arc was so satisfying!

I thought Landon was the sweetest too! He was also trying his hardest to do what he thought was right, but everything was getting super complicated. I loved how he complemented Madison, and he saw beyond the popular facade that she hid behind. I did not expect the twists in his character too!

I thought the whole plot was really well done! There is a lot of high school drama, but it was interesting to see it from Madison’ POV. I feel like she added another layer that we hadn’t really seen before. I would totally recommend this whole series! While this book can be read standalone, I recommend reading this one last.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.

Every Heart Prepare

About the Book:

Every Heart Prepare: A Christmas Romance Novella (Faith On The Frontier)

Title: Every Heart Prepare
Series: Faith on the Frontier #1
Author: Madelyn Smith
Release Date: October 17th, 2025
Genre: Historical Romance

An injured preacher. A rancher’s spinster daughter. A Christmas season where they’ll both learn to find true joy in the world.

Leroy:

My injuries may have halted my travels where I preach the Word of God, but it can’t keep my spirits down. I’m determined to recover, not be a burden, and then to continue on my journey. Except, the more I get to know Sicilia Mariner, the more I question my calling. Can God’s plan for me change?

Sicilia:

Being the only woman on the ranch has become lonely. As the years go by with no beau, I’ve begun to wonder if God really has a plan for me. When Mister Lovelady ends up injured and at our ranch, I barely let myself hope that he’s an answer to prayer. But the more I get to know Leroy Lovelady, the more I wonder if God’s plan is even better than the one I’ve dreamed of.
Every Heart Prepare is the first book in the Faith On The Frontier series where characters deepen their faith in Jesus Christ while navigating the hardships of life on the frontier. Every Heart Prepare takes inspiration from the author’s family history along with the sacred Christmas carol Joy To The World, with themes of forgiveness, redemption, and healing throughout the story.

Book Review:

I loved this adorable novella! It was such a sweet read about the hope of Jesus Christ along with the sweet blessings that He gives us.

I really loved the strong, Christian aspect in this one. Leroy is a preacher, and multiple Bible verses are quoted throughout the book. The Bible is not only quoted but lived out as Leroy and Sicilia fight to see God’s goodness in every aspect. Both of them had been through their fair share of trials, but they were determined to trust the Lord through it all. I appreciated the way that Leroy’s PTSD was handled with so much grace as well.

Leroy and Sicilia were such fun characters. I was invested in them from the beginning. They were both trying to figure out how best to serve God in their seasons of life. I loved to see them come together, and I appreciated that there was no third act breakup too! I would totally recommend this sweet novella perfect for anyone looking for a lovely, Christmas read.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.

Love in a Snapshot

About the Book:

Love in a Snapshot: Christmas at the Farm (Christmas at Coldwater Creek Book 3)

Title: Love in a Snapshot
Series: Christmas at Coldwater Creek #3
Author: Britney M. Mills
Release Date: December 2nd, 2019
Genre: Contemporary Romance

He’s a dairy farmer, she’s a travel blogger, and the vacation that brings them together.

Preston Burke had to give up the rodeo after his father had a stroke, and now he’s set to take over the family dairy farm. But he’d rather be traveling the world rather than setting his schedule by the morning and nighttime milkings. When a new girl takes over managing the lodge for a couple weeks, the stories of her travels make him restless. But what hurts most is that he might be falling for someone who could be gone any day.

After Ashley Morgan’s relationship blows up on her, she escapes to a small town in Wyoming, hoping that running for a bit will help her sort out her disheveled life. As she spends time getting to know Preston, she realizes how much she wants a real relationship.

But settling down in Coldwater Creek would mean giving up her popular business. Or would it?

Book Review:

This was so cute! I have been reading through this series and I love getting to see more characters’ stories!

Preston was so fun! I was excited to see his story after meeting him in the first book. He was very family-oriented and felt the burden of holding together the farm. He was able to relax and open up with Ashley. They had a lot in common and they connected so quickly.

I felt for Ashley! She had so many surprises in her life and she just wanted some space to reevaluate it all. She definitely got it in Coldwater Creek. Once again, the readers get to know the town more through her eyes! It was so sweet to watch her get to know the characters. She and Preston were really sweet! It did feel a bit insta-love, but I think it fit the vibe of the story.

I really enjoyed reading about them getting to know one another and also how they supported each other in their own individual dreams. This is a sweet contemporary romance with some holiday vibes and only kissing.