In Episode 192 of the LiteraryScape Podcast, we review A Convenient Escape — Book 4 of Sara R. Turnquist’s Convenient Risk series.

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Melissa LaShure

Jessica

Tiffanie

Mom

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Book 4 of the Convenient Risk Series Is Here — and It Delivers

We are back with another episode of the LiteraryScape Podcast. And this week, we are deep in the Old West with Sara R. Turnquist.

We are continuing our journey through the Convenient Risk series. Book four, A Convenient Escape, is the focus of Episode 192. If you have been following along, you know this seven-book series keeps getting better.

Listen to the full episode here: www.literaryscape.com/podcast/192

Explore Sara R. Turnquist’s Convenient Risk series here: https://saraturnquist.com/convenient-risk-series/

Meet Dan and Lily: Two Broken People Finding Each Other

Dan Hayworth is a ranch hand we have loved throughout the entire series. He is loyal, steady, and deeply faithful.

Now, for the first time, he gets his own story. And it is one worth waiting for.

Lily McAllen is the sheriff’s daughter. She is not a character everyone warmed to right away. In earlier books, she felt questionable and hard to root for.

But A Convenient Escape changes everything. We get inside Lily’s world. And once you understand her history, everything makes sense.

Lily’s Backstory Will Break Your Heart

Lily has been abandoned again and again. Every man she thought she could trust has walked away. On top of that, her parents are toxic and cruel.

Her father tells Dan, when he comes to ask for her hand: ‘Good riddance.’

That one moment tells you everything about what Lily has lived with. She has been made to feel worthless her entire life.

So when Dan shows up with love and kindness, she cannot accept it. She pulls away. She expects him to leave just like everyone else.

It is self-preservation. And once you understand that, you stop being frustrated with her and start rooting for her completely.

Historical Christian Romance Meets Edge-of-Your-Seat Suspense

This book is not just a sweet love story. There is real danger woven throughout.

Geronimo and his raiding band are terrorizing the surrounding areas. That adds a layer of tension that never lets up.

There is also an unexpected murder near the beginning of the book. It comes out of nowhere and sets the tone for how high the stakes are.

One scene toward the end had us genuinely scared for Lily. We will not spoil it — but when you get there, you will know exactly what we mean.

Dan’s Hidden Wounds Make Him Even More Compelling

Dan is not just a hero who swoops in and saves the day. He has his own damage.

He carries guilt over his mother’s death. He has felt unworthy for years. That shared brokenness is what ultimately connects him to Lily on a deep level.

It is not a rescue story. It is a redemption story — for both of them.

Faith, Fatherhood, and Learning to Trust God

One of the most powerful themes in this book is the connection between earthly fathers and our ability to trust God as a heavenly Father.

When your own father has told you that you are worthless, it is nearly impossible to believe that God could love you. Lily’s journey with faith is slow and painful — but it is real.

Dan’s strong relationship with God is one of the reasons we have loved his character throughout the series. Watching him extend that faith toward Lily with patience is beautiful to read.

Our Episode 192 Ratings for A Convenient Escape

Mystery Level: Espresso (Low)

There is not much mystery here. The story is straightforward, which is not a complaint — the character depth more than makes up for it.

Suspense Level: Mocha to Latte (Medium-High)

Especially toward the end, the suspense builds significantly. You will be turning pages fast.

Drama Level: Latte (High)

There is a lot of emotional tension and conflict between Dan and Lily. Sara Turnquist writes drama that feels genuine, not manufactured.

Romance Level: Espresso to Mocha (Low-Medium)

The romantic tension simmers throughout, but the payoff comes at the end. The wedding night scene is sweet and funny.

Inspirational Level: Mocha to Latte (Medium-High)

The faith arc is strong, especially on Dan’s side. Lily’s spiritual journey carries into Book 5.

Overall Lasso Rating: 3 out of 3

Both hosts gave A Convenient Escape a full 3-lasso rating. It surprised us, moved us, and left us eager for Book 5.

Listen to Episode 192 Now

If you love historical Christian romance with real emotional depth, this episode is for you. We discuss every twist, debate every character decision, and share our full ratings.

Explore the full Convenient Risk series by Sara R. Turnquist

Also, do not forget to sign up for our free newsletter at LiteraryScape.com for weekly updates on events, books, and more for both readers and authors.

Related Episodes

LiteraryScape reviews A Less Convenient Path by Sara R. Turnquist — a Christian historical western romance about two wounded souls finding hope on the frontier.

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Melissa LaShure

Jessica

Tiffanie

Mom

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Visit Sara R. Turnquist: saraturnquist.com

Welcome to Episode 191 of the LiteraryScape Podcast

Tiffany and her co-host are back for another Friday Book Club discussion.

This week they are reviewing A Less Convenient Path by Sara R. Turnquist.

It is Book 3 in the Convenient Risk series. And it is unlike anything they have covered in the series so far.

This one features a cross-cultural romance set on the American frontier. It is a story of two deeply wounded people who find unexpected hope in each other.

If you love Christian historical fiction with heart, depth, and a nail-biting climax — keep reading.

What Is A Less Convenient Path About?

Marina is a young Native American woman in a desperate situation.

Her tribe has been ordered to a reservation. But during the journey, her people were attacked. She and her young brother are the only survivors.

They are wandering the wilderness. Alone. With no way forward.

That is when Cutie finds them.

Cutie is a ranch hand on the Miller property. He is running from his own painful past. He has made mistakes. He carries guilt he cannot shake.

The two of them could not be more different. But their paths cross for a reason.

“A Less Convenient Path is a story of two people without peace. Will they find in each other the very things they are missing?”

Cutie — A Hero Carrying the Weight of His Past

Readers who followed the Convenient Risk series already know Cutie from Book 1.

They may have felt sorry for him early on. Then they found out the truth about his role in a serious incident. It changed things.

But Book 3 gives Cutie the chance to be fully understood.

He got tangled up with the wrong people because of a complicated relationship with his father. He feels completely unworthy of grace.

And yet Brandon — the man he wronged most — extends forgiveness freely and without conditions.

“Brandon is so forgiving and gracious and kind. Cutie is like, I can’t even take it — because you should hate my guts.”

That tension between guilt and grace is one of the most powerful threads in this book.

Marina — A Woman of Quiet Strength and Growing Faith

Marina is a standout character. She comes from a culture with completely different customs and ways of communicating.

That creates real misunderstanding between her and Cutie. Not from bad intentions. Just from two very different worlds colliding.

The hosts found the back-and-forth internal questioning a little frustrating at times. But they fully understood why.

“They come from two very different cultures. Things that he did, she was like, he doesn’t want me, I’m a burden. And things that she did, he was like, I don’t think she wants me around.”

As the story unfolds, Marina’s faith also begins to grow and deepen. It is one of the most touching arcs in the book.

Cross-Cultural Tensions and Prejudice on the Frontier

This book does not shy away from the realities of life in the American West.

People treat Marina poorly because of who she is. At a town dance, she is not welcomed.

It is Slim — an Irish ranch hand with his own history of prejudice — who steps in. He pulls Marina aside and shares his own story of being an outsider when he first arrived.

It is a powerful moment. And it sets up a thread that carries all the way through Book 5 of the series.

Sheriff McGowan — The Complicated Antagonist

Sheriff McGowan is one of the more complex characters in this series.

He is rigid. He carries a black-and-white view of the world. And he makes life very difficult for Marina and Cutie.

The hosts were not fans.

“You are the sheriff. You are supposed to protect and serve. You are supposed to be the leader. And you have this high-and-mighty attitude.”

But the book does give readers a glimpse inside his perspective. He made one serious mistake long ago. That mistake shaped everything about how he sees the world.

He does the right thing occasionally — but usually only when pushed to it. And then he snaps right back.

He is a well-written villain you love to dislike.

The Rescue — A Heart-Pounding Climax

Just when Cutie and Marina’s relationship is finally building toward something good — everything falls apart.

Marina runs away. She is captured by the Apache.

Her brother escapes and gets help. But Marina endures real danger and real fear before anyone can reach her.

“The abuse she endured — I was getting really, really scared for her, to be honest.”

Cutie charges in without hesitation. He does not care about the risk.

He makes it to her. But they are quickly surrounded.

It is an intense, breathtaking sequence. And it reveals just how far Cutie has come from the man who once doubted he was worth anything.

LiteraryScape Ratings for A Less Convenient Path

• Suspense: A Latte — tense moments throughout, especially the rescue sequence
• Mystery: Espresso — mostly centered around Sheriff McGowan’s backstory and motivations
• Drama: Triple Latte — cross-cultural tension, past wounds, and outside threats
• Romance: Mocha — sweet and earned, worth every page-turning moment
• Inspirational: Latte — Marina’s faith journey is a genuine highlight
• Overall Lasso Rating: Tiffany gives 3 Lassos — kept me hooked and hogtied! Co-host gives 2.5 — well-written, just a personal style preference on the internal conflict style

Both hosts agreed: the book is well-written. It kept them reading.

If the internal back-and-forth of two people trying to understand each other across cultural barriers sounds like your kind of story — you will love this one.

Should You Read the Convenient Risk Series?

A Less Convenient Path is Book 3 in the Convenient Risk series by Sara R. Turnquist.

Each book follows new lead characters while keeping beloved familiar faces in the story.

You can start here. But readers who begin at Book 1 will get the richest experience.

Book 1, A Convenient Risk, is available on Kindle for free. That is the perfect place to start.

Explore all of Sara R. Turnquist’s books at saraturnquist.com.

Related Episodes

LiteraryScape reviews An Inconvenient Christmas by Sara R. Turnquist — a Christian historical Christmas novella full of family drama, faith, and holiday heart.

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Melissa LaShure

Jessica

Tiffanie

Mom

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 Visit Sara R. Turnquist: saraturnquist.com

Welcome to Our Christmas Book Club Episode

It is the most wonderful time of the year — and that means one thing at LiteraryScape.

It is time for our annual Christmas book discussion!

In Episode 190, Melissa and Tiffany settle in to review An Inconvenient Christmas by Sara R. Turnquist.

This is Book 2 in the Convenient Risk series. It is a holiday novella set on the American frontier.

And it packs a whole lot of story into roughly 100 pages.

What Is An Inconvenient Christmas About?

Brandon and Amanda are ready for their happily ever after.

They have built a happy home. They have a little girl named Louise — called Lucy later in the series — and a son named Samuel.

Christmas is supposed to be peaceful. A time to enjoy their little family.

Then a letter arrives. And everything changes.

Unexpected guests follow just a day or two later. With them comes tension, old wounds, and family drama that threatens to tear the holiday — and the household — apart.

The hosts were careful not to reveal who sent the letter. That mystery is part of what keeps you turning pages.

“It does not really tell you what is going to tear them apart — and that is what keeps you hooked.”

Christmas Family Drama That Feels Real

One of the things that makes this novella stand out is how relatable the conflict feels.

A disrespectful visitor puts a serious strain on Brandon and Amanda’s home.

Brandon wants to stand up for his family. Amanda holds him back. Not because she does not care — but because she does not want things to escalate.

The hosts had a lot of thoughts on this dynamic.

“Brandon should have put that person in their place. But I also understood why she held him back — you are really angry right now, and you are going to say something you regret.”

It is the kind of tension that many families know. Especially around the holidays.

Sara R. Turnquist captures it honestly. And she does it without making anyone a simple villain.

Brandon Grows as a Husband and Father

This book is not just about the drama. It is about growth.

Through the conflict, Brandon learns what it means to be a better father to Samuel. And a better husband to Amanda.

By the end of the story, he has changed. The trials of Christmas pushed him to step up in ways he had not before.

“This book really strengthened their relationship. He grew in his role as a father — and as a husband too.”

Faith Woven Naturally Into the Story

By Book 2, Brandon and Amanda are on the same page when it comes to their faith.

In Book 1, Amanda had walked away from God. Life had been too hard. She felt forgotten.

But she came back. And now the couple lives out their faith together — especially in how they handle conflict.

The hosts gave the inspirational level a mocha-to-latte rating. The faith elements feel genuine. They are part of the story, not added on top of it.

LiteraryScape Ratings for An Inconvenient Christmas

• Mystery: Espresso — the identity of the letter sender is the big question. We are not telling!
• Suspense: Espresso — tense moments from the very first pages
• Drama: Triple Lot — family dynamics bring serious heat
• Romance: Espresso — sweet moments, nothing over the top
• Inspirational: Mocha-to-Latte — faith lived out naturally and beautifully
• Overall Lasso Rating: 3 Lassos — hooked and hogtied all the way through!

At around 100 pages, this reads quickly. But it does not feel short.

Sara R. Turnquist fits a full, satisfying story into a novella. The depth surprised both hosts.

Is An Inconvenient Christmas Right for You?

If you enjoy Christian historical fiction, this novella is a great fit.

It is the perfect cozy Christmas read. It has heart, tension, and an honest look at faith under pressure.

It is also a great read if you are navigating difficult family relationships during the holidays. The story might just give you a little perspective.

“There is no perfect family. This book might give you some help in how to handle those tricky family relationships.”

An Inconvenient Christmas is Book 2 in the Convenient Risk series. Book 1, A Convenient Risk, is available on Kindle for free — a great place to start the series.

Explore all of Sara R. Turnquist’s books at saraturnquist.com.

Related Episodes

Discover the history behind Sandra Lou Taylor’s Hadley Hope series on the LiteraryScape Podcast. In this episode, author Sandra Lou Taylor talks about her new historical fiction novel More Than a Little Turmoil — Book 3 in her award-worthy series set during the Bleeding Kansas era of the 1850s. Learn how the Underground Railroad, the Kansas-Nebraska Act, and ordinary families shaped American history. A must-listen for fans of Christian historical fiction, book clubs, and history lovers. Available now on Amazon and Audible.

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Melissa LaShure

Jessica

Tiffanie

Mom

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Bleeding Kansas, Underground Railroad & Faith: Sandra Lou Taylor Returns to LiteraryScape

Sandra Lou Taylor is back on the LiteraryScape Podcast — and she brought history with her.

Host Melissa LaShure welcomes her critique partner and historical fiction author Sandra Lou Taylor for a second visit to the show. This time, they dive deep into Book 3 of the Hadley Hope series: More Than a Little Turmoil.

The book is available now on Amazon. It officially launches on April 4th.

What Is the Hadley Hope Series? A Guide for New Readers

Sandra Lou Taylor designed every book in the Hadley Hope series as a standalone read. You do not have to start at Book 1 to enjoy the story.

Here is a quick overview of the series so far:

• Book 1 — More Than an Attractive Face: Elizabeth meets and marries Daniel. She refuses to be just a pretty face and finds her backbone on the frontier.
• Novella — Set between Books 1 and 2. Covers the romance of Margaret and Melvin. Adds important context for Book 2.
• Book 2 — More Than a Small Challenge: Explores why a family would leave a comfortable Indiana life for a tent city in Kansas.
• Book 3 — More Than a Little Turmoil: The Hadley family arrives in Lawrence, Kansas Territory during the most violent years of the Bleeding Kansas era.
• Book 4 — More Than a Civil War: Coming soon. Already two-thirds written. Set during the Civil War in Eastern Kansas.

What Is the Bleeding Kansas Era? The History Behind the Story

The Bleeding Kansas era refers to the violent years between 1854 and 1857 in Kansas Territory.

The Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854 gave Kansas the choice to enter the Union as a slave state or a free state. That decision sparked a wave of violence.

Pro-slavery settlers from Missouri crossed the border to drive out free-state settlers. The Boston Immigrant Aid Society sent abolitionists to populate Kansas for the free-state cause. Houses were burned. People were beaten and killed.

Kansas had to write four different constitutions before voters and Congress could agree. Kansas finally became a free state on January 29, 1861, when President Buchanan signed it into law.

The timing mattered enormously. If Kansas had entered as a slave state, the balance of power in Congress would have shifted in favor of slavery — potentially changing the entire course of American history.

The Underground Railroad in Kansas: What Sandra Lou Taylor Discovered

Sandra Lou Taylor originally set out to research the Underground Railroad in Kansas. What she found surprised her.

The Underground Railroad was far more active in Kansas than most people realize — even people who grew up there and took Kansas history classes.

Her research revealed a complex social reality. Many white Kansans who opposed slavery were still separatists. They did not want enslaved people in their communities. Yet some individuals crossed that barrier entirely. They welcomed freedom seekers as full human beings — not just as a cause.

Taylor found that gap both disturbing and inspiring. She used it to shape how her characters grow throughout the series.

Meet Elizabeth Hadley: A Reluctant Pioneer with Quiet Strength

Elizabeth Hadley is the heart of the series. She did not choose frontier life easily. She wanted to go home.

But Elizabeth has a deep sense of right and wrong. She believes in hard work, family, and faith. As challenges pile up around her, she rises to meet them.

In More Than a Little Turmoil, Elizabeth and her family encounter Solomon — a runaway slave who has nearly starved to death. He steals food from their wagon one night as they travel through Missouri.

The Hadleys had already helped a fugitive slave family back in Indiana. They know the risks. Still, they offer to help Solomon.

They agree that Solomon will pose as their enslaved person in front of strangers. In private, they treat him with full dignity and respect. The arrangement is dangerous from every direction. They do not know Solomon. He does not know them. They risk arrest, fines, and worse.

The deeper they get into Missouri, the more they sense someone is watching.

An Unexpected Adoption: Lois and Fred Join the Hadley Family

One of the most moving storylines in More Than a Little Turmoil involves two young children — Lois and Fred.

When the rest of the Hadley family arrives in Lawrence, they spot a lone wagon sitting on a hill with a horse that has stopped. They go to investigate.

What they find is heartbreaking. A family was fleeing a prairie fire. One child fell out of the wagon. When the parents stopped to help, the horses spooked and ran off — with the children still inside. The parents died in the fire.

The Hadleys bring Lois and Fred home and raise them as their own.

Sandra Lou Taylor shares in the episode that this incident was based on real events reported in period newspapers. She found it during her research and worked it into the story.

Writing Moral Complexity: How Sandra Humanizes Both Sides Without Excusing Evil

One of the most impressive things about the Hadley Hope series is how Taylor handles the moral weight of slavery and racism without making it simple.

She does not excuse the institution of slavery. But she also does not flatten the characters who existed within it.

Her approach is to put her characters in proximity to people different from themselves. The Hadley family begins the series with almost no real exposure to slavery. Meeting real people — Solomon, the Davis family — changes them. They see talent, faith, and humanity up close.

Taylor traces that transformation with care. It does not happen overnight. It happens through relationship.

Why Bleeding Kansas Feels Relevant Today

In the episode, Melissa asks Taylor one of her own book club discussion questions: How does the Bleeding Kansas era feel relevant today?

Taylor’s answer is direct. The polarization between political sides was just as vicious then as it is now. The refusal to communicate or negotiate was just as fierce.

Her takeaway: study history. The patterns repeat. And if you do not know your history, you will not recognize what is happening around you.

What Sandra Lou Taylor Hopes Readers Take Away

Taylor shared what she most wants readers to carry with them after finishing More Than a Little Turmoil:

• A deeper appreciation for family and the value of close relationships
• More compassion for the people around them who are struggling
• A habit of turning to God — not just in routine moments, but in genuine crisis
• A sense of pride in the bravery and resilience of their ancestors
• Curiosity about their own history

What Is Coming Next for Sandra Lou Taylor

Sandra Lou Taylor has several projects in progress:

• More Than a Civil War (Book 4) — Already two-thirds written. Set during the Civil War in Eastern Kansas. Taylor admits she had to stop writing it for a while because it was emotionally overwhelming.
• A companion novella to More Than a Little Turmoil — Focuses on the romance between Margaret and Melvin. Expected late summer.
• A possible second companion novella to More Than a Little Turmoil
• Finding Joy in the Songs — A Christian journal currently with beta readers
• A future series set closer to home in Butler County, Kansas, exploring the oil boom, cattle trade, and Flint Hills

Where to Find Sandra Lou Taylor’s Books and Newsletter

All books in the Hadley Hope series are available on Amazon.

More Than an Attractive Face and More Than a Small Challenge are already on Audible. More Than a Little Turmoil will be on Audible in mid-April.

Sandra Lou Taylor’s newsletter goes out twice a month. It includes humor, historical research, writing updates, and details on upcoming appearances.

To subscribe, visit her website:

sandraloutaylor.com

Related Episodes

In Episode 189 of the LiteraryScape podcast, hosts review The Convenient Risk — Book 1 of Sara R. Turnquist’s seven-book Christian historical romance series. Set in the Wild West, this clean romance follows Amanda Haines, a grieving widow forced into a marriage of convenience with rancher Brandon Miller. Featuring unexpected connections to Billy the Kid, a moving faith journey, and unforgettable supporting characters, this is the perfect series for fans of wholesome Western romance. Rated 3 out of 3 lassos.

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Melissa LaShure

Jessica

Tiffanie

Mom

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Wild West Romance Meets Unlikely Marriage: LiteraryScape Reviews The Convenient Risk

What happens when a widow is forced into a marriage of convenience just weeks after losing her husband?

That’s the premise of The Convenient Risk — book one in Sara R. Turnquist’s beloved seven-book series.

On Episode 189 of the LiteraryScape podcast, we dive deep into this clean historical romance set in the rugged American West. Buckle up, because this one surprised us in the best possible ways.

Listen now: www.literaryscape.com/podcast/189

What Is The Convenient Risk Series?

The Convenient Risk Series is a seven-book Christian historical romance series by Sara R. Turnquist.

Each book follows connected characters navigating life, loss, faith, and love in the Wild West era.

The series balances romance, suspense, and spiritual growth — all wrapped in a clean, wholesome package.

Explore the full series here: https://saraturnquist.com/convenient-risk-series/

Book 1 Synopsis: Forced Together, Slowly Falling

Amanda Haines is newly widowed. She has a young son, a struggling ranch, and very few options.

Enter Brandon Miller. He wants her cattle. She needs financial security.

The result? A marriage of convenience that is strictly business — at least at first.

But as their lives become entangled with Billy the Kid and his gang, everything gets complicated.

Our First Impressions: Did We Like Brandon Miller?

Honestly? Not at first.

Brandon comes across as cold and transactional. He’s after the cattle. He sets strict household rules. He keeps Amanda at arm’s length.

But as the story unfolds, his character deepens considerably.

His faith journey plays a big role. He constantly returns to God — asking for help, seeking forgiveness, trying to do right. That consistency won us over.

Amanda’s Arc: Grief, Motherhood, and Coming Back to Faith

Amanda’s journey is quieter but equally powerful.

She’s grieving her first husband. She’s worried about her son. And she’s walked away from her faith.

Watching her slowly find her way back — to God, to trust, to love — is the emotional core of the book.

Her son adds another layer. The question of how quickly Brandon steps into a father role (or doesn’t) creates real tension throughout the story.

The Billy the Kid Twist — We Did Not See That Coming

The back cover of the book mentions Billy the Kid’s gang. But it doesn’t tell you why.

And when the reveal comes? It’s a genuine surprise.

There’s a scene where Brandon is spotted in an alley with gang members. We were suspicious. Frustrated, even.

But Sara Turnquist handles the payoff with skill. The twist reframes everything and makes the story richer.

(We’re not going to spoil it — you’ll have to read it for yourself!)

The Supporting Cast: Uncle Owen, Cook, and the Ranch Hands

One of the real delights of this book is the supporting cast.

Uncle Owen and Cook — the wise older couple living in a little cabin down from the main house — are immediate fan favorites.

They’re warm, steady, and quietly hilarious.

The ranch hands also hint at bigger stories to come. Knowing each character gets their own book later in the series makes every scene feel like setup.

How Clean Is the Romance? Our Coffee Scale Rating

We rate books on our Coffee Scale — from espresso (a little) to latte (a lot).

Here’s how The Convenient Risk scored:

• Mystery: Espresso — just a dash. Enough to keep you guessing, not enough to overwhelm.
• Suspense: Espresso/Mocha — think the alley scene, the bull pen, and the ranch attack.
• Drama: Latte — lots of internal questioning, bickering over ranch decisions, and emotional tension.
• Romance: Mocha — it’s sweet and well-earned. The story cuts away at the right moments.
• Inspirational: Mocha to Latte — faith is woven in naturally, never preachy.

Bottom line: This is a clean, wholesome romance. Perfect for readers who love heart without heat.

Overall Lasso Rating: 3 Out of 3

We both gave The Convenient Risk a full 3-lasso rating.

It took a chapter or two to warm up to Brandon. But once the story found its footing, we were hooked.

The seven-book series isn’t long — Book 1 comes in at around 263 pages. But it sets the tone beautifully for everything to come.

Should You Read The Convenient Risk Series?

If you love clean historical romance, this series is for you.

If you enjoy character-driven stories with faith elements woven in naturally, this series is for you.

And if you like the idea of a Wild West setting with real historical figures? Absolutely read this series.

Start with Book 1 and try not to immediately download Book 2. We dare you.

Explore the full Convenient Risk Series: saraturnquist.com/convenient-risk-series

Related Episodes

Melissa LaShure interviews Christian romantic suspense author Carol Post, who shares how she went from zero writing experience to 26 published novels. Carol discusses her book Detecting Deadly Threats, researching real locations, writing for Love Inspired Suspense, and her top advice for aspiring authors.

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Melissa LaShure

Jessica

Tiffanie

Mom

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What does it take to go from never considering writing for publication to penning nearly 26 novels? For Christian romantic suspense author Carol Post, the answer begins with a single piece of feedback that changed everything — and a lot of intentional, research-driven storytelling since then.

In this episode of the Literary Scape Podcast, host Melissa LaShure sat down with Carol to talk about her long career writing Christian fiction, her deeply immersive approach to on-location research, her canine search and rescue book series through Love Inspired Suspense, and her upcoming release, Detecting Deadly Threats.

From Marriage Encounter to 26 Novels: Carol’s Unexpected Writing Journey

Carol Post always loved writing — even as a child, she was the student who actually enjoyed book reports and research papers. But writing fiction for publication? That wasn’t on her radar until the early-to-mid 1990s.

At the time, Carol and her husband were involved with Marriage Encounter weekends as one of the lead couples. As part of the program, couples prepared and submitted written talks that were reviewed and edited by senior team leaders. When Carol sent in her second talk, she received a remarkable response: it was the first submission in 25 years that required zero edits.

“That’s what actually put the thought in my head that, hmm, I might be able to write,” Carol shared. “If it weren’t for that experience, I don’t know that I would have ever considered being a writer.”

It’s a testament to how God orchestrates paths in unexpected ways — a theme Carol returns to often when she reflects on her career.

Real Locations, Real Stakes: Carol’s Approach to Research-Driven Fiction

One of the most distinctive elements of Carol Post’s writing is her commitment to authentic settings. Unlike many authors who use fictional towns, nearly all of Carol’s books are set in real places — and she goes to great lengths to get those details right.

Her research process typically includes:

• Getting most of the rough draft written using Google Maps and online tools
• Traveling on-site to verify scenes and scout key locations
• Looking for memorable settings for pivotal story moments — like a proposal scene
• Using the real names of local businesses and landmarks

Her research trips have taken her to Tennessee, Louisiana, Washington State, New Orleans, and various locations across North Carolina and Florida — often while camping with her husband and their three cats, Ziggy, Zorro, and Ziva.

The authenticity pays off. Carol has received messages from business owners who discovered their establishments were featured in one of her books — a side effect of her dedication to writing real places into her stories.

Detecting Deadly Threats: Inside Carol’s Latest Love Inspired Suspense Release

Carol’s latest release, Detecting Deadly Threats, is Book 16 in a multi-author continuity canine search and rescue book series published through Love Inspired Suspense — all standalone novels connected only by their shared theme. Carol also contributed Book 2 to the series back in 2021.

The Story

Set in the small town of Ridgely, Tennessee, the book opens when heroine Lauren — a hobby photographer and jewelry store owner — narrowly escapes an abduction when a masked gunman enters her store. A second masked man attempts to intervene, is shot, and then an earthquake strikes, trapping Lauren and the wounded man beneath the collapsed building.

As the dust settles, Lauren discovers the second gunman was her own brother — someone she’d been quietly helping turn his life around. The hero, who had recently relocated from California to Tennessee with his troubled teenage nephew, was renting the apartment above her store. With both characters suddenly displaced and danger still circling, they must work together to uncover who wanted Lauren and why.

The Real-Life Earthquake Connection

Northwestern Tennessee sits in the New Madrid Seismic Zone — the most active seismic zone east of the Rocky Mountains. Carol did extensive research into what earthquakes feel and sound like before writing the story. Then, just a couple months after turning in the manuscript, she experienced her very first real earthquake: a 4.1-magnitude tremor with an epicenter 30 miles from her home.

“I seriously thought we were under attack,” she laughed. “I ran outside looking for a mushroom cloud.” The real-life experience gave her vivid, firsthand insight — even if it arrived a little too late to save on research time.

Detecting Deadly Threats is available now in paperback, ebook, and audiobook formats.

Carol’s Top Writing Advice for Aspiring Christian Fiction Authors

When asked what she tells new writers, Carol’s advice is consistent, practical, and born from experience:

• Read voraciously — especially in the genre you want to publish in. You’re not copying; you’re studying how authors structure characters, plot, romance, and suspense.
• Study your target publisher. Different publishers have different requirements and preferences. If you want to write for Love Inspired Suspense, read as many of their books as you can.
• Find your process. Carol — who comes from an accounting background — famously created detailed spreadsheets to analyze published books across characterization, plot, romance, and suspense. It worked for her. Find what works for you.

Connect with Carol Post

You can find Carol and her full catalog of Christian romantic suspense novels at caroljpost.com. When you sign up for her monthly newsletter, you’ll receive two free ebooks. Her newsletters include travel updates, cat stories (yes, really), reading recommendations, giveaways, and sneak peeks at what she’s working on.

You can also find Carol on:

• Facebook: Carol J. Post
• Instagram
• X (formerly Twitter)
• Goodreads

Listen to the Full Episode

Don’t miss this full conversation with Carol Post on the Literary Scape Podcast. She shares even more about her writing process, her beloved cats’ camping adventures, and what she’s currently reading. Search Literary Scape Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.

Related Episodes

In Episode 187 of the LiteraryScape Podcast, host and author Melissa LaShure joins us to discuss her latest Wild West Christian fiction novel, Uncharted Trials — Book 2 in the Bounty Brothers series. When bounty hunter Dr. James McPherson takes on a new patient, he never expects her to steal his heart. But Madeline Flynn, a survivor of unspeakable tragedy, awakens something deep within him — and when a killer begins stalking her family, James vows to protect her at all costs. In this episode, we break down the full Lasso Ratings (mystery, drama, suspense, and romance!), discuss how Melissa handles sensitive themes with faith and intentionality, and unpack the jaw-dropping twists that had us reading past midnight. If you love clean Western romance, Christian historical fiction, and stories rooted in redemption and faith, this is the episode for you. Grab your copy of Uncharted Trials exclusively at literaryscape.com and listen now.

Hosts

Melissa LaShure

Jessica

Tiffanie

Mom

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If you love clean Christian romance with a healthy dose of mystery, danger, and faith-tested love, then Episode 187 of the LiteraryScape Podcast is exactly what you’ve been waiting for. This week, host and author Melissa LaShure joins us to discuss her latest Wild West Christian fiction novel, Uncharted Trials — Book 2 in her gripping Bounty Brothers series. Strap on your spurs, because this episode is a wild ride.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of historical Christian romance, a lover of Western fiction, or simply looking for your next page-turning read, this episode — and this book — delivers on every level.

What Is Uncharted Trials About?

Uncharted Trials is the second installment in Melissa LaShure’s Bounty Brothers series, a faith-based historical romance series set in the American Wild West. The story centers on Dr. James McPherson, a bounty hunter with a complicated past, and Madeline Flynn, a young woman who has survived unimaginable trauma.

When James takes Madeline on as a patient, he never expects her to capture his heart. But as their attraction deepens, dark secrets and a relentless killer threaten to tear them apart. With a murderer stalking Madeline’s family and their pasts violently colliding, James and Madeline must lean on their faith and each other to survive.

At its heart, Uncharted Trials is a story about redemption, the consequences of sin, and whether faith — and love — can be enough to outrun the shadows of your past.

The Lasso Ratings: What to Expect from This Book

One of the most beloved features of the LiteraryScape Podcast is the Lasso Rating system, where we rate each book across several key categories. Here’s how Uncharted Trials scored:

Mystery Level: Mocha — The mystery element is present but not in your face. It simmers throughout the story, with clues dropped and a reveal that left readers saying, “I never saw that person coming.” Book 3 promises to wrap up the mystery arc even further.

Drama Level: Espresso — Oh yes, there is drama — and plenty of it. From shocking wedding-scene twists to a villain so evil he had readers begging for his demise since Book 1, the drama is cranked up in this installment.

Suspense Level: Mocha to Espresso — The suspense is more drama-driven than pulse-pounding, with particularly tense scenes toward the beginning and end. Think slow-burn anxiety rather than edge-of-your-seat thriller.

Romance Level: Mocha — The romance is clean and tasteful. Given Madeline’s circumstances, Melissa makes thoughtful choices about the pace and nature of the romance — and listeners agreed she handled it beautifully. There are a couple of swoon-worthy moments, but nothing that crosses the line for clean romance readers.

Overall Lasso Rating: Three Lassos (and then some!) — Our co-host couldn’t put it down, stayed up past midnight to finish it, and texted Melissa the next day. That says it all.

Faith, Redemption & the Consequences of Sin

One of the most powerful themes of Uncharted Trials is the tension between God’s grace and the earthly consequences of our sins. As Melissa explains in the episode, coming to faith in Jesus doesn’t remove those consequences — but walking through them is what refines us and allows us to minister to others who are going through the same thing.

This message is woven throughout the novel with depth and sensitivity, particularly in a powerful scene between Brody and James that had our co-host reaching for the tissues. It’s exactly the kind of faith-forward storytelling that sets the Bounty Brothers series apart from typical Western romance.

Handling Sensitive Themes with Grace

Uncharted Trials doesn’t shy away from difficult topics, including trauma and abuse. But Melissa handles these subjects with extraordinary care. The book addresses Madeline’s past in a way that feels authentic and honoring — neither downplayed nor exploited. Melissa spoke in the episode about how challenging it was to write these scenes, but the result is a story that truly understands the healing process and points it toward God’s plan.

For readers who appreciate Christian fiction that grapples honestly with real-world pain and points toward redemption, this book is a must-read.

Unforgettable Characters: From Danny to Tom to the Trio of Boys

This episode is packed with character discussions, and for good reason — Melissa has created a rich ensemble that readers are falling in love with. Highlights include:

Danny Flynn — Madeline’s younger brother, who is deaf, gets a chance to simply be a little boy on the ranch — free from the weight of always needing protection. His integration into the ranch family is one of the most heartwarming storylines in the book.

Tom — A no-nonsense, take-charge character who gets his own POV scenes in Book 2. Readers are already clamoring for his story (Book 3!), and that unforgettable saloon scene will have you agreeing: you want this guy in your corner.

The Villain: Thomas — First introduced in Book 1 as a character you loved to hate, Thomas reaches new levels of menace in Book 2. Readers were begging for his end from the very beginning.

The Trio of Boys — We can’t say too much without spoiling things, but a surprising trio of boys ends up on the ranch, stair-stepped in age, and the dynamic they bring adds both levity and heart to the story.

The Curveballs: Twists, Turns & That Wedding Scene

We can’t talk about Uncharted Trials without mentioning the twists. Melissa has a gift for luring readers into a sense of security — and then dropping the floor out from under them. Listeners to the episode will hear us talk around one particular scene (we don’t want to spoil it!) that had our co-host reading until midnight, texting Melissa in disbelief, and ultimately applauding how it was all woven back into God’s plan.

And yes, there is a turkey hunting scene that provides some much-needed humor right when the story needs it most. It’s perfectly placed, and we absolutely love it.

Behind the Cover: A Sweet Story You’ll Love

Did you know the cover models for the Bounty Brothers series are real people? The girls featured on the covers of Books 1 and 2 are the daughters of one of Melissa’s friends from work — and the character names in the books mirror the real girls’ names in a completely coincidental, delightful twist. Book 5 will feature the third daughter, completing the set. It’s one of those behind-the-scenes details that makes indie publishing so special.

The cover art itself was done by Melissa’s cousin Nikki, who has been illustrating for over 20 years. The limited-edition cover for Uncharted Trials has quickly become a fan favorite.

What’s Next for the Bounty Brothers Series?

The next book in the series will follow Tom and Bethany (yes, the new pastor’s daughter!), and Melissa has already begun teasing readers with glimpses of Bethany in Book 2. If Tom’s scenes in Uncharted Trials are any indication, Book 3 is going to be a phenomenal read. No title yet, but the anticipation is real.

Melissa also teased that she and her cousin are launching a new podcast focused on the author-illustrator perspective, tentatively planned for February. Keep an eye on literaryscape.com for updates!

Where to Buy Uncharted Trials

Melissa sells her books exclusively through direct sales on her website — you won’t find them on Amazon or other major retailers. This allows her to maintain control over the terms and conditions under which her work is sold and to connect directly with her readers.

Head to literaryscape.com to grab your copy of Uncharted Trials in paperback or e-book format. Audiobook is also in the works! While you’re there, sign up for Melissa’s newsletter to stay up to date on new releases, merchandise (including a Circle Seven Ranch logo collection coming soon!), and website updates.

T-shirts for the Bounty Brothers series are also available, with more merchandise on the way.

Related Episodes

In this special episode of the LiteraryScape Podcast, we sit down with our very own host and author Melissa LaShure to discuss her debut Christian western romance novel, Unwavering Faith — Book 1 of the Bounty Brothers series. Set in the rugged Wild West of Dodge City, this faith-filled historical romance follows bounty hunter Brody Young and Claire, a wrongfully accused woman far from home, as they navigate danger, faith, and an undeniable connection.

We cover the characters, the writing process, the inspiration behind the story, our Lasso Ratings, and so much more — plus plenty of behind-the-scenes laughs from the author herself.

Hosts

Melissa LaShure

Jessica

Tiffanie

Mom

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About This Episide

If you love western romance books filled with faith, suspense, and swoony heroes, you are in the right place. On Episode 186 of the LiteraryScape Podcast, we dive deep into Unwavering Faith — the debut novel from LiteraryScape’s very own host, Melissa LaShure. This episode is unlike any other we’ve done, because for the first time, we’re sitting down with the author herself for a behind-the-scenes look at the story, the characters, the inspiration, and the faith woven through every page of this heart-pounding Christian historical romance.

Whether you’re already a fan of the Bounty Brothers series or you’re just discovering it for the first time, this episode is the perfect introduction to one of the most exciting new voices in Christian western romance fiction.

About the Book: Unwavering Faith by Melissa LaShure

Unwavering Faith is the first book in the Bounty Brothers series — a planned seven-book series set in the rugged landscape of the American Wild West. The story centers on Brody Young, a morally grounded bounty hunter, and Claire, a woman who flees Fifth Avenue, New York after being wrongfully accused of murder. Desperate to find her brother in Dodge City, Claire finds herself far out of her depth — until she crosses paths with the one man who just might have the power to save her.

At its core, this western romance novel is a story about faith — Claire’s faith being tested, Brody’s unwavering faith in God, and the question of whether love can survive when enemies close in from every direction. It’s a page-turner that blends Christian inspiration with historical adventure, genuine romance, and some truly shocking plot twists.

Meet the Characters: The Bounty Brothers

One of the most exciting elements of this western romance book series is the cast of characters Melissa has built around the Bounty Brothers. While the first book introduces all seven brothers — Brody, James, Tom, George, Walter, Henry, and Philip — each future book in the series will focus on a different brother’s story.

During the episode, Melissa and her co-host discuss their favorite characters at length. Brody is immediately beloved for his fierce protectiveness — not just of Claire, but of everyone around him. He’s a bounty hunter with a moral code, which makes him both compelling and complex as a hero. The twins, Henry and Philip, bring a delightful contrast to the group, with Philip (the more refined of the two) described as swooning over Claire’s hand like a city slicker — a moment that had the hosts laughing out loud.

But perhaps the breakout fan-favorite character of the episode’s discussion is Junior — a young boy whose innocence and heart steal every scene he’s in. Melissa admits she fell so in love with him while writing that she told her husband she wanted Junior to be their son. His role in drawing Brody and Claire together adds a warmth and levity to the story that balances the high-stakes tension beautifully.

The Setting: Dodge City and the Wild West

Melissa did extensive research to bring the Wild West setting of Dodge City to life in this Christian historical romance. One of the most fascinating behind-the-scenes moments she shares in the episode is the discovery of the Long Branch Saloon — a real establishment in historic Dodge City — which aligned almost perfectly with a fictional saloon she had already created in her manuscript. For Melissa, it felt like divine confirmation that the story was meant to be set exactly where she placed it.

Melissa also mentions the iconic Wyatt Earp, whom she carefully weaves into the story without making him a central character — a nod to history that readers have responded to enthusiastically. Rather than a typical rowdy saloon setting, the world Melissa builds leans into a sense of community and even sanctuary — making Dodge City feel like a place of refuge as much as danger.

Faith Elements in Western Christian Romance Fiction

What sets Unwavering Faith apart from other western romance novels is the genuine, organic way faith is woven into the story. During the episode, Melissa and her co-host agree that the inspirational elements rate at a “mocha” level — present and meaningful, but never preachy or heavy-handed. Faith is a natural part of Brody’s character, and Claire’s spiritual journey feels authentic rather than forced.

One memorable detail Melissa shares is the name of Claire’s horse, Deborah — drawn from a short but powerful Old Testament story about a strong warrior woman who does God’s will. Melissa heard a sermon on this biblical figure and immediately knew it was the name for the horse. Little faith-filled details like this are scattered throughout the book, rewarding readers who look for them.

The Writing Process: An Indie Author’s Journey

Melissa is an independently published author, and she’s refreshingly candid in this episode about the creative and editorial process behind Unwavering Faith. In its earliest draft, the book had eight points of view — a number her developmental editor, Liz Tolsma, advised her to cut in half. Working through that process helped sharpen the story considerably, with Brody, Claire, James, and Thomas’s perspectives ultimately giving the narrative its well-rounded emotional depth.

Melissa also shares that award-winning Christian romance author Julie Lessman helped her craft the pivotal first kiss scene — a detail that fans of the genre will appreciate. The book features shorter chapters by design, something readers have praised for allowing them to read in shorter bursts without losing momentum.

Each book in the Bounty Brothers series also features a limited edition cover designed by Melissa’s cousin Nikki, with a version that includes Melissa and her husband. These limited editions help fund the cost of independent publishing — a beautiful, personal touch that speaks to the community Melissa is building around her work.

LiteraryScape Lasso Ratings for Unwavering Faith

Every LiteraryScape episode includes our signature Lasso Ratings, where we rank books across five elements using our coffee-scale system (from espresso to latte). Here’s how Unwavering Faith ranked:

Mystery Level: Mocha — There’s enough intrigue early on (especially around why Claire is running) to keep you guessing.

Drama Level: Latte — Relationship tension, high-stakes danger, and emotional moments abound throughout the book.

Inspirational Level: Mocha — Faith is present and meaningful, but woven in naturally rather than being front and center.

Suspense Level: Espresso to Mocha — Builds steadily, with the final chapters delivering genuine edge-of-your-seat moments.

Romance Level: Mocha — Sweet and swoon-worthy without being over the top. The slow-burn tension is perfectly paced.

Overall Rating: 3 out of 3 Lassos — A strong debut with an addictive story structure that keeps readers turning pages late into the night.

Who Will Love Unwavering Faith?

If you enjoy Christian historical romance novels, western romance books, or inspirational fiction with a strong faith thread, Unwavering Faith is a must-read. Fans of authors like Julie Lessman and Liz Tolsma will find a lot to love in Melissa LaShure’s debut. The book offers a perfect blend of:

• A morally complex, deeply protective hero who leads with both strength and faith.
• A heroine who is forced to confront her beliefs as her world falls apart.
• A richly researched Wild West setting with authentic historical nods.
• Shocking twists and an addictive short-chapter format that keeps you reading “just one more.”
• A broader series with six more books to look forward to.

Listen to the Full Episode

Tune in to Episode 186 of the LiteraryScape Podcast for the full author interview, character deep-dives, behind-the-scenes writing stories, and plenty of laughs — including what is probably the most chaotic reading of a book’s back cover in podcast history. You can listen here: www.literaryscape.com/podcast/186

You can also purchase Melissa’s books — including both Unwavering Faith and the follow-up, Uncharted Trials — as well as LiteraryScape merchandise exclusively at literaryscape.com.

More From LiteraryScape

LiteraryScape is your go-to podcast for Christian fiction book reviews, western romance novel discussions, and author interviews across the inspirational fiction genre. New episodes drop weekly, and our next episode will cover book two of the Bounty Brothers series — Uncharted Trials — where the drama, the faith, and the romance turn up the heat even further. Don’t miss it!

Related Episodes

Welcome to another exciting episode of the LiteraryScape podcast! This week, we’re thrilled to introduce you to Laura Thomas, a contemporary Christian romantic suspense author with a fascinating journey from the UK to Canada, and from picture book dreams to page-turning novels.

Hosts

Melissa LaShure

Jessica

Tiffanie

Mom

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A Writer’s Journey

Laura’s story is one that many aspiring authors will find inspiring. She dreamed of becoming a writer as a small child—specifically, she wanted to be the next Beatrix Potter, writing charming picture books. But like many of us, she buried that dream for 25 years, not telling a single soul, not even her husband!

It wasn’t until her mid-thirties that her husband unearthed this hidden passion. What happened next is a testament to following where your writing takes you, even when it’s not the path you initially envisioned.

The Path to Publication

Laura took a methodical approach to her writing education, studying through the Institute of Children’s Literature, which she highly recommends. Her first published works were short stories in children’s magazines—a step toward that picture book dream. But then came a teen short story that publishers loved, which evolved into her first full-length novel.

That first book became a trilogy of Christian teen fiction. Then came a middle grade novel, a nonfiction marriage book, and eventually—after years of reading romantic suspense as her favorite genre—she decided to try her hand at it. The result? “Many, many, many books” in the genre, as Laura puts it with a laugh.

“I love that mix of the romance with the sort of page turning suspense and the element of faith running throughout it. It’s kind of a challenge to keep all three. And I really, really enjoy that.”

The Bite of Betrayal Series

Laura’s current series, published by Mountain Brook Inc., is called the Bite of Betrayal series, and it’s set in the English countryside—a wonderful opportunity for Laura to return to her roots. The series follows three sisters from Vancouver who’ve all emigrated to the UK, each with very different personalities and stories.

Book one, Captured in Frame, tells the story of eldest sister Georgia. Book two, The Final Word (recently released), features Sophie, one of the identical twins who, despite sharing DNA with her sister Harriet, couldn’t be more different in personality.

About The Final Word

Sophie is a writer who’s spent nearly a decade in Paris, pursuing the romantic notion of being a Parisian author while also learning to bake at a patisserie. As the story opens, she’s preparing to move to England to pursue her writing career. But on one of her final days in Paris, she witnesses an attack she can’t unsee—an experience that both frightens her and spurs her move.

On her very last night in Paris, despite not believing in love at first sight, Sophie encounters an opera singer who reminds her strikingly of a character in her novel. It’s an instant, head-over-heels connection—complicated by the fact that she’s leaving the country.

What follows is a suspenseful tale where both the attacker and her love interest follow Sophie to England. Add in baggage from an ex-boyfriend, sisterly dynamics, Cinderella vibes in her manuscript, feelings of betrayal from both her ex and God, and you have a page-turner filled with action, romance, and spiritual depth.

Research Adventures

One of the most delightful parts of our conversation was hearing about Laura’s research trips. With all her family still in England, she had the perfect excuse to drag her husband across the pond for some hands-on research.

For The Final Word, they spent a day in Bath—Laura’s favorite English city and a dream destination for book lovers with its cobblestone streets and incredible bookstores. Her writer character simply had to visit these bookstores, so of course Laura needed to refresh her memory!

But the most charming research moment? Laura convinced her husband to help her reenact her characters’ first date at an ancient countryside pub complete with low beams, roaring fire, old pictures, and tapestries. They sat there having the conversation exactly as her characters would. “We must’ve looked a little crazy,” Laura admits, “but that was so much fun.”

Though Laura confesses her husband does have his limits—he drew the line at locking her in the trunk of their car so she could authentically experience that scene for another book!

A Baker at Heart

Like her character Sophie, Laura is passionate about baking. She loves making cupcakes, decorating them with extra sparkles and frosting, but she bakes “anything and everything.” In The Final Word, she mentions an opera cake—a dessert she’d never heard of before but seemed perfect for a story featuring an opera singer hero.

True to her word to readers, Laura made the intricate, multi-layered opera cake after the book’s summer release. She describes it as “probably the most tricky” thing she’s ever made—similar to tiramisu with layers of coffee, chocolate, and French buttercream. You can see the results on her Instagram!

Laura shares baking recipes in her monthly newsletter, along with book giveaways (she gives away a paperback of a favorite read every month) and reading recommendations.

Reading Recommendations

When it comes to reading, Laura particularly enjoys World War II fiction—partly because it’s far removed from what she writes, allowing her brain to turn off the “plot, character” analysis and just enjoy the story. She also connects personally with the genre, imagining her own grandparents who were in London during the war.

Some of her favorite authors include:

• Sarah Sundin – World War II fiction
• Colleen Coble – Romantic suspense
• Natalie Walters – Romantic suspense
• Kate Morton – Historical fiction
• Kristin Hannah – “Anything she writes, I love”

Laura reads most genres except fantasy and horror, keeping her reading life varied and interesting.

Her all-time favorite book? Little Women by Louisa May Alcott, which she’s loved since childhood and rereads often, especially at Christmas. As one of four daughters and a writer herself, the story resonates on multiple levels. She even named her French bulldog Louisa May—Lulu for short!

Standalone Stories in a Series

One of the most reader-friendly aspects of Laura’s writing is her commitment to making each book work as a standalone. She knows the frustration of picking up a book that looks interesting only to feel lost because you haven’t read previous installments.

“I intentionally write so that you could literally pick up any one from any series and it’s a standalone,” Laura explains. While she recommends starting with book one for the full experience, readers can genuinely jump into any book that appeals to them—whether it’s The Lighthouse Baby for Oregon coast lighthouse lovers or any other title that catches their eye.

Beyond Writing: Coaching Others

Laura is also a writing coach, helping aspiring authors navigate their own journeys. All the details about her coaching services, along with her books and social media links, can be found on her website.

What’s Next

Book three of the Bite of Betrayal series will release next year, featuring the third sister, Harriet. And Laura has just signed a contract for book four—a Christmas novella to round out the series.

Her previous romantic suspense series, the Flight to Freedom series, includes five books (three novels and two Christmas novellas) and offers a completely different setting and tone from the English countryside stories.

And that picture book dream? It’s still alive! Laura has a literary agent currently shopping her picture book manuscript. After all these successful novels, she might just circle back to where it all began.

Connect with Laura

You can find Laura Thomas on Instagram and Facebook, and be sure to sign up for her monthly newsletter at laurathomasauthor.com for book giveaways, baking recipes, and reading recommendations.

The LiteraryScape podcast features conversations with authors about their books, writing journeys, and the stories behind the stories. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts to catch new episodes every week!

Related Episodes

Lynn Shannon Interview: Badge of Honor Series & Writing Tips

Welcome back to another exciting episode of the Literary Escape podcast! We’re thrilled to have bestselling author Lynn Shannon back with us to discuss her newest series, Badge of Honor, and give us all the behind-the-scenes details on her writing process, research methods, and what’s coming next.

Hosts

Melissa LaShure

Jessica

Tiffanie

Mom

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Diving Into the Badge of Honor Series

If you’ve been following along with our recent episodes, you know we’ve been completely hooked on Lynn’s Badge of Honor series. Books one and two, Fractured Memories and Dangerous Lies, have already captured our hearts, and we’re eagerly awaiting book three, Broken Silence, which releases this March.

The series takes us back to that beloved small-town Texas setting (Knoxville, Lynn thinks—though she admits with a laugh that bouncing between series sometimes means forgetting these details!). With six books planned for the series, there’s plenty more suspense, romance, and small-town charm ahead.

A Favorite Character: Felicity’s Story

When we asked Lynn about her favorite character in the series so far, she didn’t hesitate: Felicity. This friends-to-lovers story featuring a cold case that Felicity witnessed as a child hits all the right emotional notes.

“I love the idea that she works with her best friend in order to make it happen,” Lynn shared. “A lot of what happens to her and the fear that she had, it would be very different if Noah hadn’t been by her side to help her work the case.”

The series also includes subtle crossovers with Lynn’s Texas Ranger series, creating a connected world where characters from different series know each other, are friends, or even related. Lynn is careful to balance these connections, ensuring new readers can jump into any series without feeling lost while giving longtime fans those delightful “catching up with old friends” moments.

The Balancing Act: Writing Multiple Series

One of the most interesting insights from our conversation was learning about Lynn’s approach to managing multiple series. She’s currently bouncing between the Badge of Honor series and her popular Rangers series, though she admits this wasn’t intentional.

“The readers keep asking me to add on to the Rangers series, so I just keep hopping back into it,” Lynn explained. While she appreciates reader enthusiasm, she’s decided to change her strategy going forward: “My goal is to not bounce between series anymore. I want to take a series, finish that entire series, and then go back to another series.”

Small-Town Texas: The Heart of Every Story

There’s something special about the way Lynn brings small-town Texas to life in her books. Growing up in Spring, a suburb outside Houston that was once quite rural, Lynn developed a deep appreciation for the tight-knit communities where everybody knows everybody.

“I like the familiarity of them. I like how everybody knows everybody or most people know everybody. I like that feeling of family and connection and roots,” she told us. “So that typically shows up in all of my books.”

And it’s true—family members play significant roles, someone always has a ranch or farm, and that sense of found family and community runs through every story. Lynn bases her fictional towns on real areas she knows but changes the names to avoid any awkward situations (like featuring a corrupt police officer in a real town’s police department!).

Research and Authenticity Matter

Lynn’s commitment to accuracy is impressive. As a former lawyer who worked in both family and criminal law, she already had connections to law enforcement. But she doesn’t stop there. She takes classes taught by police officers, belongs to Facebook groups run by cops and emergency personnel, and reaches out directly to organizations like the Texas Ranger Museum for specific questions.

“They’re amazing about being helpful,” Lynn said. “They want you to get it right because they don’t want you to misrepresent how they do their job.”

This dedication shows in her respectful portrayal of law enforcement. While there’s occasionally a “bad egg” (as exists in any profession), Lynn’s stories celebrate the good officers who work incredibly hard to protect their communities and see justice done.

“Most of them are extremely amazing people who just want to do a great job and protect the community,” she emphasized. “And that’s how most of the police officers in my books are portrayed.”

Reader-Driven Stories

Perhaps what sets Lynn apart most is her responsiveness to reader feedback. When readers told her they didn’t enjoy having the villain’s point of view in her early Ranger books, she listened and stopped including it in subsequent stories. When readers fell in love with Wes (Noah’s brother from Fractured Memories), Lynn started planning his story.

“I do want them to be happy,” Lynn said about her readers. “So I’m writing the stories in large part for them. If they’re asking me for a story, I’m like, okay, I can go back into that series and add more.”

As an indie author, Lynn has the flexibility to respond directly to her readers without answering to traditional publishing constraints. Her job, as she sees it, is to give readers the books they’re asking for—ones filled with danger, suspense, romance, and faith.

What’s Next: Broken Silence and Beyond

Broken Silence, releasing in March, features a reunion romance between a divorced couple who are forced back together on a case involving a baby. Lynn loves writing these second-chance stories about people who “don’t fall out of love, but they get lost” and then rediscover that their relationship is worth fighting for.

Looking beyond the Badge of Honor series, Lynn is already planning her next project: the Justice Investigation series, featuring military heroes. She’s been mentioning Justice Investigations since her Triumph Over Adversity series, and now these characters will finally get their own stories. And yes, Wes will be connected to them too!

The Interview Moment We’ll Never Forget

No recap of this episode would be complete without mentioning the hilarious interruption that occurred mid-interview. Lynn was parked by a lake near her parents’ house in Texas when a small dog started chasing a duck—and actually caught it!

As we tried to have a serious conversation about character development and plot structure, Lynn watched the scene unfold: the owner trying to catch the dog, the duck (thankfully unharmed), and this tiny dog that was actually smaller than its prey making the whole situation even more absurd.

“This is the kind of thing that you’re like, okay, this is a book. Put this in a book sometime,” Lynn laughed. We can’t wait to see if this scene shows up in a future novel!

Why We Love Lynn’s Books

Lynn has a gift for pacing, creating just the right amount of suspense, and delivering satisfying twists that genuinely surprise us. Her books are the perfect length—substantial enough to fully develop characters and plot, but not so long that they drag. Whether you’re new to her work or a longtime fan, her stories deliver what romantic suspense readers crave: justice always wins, love always prevails, and the murderer is always caught.

“That’s one of the reasons why I love writing what I love because justice always wins and so does love,” Lynn told us. In a world where real life doesn’t always work out that way, there’s something deeply satisfying about that guarantee.

Connect With Lynn

Ready to dive into the Badge of Honor series? Lynn’s books are available in Kindle, paperback, and audiobook formats on Amazon. You can connect with her on:

• Website: lynnshannon.com
• Facebook
• Instagram

And don’t forget to join Lynn’s email list! You’ll get a free book—Vanished, featuring the sister of Grady from the Ranger Protection series. It’s a great introduction to Lynn’s writing and a fun spin-off story.

Lynn genuinely wants to hear from readers, whether you’re sharing what you loved about a book or offering constructive feedback. As she reminded us, “If I hear something two, three, four, five, six times, I take it very seriously and I will respond.”

Listen to the Full Episode

We hope you love the Badge of Honor series as much as we do! Let us know what you think, and be sure to reach out to Lynn if you have requests for future characters and storylines. As this episode proves, she’s listening!

What’s your favorite Lynn Shannon series? Are you team Rangers or team Badge of Honor? Let us know in the comments!

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Diving Into Lynn Shannon’s Dangerous Lies

Welcome back to LiteraryScape! In this episode, we’re discussing Fractured Memories, the explosive first book in Lynn Shannon’s Badge of Honor series. If you’re a fan of romantic suspense with complex mysteries and heart-pounding action, you won’t want to miss this one.

Hosts

Melissa LaShure

Jessica

Tiffanie

Mom

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About This Episide

The Setup

Ten years sober, Megan Ingalls has rebuilt her life helping others overcome addiction, desperate to atone for her past. But the past isn’t finished with her. When threatening notes start arriving, it becomes clear someone hasn’t forgotten—or forgiven—her role in the tragic death of Oliver Taylor.

And Oliver’s brother? That’s police officer Jax Taylor, who blames Megan for destroying his family. When Megan is viciously assaulted, Jax is forced to reconsider everything he thought he knew. Despite their fraught history and his family’s fierce opposition, Jax becomes determined to protect her. As they work together to uncover who’s behind the threats, old secrets surface and longstanding grudges flare. The closer they get to the truth, the more complicated Jax’s feelings for Megan become.

What We Loved

A Relationship Forged Through Fire

Remember that ending from book one where Jax coldly declared, “She killed my brother”? Yeah, Shannon doesn’t let us forget it. The opening scene has Jax being downright mean to Megan when she reports the threats. He’s dismissive, skeptical, convinced she’s making it up. It’s painful to watch, but it sets up one of the most compelling enemies-to-lovers arcs we’ve read in a while.

What makes this romance work is how earned it feels. These two have every reason not to trust each other, yet circumstances force them together. The healing that happens—not just between them but within Jax’s entire family—is beautifully done.

Family Drama That Hits Hard

This book doesn’t shy away from the messy reality of grief and blame. Jax’s father is still consumed with anger over Oliver’s death, and his hostility toward Megan creates an impossible situation for Jax. He’s caught between protecting Megan and maintaining family loyalty, and Shannon captures that tension perfectly.

The scene where Wesley (remember him from the Triumph Over Adversity series?) finally gets brought into the sheriff’s office had us on the edge of our seats. The confrontation between family members, the accusations flying back and forth—it’s intense. And then there’s Megan’s grandfather, who equally despises Jax for the trouble he’s caused his granddaughter. Poor Jax couldn’t catch a break from either side.

A Mystery That Keeps You Guessing

One thing Shannon excels at in Dangerous Lies is the mystery itself. Unlike some romantic suspense where the whodunit feels secondary, this one had us genuinely stumped. Jax shares his theories throughout the investigation—what we jokingly called his “conspiracy theories”—and they actually threw us in different directions.

We loved how the police work felt real and methodical. As they eliminated suspects, the pool narrowed, but not in obvious ways. One of us figured it out during the coffee shop scene (you know the one—when Quentin asks Megan if she’s a murderer, which was absolutely brutal to witness). The other didn’t catch on until the phone calls about the mom being sick started coming in. Shannon does an excellent job of planting seeds without making them too obvious.

Suspense That Doesn’t Let Up

Let’s be real: after reading this book, we didn’t want to go outside in the dark alone. That first attack scene? Absolutely terrifying. And it’s not just one scary moment—the tension builds throughout the entire book.

The barn scene where they’re hiding and get shot at. The creepy setup by the boathouse that had us genuinely unsettled. The pond scene in the middle of winter (could you even imagine?). Every time we thought they could catch their breath, something else happened. Even relaxing in the backyard isn’t safe in this book!

And can we talk about the chase scenes? These characters are running through woods in the dark, and the descriptions are so vivid. Megan’s preferred exercise is yoga, and she’s definitely regretting not doing more cardio. The whole time we’re reading, we’re mentally screaming “Jax, hurry up!” because Shannon brilliantly cuts between perspectives at the most suspenseful moments.

Standout Moments (Minor Spoilers Ahead!)

The drone that somebody got for their birthday? We literally just finished the book and then opened that gift scene and thought, “Oh no, oh no they’re going to be everywhere now.”

And that decision to drive in the rain to do the stakeout? Classic horror movie moment where you’re yelling “Don’t go in the basement!” at the characters. Even Jax is thinking it’s not a good idea, and we’re like, “You think, Jax? Common sense, people!”

We also appreciated how the book explores Oliver’s last days and reveals what he was really doing. It gives Megan validation for what she’s been saying all along—she truly was just trying to help him.

A Story With Heart

Beyond the suspense and romance, Dangerous Lies tackles addiction and recovery in a way that feels authentic. Megan is a recovered addict, and Jax lost his brother to addiction. Shannon doesn’t simplify these complex issues. The coffee shop scene where Megan has to hear people still gossiping about her years later, with no evidence of wrongdoing but all the judgment in the world—that rang painfully true.

The healing Jax’s family experiences by the end, particularly with his father, felt earned and necessary. His dad needed to take that step for the whole family to move forward. And that moment when his mom suggests they have a family dinner but says it needs to just be them first? Perfect.

Our Ratings

Inspiration Level: ☕☕ Mocha
Mystery Level: ☕☕☕ Latte
Drama Level: ☕☕☕ Latte (maybe even three lattes!)
Romance Level: ☕☕ Mocha
Suspense Level: ☕☕☕ Triple Hot Latte

Overall LiteraryScape Rating: 3/3 Lassos

Final Thoughts

Dangerous Lies delivers everything we want in romantic suspense: a mystery that keeps us guessing, romance that feels earned, and enough suspense to make us check the backseat of our cars (seriously, Derek’s been telling us to do that forever, and now we finally are).

The book ends with a cliffhanger involving Dawson (who we really enjoyed in this story), setting up book three perfectly. Speaking of which, Broken Silence will be available March 22, 2026—mark your calendars!

We’re also incredibly curious about what’s next for Wesley. Will he be part of the Badge of Honor series, or will he get his own spinoff? After the growth he shows in this book, particularly his willingness to engage more with family, we’re invested in his journey.

Where to Find More

Want to explore more of Lynn Shannon’s Badge of Honor series? Visit her website at https://www.lynnshannon.com/badge-of-honor/ for more information about the series and her other books.

If you’re looking for a romantic suspense that will keep you up late turning pages (and maybe checking your locks a few extra times), Dangerous Lies is an absolute must-read. Just maybe don’t read it alone at night. We speak from experience.

Have you read Dangerous Lies? What did you think? When did you figure out the mystery? Let us know in the comments!

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Diving Into Lynn Shannon’s Fractured Memories

Welcome back to LiteraryScape! In this episode, we’re discussing Fractured Memories, the explosive first book in Lynn Shannon’s Badge of Honor series. If you’re a fan of romantic suspense with complex mysteries and heart-pounding action, you won’t want to miss this one.

Hosts

Melissa LaShure

Jessica

Tiffanie

Mom

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About This Episide

About the Book

Fractured Memories follows Texas Ranger Felicity Capshaw, who witnessed a murder as a teenager. The traumatic incident left her with amnesia that has affected her entire life. When she reopens the cold case years later, the investigation takes a dangerous turn—she’s assaulted and nearly killed.

Enter Detective Noah Hodge, a man no stranger to loss. Having buried his parents and his wife, all Noah wants is to raise his two-year-old daughter Harper and keep his hometown of Knoxville, Texas safe. But when the killer targets Felicity, Noah commits to protecting her, even though each second in her presence makes him question why he’s locked away his battered heart.

As Felicity’s memories return, the threats escalate. Can Noah help her uncover the truth, or will the killer silence her forever?

Our Thoughts

This book certainly lives up to its description with an “explosive beginning”—and we mean that quite literally! The story opens with Felicity returning to her hometown and the very house where her babysitter was murdered. The location? Now an Airbnb. Talk about creepy! We couldn’t help but discuss whether we’d stay somewhere if we discovered someone had been murdered there.

The Characters

One aspect we really appreciated was the family dynamic. Noah lives with his aunt (or grandmother—she was a foster parent who takes in kids), and they’ve created this wonderful blended family that includes Amber, who calls Noah “cousin” even though they’re not biologically related. Everyone pitches in to help with little Harper, and it creates this warm, supportive environment.

Felicity and Noah have history—they grew up together until she was sixteen and had to leave town after the trauma of witnessing the murder. We loved how Noah starts calling her “Fee” again, bringing back that familiar sweetness from their past. Their relationship has layers of complexity, especially with Felicity stepping into Harper’s life and navigating feelings about Noah’s late wife, whom she actually knew.

The interactions between Felicity and Harper were genuinely sweet. Felicity had maintained a connection with Harper even from afar, sending gifts and keeping in touch. Still, we discussed how awkward it might feel to be in Felicity’s shoes—wondering if you’re replacing someone, if comparisons will be made, and how to be that mother figure without overstepping.

The Mystery and Suspense

As a whodunit mystery, this book keeps you guessing. We rated the mystery level as a “latte”—there’s plenty to puzzle over and piece together. The suspense? Definitely a “latte” as well. There were moments when we genuinely wondered if Felicity would make it through, and the tension builds throughout the story.

The one thing that always gets us in these types of books is when the children get mixed into the dangerous situations. When Harper became involved in the scary stuff, it definitely ramped up our anxiety levels!

Lynn Shannon’s Connected Universe

One of the things fans love about Lynn Shannon’s books is how she weaves her series together. Characters from her Special Forces series and her Texas Ranger series make appearances in this Badge of Honor installment. Grady from the Texas Ranger series appears as Felicity’s partner, and we see characters like Tucker, Jason, and Nathan pop up because their wives are friends with the main characters.

Shannon wrote this series in response to reader requests for more stories centered around the Knoxville police force, who appeared throughout her Triumph Over Adversity series. She’s incredibly in tune with what her readers want, and it shows in how thoughtfully she brings these worlds together.

The Romance

While the romance is present in Fractured Memories, it’s on the lighter side—we’d rate it as a “mocha.” Shannon tends to keep the romantic elements from overwhelming the suspense plot, which works well for the pacing of this type of story. The relationship development feels natural and earned, even if it’s not the primary focus.

The inspirational elements also rank as a “mocha”—they’re there without being heavy-handed, adding depth to the characters’ journeys without overtaking the narrative.

Our Rating

We both give Fractured Memories three lassos! This is a hard-to-put-down read that will keep you on the edge of your seat. It’s packed with mystery, suspense, and drama, all wrapped up with Lynn Shannon’s signature style of connecting her beloved characters across series.

Fair warning: the book ends with enough resolution to satisfy, but if you’re like us, you’ll immediately want to dive into book two, Dangerous Lies. And when you finish that one, be prepared—book three doesn’t release until February, and there’s a cliffhanger!

Final Thoughts

Fractured Memories is perfect for readers who enjoy romantic suspense with strong mysteries, complex family dynamics, and characters you can root for. Lynn Shannon has created another compelling story set in Knoxville, Texas—though we have to laugh that so much crime happens in this fictional town. Maybe avoid moving there!

If you’re a fan of Shannon’s other series, you’ll love seeing familiar faces. If you’re new to her work, this is a great jumping-off point that will likely have you seeking out her other books.

Want to learn more about Lynn Shannon and her Badge of Honor series? Visit her website at https://www.lynnshannon.com/badge-of-honor/

Join us next time on LiteraryScape when we discuss book two in the series, Dangerous Lies. Until then, happy reading!

Don’t forget your chocolate while reading—we always do! And if you enjoy our podcast, please rate and review us wherever you listen to podcasts.

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LiteraryScape 2026 Kickoff: New Books, New Studio, and Exciting Changes Ahead!

Welcome to 2026, book lovers! We’re thrilled to kick off another year of reading, discussing, and celebrating great Christian fiction with you. This year brings some exciting changes to LiteraryScape, and we can’t wait to share what’s in store.

Hosts

Melissa LaShure

Jessica

Tiffanie

Mom

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About This Episide

What’s New at LiteraryScape?

A Brand New Recording Space

Get ready for an upgraded viewing experience! Most of our 2026 episodes will be recorded in our new studio space, complete with better cameras and improved picture quality. We’re also bringing back some fan favorites like trivia and adding unique segments beyond our traditional book discussions.

LiteraryScape Book Club Membership

We’ve migrated to a new website and launched our official LiteraryScape Book Club membership for just $7/month or $70/year! Here’s what members get:

• Free e-book with every new release
• Exclusive “Coffee and Books” author events (members only!)
• Free shipping on all LiteraryScape store purchases
• Access to live book club sessions with us throughout the year

Visit our Book Club page to join!

Expanded Store Offerings

Our online store is growing! In addition to our Unwavering Faith totes and t-shirts, Bounty Brothers shirts, and remaining Unwavering Faith mugs, we’re launching an exciting new Circle Seven Ranch t-shirt designed by Nikki, who also creates our book covers. Keep an eye out for the official ranch logo and brand too!

Our 2026 Reading List

Ready to read along with us? Here are the series and books we’ll be featuring this year:

Series Lineup

• Hope of Cheyenne by Tracie Peterson
• Minnesota Kingstons by Susan May Warren (new author for us!)
• Pepper Basham’s Rom-Com Collection: Loyally, Luke, Some Like It Scott, and Positively, Penelope
• Convenient Risk Series (finishing up) by Sara R.Turnquist
• Lake City Heroes by Lynette Eason (new romantic suspense series!)
• Texas Promise Series by Naomi Rawlings (another new author!)
• Plus our traditional Christmas stories and wrap-ups

We’ll also be revisiting some favorites like Gossamer Falls (book three releases in March!), continuing the Lynn Shannon series, and catching up with Crystal Caudill’s new releases.

How We Chose This Year’s Books

This year, we expanded our horizons! After featuring backlist titles and new releases from past interview guests in 2025, we decided to bring in fresh voices. That’s why you’ll see several new-to-us authors on the list, including our first foray into Christian rom-com with Pepper Basham’s books.

We’re also maintaining our balance of historical romance and contemporary suspense while adding that lighter rom-com element for variety. Susan May Warren’s Minnesota Kingstons series brings a different flavor of suspense—think Knight and Day (the Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz movie) or James Bond style action with military backgrounds and romance, rather than straight murder mysteries.

Our Predictions

Tiffany’s Picks

• Favorite series: Either Hope of Cheyenne by Tracie Peterson or Pepper Basham’s books
• Favorite single book: Positively, Penelope (love that title!)

Jessica’s Prediction

• Favorite: Pepper Basham’s books (both as a series and individual favorites)

Melissa’s Predictions

• Favorite series: Torn between Hope of Cheyenne and Minnesota Kingstons (already loving Susan May Warren’s work!)
• Favorite book: Loyally, Luke

Our Reading Goals

We’re committing to better tracking on Goodreads this year! Here are our goals:

• Tiffany: 50 books (all the podcast books plus 10 more)
• Host: 50 books
• Jessica: 75 books (we’re setting the bar high for our library-working friend!)

What’s your reading goal for 2026? We’d love to hear it!

Looking Ahead

With milestone birthdays to celebrate (hello, 40s!), a busy first half of the year, and all these wonderful books to read, 2026 is shaping up to be our best year yet. We’ll be bringing back some of our classic challenges and fun activities during the warm months, so stay tuned for those announcements.

Thank you for being part of the LiteraryScape community. Whether you’re watching on video or listening to the podcast, reading along with us or just enjoying the discussions, we’re so grateful you’re here.

Here’s to 2026 and many great books ahead! ✨

Don’t forget to visit our Book Club page to join, check out our store, and see the complete reading list for the year!

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Merry Christmas from LiteraryScape 2025 Wrap-Up

Celebrate a year of romance, drama, and great reads with LiteraryScape’s 2025 wrap-up. Plus: exciting 2026 book club news! Listen now and join the fun.

Hosts

Melissa LaShure

Jessica

Tiffanie

Mom

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About This Episide

As we close out 2025, we wanted to take a moment to reflect on an incredible year of reading together. From wedding debacles to family drama, from cowboy ranchers to heartfelt romance, we’ve journeyed through so many wonderful stories with all of you.

This year brought us deeper into the world of historical romance, where we explored complex family dynamics, forbidden crushes, and the ever-important “bro code” that sometimes needs breaking. We laughed together, swooned over sweet proposals, debated romance levels (latte versus mocha, anyone?), and maybe even shed a few tears when unexpected accidents struck our favorite characters.

We’ve loved discussing everything from the drama that hooks us on page one to those inspirational moments that make us pause and reflect. Whether a book earned an espresso, mocha, or full latte rating from us, each story brought something special to our reading lives. And let’s be honest—we’ve had some spirited debates about just how much romance is too much romance (spoiler: we don’t always agree, and that’s what makes it fun!).

Looking Ahead to 2026

We hope everyone has a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

We will be back on January 30, 2026 to kick off the 2026 reading season with fresh books, new discussions, and plenty of coffee-themed ratings to go around.

But that’s not all! We’re thrilled to announce that we’ll also be launching the LiteraryScape Book Club where you can join in on the book club fun. Read along with us, share your thoughts, and be part of our community as we discover new authors and revisit beloved favorites together.

We can’t wait to read through 2026 with you!

Thank you for being part of the LiteraryScape community this year. Your support, your comments, and your shared love of books means the world to us. Here’s to another year of turning pages, rating drama levels, and getting hogtied by stories we can’t put down.

Happy reading, and we’ll see you in the new year!

— The LiteraryScape Team

P.S. Don’t forget to grab your coffee (espresso, mocha, or latte—your choice!) and get cozy with a good book this holiday season. We’ll have plenty of recommendations waiting for you when we return!

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From Enemies to Lovers: Our Discussion of Wishing for the Rancher’s Love

Welcome back to the LiteraryScape blog! Today we’re diving into book five of Jody Hedlund’s High Country Ranch series, Wishing for the Rancher’s Love. If you’ve been following along with us, you’ll remember meeting Grady in book two when he had that memorable interaction with Clementine. Now it’s finally time for their story!

Hosts

Melissa LaShure

Jessica

Tiffanie

Mom

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About This Episide

The Setup

Clementine Oakley is the only one of her siblings who hasn’t married, and she’s feeling left behind. But she’s determined to focus on her candy-making business, dreaming of one day having her own shop instead of just a small counter in Worth’s General Store. She’s friendly and outgoing with everyone in town—except for one person: Grady Worth, the store owner’s son.

The tension between these two? It all boils down to a classic case of childhood friends who suddenly see each other as attractive adults and have no idea how to handle it. So naturally, they just bicker constantly!

The Conflict Intensifies

Things get complicated when Grady’s widowed father proposes a contest to encourage Grady to find love. Clementine is the last person Grady considers as an option—especially after he hurts one of her friends by taking her to a dance. But when a stalker begins making dangerous threats against Clementine, the two are forced into a fake engagement to lure the stalker out.

We have to mention that McClintock moment when Grady literally picks Clementine up and carries her out over his shoulder after she comes to his workplace flirting with one of his employees. Talk about dramatic!

The Mystery Element

Without giving too much away, we had mixed reactions to the stalker’s identity. Some of us saw it coming, while others were completely shocked. The creepy factor was definitely high—watching someone while they sleep, leaving flowers on the bed—all very unsettling. Grady’s protective instincts kicked into high gear, and honestly? We were swooning over his determination to keep Clementine safe.

Our Ratings

Here’s how we rated Wishing for the Rancher’s Love on our Literary Scape scale:

• Drama Level: Latte
• Mystery Level: Latte
• Suspense Level: Mocha (This one had significantly more suspense than the previous books in the series due to the stalker element)
• Inspirational Level: Espresso
• Romance Level: Latte (They take a while to get on the same page, but when they finally kiss, it explodes on the page!)

Overall Rating: 3 out of 3 Lassos

Final Thoughts

One thing we found interesting: the title is a bit misleading since Grady isn’t actually a rancher—he runs the livery in town. But we loved what he does for Clementine at the end, fulfilling her dream in the sweetest way possible.

And can we talk about that scene with her older brother catching them kissing, taking a few steps, then catching them kissing again? Classic!

What’s Next?

We’re excited to announce that Jody Hedlund is returning to Summit County with the Noble Ranch series! Remember Sterling Noble from Maverick and Hazel’s story in book one? After his bride, Violet Berkley, ran away on their wedding day, Sterling swore off love and marriage. But of course, when Violet comes back into his life, he can’t keep his feelings buried—even though he tries very hard.

Books one and two of the Noble Ranch series released in October, and we can’t wait to see how Jody makes us fall in love with Violet after what she did to Sterling!

Want to learn more about Jody Hedlund and her books? Visit her website at https://jodyhedlund.com/

Have you read Wishing for the Rancher’s Love? What did you think of Grady and Clementine’s enemies-to-lovers romance? Let us know in the comments!

Don’t forget to sign up for our free newsletter at LiteraryScape.com/newsletter for updates on reader and author events, plus news about upcoming books!

Listen to the full episode discussion on the LiteraryScape Podcast wherever you get your podcasts!

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Wrangling the Wandering Rancher

Welcome back to LiteraryScape! This week we’re diving into Wrangling the Wandering Rancher by Jody Hedlund, the fourth book in the High Country Ranch series. This historical romance set in the Colorado Rockies delivers all the drama, suspense, and tender moments we’ve come to expect from this series.

Hosts

Melissa LaShure

Jessica

Tiffanie

Mom

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The Story

Maisie Merritt has made herself a promise: she’ll never marry a mountain man. Despite her love for the Colorado Rockies and the wild creatures she helps, she’s witnessed firsthand how her father’s wandering ways destroyed her family and led to her mother’s death from loneliness. She’s ready for a normal life with a normal man.

Gaetano “Tanner” Oakley lives the wandering life of a trapper and trail guide. Having seen how hard his lifestyle is on Maisie and her sister when their father disappears for long stretches, Tanner has convinced himself he’s not husband material for any woman. He’s restless and unsettled, having long ago given up hope of finding the family he lost.

When Tanner returns to the mountains and finds Maisie in serious trouble, his attempt to help only makes matters worse. With Maisie injured and her reputation in tatters, he’s forced to do the right thing and marry her. But can two people who’ve sworn off this kind of life find happiness together?

Our Discussion Highlights

The Mystery Continues

One of the most satisfying aspects of this book is the continuation of Tanner’s search for his lost family. Without spoiling anything, we can say that Hedlund wraps up this storyline in unexpected and interesting ways. It made us think about how many people in history had similar experiences—losing family during Indian attacks, wagon train journeys, or other tragedies—and never finding answers about their origins.

Edge-of-Your-Seat Moments

The book opens with Maisie in a truly precarious situation, literally hanging from a cliff edge. (Thank goodness for her pet wolf!) The tension had us on edge. We recently saw a YouTube video of a real-life mother-daughter hiking accident with a similar scenario, which made this scene hit even harder. The mountains are beautiful but unforgiving.

Family Drama

Maisie’s father might be one of the most frustrating characters in the series. His complete disregard for his daughters—even after losing his wife, one daughter, and a grandchild—is heartbreaking. The way he forces Maisie and Tanner into marriage just so he can continue trapping without worrying about her made us furious. At least the situation ultimately works in Maisie’s favor, freeing her from that difficult life.

The Standoff

We can’t give away too many details, but there’s an intense standoff involving Maisie’s neighbors that had us glued to the pages. And the moment when Tanner considers shooting Maisie’s pet wolf to save her? One of us literally said, “If that wolf dies, I’m done reading this book!” The turn of events that follows is something you’ll have to discover for yourself.

A Tender Romance

Despite their vows to never be together, Maisie and Tanner share an undeniable attraction. She’s been in love with him for years, though he initially saw her as a little sister. Watching them navigate their forced marriage while trying to hold back their feelings creates a beautifully tender romance.

Our Ratings

Here’s how we rated the different elements of this book (using our coffee scale):

• Drama Level: Latte (this is a theme throughout the series!)
• Suspense: Espresso (the cliff scene, the standoff, plenty of tense moments)
• Mystery: Espresso (mainly the continuation of Tanner’s family mystery)
• Inspirational Level: Espresso
• Romance Level: Latte (lots of tender moments and restrained passion)
• Overall Lasso Rating: 3/3 for all of us

Final Thoughts

Wrangling the Wandering Rancher is a book you won’t want to put down. It’s got great twists, intense scenes, and satisfying character development. If you love historical romance with mountain settings, complex family dynamics, and characters who grow through adversity, this one’s for you.

Be sure to check out more of Jody Hedlund’s work at her website: https://jodyhedlund.com/

Next week, we’ll be discussing the final book in the High Country Ranch series: Wishing for the Rancher’s Love. We can’t wait to see how Hedlund wraps up this wonderful series!

Pro tip: If you’re ever in northern Indiana in October, grab some pumpkin donuts from Fashion Farm. They’re amazing and may or may not have been consumed during this podcast recording!

Have you read Wrangling the Wandering Rancher? What did you think of Tanner and Maisie’s story? Let us know in the comments!

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When Historical Romance Meets Modern Realities

Welcome back to the LiteraryScape podcast! This week we’re diving into book three of Jody Hedlund’s High Country Ranch series, A Wife for the Rancher, and let us tell you—this one had us hooked from start to finish.

Hosts

Melissa LaShure

Jessica

Tiffanie

Mom

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About This Episide

The Story

Millionaire heiress Genevieve Hollis has everything money can buy, except the one thing she desperately wants: freedom. With her controlling stepmother overseeing her every move, Genevieve feels trapped in her gilded cage. When she spots a newspaper advertisement from rancher Ryder Oakley seeking a mother for his newborn baby, she sees her chance to escape—even if it means hiding her true identity.

Ryder has experienced more than his share of loss and heartbreak. Now a single father fighting to keep his son, he’s looking for a practical solution: a marriage of convenience without the messy complications of real feelings. But as Genevieve and Ryder navigate their new arrangement, attraction begins to bloom—just as the secrets of their pasts threaten to tear them apart.

Read more about A Wife for the Rancher

What We Loved

One of the standout elements of this book is how Hedlund brings contemporary issues into a historical setting. The custody battle storyline felt surprisingly modern and relevant, tackling themes that many historical romances shy away from. As we discussed in the episode, Ryder’s situation—dealing with a birth mother who abandoned their child and then wants to reclaim him—isn’t your typical historical romance scenario.

We appreciated how Hedlund handles this sensitive topic with care, showing both the struggle and the hope that exists even in difficult situations. It’s intense and emotional, but there’s always light at the end of the tunnel.

The Characters That Stole Our Hearts

While we loved Genevieve and Ryder’s journey, we have to give a shout-out to some of the supporting characters. That young lawyer who shows up from Denver? We all fell a little in love with him. He comes in, completely unruffled by Genevieve’s doubts about his abilities, and proceeds to save the day in the custody battle. Seriously, Jody—we need a love story for this guy!

And then there’s the ongoing mystery with Ryder and his brother Tanner. Those vivid flashback dreams that start revealing Ryder’s forgotten past? Fascinating. Watching Ryder naturally slip into business dealings in New York, discovering talents he didn’t know he had—it all adds another compelling layer to the story.

The Villains

Let’s talk about Genevieve’s stepmother and the corrupt family lawyer. Talk about dirty dealings! The stepmother doesn’t care about Genevieve at all—she’s only after the fortune. And discovering that the family lawyer is in cahoots with her? That betrayal hit hard.

On a lighter note, the saloon owner villain made us think of Hank from Doctor Quinn, Medicine Woman—you know, that tall, lanky, sleazy character you just want to punch? (Okay, we may have gotten a bit sidetracked reminiscing about that show, but that’s what happens when you record a whole series in one sitting on a Saturday morning!)

Our Rating System

Here’s how A Wife for the Rancher measures up on our coffee-themed scale:

• Drama: Latte (this book is FULL of drama!)
• Mystery: Espresso to Mocha (it’s there with Ryder’s past, but not the main focus)
• Suspense: Espresso (some tense moments, especially with people coming to take Genevieve back)
• Inspirational: Espresso (subtle but present)
• Romance: Latte (they’re married, so Hedlund can develop their relationship more deeply while keeping it clean)

Final Lasso Rating: 3 out of 3 lassos all around!

This was the book we couldn’t put down. It had us turning pages late into the night, desperate to know what happened next.

Looking Ahead

The mystery of Ryder’s past doesn’t fully resolve in this book—you’ll have to wait for the next installment to get all the answers. Speaking of which, next week we’ll be discussing book four in the series, Wrangling the Wandering Rancher, which tells Tanner’s story. Trust us, you won’t want to miss it!

Have you read A Wife for the Rancher? What did you think of the custody battle storyline? Let us know in the comments! And if you haven’t checked out the High Country Ranch series yet, what are you waiting for?

Happy reading!

The LiteraryScape Team

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Can You Say No?

Welcome back to the LiteraryScape Podcast! In this episode, we dive into Book 2 of Jody Hedlund’s High Country Ranch series, Willing to Wed the Rancher. Join us as we discuss strong characters, family rifts, unexpected romance, and one very important lesson about learning to say no.

Hosts

Melissa LaShure

Jessica

Tiffanie

Mom

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About the Book

Assistant schoolteacher Claribel Oakley struggles with saying no to people—a trait that gets her into serious trouble when Eric Meyer, the widowed father of two of her students, proposes marriage. When Claribel fumbles her attempt to decline, explaining she wants to marry for love rather than convenience, Eric misunderstands completely. Then tragedy strikes, and Claribel suddenly finds herself responsible for Eric’s children and his farm.

Enter Professor Franz Meyer, who arrives in Summit County, Colorado, hoping to reconcile with his estranged brother Eric. Instead, he discovers Eric is gone, leaving behind unanswered questions and two young children. One thing Franz knows immediately: he’s fallen for Claribel at first sight and is determined to win her heart.

But there’s a complication—Claribel’s flirtatious twin sister Clementine has set her sights on Franz. As Franz investigates what happened to his brother and danger closes in, Claribel must decide whether to say yes to love before it’s too late.

Get your copy here!

Our Discussion Highlights

The Struggle to Say No

We connected deeply with Claribel’s inability to refuse people’s requests. As one host admitted, “I got told this week, ‘It’s okay to say no, Tiff.'” Claribel’s challenge resonated with us—she wanted to keep the children happy and ensure they grew up properly, showing her genuine heart for them. However, we agreed she needed to buck up and be firm, especially when facing an unwanted marriage proposal!

The Brother Backstory

The rift between Franz and Eric created compelling drama. Eric had run off with Franz’s fiancée after she became pregnant with Eric’s child—leaving behind both his brother and a vast fortune. We couldn’t blame Franz for not wanting to talk to his brother after such a betrayal. This backstory added depth and emotional weight to Franz’s journey.

Twin Sister Drama

The mix-up between Claribel and her twin Clementine provided some of our favorite moments. When Franz mistakes Clementine for Claribel at the mercantile and wraps his arms around her from behind, it sets off a chain reaction. Clementine, described as a big flirt (just like her older brother Maverick!), assumes Franz is interested in her.

We thought Franz should have been more direct in letting Clementine down gently, but we also understood the complications. When Clementine asked Claribel if she had feelings for Franz, Claribel couldn’t bring herself to tell the truth. While we didn’t care for Clementine’s dramatic reaction when Franz chose Claribel, we acknowledged that part of the blame fell on Claribel for not being honest.

That Adorable (and Confusing) “Wedding” Scene

One of the most entertaining moments involved the children reenacting the story of the troll under the bridge with the three goats. The kids, who desperately wanted Franz and Claribel to marry, took matters into their own hands. When they went to town and announced their teacher and uncle were married, it created quite the scandal!

This led to an interesting discussion about marriage customs in historical times, including common law marriage and the tradition of “jumping the broom.” We were fascinated to learn that couples could be considered married simply by saying vows in front of witnesses, even without a preacher present—which was necessary when preachers only came through every six months or so.

An Unexpected Ending

Rather than the typical ending where Franz might become a teacher and they’d settle down locally, Hedlund surprised us. The family’s move far away left us wondering if they’d ever see their loved ones again, though we appreciated that Claribel got her fairy tale ending—complete with a castle and more than she ever could have dreamed of.

The unresolved rift between Franz and Eric was heartbreaking, but we recognized it as an important reminder that sometimes we don’t get those resolutions in life. It’s a powerful lesson about making amends while you still can.

Our Ratings

• Drama Level: Latte (lots of drama between brothers and sisters!)
• Mystery Level: Espresso to Mocha (something’s definitely going on)
• Inspirational Level: Espresso (more historical romance than inspirational)
• Suspense Level: Espresso (present but not overwhelming)
• Romance Level: Latte to Mocha (opinions varied on the romance intensity)
• Overall Lasso Rating: 3 out of 3 Lassos

Final Thoughts

Willing to Wed the Rancher kept us engaged with its character-driven plot, family dynamics, and sweet romance. While it may not be Hedlund’s most inspirational series, it delivers an enjoyable historical romance with heart. The book also opens possibilities for a future series following the family in their new home.

We recommend this for fans of historical Christian romance who enjoy stories about second chances, blended families, and characters learning to stand up for themselves.

Have you read Willing to Wed the Rancher? We’d love to hear your thoughts! And if you enjoyed this episode, please share our podcast—every share helps us reach more readers and authors like you.

Until next time, happy and blessed reading and writing!

Listen to the full episode on the LiteraryScape Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts!

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When Best Friends and Brothers Collide

Welcome back to LiteraryScape! This week we’re diving into Waiting For the Rancher by Jody Hedlund, the first book in her High Country Ranch series. If you love a good brother’s best friend romance with plenty of drama and heart, this one’s for you!

Hosts

Melissa LaShure

Jessica

Tiffanie

Mom

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The Story

Hazel Noble loves her job managing the mares at High Country Ranch, where she gets to work alongside her secret crush, Maverick Oakley—who just happens to be the ranch owner and her brother Sterling’s best friend. Everything changes when Maverick accidentally ruins Sterling’s wedding, turning best friends into worst enemies. With a family rift threatening everything, Maverick must finally admit his feelings for Hazel while navigating the complicated waters of the “bro code” and a promise he made to Sterling years ago.

When tragedy strikes, Maverick is forced to choose: his loyalty to his best friend or his love for Hazel. But after pushing her away, will he be too late to win her heart?

Learn more about the book on Jody Hedlund’s website

What We Loved

That Opening Scene! The wedding debacle hooked us immediately. We couldn’t stop talking about how Maverick calling everyone “darlin” created such chaos. Sometimes being a charming flirt can backfire!

The Family Dynamics were beautifully done. The Oakley family includes Maverick, his two sisters, two adopted brothers, and an older brother. What impressed us most was how seamlessly the adopted brothers were woven into the family—you’d never know they weren’t biological siblings if it wasn’t mentioned. The way this family rallies around each other when someone needs help really showcases what found family is all about.

The Foaling Scenes gave us those late-night moments where Hazel and Maverick couldn’t avoid their feelings anymore. There’s something about working side-by-side caring for animals that brings people together!

The Bro Code Debate

We had quite the discussion about Sterling’s insistence that Maverick stay away from Hazel. Wouldn’t you want your sister with someone you know and trust? Sure, you know all their flaws, but you also know their character. We agreed the bro code might need some revising!

Unexpected Twists

Maverick’s accident threw us for a loop! We genuinely worried the story might take a much darker turn based on what the doctor was saying. The recovery felt a bit rushed to us, but it fit Maverick’s determined, stubborn character.

We also loved the unique proposal tradition Maverick and Sterling had planned for each other—helping set up the perfect proposal spots. Sweet as it was, Maverick never ended up using his! Hazel figured it out anyway and took matters into her own hands, leading to a spontaneous elopement that was perfectly them.

A Note on Sterling

Don’t worry if you’re invested in Sterling’s story—Jody Hedlund has announced a spinoff Noble Ranch series that will feature him! We were so relieved to hear this because he kind of disappears from the story after the dramatic opening.

Our Ratings ☕

Drama Level: Latte (lots of drama from page one!)
Mystery Level: Espresso (minimal mystery)
Suspense Level: Espresso (not much suspense)
Inspirational Level: Espresso (this isn’t part of her inspirational series)
Romance Level: Mocha to Latte (depending on your tolerance—it’s definitely present but clean)
Lasso Rating: 2-3 Lassos (we were hooked enough to keep reading the series!)

Final Thoughts

Waiting For the Rancher is a solid start to the High Country Ranch series. While none of the couples in this series have traditional weddings with all their family and friends (they all just elope!), the romance and family bonds make up for it. If you enjoy sweet, clean Western romance with great family dynamics and a brother’s best friend trope, this series is worth picking up.

The best part? Jody always leaves a teaser for the next couple, so you’ll find yourself immediately reaching for the next book. We certainly did!

Up Next: Join us next week as we discuss book two in the series, Willing to Wed the Rancher!

Have you read Waiting For the Rancher? What did you think about the wedding disaster opening? Let us know in the comments!

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Breaking Barriers in Bloomers

Welcome back to another LiteraryScape Book Club Friday! We’re thrilled to bring you our latest podcast episode featuring the talented Abbey Downey, author of the captivating Adventurous Hearts series. This marks Abbey’s return to our show—she holds the special distinction of being our very first podcast guest, and we couldn’t be happier to have her back.

Hosts & Guests

Melissa LaShure

Jessica

Mom

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About the Adventurous Hearts Series

The Adventurous Hearts series consists of three standalone novels connected by an inspiring theme: women breaking barriers in the early 1900s. Set between 1905 and 1910, each book features a heroine pursuing an unconventional career path for her time.

The Remarkable Women

Abbey’s inspiration came from real historical figures who defied expectations:

An Uncertain Road features a female race car driver competing in the 1905 Glidden Tour, a grueling 10-day endurance race. The character is based on an actual woman who not only raced but became a passionate advocate for teaching women to drive.

An Unexpected Catch introduces us to a female baseball umpire inspired by Amanda Clement, who remarkably began umpiring semi-professional baseball games at just 16 years old. Abbey shared that this was her favorite book to write, thanks to a special research assistant—her 13-year-old son, who is passionate about baseball history and statistics.

Uncharted Dreams follows a woman starting an explorers club, inspired by a group of women who actually founded their own explorers club in the 1920s. Abbey admits this was the most challenging book to write, requiring multiple rewrites, but it became the most spiritually resonant of the three.

Fascinating Research Discoveries

Abbey uncovered some delightful historical oddities during her research. The most memorable? A room at Coney Island that allegedly had cheese growing on the walls that visitors could sample. While she only found one mention of this bizarre attraction, the detail was too intriguing not to include.

For An Unexpected Catch, Abbey incorporated actual stories about Amanda Clement, including a throwing contest where she out-threw male players. When a reader questioned the distance, Abbey confirmed it was historically accurate—she had used the exact measurement credited to Amanda.

The research for Uncharted Dreams revealed fascinating camping equipment from the era, including ingenious tents that attached to automobiles, creating a combined shelter that incorporated the vehicle.

Reader Favorites

Our book club had passionate responses to all three novels. An Unexpected Catch resonated deeply with baseball fans, while Uncharted Dreams earned top marks for its inspirational elements. One reader wanted to give it “four or five lassoes” instead of our standard three-lasso rating scale! The mystery elements kept readers guessing, with the anonymous letters subplot earning particular praise for its unexpected resolution.

What’s Next?

Abbey is currently finishing the first book in a new three-book series set to debut in September 2026. Staying in the early 1900s, this series will focus on women in entertainment:

• Book one features an archery demonstrator
• Book two will incorporate ice skating and vaudeville
• Book three centers on early airplane exhibition shows

Connect with Abbey

Want to keep up with Abbey’s writing and upcoming releases? Visit her website at https://abbeydowney.com/ where you can sign up for her monthly newsletter. She’s also active on Facebook and Instagram as Abbey Downey.

Newsletter subscribers can participate in Abbey’s popular antique identification game, where she posts photos of mysterious vintage items and challenges readers to guess their purpose. Be quick—you need to be one of the first responders to win!

Meet Abbey in Person

Abbey will be attending the Just Read Rendezvous in St. Louis on November 7-8, 2025, along with over 40 other authors. Registration is still open if you’d like to meet Abbey and connect with fellow book lovers.

We’re already counting down to Abbey’s next series release and looking forward to having her back on the podcast when it debuts. Until then, if you haven’t discovered the Adventurous Hearts series yet, now is the perfect time to meet these remarkable women who dared to dream differently.

Listen to the full podcast episode to hear more details about Abbey’s writing process, her research adventures, and the historical women who inspired these unforgettable stories.

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An Uncharted Dream by Abbey Downey

Welcome back to LiteraryScape! This week, we’re wrapping up our discussion of the Adventurous Hearts series with An Uncharted Dream by Abbey Downey, and let me tell you—this one is a real page-turner!

Hosts & Guests

Melissa LaShure

Jessica

Mom

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The Story

An Uncharted Dream follows Lenora, who dreams of following in her father’s footsteps as an explorer but has been held back by debilitating fear since his tragic death. When a mysterious explorer named Mr. Fleming promises to take her on an expedition to the very place where her father died, she sees her chance for answers and adventure.

Enter Marcus Turner, Lenora’s longtime best friend who secretly loves her. Having spent years hiding his family’s financial struggles, Marcus knows a con man when he sees one—and Mr. Fleming raises all his red flags. Determined to protect Lenora, Marcus joins the expedition, setting the stage for adventure, betrayal, and ultimately, a journey of faith and love.

Our Discussion Highlights

Jessica loved this book so much it became her favorite in the series! She was hooked from the very beginning, constantly wondering: Is Mr. Fleming a con man? Will Lenora actually go to Peru? The mystery kept her turning pages late into the night.

We discussed several compelling elements:

The Suspicion Around Mr. Fleming: From the very first scene at the library, Marcus’s suspicions are aroused, and we agreed—something was definitely off! The way Fleming couldn’t answer basic questions about the expedition was a major red flag that Lenora unfortunately missed.

The Anonymous Letters: The mysterious letters encouraging Lenora to take the trip added an intriguing layer to the story. Discovering who was really behind them was one of those great “aha!” moments.

Family Contrasts: We loved the stark difference between Lenora’s warm, inviting family and Marcus’s cold, distant one. Marcus doesn’t even enjoy going home, and his family situation, while frustrating, added real depth to his character.

The Big Betrayal: When the group gets stranded in a foreign country where they can’t speak the language, the tension really ramps up. It’s one of those moments where you’re yelling at the characters, “Don’t give him the money!”

Communication Issues: This is definitely one of those stories where if the main characters had just talked to each other, a lot of problems could have been avoided! But watching them finally realize their feelings for each other after years of friendship was worth the wait.

Adventure and Romance

The book beautifully weaves together themes of exploration, archeology, and surveying. The ending, where Marcus pursues his passion for surveying while Lenora does excavation work, was particularly satisfying. We both admitted to being fascinated by archeology—there’s something magical about uncovering history!

We also discussed some of the more challenging aspects of historical travel: the boat journey (would we be able to handle the seasickness and fear of water?), the preparation trips and camping, and the sheer adventure of it all.

Our Ratings

Using our coffee-themed rating system:

• Drama Level: Latte
• Suspense Level: Espresso (gentle but definitely there)
• Mystery Level: Mocha
• Inspirational Level: Mocha (this one had more faith elements than the previous books)
• Romance Level: Espresso (sweet and clean)

The Final Verdict: Lasso Ratings

Jessica gives this book her highest rating: 4 Lassos! She couldn’t put it down and would even go as high as 3.5 to 4 if we allowed half ratings. As for me, I gave it a solid 2 Lassos—still excellent, but my personal reading preference leans toward books with a bit more suspense and romance.

Overall, Abbey Downey has created an excellent series that’s perfect for readers who love cozy mysteries with sweet romance and historical adventure. The pacing is wonderful, and the stories are engaging without being too intense.

What’s Next?

Be sure to tune in next week when we’ll have a special interview with author Abbey Downey herself! We’ll get all the behind-the-scenes information about this incredible Adventurous Hearts series.

Want to learn more about Abbey and her books? Visit her website at www.abbeydowney.com.

Thanks for joining us on LiteraryScape, where we explore the landscape of great literature, one book at a time!

Have you read An Uncharted Dream? What did you think of Mr. Fleming? Let us know in the comments!

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An Unexpected Catch by Abbey Downey

Welcome back to LiteraryScape! This week, we’re diving into An Unexpected Catch by Abbey Downey, the second book in the Adventurous Hearts series. This historical romance set in Chicago’s semiprofessional baseball league offers a compelling blend of sports drama, social expectations, and hard-won love.

Hosts & Guests

Melissa LaShure

Jessica

Mom

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The Story

An Unexpected Catch follows Bea Corinne, a pioneering woman who has carved out a career as an umpire in Chicago’s semiprofessional baseball league. With her sights set on leading the women’s athletic department at Western College, the last complication she needs is a romance with Emmett Worland, a talented pitcher with a questionable reputation.

But when Bea’s women’s baseball team desperately needs help, Emmett is the only one who can save them. As they work together, an undeniable attraction develops—complicated by Emmett’s painful secret that could end his baseball career and the undeserved bad reputation that haunts him.

What We Loved

The Undeserved Reputation Theme: One of the most compelling aspects of this novel is how Emmett’s reputation was destroyed through no real fault of his own. The sensationalist newspapers of the era seized on rumors and blew situations out of proportion, while his demanding, high-society grandmother gave him an ultimatum rather than seeking the truth. It’s a poignant reminder of how quickly reputations can be ruined and how difficult they are to rebuild.

Bea’s Character: Bea is a strong, determined woman navigating the incredibly narrow path available to women in her era. She knows what she wants professionally, but she also understands the precarious position she’s in. One wrong move, one perceived impropriety, could cost her everything she’s worked for. Her strength on the baseball field—holding her own even when challenged by angry players—makes her a memorable protagonist.

Historical Details: The book offers fascinating glimpses into baseball history, including the fact that umpires in that era stood behind the pitcher’s mound rather than behind home plate as they do today. These authentic period details add richness to the story.

The Heart of the Story

What really resonated with us was how the book explores the constant scrutiny both characters face. They can’t go to dinner together without people making assumptions. They can’t show too much concern for each other without accusations of favoritism flying. Everything tells a story—where you go, who you’re with, how you present yourself—and both Bea and Emmett must be constantly vigilant.

This theme reminded us of the timeless wisdom: people are always watching, whether we realize it or not. While the social pressures in the book may seem extreme to modern readers, they highlight an important truth about living with integrity and being mindful of how our actions appear to others.

The romance develops slowly and realistically against this backdrop. Both characters must learn to trust each other despite reputations, secrets, and societal pressure. The proposal scene was particularly memorable—a perfect culmination of their journey together.

Our Ratings

• Drama Level: Mocha—There’s constant tension from external pressures: Emmett’s grandmother, the press, university politics, and social expectations
• Suspense Level: Minimal—This is primarily a character-driven romance
• Mystery Level: Espresso—There’s some mystery around Emmett’s secret, though it’s revealed fairly early for readers
• Inspirational Level: Espresso to Mocha—The faith elements are woven throughout without being heavy-handed
• Romance Level: Espresso to Mocha—The love is there, but both characters are understandably cautious about showing it

Overall Rating: 2.5 to 3 lassos

This was actually our favorite in the series! If you enjoy historical romance with sports elements, strong heroines, and themes about reputation and redemption, An Unexpected Catch is definitely worth picking up.

Want to learn more about Abbey Downey and her books? Visit her website at https://abbeydowney.com/

Next week, we’ll be discussing the third and final book in the Adventurous Hearts series, An Uncharted Dream. See you then!

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An Uncertain Road by Abbey Downey

Welcome back to LiteraryScape! This week, we’re diving into the first book of Abby Downey’s Adventurous Heart series, An Uncertain Road, a delightful historical Christian romance set in the world of early automobile racing.

Hosts & Guests

Melissa LaShure

Jessica

Mom

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The Story

Set in 1905, An Uncertain Road follows Flora Montfort, a young widow who returns to America with her French mother-in-law. Determined to use her auto racing training to support herself—despite female drivers being rare in that era—Flora seizes the opportunity to drive in the Glidden Tour, a 10-day race through New England.

Joining her is Jensen Gable, a reluctant mechanic who has sworn off racing after losing his best friend in a tragic accident. His promise to protect his friend’s younger brother becomes the only reason compelling enough to get him back on the racing circuit.

As Flora and Jensen navigate hazardous road conditions, meddling locals, and ruthless competitors, they discover an undeniable connection. But can their budding romance survive the dangers of the race and the ghosts of their pasts?

What We Loved

The Historical Setting: One of the highlights of this novel is how it’s loosely based on real events. The Glidden Tour was a real race started by the Triple A, and there actually was a woman who competed in it. While Abby takes creative liberties with the story, that grounding in history adds authenticity and charm.

Coney Island Adventure: The scenes at Coney Island were fascinating, with attractions that felt surprisingly modern for the time period. The infamous “cheese” attraction particularly stood out (and grossed us out!), along with the space-themed and water-themed rides.

Tense Racing Scenes: Abby writes compelling action sequences. The mountain climb scene where Jensen has to jerk the wheel, the moment with cows blocking the race route, and the nerve-wracking curves where one wrong move could send them off the side—these scenes had us on the edge of our seats. The river crossing via ferry was another memorable moment that reminded us how different travel was in 1905.

Character Depth: Both Flora and Jensen carry emotional baggage that makes them hesitant to open their hearts. Flora fears being controlled again after her experiences with her domineering brother and late husband. Jensen struggles with grief and fear after his friend’s death. Their slow-burn romance feels earned and authentic.

Supporting Characters: The newlywed couple riding along in the backseat added a fun dynamic to the story. Using the race as part of their honeymoon was an interesting choice—the groom was training to be a minister and knew he wouldn’t have money for an elaborate honeymoon, so this was his way of giving his bride an adventure.

The Redemption Arc: When a terrible driver has an accident, Flora shows remarkable sportsmanship by stopping to help, even though she could have kept going. This moment of grace leads to a powerful redemption story that we both appreciated.

The Romance & Faith Elements

The relationship between Flora and Jensen develops naturally as they face challenges together. Their feelings are evident, but both are afraid to express them for their own reasons. The faith element is woven throughout the story in a gentle, non-preachy way that enhances rather than overwhelms the narrative.

One particularly poignant scene occurs when Archie (the owner’s youngest son) makes comments about Gregory’s death, leading to tension. Eventually, Jensen takes the time to sit down and talk through the tragedy, providing much-needed closure. We wished this conversation had happened sooner, as avoiding difficult topics is never healthy.

Our Ratings

Using our signature coffee scale (Espresso = a little, Mocha = medium, Latte = a lot):

• Suspense: Espresso
• Drama: Espresso to Mocha
• Mystery: Espresso
• Inspirational: Mocha
• Romance: Espresso to Mocha (we disagreed slightly on this one!)

Lasso Rating: We gave it a 2.5 out of 3 lassos. This means we were hooked and thoroughly enjoyed it, though it wasn’t quite a “can’t put it down” read. It’s an excellent book that we could pause when needed, but we definitely wanted to keep coming back to it.

Who Should Read This?

An Uncertain Road is perfect for readers who enjoy:

• Sweet, cozy historical romances
• Stories grounded in real historical events
• Faith-based fiction with a light touch
• Early 20th-century settings
• Adventure and travel narratives

Abby Downey has crafted a charming series opener that balances romance, adventure, and faith. While it may not have the intense suspense or mystery of some novels, it excels at creating a warm, engaging story with characters you’ll root for.

What’s Next?

Join us next week as we discuss the second book in the Adventurous Heart series, An Unexpected Catch. We’re excited to continue this journey through Abby’s delightful historical romances!

Want to learn more about Abby Downey and her books? Visit her website at https://abbeydowney.com/

Have you read An Uncertain Road? What did you think of Flora and Jensen’s story? Let us know in the comments!

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Behind the Scenes of Lynn H. Blackburn’s Defend and Protect Series

Welcome to another LiteraryScape podcast recap! This week, host Melissa LaShure sat down with romantic suspense author Lynn H. Blackburn to discuss her thrilling Defend and Protect series, which takes readers deep into the world of the Secret Service.

Hosts & Guests

Melissa LaShure

Lynn H. Blackburn

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About This Episide

Welcome to another LiteraryScape podcast recap! This week, host Melissa LaShure sat down with romantic suspense author Lynn H. Blackburn to discuss her thrilling Defend and Protect series, which takes readers deep into the world of the Secret Service.

Research That Brings Authenticity to Life

One of the standout features of the Defend and Protect series is its realistic portrayal of Secret Service operations. Lynn revealed that she had a secret weapon when it came to research: a friend who had actually served on President Trump’s first protective detail. This insider perspective helped her understand the phases agents go through and the all-consuming nature of protective detail work.

“It’s very time consuming. It’s not a family friendly job,” Lynn explained. “You’re on the go all the time, you’re constantly traveling. And then it’s also a lot of you’re sitting in a hotel room just waiting.”

The research extended beyond just protective details. Lynn discovered that the Secret Service handles far more than most people realize, including financial crimes, identity crimes, and even ransomware cases. This breadth of responsibility helped shape the entire series structure.

Writing Challenges and Creative Solutions

Lynn shared a fascinating behind-the-scenes story about writing the third book, Under Fire. She found herself in a predicament: she needed to create tension and danger while still portraying her Secret Service agents as highly competent professionals. After struggling with the problem, she reached out to her Secret Service contact for help.

“There’s nothing more embarrassing than trying to explain a story that is in process to the expert in this field,” Lynn admitted with a laugh. But that conversation led to the drone subplot in Under Fire—a solution that perfectly balanced the story’s needs.

When Life Inspires Fiction

Several scenes in the series were inspired by real-life events. The memorable closet scene in Unknown Threat, where Hope gets trapped under fallen shelving, came from Lynn’s own experience when her closet shelf collapsed. “I was like, I can use this. I think I was writing unknown threat at the time and I was like, guess Hope’s about to get squashed.”

Lynn also incorporated her awareness of disability representation through Hope’s character, who uses a wheelchair. Drawing on her experience as a mother to a daughter with disabilities, she worked to portray Hope’s independence and agency authentically, including consulting with people who use wheelchairs to ensure respectful and accurate representation.

Reader Favorites and Third Book Magic

Interestingly, Lynn has noticed a pattern across her series: the third books tend to be reader favorites. She attributes this to the buildup of anticipation for those characters throughout the previous books. For the Defend and Protect series, that honor went to Under Fire, featuring Zane and Tessa’s long-awaited romance.

Gil from Malicious Intent also emerged as a fan favorite, with his love of cooking winning hearts. Lynn even had wooden spoons made with Gil and Ivy’s names for her launch team—though she’s never been able to bring herself to use her own copies!

About Those Snakes…

When asked about the snake scene in Under Fire (which had some book club members ready to burn the car along with Tessa), Lynn confessed: “I hate them.” While she acknowledges that black snakes serve a purpose in keeping rodents away, she prefers to keep her distance. The scene sparked great debate during her writing process about whether it would send readers running, but it proved relatable to many who share Tessa’s phobia.

What’s Next

Lynn is currently working on the final book in her Gossamer Falls series, set to release in March. Readers are eagerly awaiting Mo’s story, which will complete that trilogy. She’ll also be appearing at Reader Rendezvous in St. Louis this November and teaching at Seaside Scribes in January.

The best way to keep up with Lynn’s releases and get exclusive content (including deleted scenes and backlist giveaways) is through her newsletter at lynnhblackburn.com. She’s also active on Facebook and Instagram @LynnHBlackburn.

Lynn H. Blackburn’s Defend and Protect series includes Unknown Threat, Malicious Intent, and Under Fire, with two novellas featuring Hope and Luke’s story. Her books combine heart-pounding suspense with compelling romance and thoroughly researched procedural details that bring authenticity to every page.

Related Episodes

The Story We’ve Been Waiting For

If you’ve been following this series, you know that Zane Thacker and Tessa Reed’s romance has been building for books. Zane has landed his dream assignment protecting the President of the United States, but when a presidential fundraiser brings him back to Raleigh, he’s thrilled to work alongside Tessa again—his best friend and the woman he’s been falling for all along.

But Tessa is battling demons from her past. As the liaison between the Raleigh office and the president’s protective detail, she’s forced to confront her greatest failure—one that threatens to come to light at the worst possible time. Can Zane stand by the woman he loves while protecting the president from a mounting threat?

A Shocking Opening

Let’s talk about that first chapter. We did NOT see that coming! Blackburn masterfully reveals something about Tessa’s past that suddenly makes all the tension from previous books make perfect sense. It’s the kind of revelation that has you frantically texting your book club friends because you need to process it with someone immediately.

Complex Characters Facing Real Struggles

What we loved most about this book was how Blackburn handled Zane’s internal conflict. With his mother’s history, he has to fight against his own perceptions and reservations. But he handles it with such gentleness and compassion—even when Tessa pushes back with her fierce independence. Their dynamic feels authentic, with both characters working through legitimate concerns while supporting each other.

The way Tessa’s past connects to the present threat is brilliantly woven throughout the story. When she finally has to share what happened with the team, Blackburn makes a wise choice: Zane tells the guys, and Tessa tells the women. The different reactions ring true—the women’s nurturing response versus the men’s protective anger—and it shows Blackburn’s understanding of how people process trauma differently.

Romance, Suspense, and Plenty of Drama

This book delivers on multiple levels:

The attacks keep escalating: From car accidents to an assault at the donut shop (where Tessa’s boots become the real MVPs), to creepy incidents in her apartment and car—including a truly unsettling snake scene

The romance is swoon-worthy: Zane rushing to every scene, being the only one who can calm Tessa down, those longing looks… their chemistry has been building for the entire series

The mystery keeps you guessing: The identity of “the fixer” remains hidden until the very end, and when it’s finally revealed, it’s genuinely surprising

Supporting characters shine: From Graham the butler to Bruce the homeless man who knows more than he can articulate, the cast is rich and memorable

A Few Standout Moments

We have to mention the donut shop scene where Tessa takes out an attacker with one kick, then threatens Rodriguez with those same boots. And the snake incident? Tessa’s response says it all: “Burn the car.” Girl has her priorities straight.

Also, can we talk about how these Secret Service agents stay supermodel-thin while constantly eating donuts, muffins, and candy? Asking for a friend.

The Ending We Deserved

Without spoiling anything, Blackburn finds a beautiful way to resolve the career complications that could have kept Zane and Tessa apart. Yes, it’s bittersweet that the team is splitting up, but it also reflects real life—sometimes God calls us to new places, and we have to trust that journey even when it means leaving people we love.

Make sure you read the epilogue! (Not the sneak peek—the actual epilogue that’s still part of Under Fire.) There’s a Gossamer Falls connection that’s absolutely delightful.

Our Ratings

Drama Level: Latte ☕☕☕

Inspiration Level: Mocha ☕☕ (We loved how often Zane suggests praying before taking action)

Mystery Level: Latte ☕☕☕

Romance Level: Mocha ☕☕

Suspense Level: Boiling Hot Latte ☕☕☕ (Each attack gets more intense and personal)

Overall Lasso Rating: 3 Lassos

This might be our favorite book in the entire series. It’s the perfect conclusion to a fantastic romantic suspense collection.

Final Thoughts

Lynn H. Blackburn has crafted a series that balances faith, romance, and heart-pounding suspense beautifully. Under Fire delivers everything we hoped for and more. If you haven’t started the Defender Protect series yet, what are you waiting for?

Want to learn more about Lynn and her other books? Visit her website at https://www.lynnhblackburn.com/

Stay tuned for next week’s episode when we’ll be interviewing Lynn H. Blackburn herself!

Have you read Under Fire? What did you think of Zane and Tessa’s story? Let us know in the comments!

www.literaryscape.com/podcast/169

This week on LiteraryScape, we took a slightly different approach and dove into not one, but two captivating novellas by acclaimed author Lynn H. Blackburn. These fast-paced romantic suspense stories—”Deadly Objective” and “Out of Time”—serve as perfect bridge stories in Blackburn’s beloved series, giving readers deeper glimpses into beloved characters’ lives.

Deadly Objective: When Professional Lines Must Be Crossed

The Setup: Physical therapist Emily Dixon and Secret Service agent Liam Harper have been maintaining strictly professional boundaries—until the Vice President’s son becomes a killer’s target. Sometimes keeping someone safe means crossing every line you’ve drawn.

Emily, who readers will recognize as Gil’s sister from earlier books, finds herself thrust into a world of constant danger alongside Liam, who’s on protection detail for the Vice President’s family. What makes this pairing so compelling is how these complete opposites complement each other. While Liam is the ultimate outdoorsman, Emily freely admits she prefers her nails done and doesn’t enjoy sweating—limiting her outdoor time to just five hours each in spring and fall!

Standout Moments That Stuck With Us:

The podcast hosts were particularly moved by two scenes that showcase Blackburn’s talent for blending romance with heart-pounding action. The first involves an initial attack where Liam protectively covers Emily, whispering “I need you to breathe, baby” even though they weren’t officially together yet. The second features Emily with a bow and arrow in a tent, with Liam calling out “Don’t shoot me, baby, it’s me” as danger closes in around them.

One of the most satisfying character arcs involves the Vice President’s son himself, who transforms from a seemingly spoiled teenager into a protective, understanding young man once the truth about his situation emerges. His character development adds unexpected depth to what could have been a straightforward protection detail story.

Out of Time: Second Chances and Stubborn Hearts

The Setup: Attorney Hope Malone has built a successful law practice in Raleigh, North Carolina, but when an old friend reaches out for help, Hope finds herself pulled into a dangerous world of organized crime—and back into the path of FBI Special Agent Charles Romero, the one man she’s determined to avoid.

Hope, Faith’s younger sister, carries the burden of believing her disability makes her unworthy of love. Despite Charles’s clear interest—which has apparently existed since he first served as her protective detail—she’s convinced she’d only be a burden to someone so physically capable.

The Battle of Wills:

What makes this romance particularly engaging is how Charles turns Hope’s own arguments against her. When she insists on making decisions for him based on assumptions about what he should want, he brilliantly points out her hypocrisy: “You don’t like people assuming you need help because you’re in a wheelchair, yet you’re assuming and making decisions for me.”

The restaurant scene where Hope surprises a flirtatious Spanish-speaking waitress by responding in fluent Spanish had our hosts laughing, especially Charles’s understated response: “That wasn’t very nice, Hope.”

Our Ratings Breakdown:

Deadly Objective:

Drama Level: Latte ☕☕☕

Inspiration Level: Espresso ☕

Romance Level: Espresso ☕

Mystery Level: Latte ☕☕☕

Suspense Level: Espresso ☕

Out of Time:

Drama Level: Latte ☕☕☕

Inspiration Level: Mocha ☕☕

Romance Level: Espresso to Mocha ☕-☕☕

Mystery Level: Latte ☕☕☕

Suspense Level: Steaming Hot Latte ☕☕☕

Overall Lasso Rating: 3/5

Why These Novellas Matter

While these are quick reads, they’re far from throwaway stories. Both novellas enrich the larger series by developing relationships we’ve been watching build over multiple books. They’re perfectly paced for readers who want their romance with a side of adrenaline, and Blackburn’s skill at creating authentic chemistry under extreme circumstances shines through.

These stories serve as excellent stepping stones to book three, where readers will finally get Zane and Tessa’s long-awaited story. If you’ve been following this series, you know exactly why that’s exciting news!

Ready for more romantic suspense? Check out Lynn H. Blackburn’s complete works and upcoming releases at her official website.

Join us next week as we dive into the series finale and finally uncover what’s been brewing between Zane and Tessa—a story our hosts are calling their absolute favorite of the entire series!

Subscribe to LiteraryScape for more book reviews, author interviews, and literary discussions that celebrate the stories that keep us turning pages late into the night.

About the Book

Malicious Intent follows Dr. Ivy Collins, founder and CEO of Hedera, as she prepares to launch clinical trials for her company’s cutting-edge prosthetic technology. Her groundbreaking work has earned praise from government agencies, medical professionals, and advocacy groups alike. However, not everyone wants to see Ivy succeed—someone is actively trying to sabotage Hedera and its revolutionary launch.

Enter Secret Service agent Gil Dixon, who can’t believe he’s finally been reunited with Ivy, his childhood best friend. After years of separation, Gil is determined to mend their broken relationship. But first, he must use all his skills to uncover the truth behind the attacks on Ivy and save not only her life but also her life’s work and the innocent lives caught in the crossfire.

Our Thoughts on the Story

The opening scene immediately grips readers when Gil and his team walk in on Ivy being tortured—what a reunion! The timing couldn’t have been more crucial, as Gil’s arrival literally saves Ivy’s life. The torture scenes were particularly difficult to read, with the methodical breaking of fingers and burning that showcased the villain’s malicious intent.

We loved the tender nickname “Buttercup” that Gil uses for Ivy, which connects beautifully to The Princess Bride theme of separation and reunion. These small touches of endearment really enhance the romantic elements of the story.

Multiple Mysteries Unfold

Malicious Intent weaves together several compelling mysteries. There’s the counterfeit money investigation that initially brings the team to Ivy’s location, and then the escalating attacks against her personally. Without giving away spoilers, we’ll just say that our initial guesses about the villain were completely wrong! Blackburn does an excellent job of planting clues that point in multiple directions.

Sabrina, the genius tech specialist, plays a significant role in this book and brings her expertise to help solve the case. For readers new to Blackburn’s work, we recommend starting with the Dive Team Investigators series to fully appreciate Sabrina’s character development.

Character Development and Family History

Ivy’s character really impressed us—despite her traumatic upbringing and complicated family history, she’s built an incredible life and career. The guilt and shame she carried from her past created a believable barrier between her and Gil for fifteen years. Both characters were dealing with their own struggles when they were younger, making their eventual reunion even more meaningful.

Gil’s sister Emily makes a wonderful addition to the story, and we’re excited that she gets her own novella between books two and three.

The Romance Factor

Gil absolutely stole our hearts with the way he takes care of Ivy—knowing exactly how she likes her coffee, cooking for her, and spoiling her in the sweetest ways. Ivy even admits she could become “addicted” to his care and attention. These tender moments provide perfect balance to the high-stakes suspense.

We also appreciated Detective Morris from the Raleigh police department. While he starts out as a bit of a grump, he grows on you and becomes surprisingly protective of Ivy. His character development throughout the story was well done.

Our LiteraryScape Ratings

Using our signature coffee-themed rating system:

Drama Level: Latte (plenty of high-stakes drama!)

Inspiration Level: Mocha (Gil’s character particularly shines)

Romance Level: Mocha (Lynn Blackburn consistently delivers at this level)

Mystery Level: Latte (multiple mysteries keep you guessing)

Suspense Level: Latte (edge-of-your-seat tension throughout)

Final Verdict

We’re giving Malicious Intent three lassos out of three—you’ll definitely be hooked and hogtied by this thrilling story! If you enjoy contemporary Christian suspense romance, this book is an excellent choice.

What’s Next?

Between books two and three of the Defend and Protect series, there are two novellas that we’ll be discussing in our next episode. Stay tuned for more Literary adventures!

Ready to dive into Malicious Intent?

Get the book here

Visit Lynn H. Blackburn’s website

Have you read Malicious Intent? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your reviews and join the conversation on our social media channels.

www.literaryscape.com/podcast/167

The Story That Hooked Us from Chapter One

Unknown Threat follows Secret Service agent Luke Powell, who’s devastated after losing three fellow agents in unusual circumstances over just 10 weeks. When FBI Special Agent Faith Malone is assigned to investigate these unprecedented attacks, Luke finds himself torn between his attraction to Faith and his distrust of the FBI. With more agents being targeted, they must learn to work together to bring a killer to justice.

As one of our hosts noted, “By the end of chapter one, every book of hers that I’ve read, it’s like you’re hooked. There is something big that you’re like, whoa, I gotta keep reading.” Blackburn’s talent for crafting irresistible chapter hooks makes this a true page-turner.

Characters We Loved (And One We Didn’t)

Faith Malone won us over with her determination and integrity. We loved her unique hobby of rowing and how she consistently proved herself trustworthy through her actions rather than just her words. Her relationship with her sister Hope provided some of our favorite moments—the classic sister dynamic and Hope’s blunt question about Luke being a good kisser had us laughing.

The Secret Service Team felt like a real family unit. The bonds between Luke, Gil, Zane, Tessa, and their boss Jacob created authentic workplace relationships that drew us in. When Gil gets shot and insists Faith stay in the room because he wants to talk to her, it perfectly showed how she’d earned their respect.

Janice, however, was a character we all wanted to shake. Her extreme bias and arrogance made her insufferable, though we recognized her importance in highlighting how prejudices can affect judgment and helping Luke see that not all FBI agents are the same.

A Mystery That Kept Us Guessing

The complex family history behind the murders created a web of connections we didn’t see coming. Even our host who was re-reading the book found herself wondering “Wait, who is it?” because Blackburn masterfully keeps the killer’s identity hidden until the very end.

What struck us most was feeling sympathy for the killer by the story’s conclusion—something that rarely happens in thrillers. The revelation and explanation felt organic, not like an information dump, making us part of the investigation rather than passive observers.

Our LiteraryScape Ratings

Drama Level: Mocha ☕☕ (lots of familial complexity throughout)

Mystery Level: Latte ☕☕☕ (couldn’t figure it out until the end!)

Inspiration Level: Mocha ☕☕ (faith lived out quietly through actions)

Romance Level: Mocha ☕☕ (just the right amount woven in)

Suspense Level: Latte ☕☕☕ (kept us on the edge of our seats)

Overall Lasso Rating: 2.5 to 3 out of 3

While we all agreed this is a solid three-lasso book that will hook readers from the start, we noted that other books in this series might edge it out slightly. But that’s the beauty of a strong series—each book brings something special to the table.

Why You Should Read This Series

Lynn H. Blackburn has become a favorite on our podcast for good reason. Her writing style combines relentless pacing with character development that makes you genuinely care about the outcome. She wraps up loose ends satisfyingly while building relationships that carry through the series.

If you’re looking for a suspense novel that balances action with heart, complex mysteries with authentic relationships, Unknown Threat delivers on all fronts. Just be warned—you might find yourself saying “just one more chapter” well past your bedtime.

Next week, we’ll be discussing book two in the series, Malicious Intent. Join us as we continue following this team of Secret Service agents and the FBI agent who’s become one of their own.

Listen to our full discussion of Unknown Threat on the LiteraryScape Podcast. Don’t forget to grab some chocolate before diving into this series—you’ll need the comfort food for the intense moments ahead!

www.literaryscape.com/podcast/166

There’s something captivating about authors who can seamlessly weave heart-pounding suspense with compelling romance, and Lynette Eason has mastered this art form across nearly 70 published novels. In our latest LiteraryScape podcast episode, host Melissa LaShure sat down with this beloved romantic suspense author to discuss her newest release, Final Approach, the fourth and final book in her Lake City Heroes series.

The Lake City Heroes Series: Where Past Meets Present

What makes the Lake City Heroes series particularly compelling is how each standalone novel connects through the fictional town of Lake City, creating a rich tapestry of interconnected stories. “Each of my heroines has some kind of occupation, whether in medicine or law enforcement,” Eason explains, noting that all the male protagonists work in law enforcement as well.

The series, which began in January 2024 with Double Take, has been releasing steadily over two years, with each book exploring how a character’s past shapes their present circumstances. This theme reaches its crescendo in Final Approach, where the heroine works as an air marshal—a career choice directly influenced by her mother’s death in a plane hijacking.

“There’s something about the characters’ past that leads them to what they are doing in present day,” Eason notes, highlighting the psychological depth that elevates her work beyond typical action-adventure romance.

Research: The Foundation of Authentic Storytelling

With nearly seven decades of published works behind her, Eason has become something of an expert on law enforcement procedures across multiple agencies. For the Lake City Heroes series alone, she researched roles spanning from physician assistants and police detectives to FBI agents, fire marshals, and air marshals.

“I do have an FBI agent—I have two FBI agent buddies who read all of my stuff,” she shares, explaining how these professional connections help ensure accuracy. When she needed information about fire marshal procedures for Serial Burn (book three), her FBI contacts connected her with specialists in that field.

Her research process is refreshingly practical: “As I’m writing, I’ve come to a spot where I was like, I really need to know how this would be handled. And so then I just send a text and say, hey, I need to know how this will be handled.”

The Evolution of a Writer

Eason’s writing journey began in eighth grade with an abandoned novel attempt, but the desire never truly left. She seriously began writing in the late 1990s while home with a baby and a frequently traveling husband. “I just decided to talk to the voices in my head,” she jokes, using the familiar writer’s refrain.

Her process has evolved significantly over the decades. “I used to be a huge pantser. Like I would just sit down and start writing and let the story take me. And now that my brain is a lot older, I don’t have that… I can’t hold as much in my brain anymore.”

Now she describes herself as a “plantser”—someone who plots the major story beats but allows for organic development, especially in the final 20,000 words. She always knows her ending scene from the beginning, working steadily toward that climactic moment.

Favorite Characters and Memorable Scenes

When asked about her favorite character from the series, Eason immediately mentions Kinsey King from Target Acquired (book two). “She was part of an all-male SWAT team on the police department. And I just had a really good time researching that because you would think in this day and age, there wouldn’t be a whole lot of… it’s a boys club kind of thing, but actually it still exists a lot.”

For Final Approach, Eason particularly enjoyed writing the climactic scene where her air marshal heroine must land an airplane. “It was a very intense scene and there was a lot going on… I had a really good time writing it,” though she acknowledges the technical research required was substantial.

Giving Back: The Seaside Scribes Conference

Beyond her writing, Eason is passionate about nurturing new talent through the Seaside Scribes writers conference and retreat. This intimate gathering, limited to around 40 attendees, takes place annually in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina (January 14-17, 2026, at the Hilton).

“We just hang out with writers that we teach during the day, and then we go eat. We have meals, we have meetings, and then we just hang,” she describes. “People that come have made lifelong friends there, found their critique partners.”

The conference focuses on craft techniques applicable to any genre, though the 2026 event will feature Darlene Turner teaching specifically about Love Inspired Suspense writing due to popular demand.

Reading Recommendations and Inspiration

For readers new to her work, Eason recommends the Elite Guardians series, featuring female bodyguards. The concept emerged from her research into a unique training school in Athens, Greece, that exclusively trains female bodyguards, with a branch in Dallas, Texas.

As for her own reading habits, Eason reads widely across genres, from romantic suspense colleagues like Lynn Blackburn, Colleen Coble, and Jessica Patch, to historical mysteries and speculative fiction. “I just like dead bodies, I guess,” she laughs when explaining her preference for suspenseful plots.

Connecting with Readers

Eason maintains an active presence across social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, and X as @LynetteEason), but she particularly recommends her monthly newsletter available at LynetteEason.com. Subscribers receive a free short story upon signup and additional free reads in each monthly issue, along with recommendations for other authors’ works.

“If you sign up for my newsletter, there is a free read in every one of my newsletters,” she promises, making it clear that her newsletter provides substantial value for romantic suspense fans.

Final Thoughts

With Final Approach marking the end of the Lake City Heroes series, readers can look forward to Eason’s next literary adventure. Her commitment to authentic storytelling, combined with her generous spirit toward emerging writers, solidifies her position as not just a prolific author, but a valuable voice in the romantic suspense community.

Final Approach releases soon, and while each book in the Lake City Heroes series stands alone, reading them in order provides the richest experience of watching these interconnected characters navigate their dangerous, romantic worlds.

Don’t miss future episodes of the LiteraryScape podcast, and be sure to check back next year when we’ll be featuring more of Lynette Eason’s extensive backlist. Subscribe to our podcast for more author interviews and book discussions.

www.literaryscape.com/podcast/165

When Classic Tales Meet Cowboy Country

Karen Witemeyer has masterfully reimagined beloved fairy tales in the rugged landscape of 1800s Texas, creating the Texas Ever After series published by Bethany House. These aren’t your typical fairy tale retellings—they’re grounded in historical reality while maintaining the magic and heart of the original stories.

The Series Breakdown

Book 1: Fairest of Heart – A Snow-White retelling featuring retired cowboys instead of seven dwarfs

Book 2: If the Boot Fits – A gender-swapped Cinderella story (think “Cinderfella”)
Book 3: Cloaked in Beauty – A unique blend of Sleeping Beauty and Little Red Riding Hood

The Magic Behind the Stories

Fairest of Heart: Cowboys Over Dwarfs

Perhaps the most creative adaptation in the series, Witemeyer transformed Snow White’s seven dwarfs into retired cowboys living at the Diamond D Ranch. Led by Doc (a retired doctor who opened his home to cowboys with nowhere else to go), each “drover” pays homage to the Disney characters while maintaining their cowboy strength.

Some of our favorite name adaptations:

Coy (Bashful) – a clever synonym that perfectly captures the shy character

Dusty (Sneezy) – always battling hay fever with his trusty handkerchief

Jeb (Grumpy) – the gruff exterior hiding a heart of gold

Rowdy (Dopey) – reimagined as a cowboy dealing with brain trauma, but still finding his heroic moments

The villain receives a brilliant update too—instead of just vanity driving the evil queen, Witemeyer created an aging actress with a calculated retirement plan involving theft and dreams of reinventing herself among European royalty.

If the Boot Fits: Redeeming the Stepmother

This Cinderella retelling features one of Witemeyer’s most important character decisions: redeeming the stepmother. “In all the fairy tales, the stepmother is always evil,” Witemeyer explained, “and there are some wonderful, loving stepmothers in this world that need to be honored.”

The result is Asher Ellis (see what she did there with “Cinder-Asher”?), a down-on-his-luck cowboy working to support his beloved stepmother after his father’s death. When she’s evicted from her home, Asher returns to help—only to clash with the property owner’s daughter, our heroine who comes from money this time around.

Cloaked in Beauty: A Fairy Tale Mashup

The most complex adaptation combines Sleeping Beauty’s backstory with Little Red Riding Hood’s journey narrative. Witemeyer solved the age-old parenting plot hole: “As a mother, there is no way that I would send my child away like that.” Her solution? The only person a mother would trust with her child—her own mother, creating the grandmother in the woods scenario.

The story cleverly plays with dragon and wolf imagery from both tales, with the wolf becoming a loyal companion rather than a threat, while the dragon represents greed and ambition in the human villains.

Beyond Texas Ever After

Witemeyer’s passion for fairy tale retellings didn’t end with the trilogy. Her latest release, To Love a Beast, kicks off a new independent series called “Once Upon a Time in Texas.” This Beauty and the Beast retelling holds special significance as her favorite Disney story and features a bookbinding heroine—perfect for fellow book lovers!

Coming next: A Little Mermaid story set in Galveston, Texas, which holds personal meaning as the movie played a role in her own love story with her husband.

Future possibilities include a Tangled adaptation (inspired by her son’s wedding theme) and even a Goldilocks and the Three Bears story featuring three brothers.

What Makes These Retellings Special

Witemeyer’s genius lies in asking the right questions: How do you make these fantastical elements work in 1800s Texas? How do you honor the original stories while creating something entirely new? Her solutions feel both logical and creative, grounding magical elements in emotional truth and historical reality.

The author’s background growing up in the country (complete with a snake-catching younger brother) brings authenticity to her Western settings, while her deep love for the source material ensures each retelling captures what made us fall in love with these stories in the first place.

Connect with Karen Witemeyer

Want to dive deeper into Karen’s fairy tale world? You can connect with her at karenwitemeyer.com, where you’ll find:

Direct contact options

Links to her Facebook group “The Posse” (where she’s most active)

Newsletter signup with monthly book giveaways

Information about upcoming releases

Karen genuinely loves connecting with readers, so don’t hesitate to reach out and share your thoughts on her fairy tale retellings!

Final Thoughts

The Texas Ever After series proves that the best retellings don’t just change the setting—they reimagine the heart of the story for a new time and place. Whether you’re a fairy tale fanatic, Western romance lover, or just someone who appreciates creative storytelling, these books offer something magical.

Have you read Karen Witemeyer’s fairy tale series? Which retelling sounds most intriguing to you? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Don’t forget to subscribe to LiteraryScape for more author interviews and book discussions. Happy reading!

www.literaryscape.com/podcast/164

The Story That Captivated Us

Set in the atmospheric Piney Woods of East Texas, Cloaked in Beauty follows Lady Hood (Letty), who has spent 15 years hidden away with her grandmother to escape a deadly uncle who wants her dead. As her 21st birthday approaches, she must return to Houston with Pinkerton agent Philip Carmichael to claim her birthright—if she can survive long enough to inherit it.

What starts as a protective escort mission becomes something much deeper as Philip discovers that Letty is far from the spoiled heiress he expected. Instead, he finds a woman of rare strength, kindness, and wit who challenges his hardened cynicism at every turn.

Which Fairy Tale Is It Really?

One of the most fascinating aspects of our discussion was trying to pin down exactly which fairy tale Witemeyer was retelling. Initially, some of us caught hints of Beauty and the Beast (especially with a character named Mrs. Pots!), while others picked up on Sleeping Beauty elements with the “dragon man” references.

But as the story unfolded, Red Riding Hood became the most obvious influence—Letty lives in the woods with her grandmother, wears a red cloak, and has a loyal wolf companion. We even detected echoes of Anastasia with the “hidden heiress” storyline.

The genius of Witemeyer’s approach is that she weaves these different fairy tale elements together without making any single one feel heavy-handed. It’s a masterful blend that keeps readers guessing and engaged.

Characters That Stole Our Hearts

Letty: The Fearless Heiress

We absolutely loved Letty’s character development. While she was admittedly naive and sheltered, she was never truly fearful. Her bravery shone through, especially in her declaration: “I don’t need a protector. I need a warrior who has my back… someone who’s gonna fight the battles with me.” This wasn’t a damsel waiting to be saved—this was a woman ready to fight side by side with her partner.

Philip: The Transformed Protector

Philip quickly became a favorite among our group. His character arc from cynical agent to devoted protector was beautifully crafted. We appreciated how his primary concern was always Letty’s safety, and his willingness to walk away for six months so she could discover her true identity showed remarkable selflessness.

The Wolf: Our Unexpected Favorite

Perhaps no character captured our hearts quite like Letty’s loyal wolf companion. This wasn’t the “big bad wolf” of traditional tales—this was a faithful friend who followed directions, kept secrets, and even served as a protective barrier between Letty and Philip when they had to share close quarters. The bridge crossing scene had us all on the edge of our seats, fearing for this beloved character’s safety.

Our Ratings Breakdown

Suspense Level: Mocha ☕☕
Strong at the beginning and end, with constant tension throughout their journey.

Mystery Level: Espresso to Mocha ☕-☕☕
We knew the villain from the start, so few surprises, but the tension remained high.

Inspirational Level: Mocha ☕☕
Solid themes without being heavy-handed.

Drama Level: Mocha ☕☕
Plenty of family backstory drama, though Letty and Philip themselves weren’t dramatic.

Romance Level: Espresso ☕
Classic fairy tale romance—worth the wait until the end!

What’s Next from Karen Witemeyer?

For those who can’t get enough of Witemeyer’s fairy tale retellings, she has a second indie-published series beginning with To Love a Beast. One of our members has already read it and gives it the highest recommendation!

Looking Ahead

Next week, we’re thrilled to bring you our interview with Karen Witemeyer herself, where we’ll dive deeper into her fairy tale series and hopefully uncover some of the secrets behind her masterful storytelling.

Join the Conversation

Have you read Cloaked in Beauty? Which fairy tale elements did you pick up on? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

Don’t forget to subscribe to LiteraryScape Book Club for more in-depth discussions of the books that capture our hearts and imaginations.

www.literaryscape.com/podcast/163

When Prince Charming Loses His Boot

What happens when you flip the classic Cinderella story and give the glass slipper to a wealthy woman instead? Karen Witemeyer delivers a delightful answer in If the Boot Fits, and our LiteraryScape Book Club couldn’t put it down!

Hosts

Melissa LaShure

Jessica

Tiffanie

Jamie

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The Story That Hooked Us From Page One

In this clever reimagining of the beloved fairy tale, we meet Asher Ellis, a man convinced his stepmother and half-brothers have been wrongfully evicted by cattle king Eli Daring. Using an extravagant ball as cover, Asher breaks into the ranch house searching for proof. When discovery threatens, he flees—but a boy’s cry compels him to make a daring rescue.

Enter Samantha Deering, the spunky and independent daughter who’s less than thrilled about her father’s matrimonial ambush disguised as a ball. When she spots the mysterious thief fleeing her home, everything changes. After the stranger saves her brother’s life, Samantha hides the only clue to his identity—his boot—and resolves to find him herself.

Why We Loved This Gender-Flipped Fairy Tale

The Fresh Perspective: Witemeyer’s decision to make the woman the wealthy one while the man comes from humble circumstances kept the familiar story feeling fresh and engaging. As one of our hosts noted, “It kept my attention right away—I had to finish it.”

Family Values: We were particularly drawn to Asher’s character and his devotion to family over wealth. Unlike traditional Cinderella retellings with wicked stepfamilies, Asher has a wonderful stepmother and loving half-brothers—a twist that added depth to the familiar framework.

The Clever Details: Witemeyer weaves in delightful nods to the original tale. Asher’s half-brother Fergus (nicknamed “Gus” like the plump mouse!) is a writer, and even the farm animals get fairy tale treatment with Mrs. Merriweather the cow playing a supporting role.

Biblical Themes That Resonated

One of the most powerful aspects of If the Boot Fits is how it explores what happens when we take matters out of God’s hands and into our own. The story includes a significant twist that mirrors a biblical narrative, delivering a meaningful lesson about trusting God’s timing versus our own impatience.

As our discussion revealed, this theme hit close to home: “We all do it—we think He’s not working on our timetable, so we just take care of it ourselves.” The book beautifully illustrates how God can turn even our mistakes around for His good and glory.

Character Development Done Right

Samantha’s growth throughout the story impressed us all. She begins as somewhat of a “spoiled brat” but matures beautifully, especially in her relationship with her father. We loved watching her step back, gain perspective, and have honest conversations about their strained relationship after her mother’s death.

The supporting characters—from Samantha’s aunt and uncle to Mrs. Stewart the cook—all played meaningful roles in bringing this story to life.

Our Ratings Breakdown

Romance Level: ☕ Mocha – The fairy tale setting lends itself perfectly to romantic tension

Suspense Level: ☕ Mocha to Latte – Multiple intense events keep you guessing, especially toward the climax

Inspiration Level: ☕ Espresso to Mocha – Strong biblical themes that grow more powerful as the story progresses

Drama Level: ☕ Latte – It’s Cinderella, so drama is expected and delivered!

Mystery Level: ☕ Mocha to Latte – The big twist at the end will leave you stunned

Overall Lasso Rating: Three Lassos – This one had us “hooked and hogtied from the beginning!”

A Word of Caution (For Our Snake-Phobic Readers!)

Fair warning: there’s a particularly intense scene involving a snake that had one of our hosts skipping pages entirely. If you’re squeamish about serpents, you might want to flip ahead when a masked rider appears with a mysterious bag!

The Verdict

If the Boot Fits proves that there’s always room for a fresh take on a classic story. Witemeyer’s skill at weaving biblical themes into an engaging romance, combined with her clever fairy tale elements, creates something special. Whether you’re a Cinderella fanatic or just love a good inspirational romance, this book deserves a spot on your reading list.

If the Boot Fits is part of Karen Witemeyer’s Fairy Tale series. While we haven’t covered the other books yet, To Love a Beast and Cloaked in Beauty are also available for those ready to dive deeper into these reimagined classics.

Have you read If the Boot Fits? We’d love to hear your thoughts! And if you’re looking for your next great read, check out our other LiteraryScape Book Club reviews and discussions.

Related Episodes

The Story That Hooked Us From Page One

In this clever reimagining of the beloved fairy tale, we meet Asher Ellis, a man convinced his stepmother and half-brothers have been wrongfully evicted by cattle king Eli Daring. Using an extravagant ball as cover, Asher breaks into the ranch house searching for proof. When discovery threatens, he flees—but a boy’s cry compels him to make a daring rescue.

Enter Samantha Deering, the spunky and independent daughter who’s less than thrilled about her father’s matrimonial ambush disguised as a ball. When she spots the mysterious thief fleeing her home, everything changes. After the stranger saves her brother’s life, Samantha hides the only clue to his identity—his boot—and resolves to find him herself.

Why We Loved This Gender-Flipped Fairy Tale

The Fresh Perspective: Witemeyer’s decision to make the woman the wealthy one while the man comes from humble circumstances kept the familiar story feeling fresh and engaging. As one of our hosts noted, “It kept my attention right away—I had to finish it.”

Family Values: We were particularly drawn to Asher’s character and his devotion to family over wealth. Unlike traditional Cinderella retellings with wicked stepfamilies, Asher has a wonderful stepmother and loving half-brothers—a twist that added depth to the familiar framework.

The Clever Details: Witemeyer weaves in delightful nods to the original tale. Asher’s half-brother Fergus (nicknamed “Gus” like the plump mouse!) is a writer, and even the farm animals get fairy tale treatment with Mrs. Merriweather the cow playing a supporting role.

Biblical Themes That Resonated

One of the most powerful aspects of If the Boot Fits is how it explores what happens when we take matters out of God’s hands and into our own. The story includes a significant twist that mirrors a biblical narrative, delivering a meaningful lesson about trusting God’s timing versus our own impatience.

As our discussion revealed, this theme hit close to home: “We all do it—we think He’s not working on our timetable, so we just take care of it ourselves.” The book beautifully illustrates how God can turn even our mistakes around for His good and glory.

Character Development Done Right

Samantha’s growth throughout the story impressed us all. She begins as somewhat of a “spoiled brat” but matures beautifully, especially in her relationship with her father. We loved watching her step back, gain perspective, and have honest conversations about their strained relationship after her mother’s death.

The supporting characters—from Samantha’s aunt and uncle to Mrs. Stewart the cook—all played meaningful roles in bringing this story to life.

Our Ratings Breakdown

Romance Level: ☕ Mocha – The fairy tale setting lends itself perfectly to romantic tension

Suspense Level: ☕ Mocha to Latte – Multiple intense events keep you guessing, especially toward the climax

Inspiration Level: ☕ Espresso to Mocha – Strong biblical themes that grow more powerful as the story progresses

Drama Level: ☕ Latte – It’s Cinderella, so drama is expected and delivered!

Mystery Level: ☕ Mocha to Latte – The big twist at the end will leave you stunned

Overall Lasso Rating: Three Lassos – This one had us “hooked and hogtied from the beginning!”

A Word of Caution (For Our Snake-Phobic Readers!)

Fair warning: there’s a particularly intense scene involving a snake that had one of our hosts skipping pages entirely. If you’re squeamish about serpents, you might want to flip ahead when a masked rider appears with a mysterious bag!

The Verdict

If the Boot Fits proves that there’s always room for a fresh take on a classic story. Witemeyer’s skill at weaving biblical themes into an engaging romance, combined with her clever fairy tale elements, creates something special. Whether you’re a Cinderella fanatic or just love a good inspirational romance, this book deserves a spot on your reading list.

If the Boot Fits is part of Karen Witemeyer’s Fairy Tale series. While we haven’t covered the other books yet, To Love a Beast and Cloaked in Beauty are also available for those ready to dive deeper into these reimagined classics.

Have you read If the Boot Fits? We’d love to hear your thoughts! And if you’re looking for your next great read, check out our other LiteraryScape Book Club reviews and discussions.

The Story

Fairest of Heart follows Penelope Snow, a young woman whose beauty has been nothing but trouble. Working as a personal maid for a famous actress touring the West, she tries to hide her appearance beneath shapeless dresses. But when circumstances leave her stranded at a ranch with seven old rovers, she catches the attention of Texas Ranger Titus Kingsley—a man who’s learned to distrust women after his brother’s tragic death.

When Titus is assigned to investigate a robbery case tied to Penelope’s acting troupe, all evidence points to her guilt. But perhaps this fairest woman of all truly does have a heart as pure as her last name.

Matching the Seven Rovers to the Dwarfs

One of the most delightful aspects of this retelling is how skillfully the author matched each rover to his fairy tale counterpart:

Sleepy = Angus (always snoring!)

Sneezy = Dusty

Grumpy = Jeb (a fan favorite!)

Doc = The Doctor (Titus’s grandfather.)

Dopey = Rowdy (another fan favorite!)

Happy = Ike

Bashful = Coy (the name says it all!)

And let’s not forget Rowdy, who filled a special role in the story with his wandering that proved so crucial to finding Penelope.

What We Loved

The hosts were impressed by how faithfully the author stuck to the original Snow White story while seamlessly weaving it into a Western setting. From Penelope cleaning and cooking for the rovers to the way Narcissa (the evil queen figure) treated Cecil as her huntsman, every element felt both familiar and fresh.

Favorite Characters:

Jeb (Grumpy) stole hearts with his gruff exterior that softened around Penelope—especially in that memorable knife scene where he teaches her proper self-defense!

Rowdy was universally beloved for his childlike innocence and crucial role in the story

The rovers as a group brought warmth and humor throughout

The Romance & Faith Elements

True to the fairy tale source, this is a sweet, innocent romance. The romantic tension builds beautifully, but the physical romance stays at an espresso level—just a hint, with the payoff coming at the very end.

The inspirational elements shine through Penelope’s unwavering faith during impossible circumstances, constantly reminding herself that “God brought me this far, He’s not going to abandon me now.” This persevering faith earned the book a mocha to latte rating for inspirational content.

Our Ratings Breakdown

Using our signature coffee scale (espresso = a little, mocha = medium, latte = a lot):

Romance Level: Espresso (sweet and innocent)

Suspense Level: Mocha (plenty of “what happens next?” moments)

Mystery Level: Mocha (surprising how much mystery fit into a familiar story!)

Inspirational Level: Mocha to Latte (strong faith themes throughout)

Drama Level: Espresso (kept drama light, true to fairy tale style)

Overall Lasso Rating: 2 to 2.5 out of 3

Final Thoughts

Fairest of Heart by Karen Witemeyer proves that familiar stories can find new life in skilled hands. While knowing the Snow White story might make some plot points predictable, the Western setting and well-developed characters keep readers engaged. This is a solid, enjoyable read that successfully bridges the gap between beloved fairy tale and historical Christian romance.

Karen Witemeyer’s ability to transform these classic stories into cowboy romances is truly impressive—and we can’t wait to discuss next week’s episode featuring If the Boot Fits, a Cinderella retelling!

Have you read Fairest of Heart? We’d love to hear your thoughts! And don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter at literaryscape.com/newsletter for updates on upcoming episodes and events for both readers and authors.

Coming Up Next Week: If the Boot Fits – A Cinderella Western Romance

Until next time, happy and blessed reading and writing!

www.literaryscape.com/podcast/161

A Volcano, A Trucker, and A Baby: The Perfect Storm

Dana Mentink’s latest novel, Fire Mountain, combines several compelling elements that immediately grab your attention. The story follows a female long-distance trucker who finds herself trapped in a volcanic eruption zone after a mysterious accident. But the real twist? She wakes up to discover a baby in her truck—a baby that isn’t hers.

“I follow a number of female independent truckers on social media,” Dana explained during the podcast. “It’s just really fascinating to me how they have carved out a niche for themselves in a primarily male-dominated business and just made it their own.” This admiration for the profession led her to create a protagonist whose career choice is as intriguing as her predicament.

Inspired by Mount St. Helens

The volcanic setting isn’t arbitrary—it stems from Dana’s personal experience witnessing one of America’s most significant natural disasters. “I was 12 when Mount St. Helens erupted in 1980,” she shared. “That was really unprecedented… just watching that unfold in the news and just looking at how it started out as almost an entertaining thing. And then it turned into just a catastrophe in May. So that just made a deep impression on me.”

This childhood memory evolved into a fascinating “what if” scenario: What would it be like to be trapped in an eruption zone where “you cannot predict the behavior of the earth under your feet”? The result is a suspense novel set in the fictional Mount Ember in Skamania County, Washington—real adjacent, as Dana puts it.

Meet Cullen Landry: The Hero with a Secret Fear

The male protagonist, Cullen Landry, is a retired SWAT cop who should have evacuated but stayed behind to help friends secure their properties. When he witnesses the trucker’s accident, his instinct to help draws him into an extraordinary survival situation.

What makes Cullen particularly endearing is his vulnerability. Despite his tough exterior and professional background, he harbors an amusing fear of a certain type of rodent that the characters encounter during their ordeal. “He wants to be manly, but he’s really, he doesn’t like this rodent,” Dana laughed. “He doesn’t come off well in that scene.”

The Ultimate Challenge: Surviving with a Baby

Perhaps the most ingenious aspect of Fire Mountain is the inclusion of the mysterious baby. Dana explained her thought process: “I was thinking about if you’re alone in the wilderness and you have no help and no technology and you have no shelter, what would be the most difficult thing? And I think it would be if you were responsible for another life and particularly a very fragile life like a baby and particularly if you have zero maternal skills.”

This scenario creates the perfect storm of obstacles for character development—exactly what every compelling story needs.

From Classroom to Full-Time Writing

Dana’s journey to full-time writing is inspiring. After years of balancing elementary school teaching with part-time writing, she made the leap to full-time authorship five years ago. Her experience teaching primarily third grade clearly influences her storytelling approach, particularly her belief that “you are a writer if you have a story to tell”—regardless of spelling skills or semicolon knowledge.

With 25 years of writing experience under her belt, Dana has mastered both suspense and cozy mystery genres. Her ice cream shop mystery series, starting with Pint of No Return, offers a lighter contrast to her suspense novels, showcasing her versatility as a storyteller.

What’s Next: Raging Waters

Fire Mountain is the first book in what Dana hopes will be a three-book series focusing on natural disasters. The second book, Raging Waters, is scheduled for March 2026 and will feature a catastrophic flood scenario involving a failing dam. While the books share some characters, they can be read as standalones.

Dana’s research-driven approach to these disaster scenarios reflects both her respect for real-world tragedies and her commitment to authenticity. As she noted regarding the flood theme, “I never would want to make light of that or trivialize that in fiction.”

A Perfect Balance of Romance and Suspense

When asked about the romance element, Dana estimated the balance at about 60% suspense and 40% romance—though she admitted she’d be curious to hear what readers think. The wilderness survival setting naturally emphasizes the plot-driven suspense, but as any good romance reader knows, facing trials together creates perfect opportunities for emotional connection.

Connect with Dana

Readers can find Dana at her website, damentink.com, and follow her entertaining adventures on Instagram, where she shares her personality and “silliness” along with connecting with other Christian authors. Her monthly newsletter promises “lots of goodies and always a video report on how things are going at Menting Manor”—including tales of reptile shows and other exciting shenanigans.

Final Thoughts

Fire Mountain promises to be a unique addition to the Christian suspense romance genre, combining meticulous research with heart-pounding action and genuine character development. Dana Mentink has created a story that not only entertains but explores themes of responsibility, survival, and unexpected heroism in the face of nature’s most powerful forces.

Whether you’re drawn to the unique volcanic setting, the compelling mystery of the abandoned baby, or the unlikely romance blooming amid chaos, Fire Mountain offers something for every suspense romance reader looking for their next page-turner.

Listen to the full LiteraryScape podcast episode to hear more about Dana’s writing process, her favorite current reads (including her recent return to The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe), and her thoughts on the craft of balancing mystery and suspense in fiction.

A Shocking Beginning

Designed with Love doesn’t ease readers into the story—it plunges them headfirst into drama. Set in the late 1880s, the novel opens in Texas at what should be a joyful wedding. Emma Johnson, our spirited protagonist, is about to marry Tommy Benton when tragedy strikes. A young woman bursts in, kills Emma’s fiancé, and accidentally shoots Emma in the process before taking her own life.

“It’s not typical to have a gunfight at a wedding opening your book,” Peterson acknowledges, “but it was necessary for my characters.”

This traumatic event becomes the catalyst for Emma’s spiritual journey. Lying in a hospital bed, terrified of dying, Emma—who once told her mother she didn’t want to be a Christian because “they didn’t have fun”—finally opens her heart to faith through the loving intervention of her stepmother.

Characters That Capture Hearts

While Emma’s transformation from fun-loving rebel to woman of faith forms the emotional core of the story, Peterson reveals that one of her favorite characters is Rosie, the sister of Tommy’s older brother Colton. Rosie has learning disabilities and has been hidden away by her family, told she’s incapable of learning anything.

“Rosie has no filters,” Peterson explains with obvious affection. “She just says things that the rest of us would filter… sometimes I wish I could perform without filters. I think we all have those moments.”

Emma becomes Rosie’s advocate and teacher, helping her discover abilities no one believed she possessed. “She starts learning how to sew and then she wants to cook and then she wants to ride a horse and then she sees a piano and wants to learn,” Peterson shares. “It’s everything at once.”

This character was inspired by Peterson’s own family member who was born with the umbilical cord wrapped around their neck and told doctors not to bother trying to teach them. “She’s kind of a culmination of the spirit of, ‘I’m gonna get this done. You watch me’ that I find in my family.”

The Art of Forgiveness

Throughout our conversation, Peterson emphasized one of the central themes woven through all her novels: forgiveness. “Forgiving is always a key issue in my books because I’ve had to be forgiven a lot and I’ve had to forgive a lot,” she reflects. “I think everybody has. And I think it’s something that universally we can all relate to.”

This theme proves especially relevant as Emma navigates her new life in Cheyenne, Wyoming, supported by Colton, who has loved her from afar but never spoke up while she was engaged to his brother.

Rich Historical Details

Peterson’s research into 1880s Cheyenne brings authentic historical texture to the story. She consulted with members of the Wyoming Stock Growers Association about ranching and spoke with railroad experts about the Union Pacific’s expansion through the territory. The novel incorporates real historical elements, including the construction of Cheyenne’s beautiful red sandstone depot during this pivotal period when Wyoming was achieving statehood.

“Cheyenne is just a fascinating place. Wyoming has a lot of really neat occurrences,” Peterson notes, explaining how she draws from both the early formation period of the late 1860s in her Heart of Cheyenne series and the later development era of the 1880s-90s in the Hope of Cheyenne books.

What’s Next

Readers won’t have to wait long to continue the journey—all three books in the Hope of Cheyenne series are releasing in 2025, with A Constant Love having debuted in March and Designed with Love arriving in July.

Peterson is already working on her next series, set in 1870s Minneapolis, which will follow three generations of women united by their heart for helping the homeless, displaced, and orphaned. “It’s going to be a generational story,” she explains, spanning from grandmother to granddaughter across the three books, all scheduled for release in 2026.

Connect with Tracie Peterson

Readers can find Peterson at tracypeterson.com, where they can sign up for her newsletter and send messages. She’s also active on Facebook as Author Tracie Peterson and can be reached through Bethany House Publishers.

Designed with Love promises to be a perfect summer read—a story that combines historical authenticity, compelling characters, and timeless themes of redemption and second chances. Sometimes the most beautiful love stories begin in the most unexpected ways, even with a gunfight at a wedding.

Designed with Love releases in July 2025 as part of the Hope of Cheyenne series from Bethany House Publishers.

The LiteraryScape Book Club is here! You can now become a member for just $7 a month or $70 for the year. Just head on over to www.literaryscape.com and click on Book Club in the menu to join.

Our next Coffee and Books event will be on Tuesday June 24th from 2:00-3:00pm EST. Join authors Lynn Shannon, Crystal Caudill, and myself for an hour of book talk! Be sure to sign-up for this free event at www.literaryscape.com/events to receive a link to join in.

I am thrilled to announce the cover reveal and pre-order launch for my brand-new Wild West romance that’s going to capture your heart and keep you on the edge of your seat.

Introducing Uncharted Trials book two of the Bounty Brothers series—a gripping tale where murder, faith, and forbidden love collide in the untamed American West.

Picture this: Dr. James McPherson, a bounty hunter with a healer’s heart, never expected his latest patient would steal his soul. But when he meets Madeline Flynn—a fierce protector of her deaf brother and survivor of unspeakable tragedy—everything changes. As James tends to her wounds, he vows to shield her from the murderer stalking her family.

But here’s where it gets intense, listeners. As their attraction deepens, dark secrets from both their pasts threaten to destroy everything they hold dear. When their pasts violently collide and Madeline is torn from James’s grasp, both must trust in God’s plan to find their way back to each other.

With a killer’s shadow looming and their faith tested to its limits, Madeline and James face an impossible choice: Is love worth the risk? And is God’s grace enough to overcome the demons that haunt them?

This is more than just a romance, friends. This is a heart-pounding tale of faith, healing, sacrifice, and second chances set against the backdrop of the untamed American frontier. It is a story that will have you questioning whether faith and love can truly outrun the shadows of the past—or if the killer hunting Madeline will destroy their chance at happiness forever.

Uncharted Trials is now available for pre-order at www.literaryscape.com/shop only.

Head over to www.literaryscape.com to secure your copy today and be among the first to experience this unforgettable journey of love, faith, and redemption in the Wild West.

That’s all for today’s announcement, but we’ll be back with more incredible books and authors. Until then, keep reading, keep believing, and remember—the best stories are the ones that touch both your heart and your soul.

Episode Notes:

Behind the Scenes with Tracie Peterson: Second Chances and Montana’s Hidden Gems

We had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with bestselling author Tracie Peterson to discuss her latest collaboration with Kimberly Woodhouse, An Unexpected Grace, the third book in the captivating Jewels of Kalispell series. What unfolded was a conversation filled with insights about faith, second chances, and the magic that happens when authors bring history to life.

A Series Born from Montana’s Beauty

The Jewels of Kalispell series holds a special place in Peterson’s heart, and for good reason. Each book in the trilogy centers around a specific historical building in Kalispell, Montana, near Glacier National Park. An Unexpected Grace features the Macintosh Opera House, a fascinating piece of local history that came alive through Peterson and Woodhouse’s research.

“We chose the Kalispell area because it’s so gorgeous up there,” Peterson explained. “You’ve got the Glacier National Park and just beautiful, beautiful lakes and mountains, and we thought that would be a lot of fun.”

What makes this collaboration even more special is the serendipitous timing—for the first time in their writing partnership, Peterson and Woodhouse lived just two miles apart in Montana, allowing them to plot and plan together in person.

Characters Wrestling with God’s Calling

An Unexpected Grace tells the story of two people who fell in love in their youth but were separated when their individual callings seemed to pull them in different directions. Now, years later, they’re given a second chance at love—but not without wrestling with questions that many of us face.

Our hero begins the story having thought he was called to be a pastor, only to feel God directing him toward acting—a profession looked down upon by many Christians in the early 1900s. “Here’s a young man who loves the Lord and felt that he could use his acting career to spread the gospel and to speak to people who might not otherwise hear it,” Peterson shared.

Meanwhile, Johanna, now widowed with a child, creates elaborate hats (perfect for the fashion-forward early 1900s) while caring for her injured father and questioning her own path forward.

Themes That Resonate Today

What struck us most about our conversation with Peterson was how deeply personal these themes are for her—and likely for many readers. The question of whether we’re following God’s calling, and what happens when that calling seems to change, is one that transcends time periods.

“I think we just need to give ourselves permission to trust God and to know that if it’s the right thing, He will take us forward into that and things will fall into place,” Peterson reflected. “And you know, it might not be easy for sure, but He will take us through and He always is faithful to be with us in those things.”

The Joy of Research Adventures

One of the most delightful parts of our interview was hearing about Peterson and Woodhouse’s research trips. From touring the Carnegie Library featured in book one to exploring railroad depots for book two, their adventures brought the settings to vivid life.

The Macintosh Opera House research proved particularly memorable. While Peterson stayed upstairs due to knee troubles, Woodhouse ventured into the spooky basement of the old railroad depot and climbed the stairs to the shuttered opera house above a store. There, she could envision the crowds that once packed the venue—including a performance of Uncle Tom’s Cabin that drew so many people they were reportedly “standing in the window ledges and hanging from the chandeliers.”

Beloved Characters and Villainous Fun

Peterson lights up when discussing Marvella, the feisty older woman who appears throughout the series alongside her husband, the Judge. “She knows what she wants out of life. She loves passionately. She’s solid in the Lord and she just grabs life by the horns and goes for it,” Peterson said with obvious affection.

The duo is even considering a prequel series featuring these beloved characters—music to the ears of fans who’ve fallen in love with them.

As for writing villains, Peterson admits there’s a certain freedom in crafting characters without the restrictions that come with heroes and heroines. Though she jokes that Woodhouse has the real talent for creating “amazing villains,” Peterson finds joy in the liberty to make antagonists as complex and unpredictable as needed.

A Message of Hope

Ultimately, Peterson hopes readers will walk away from An Unexpected Grace with a renewed understanding that “God is a God of second chances.” Whether it’s love, career, relationships, or any other aspect of life where we think we’ve “blown it,” Peterson believes God can “come behind and gently clean us up and take us forward.”

An Unexpected Grace released on May 20th and is available now, along with the first two books in the series: Heart’s Choice and Out of the Ashes.

You can connect with Tracie Peterson at tracypeterson.com and Kimberly Woodhouse at kimberlywoodhouse.com, where you can also sign up for their newsletters. Both authors are active on Facebook under Author Tracie Peterson and Author Kimberly Woodhouse.

Whether you’re drawn to historical fiction, stories of second chances, or simply beautiful writing set against Montana’s stunning backdrop, the Jewels of Kalispell series offers something truly special. As Peterson’s own journey shows, sometimes the most beautiful stories come from the unexpected turns life takes—and the grace we find along the way.

Episode Link: https://www.literaryscape.com/podcast/behind-the-scenes-with-tracie-peterson-second-chances-and-montanas-hidden-gems

The LiteraryScape Book Club is here! You can now become a member for just $7 a month or $70 for the year. Just head on over to www.literaryscape.com and click on Book Club in the menu to join.

So what exactly is the LiteraryScape Book Club? It’s an exclusive community where readers who appreciate passionate-but-pure Christian romance can come together in a more intimate setting.

When you join the Book Club, you’ll receive:

First, exclusive online author events where we can chat directly about books, writing, and all things historical and contemporary suspense romance. I’m talking Q&A sessions, behind-the-scenes peeks at my writing process, and special guest appearances from other authors in these genres

Second, free ebooks of ALL my new releases. That’s right—as a member, you’ll automatically receive an ebook copy of every new novel I publish, delivered straight to your inbox.

Third, early access to signed paperbacks and merchandise before they’re available to the general public. You’ll be first in line for signed copies, special editions, and any bookish merchandise we create.

Fourth, regular door prize drawings exclusively for members. Throughout the year, we’ll be giving away signed books, exclusive merchandise, and other special surprises.

And finally, a community of readers who appreciate the same kind of stories you do—a place where we can discuss the books we love.

So come join us in the LiteraryScape Book Club today!

In other news. . .

Our next Coffee and Books event will be on Tuesday June 24th from 2:00-3:00pm EST. Join authors Lynn Shannon, Crystal Caudill, and myself for an hour of book talk! Be sure to sign-up for this free event at www.literaryscape.com/events to receive a link to join in.

The Kickstarter campaign for my novel, Uncharted Trials, is complete. Thank you to everyone who purchased a limited-edition cover. Your purchase helps cover publication costs. Stay tuned as Uncharted Trials releases this month, which means a cover reveal is coming soon along with pre-orders!

And now, let’s dive into today’s bonus episode, where we’ll be talking with author Elizabeth Goddard.

Episode Notes

Welcome to another Friday Literacy Book Club podcast recap! This week, host Melissa LaShure sat down with author Elizabeth Goddard to discuss her captivating Hidden Bay series and the upcoming release of book two, “Perilous Tides,” hitting shelves in July 2025.

A Writer’s Journey: From Dream to Reality

Elizabeth Goddard’s path to publication is a testament to persistence and passion. Like many of our featured authors, her story began with a simple love of reading that eventually blossomed into a writing career. “I was just an avid reader growing up and it was just always in the back of my mind to pursue writing,” Goddard shared.

Her journey officially began in 2001 when she joined ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers), submitting a chapter a week to critique groups and attending conferences for five years before landing her first book deal. Her debut novel was published in 2007 with Heart Song Presents, followed by a successful run with Love Inspired Suspense, and now with Ravel, the publisher of her current Hidden Bay series.

What makes Goddard’s story particularly inspiring is how she balanced her writing dreams with raising children and homeschooling—a reminder that pursuing our passions often requires sacrifice and dedication from the whole family.

The Hidden Bay Series: Where Gothic Romance Meets Pacific Northwest Beauty

Set on the rugged Washington coast along the Olympic Peninsula, the Hidden Bay series centers around Cedar Trails Lodge—a storm-watching lodge where guests come to witness the spectacular winter storms crashing against the rocky cliffs. Goddard describes the setting as having “rocky, cold, rough waters, crashing waves” that create the perfect backdrop for suspense.

The series follows different characters who come to the lodge to hide from their pasts, facilitated by the mysterious Evelyn Monroe, a character who has grown increasingly important throughout the series. As Goddard explains, “I have all these different characters come in that have come to the lodge to hide… and then danger finds them there.”

The inspiration for this atmospheric setting comes from Goddard’s love of classic gothic romances by authors like Victoria Holt and Phyllis Whitney. “The image of a mansion on top of a cliff overlooking these crashing waves is just kind of in my mind,” she said, and she’s modeled the lodge after the real Claylock Lodge on the West Coast.

Perilous Tides: A Forensic Artist’s Deadly Encounter

Book two, Perilous Tides, follows forensic artist Joe Cattrall, who has been hiding at the lodge after her mother’s murder in Michigan. When she receives a cryptic message from the father she never knew, Joe leaves her safe haven to search for him. Her journey takes a deadly turn when she witnesses a murder on a ferry crossing Puget Sound, leading to an attempt on her own life.

The story becomes a reunion romance when the hero from book one arrives to rescue her, and together they must uncover the truth about her father’s disappearance, her mother’s murder, and the new threats surrounding them.

For readers wondering about the suspense level, Goddard rates it as “pretty intense” (what we’d call a “latte” level), but emphasizes that her books avoid gratuitous violence or overly graphic content. “My books are not scary or bloody,” she assures us, focusing instead on high-stakes tension that gives readers moments to catch their breath.

The Art of Organic Writing

One of the most fascinating aspects of Goddard’s writing process is her organic approach—she doesn’t always know who the villain is when she starts writing. “What surprises me will also surprise the reader,” she explains. This method, while more challenging (“every day is pretty much brutal”), creates more authentic twists and turns.

Her extensive research process is equally impressive. For Perilous Tides, she dove deep into forensic artistry, learning about a mother-daughter team from Michigan known for their remarkably accurate sketches. “In the world of forensic art, it’s still really a gift,” Goddard notes. “When you really can bring justice… you really require that God-inspired gift.”

A Message of Peace in the Storm

Beyond the suspense and romance, Goddard weaves spiritual themes throughout her work. In Perilous Tides, she shares a particularly meaningful moment where her character stands on a stormy veranda and sees a plaque reading “He leads me by still waters” from Psalm 23. Despite the violent waves below, the message is clear: “No matter what is going on around us, inside we can still be calm.”

This theme of finding peace amid chaos resonates throughout Goddard’s work and reflects her own faith journey. As she puts it, “All of this chaos and the perilous tides and still God is there holding us and can keep us calm.”

Looking Ahead

Book three, Deadly Currents, is scheduled for release in February 2026 and will finally tell Evelyn Monroe’s story—the mysterious woman who facilitates the hideaway at Cedar Trails Lodge. Goddard describes her as “the foundation of the whole series” and her most fascinating character to date.

Connect with Elizabeth Goddard

Ready to dive into the Hidden Bay series? You can find Elizabeth Goddard at:

Website: elizabethgoddard.com (featuring live crashing waves on the homepage!)

Newsletter subscribers receive a free ebook: “Collision Course”

Social media: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Goodreads

Final Thoughts

Elizabeth Goddard’s Hidden Bay series offers the perfect blend of atmospheric suspense, compelling romance, and spiritual depth. With her authentic Pacific Northwest setting, organic writing style, and meaningful themes, she’s created a series that promises to keep readers on the edge of their seats while touching their hearts.

Perilous Tides releases in July 2025, and if this interview is any indication, readers are in for a thrilling ride through the storm-swept coastlines of Hidden Bay.

Have you read book one of the Hidden Bay series? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Drop us a comment below or connect with us on social media.

Our next Coffee and Books event will be on Tuesday June 24th from 2:00-3:00pm EST. Join authors Lynn Shannon, Crystal Caudill, and myself for an hour of book talk! Be sure to sign-up for this free event at www.literaryscape.com/events to receive a link to join in.

The Kickstarter campaign for my novel, Uncharted Trials, only has 15 days left and I’d love your support in bringing this story to life.

Uncharted Trials is a gripping Wild West romance where murder, faith, and forbidden love collide. It follows James McPherson, a physician and Bounty Brother who never expected his latest patient would steal his heart. But Madeline Flynn, a survivor of unspeakable tragedy, awakens something in his soul. As he tends to her wounds, James vows to shield her from the murderer stalking her family.

As their attraction deepens, dark secrets threaten everything they hold dear. When their pasts violently collide and Madeline is torn from his grasp, both must trust in God’s plan to find their way back to each other.

The funds raised through this Kickstarter will go directly toward professional publishing costs, ensuring Uncharted Trials receives the quality presentation it deserves. And as a special incentive for backers, I’m offering an exclusive limited-edition cover that won’t be available anywhere else once the campaign ends on June 1st.

Whether you’re a fan of historical fiction, faith-based stories, or just love a good romantic suspense, I think you’ll find something to enjoy in Uncharted Trials.

To support the campaign and secure your copy, just visit www.literaryscape.com/campaign or follow the link in this episode’s show notes. Even if you can’t back the project financially, sharing it with friends who might enjoy this kind of story would mean the world to me.

And finally, I’m thrilled to officially announce the launch of the LiteraryScape Book Club is coming May 23rd!

Now, if you’ve been listening to this podcast for a while, you know that my journey as an author began when I couldn’t find enough historical Christian romance novels that balanced faith with the kind of passion described in Song of Solomon—you know, books that are “packing the heat and riding the line,” as I like to say.

That’s why I started writing my own adventures set in the wild west, featuring cowboys who tame the frontier while honoring both God and the women they love.

What I didn’t expect was how many of you would reach out saying you’ve been searching for the exact same thing—and how many of you wanted more ways to connect beyond just reading the books or listening to this podcast.

That’s where the LiteraryScape Book Club comes in.

So what exactly is the LiteraryScape Book Club? It’s an exclusive community where readers who appreciate passionate-but-pure Christian romance can come together in a more intimate setting.

When you join the Book Club, you’ll receive:

First, exclusive online author events where we can chat directly about books, writing, and all things historical and contemporary suspense romance. I’m talking Q&A sessions, behind-the-scenes peeks at my writing process, and special guest appearances from other authors in these genres

Second, free ebooks of ALL my new releases. That’s right—as a member, you’ll automatically receive an ebook copy of every new novel I publish, delivered straight to your inbox.

Third, early access to signed paperbacks and merchandise before they’re available to the general public. You’ll be first in line for signed copies, special editions, and any bookish merchandise we create.

Fourth, regular door prize drawings exclusively for members. Throughout the year, we’ll be giving away signed books, exclusive merchandise, and other special surprises.

And finally, a community of readers who appreciate the same kind of stories you do—a place where we can openly discuss the balance of faith and passion in romance without feeling like we have to apologize for wanting both.

Now, I know many of you are wondering how this relates to the podcast. Don’t worry—the LiteraryScape podcast isn’t going anywhere! In fact, the book club will enhance your podcast experience.

As a book club member, you’ll get:

Input on which books we review next

The chance to submit questions for author interviews

The podcast and book club work together to create what I’ve always envisioned: a one-stop shop for both readers and writers of historical Christian romance and contemporary Christian suspense romance to connect, learn, and grow together.

Get ready to join us on May 23rd as we launch the LiteraryScape Book Club!

And now, let’s dive into today’s regular episode where we’ll be discussing Break My Fall by Lynn H. Blackburn.

Episode Notes

On this week’s episode of LiteraryScape, our hosts dive deep into Lynn H. Blackburn’s romantic suspense novel Break My Fall, the second installment in the Gossamer Falls series. This small-town romantic suspense had our hosts captivated with its blend of dental clinics, drug trafficking, and developing romance.

The Story

Break My Fall follows Dr. Meredith Quinn, who has returned to her hometown of Gossamer Falls to practice dentistry. With a heart for service, she offers free dental clinics to underserved communities in nearby Neeson County—an area known for harboring drug traffickers. Police Chief Grayson Ward suspects local law enforcement there is turning a blind eye to criminal activity.

While Meredith and Gray dance around their attraction to each other, danger lurks as her work in Neeson County puts her directly in harm’s way. Gray, scarred by past losses, struggles to keep his emotional walls up while protecting Meredith from escalating threats.

Character Dynamics

Our hosts were particularly drawn to the emotional complexity of Gray’s character:

“He is really sad,” one host noted. “I can understand why you wouldn’t want to get into a relationship, but it shouldn’t stop him either.”

The group agreed that Gray’s inability to communicate his feelings created unnecessary tension: “If he would’ve just opened up from the beginning and shared that, it would explain it.”

Meredith’s strength shone through despite her frustrations with Gray’s hot-and-cold behavior. Her work as a mandated reporter and determination to help the underserved communities showcased her as “kind of a baddie” in the best way possible.

Favorite Moments

Several scenes stood out to our hosts:

·       The first kiss scene and Gray’s confusing reaction afterward

·       Meredith’s embarrassment about her car being bugged (and her private singing sessions!)

·       The klutzy moment when Meredith fell into the creek while photographing flowers

·       Gray’s romantic gestures of bringing Chick-fil-A from afar and surprising Meredith with the flowers she had tried to photograph

One host particularly loved the family dynamics: “I loved that family part of it,” noting the protective yet loving way the Quinn family interacted with Gray.

The Romance Rating

The hosts rated the romance level as “mocha” on their coffee-themed scale, with one host commenting, “I’m really liking Gray here. I like the Chick-fil-A and making dinner.”

Other ratings included:

·       Drama level: Latte

·       Mystery level: Mocha to Latte

·       Suspense level: Latte (especially toward the end)

·       Inspirational level: Espresso (“It’s always there, but it’s light”)

Final Thoughts

Break My Fall earned a unanimous three lassos (out of three) from our hosts, with one declaring it her favorite of the series so far. The intense ending and teaser for book three has the group eagerly anticipating the next installment featuring Mo and Bronwyn’s story—though they’ll have to wait until March 2026!

“Something tells me Mo and Beep’s story is gonna be my favorite,” one host predicted. “I can’t wait to figure out what went down there.”

LiteraryScape is a weekly podcast where friends gather to discuss their latest reads, rating books on their coffee-themed scale from espresso (weakest) to latte (strongest). Join us next week as we discuss Crystal Caudell’s latest release!

Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform or visit literaryscape.com for more book recommendations and discussions.

Link to Book: https://www.lynnhblackburn.com/books/break-my-fall/

Link to Podcast: https://www.literaryscape.com/podcast/159

From Kitchen to Kidnapping

Welcome back to the Literary Scape Podcast! In this episode, we’re diving into Downfall by Lynn H. Blackburn, a fast-paced romantic suspense novella that reunites us with chef Cassie Quinn and Officer Donovan Bledsoe.

Hosts

Melissa LaShure

Jessica

Tiffanie

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About This Episide

The Story

Chef Cassie Quinn receives an irresistible opportunity to work at an exclusive mountain resort. But when the kitchen is destroyed and it becomes clear someone is targeting her, Cassie must accept help from the last person she wants to see—her ex-boyfriend, Officer Donovan Bledsoe. As danger escalates and secrets from Cassie’s past emerge, the two must navigate unresolved feelings while staying one step ahead of whoever wants to harm her.

Our Discussion Highlights

The Reunion Romance

We first met Cassie in book one of the Gossamer Falls series, where she was helping with a community chicken dinner and mentioned going on a date with Donovan. Imagine our surprise when this novella picks up three months after their breakup! The story explores their reconciliation while danger swirls around them.

One of our favorite (and most frustrating) aspects was Donovan’s lack of communication. Why do these leading men make major decisions without talking to their partners first? We appreciated how the Quinn family closed ranks to protect Cassie after the breakup, though their eavesdropping on a private reconciliation conversation would have been mortifying!

The Suspense Elements

Without spoiling anything, we found the mystery compelling with multiple suspects to consider. The kidnapping scene felt a bit too easy—how does someone just disappear in a crowded room?—but the tension ramped up significantly once Cassie was taken. The scene where she slowly wakes up and pretends to still be unconscious had us on the edge of our seats.

We were also shocked by the revelations about Cassie’s past in the culinary world. The darker side of high-pressure kitchens was eye-opening, and we’re curious whether Lynn Blackburn discovered this through research or personal experience.

Our Ratings

Using our signature Literary Scape rating system:

• Romance Level: Espresso – Since this reunites two people already in love, the romantic development is more subtle
• Drama Level: Mocha Latte – Plenty of emotional intensity packed into this short story
• Mystery Level: Mocha Latte – Multiple suspects kept us guessing
• Suspense Level: Latte – Especially intense during the kidnapping sequences
• Inspirational Level: Espresso – Faith elements are present but not overwhelming
• Overall Lasso Rating: 3 Lassos

Why You Should Read It

This novella is perfect if you’re looking for:

• A quick, one-sitting read with high stakes
• Reunion romance with genuine chemistry
• Insights into the Gossamer Falls series characters
• A balance of suspense and romance

Fair warning: This novella bridges books one and two, so if you want to avoid spoilers for the main series, read it in order!

Get Your Copy

Ready to dive into Cassie and Donovan’s story? You can find Downfall in the Cornered romantic suspense novella collection: https://www.lynnhblackburn.com/books/cornered-romantic-suspense-novella-collection/

What’s Next?

Next week, we’ll be discussing Break My Fall, the second book in the Gossamer Falls series. We’re already frustrated that we have to wait until March 2026 for the final book!

Join the Conversation

Have you read Downfall? Did you guess who was behind the attacks? Were you as frustrated as we were by the kidnapping scene? Let us know your thoughts!

And don’t forget—the Literary Scape Book Club launches May 23rd! As a member, you’ll receive exclusive online author events, free ebooks of all my new releases, early access to signed paperbacks, door prize drawings, and a community of readers who appreciate passionate, faith-filled romance. Stay tuned for more details!

Thanks for reading! If you enjoyed this review, please consider signing up for our free newsletter at LiteraryScape.com/newsletter for weekly updates on events, books, and more.

Until next time, happy and blessed reading and writing!

Related Episodes

The limited edition covers of Unwavering Faith and Uncharted Trials are now available for pre-orders. We sell paperback and hardback limited edition covers to help cover publishing costs. It costs anywhere between $8,000 and $10,000 to cover all the costs associated with publishing a book along with the audiobook. Your purchase of a limited-edition cover allows us to continue to independently publish high quality novels. Plus, you get a collector’s item in return. Our goal is to sell 100 hardback and 200 paperback copies.

These limited-edition covers will only be available until June 1st. After June 1st they will go into the vault and will not be coming back out. Now is the time to get in on the ground level and start your collection of The Bounty Brothers series.

Since we are fully independent you can only find these books at www.literaryscape.com/shop. You can visit www.literaryscape.com/campaign to learn more about this book funding campaign and thank you for your support!

We will have an exciting announcement next week that you will not want to miss. For now let’s jump into our discussion of Never Fall Again by Lynn Blackburn.

Episode Notes

In this week’s episode, our book club dives into Lynn Blackburn’s romantic suspense novel set in the picturesque town of Gossamer Falls, North Carolina.

Book Synopsis

“Never Fall Again” introduces us to Landry Hutton, an artist who has spent three years rebuilding her life behind the secure gates of the Haven, an exclusive resort on the outskirts of Gossamer Falls. Finally ready to settle permanently and provide her daughter Eliza with a safe home, Landry’s path crosses with former Marine Callum Shaw.

Cal has returned to his hometown to join his family’s construction business and dreams of starting a family of his own—something he’s nearly given up on. When he meets Landry, she’s everything he could want in a partner, but he vows to keep his distance, having loved and lost someone like her before.

When Landry’s pottery studio is destroyed in a suspicious fire, it becomes clear that she and Eliza are in grave danger. Cal must risk his heart again if he has any hope of protecting them.

Character Discussions

Landry Hutton

Our book club found Landry to be incredibly strong considering her backstory. Her past relationship with an abusive husband who maintained a “good boy” façade resonated deeply with several members. The group discussed how frightening it was that Landry’s ex-husband had presented himself as the perfect partner, only to reveal his true nature after marriage.

The group was particularly affected by how the church community refused to believe Landry when she tried to speak out about the abuse. As one member pointed out, “No one would believe her… they’re like, ‘No, you’re just not being a good wife.'” This aspect of the story highlighted the challenging dynamics that can exist when an abuser is well-established in a tight-knit community.

Callum Shaw

Cal’s character received much praise from our book club, particularly regarding his relationship with Eliza. Members were touched by his natural ability to connect with Landry’s daughter.

Cal’s backstory—having been abandoned by his previous girlfriend through what amounted to a “Dear John” situation while he was deployed—struck a chord with the group. One member expressed, “When I read it, I was like, oh my gosh, that was terrible… she just disappeared.”

Supporting Characters

Maisie the Dog: The group unanimously loved Cal’s intuitive dog who always seemed to know who needed comfort. There was some discussion about a plot thread involving Maisie’s puppies that wasn’t fully resolved, with one member noting, “They talked about her having puppies, but then… we didn’t hear more about it.”

The Shaw and Quinn Families: Members appreciated the tight-knit family dynamics portrayed in the book. Cal’s family, along with their cousins the Quinns, create a supportive network that “takes everybody in.” The group was particularly fond of Granny Quinn, and Minnie, Cal’s mentally disabled aunt who the family lovingly cares for.

Mystery & Suspense Elements

The mysterious attacks on Landry kept our book club guessing. Initially, many suspected her ex-husband’s family might be behind the threats, but as one member pointed out, “I didn’t think that was at all plausible… there wasn’t enough motive there.”

The playground attack scene was highlighted as particularly unsettling: “That one scared me… it was creepy.” Members were disturbed by the masked assailant asking children their names.

The discovery of a secret door in Landry’s art studio added another layer of mystery that captivated the group.

Romance Development

The group enjoyed watching Cal and Landry’s relationship unfold, particularly how they tried to be discreet about their attraction—checking in at the construction site and trying “not to be obvious”—while everyone around them could see their connection developing. As one member put it, “Everybody knew it before they did.”

The LiteraryScape Rating System

Using our signature “coffee” rating system:

Romance Level: Espresso to Mocha (moderate)

Mystery Level: Latte (high)

Suspense Level: Latte (high)

Drama Level: Mocha (moderate to high)

Inspirational Level: Espresso (light)

Overall Rating: 3 Lassos (out of 3)

Members described it as a “quick read” that kept them engaged until the end.

What’s Next?

Join us next week as we discuss “Downfall,” the novella that bridges books one and two in Lynn Blackburn’s Gossamer Falls series.

Have you read “Never Fall Again”? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

About the Book

The Bandit’s Redemption carries the intriguing tagline: “A holdup gone wrong, a reluctant outlaw, and the captive she’s sworn to guard.” What makes this western romance unique is its female protagonist—Lorraine is the outlaw, not the hero Jesse. This twist on traditional western narratives was inspired by KyLee’s research into real-life dangerous women from history.

The novel features an engaging blend of historical romance with a pinch of suspense and adventure. Set primarily between Idaho and Salt Lake City in the 1800s, the story includes authentic historical locations like Soda Springs, with its natural carbonated springs, along with plenty of western staples: train rides, bank robberies, and high-stakes adventure.

A Long Journey to Publication

KyLee’s path to becoming a published author wasn’t an overnight success story. Despite being a teacher by profession and having a reading disability, she persevered through approximately 11 years of daily writing practice before signing with Wild Heart Books last year.

“I’m a born teacher, I’m not a born writer,” KyLee shared. “I’m like the last person that God should have called to be a writer.”

Her dedication included joining critique groups through ACFW, writing short stories and nonfiction pieces, studying the market, reading craft books, and attending conferences. After her first query in 2018, it took another six years of pitching, querying, and interacting with industry professionals before securing her publishing contract.

Characters That Come to Life

When discussing her characters, KyLee expressed particular fondness for both Jesse and Lorraine. Jesse, kidnapped just as he was meant to start working in his father’s business, proves to be surprisingly adaptable, strong, and wise when faced with his challenging circumstances.

Lorraine’s character journey centers around moving past tragedy. As an immigrant who left France following personal losses, she’s been emotionally stuck for years, unable to put down roots in America. Her spiritual journey begins when she questions her involvement with the outlaw gang and her decision to kidnap Jesse.

The villain, Pierre, presented the biggest writing challenge. As a gang member vying for control and clashing with Lorraine, Pierre required KyLee to understand his selfish motivations. She occasionally journaled from his perspective to better capture his character, describing him as someone who “doesn’t really have [a moral code], not much at all… he mocks because he just doesn’t care about anything.”

Research and Inspiration

Historical research played a significant role in KyLee’s writing process. She explored Lorraine’s French backstory, including the Franco-Prussian War, which connected with her own German ancestry. The geographic locations in the novel, particularly Soda Springs in Idaho with its natural carbonated wells and coral-like formations, came from personal travel experiences.

A Message of Hope

While KyLee doesn’t deliberately start with a spiritual theme, her faith naturally informs her writing. As she works on her stories, elements from her Bible study, devotions, and her pastor’s messages find their way into the characters’ journeys.

For readers of The Bandit’s Redemption, KyLee hopes they’ll be encouraged to “look around at the people that God has put in our life” and recognize that “everything that we do, we do for God.”

Through Lorraine’s character arc, readers witness someone learning to move forward despite past losses, embracing new people and places rather than clinging to what’s comfortable or familiar. “God really fulfills the dreams of her heart,” KyLee shares, “but at the same time, she has to take a firm stand for what’s right.”

For the Romance Readers

In LiteraryScape’s coffee-themed rating system, KyLee places the romance level in her book as a “mocha” (medium amount). The novel is clean with only two kisses, aligning with Wild Heart Books’ focus on clean inspirational fiction. However, she ensures that the romantic element remains strong through the characters’ chemistry and their significant page time together.

Advice for Aspiring Authors

For those dreaming of publication, KyLee offers both encouragement and realism:

Don’t give up – “It’s a really long road and I love our Christian fiction market right now, but it’s saturated.”

Be wise with your time – Balance writing with family responsibilities and life seasons.

Listen for God’s calling – “Be willing to accept it no matter how big or how small.”

Support others – “Give to others as you would have them give to you.”

Connect with KyLee

Readers can find KyLee on Instagram and through her podcast with co-host Darcy Fournier. She especially invites readers to connect through her newsletter at KyleeWoodley.com, where subscribers receive a beautiful short story connected to the Outlaw Hearts series.

The Bandit’s Redemption is available now from Wild Heart Books, joining works by other notable authors like Misty Beller, Gabrielle Meyer, and Abby Downey.

In a recent podcast interview, historical fiction author Crystal Caudill shared insights about her newest release, “Written in Secret,” the first book in her “The Art of Love and Danger” series. As a fan of her work, I was intrigued by the fascinating premise and thoughtful themes woven throughout this historical romantic suspense.

A Novelist Writing About a Novelist

One of the most interesting aspects of “Written in Secret” is that the protagonist, Lydia, is herself a novelist—specifically a dime novelist who writes crime stories based on real crimes under a pseudonym. Crystal shared that writing a character who’s an author was “a lot of fun and also scary because you see into my brain a little bit how I view things.”

The premise takes a dark turn when a vigilante begins murdering the criminals who escaped justice in the real crimes Lydia fictionalized in her novels. This puts Lydia in a terrible position, wondering if her writing somehow inspired these murders.

The Central Moral Question

At the heart of the novel is a profound question: How responsible is an author for how their work might influence others? Lydia grapples with guilt over the vigilante murders while maintaining that “it’s not literature that corrupts man, it’s sin.”

Crystal mentioned this reflects some of her own wrestling as an author who writes suspense: “We have to show the darkness of the world for God’s light to shine… it helps us to process the world we’re in because our world is a dark world.”

Rather than offering easy answers, Crystal aimed to create a story that makes readers think. When asked if there’s a clean resolution to this moral dilemma, she responded that it’s “not as cut and dry as everyone would like.”

The Hero: Abraham

The love interest, Abraham, is a Cincinnati police officer who hopes to make detective. He represents the opposite perspective from Lydia—he believes dime novels corrupt impressionable people and should be banned. This creates immediate tension between the characters.

Abraham is described as “black and white” in his thinking, stubborn, but ultimately a good man who sees the underbelly of society through his police work. Adding to his complexity, his sister is a bookworm who loves the very dime novels he despises.

Historical Research

Crystal’s research for the book included visits to the Greater Cincinnati Police Museum and interviews with a retired police chief and current officers. She discovered fascinating historical context about corruption in Cincinnati’s police department in the era, where political connections determined hiring and firing.

This creates additional tension for Abraham, as Lydia is the daughter of the city’s coroner and a friend of the mayor—making her both a suspect in his investigation and someone with political connections that could impact his career.

Contemporary Parallels

When asked about parallels to current events, Crystal acknowledged writing the book partly in response to the social unrest of 2020-2021, exploring “how do we handle when the judicial system doesn’t act in the way we think it should? And what is our responsibility as Christians?”

Crystal believes the book raises important questions about how we should respond “when the world is losing their mind” and reminds readers that “God is sovereign regardless of who’s in control.”

The Series Ahead

“The Art of Love and Danger” will be a three-book series with each focusing on a different art form:

Book 1: “Written in Secret” centers on writing and authorship

Book 2 (releasing March 2026) will focus on music, featuring an aspiring opera singer and composer

Book 3 (releasing March 2027) will revolve around pottery, specifically Cincinnati’s famous Rookwood pottery tradition

The heroines across all three books are part of a friend group called “the Guardians,” and readers will see how their friendships evolve as they mature and marry.

“Written in Secret” offers a perfect blend of historical detail, suspense, humor, and thought-provoking themes. For readers interested in connecting with Crystal Caudill, you can find her at crystalcaudill.com where newsletter subscribers receive a free copy of “Counterfeit Truth,” or on Facebook at Crystal Caudill Author.

Blog Post Link: www.literaryscape.com/podcast/156

Our next Coffee and Books event will take place on Tuesday April 15th from 7:00-8:00pm EST. Join Lynn Blackburn and myself for an hour of book talk. Sign up for this free event at www.literaryscape.com/events to get the link to join.

I have another book giveaway for April through Book Funnel. Use the link in the blog post for this episode to claim these free reads.

April Historical Romance Giveaway

The limited-edition covers for book two of The Bounty Brothers series, Uncharted Trials, are now available for pre-order. We are also bringing back a second printing of the limited-edition cover for book one, Unwavering Faith, in case you missed it. Limited-edition covers will no longer be available after Uncharted Trials releases in June so, head over to www.literaryscape.com/campaign to order your copies today. Your pre-orders help fund the publication of the next novel in The Bounty Brothers series, so thank you!

That is, it for announcements. Let’s jump into this week’s discussion of Crystal Caudill’s newest book, Written in Secret.

Episode Notes

Are you looking for your next page-turner that combines romance, mystery, and faith? In our latest podcast episode, we dive into Crystal Caudill’s “Written in Secret,” the first book in her new series set in Cincinnati. This compelling story follows Lydia Pelton, an author who writes crime novels under the pseudonym E.A. Dupin to bring justice to criminals who escaped legal consequences.

The Story

“Written in Secret” introduces us to Lydia Pelton, a woman who refuses to stay silent about injustice. She crafts crime novels based on real cases where the guilty were set free, writing her own version of justice. But when a serial killer begins recreating the deaths from her books, Lydia finds herself blamed for the murders sweeping Cincinnati.

Officer Abraham Halls’ only lead is Lydia’s fiction, forcing him to work with the woman the city has dubbed the “Killer Queen of Romance.” Despite his initial misgivings, Abraham realizes he needs her help to catch the murderer. Their unexpected attraction complicates an already complex investigation as they race to solve the mystery and protect both the citizens of Cincinnati and their own hearts.

Memorable Moments

Our book club particularly enjoyed the hilarious opening scene where Lydia and friends are caught trying to rescue a three-legged goat from the circus. Dressed as clowns (which happens to terrify one of the officers), Lydia gets stuck under a tent flap and accidentally trips an officer who’s chasing another criminal. The scene escalates with a monkey getting tangled in her hair and face paint giving her hives!

The contrast between Lydia’s proper upbringing (her father is a prominent figure in Cincinnati society) and her adventurous spirit creates many amusing situations. In one particularly funny scene at the police station, Lydia attempts to flirt with Abraham by channeling one of her fictional characters, resulting in an awkward but endearing exchange.

The Mystery

We praised Crystal’s ability to keep readers guessing about the killer’s identity throughout the novel. With multiple suspects including:

A money-hungry publisher

An obsessed editor

A reporter who mysteriously appears at every crime scene

The revelation of the killer comes as a genuine surprise, with one of us mentioning they didn’t figure it out until the very end.

Themes and Character Growth

A major theme in the book is Lydia’s struggle with the ethics of her writing. Both her father and Abraham challenge her approach, questioning whether she has the right to determine guilt and punishment in her novels. As the story progresses, Lydia begins to question if her words have been used inappropriately and whether she bears some responsibility for inspiring the killer.

Our Ratings

The book club rated different aspects of the novel on their signature coffee-themed scale:

Romance level: Espresso (present but not overwhelming)

Drama level: Latte (quite high with city-wide protests and family tensions)

Mystery level: Moca de Latte (complex and engaging)

Suspense level: Latte to Mocha (depending on personal comparison to other thrillers)

Inspirational level: Mocha (meaningful spiritual elements with good advice from characters)

Overall rating: Three Lassos (our highest rating), making this an excellent read that delivers exactly what fans expect from Crystal Caudill.

Series Connection

An interesting tidbit shared during the discussion is that “Written in Secret” ties into Caudill’s “Counterfeit” series, but is set chronologically earlier. Mrs. Hawkins, a strict maid who appears in this book, is also featured in “Counterfeit Love,” connecting the two series.

Tune in next week for our exclusive interview with Crystal Caudill, where she’ll discuss this new series and reveal when readers can expect the next two books!

Link to Book: https://crystalcaudill.com/books2/

Link to Podcast: www.literaryscape.com/podcast/155

Our next Coffee and Books event will take place on Tuesday April 15th from 7:00-8:00pm EST. Join Lynn Blackburn and myself for an hour of book talk. Sign up for this free event at www.literaryscape.com/events to get the link to join.

I have another book giveaway for April through Book Funnel. Use the link in the blog post for this episode to claim these free reads.

April Historical Romance Giveaway

On Saturday April 19th I will be at the Branch Coffee Shop in Fairmount, Indiana from 9:30-11:30 am EST with author Abbey Downey. We will have BINGO and Door Prizes. We hope to meet some of you there!

If you have read Unwavering Faith, I would love to hear your thoughts. Send me an email at literaryscape@literaryscape.com. Also, help spread the word and send your friends to www.literaryscape.com/shop to get their copy of the book.

The limited-edition covers for book two of The Bounty Brothers series, Uncharted Trials, are now available for pre-order. We are also bringing back a second printing of the limited-edition cover for book one, Unwavering Faith, in case you missed it. Limited-edition covers will no longer be available after Uncharted Trials releases in June so, head over to www.literaryscape.com/campaign to order your copies today.

That is, it for announcements. Let’s jump into this week’s author interview with Misty M. Beller.

Episode Notes

In this engaging conversation, author Misty M. Beller discusses her Sapphire Ranch series, sharing insights into her inspiration, character development, and the challenges she faced while writing. She highlights the importance of collaboration with fellow authors and her deep connection to the Rocky Mountains, which serves as a backdrop for her stories. Misty also delves into the historical context of her work and the research that informs her writing, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of her creative process. In this engaging conversation, Misty M. Beller discusses her approach to writing Christian fiction, the importance of character development, and the journey of aspiring authors. She shares her hopes for readers, emphasizing the desire to inspire and connect with them through her stories. The discussion also touches on the significance of community among writers and the joy of receiving feedback from readers. Misty highlights her favorite characters and the creative process behind her novels, providing valuable insights for both readers and writers alike.

Takeaways

Misty’s inspiration for the Sapphire Ranch series came from a brainstorming session with writer friends.

The series is set in Montana, focusing on sapphires instead of gold.

Character development is a significant part of Misty’s writing process, often leading to unexpected challenges.

Misty emphasizes the importance of giving her characters happy endings.

The character Jonah faced many challenges, making his story particularly meaningful to Misty.

Misty’s writer friends play a crucial role in her creative process, providing support and ideas.

Researching historical contexts adds depth to her stories, including the gambling culture of the time.

Misty’s love for the Rockies influences her writing and character settings.

She enjoys writing adventure and suspense into her stories to keep readers engaged.

Misty acknowledges the collaborative nature of her writing process with other authors. I want my novels to show people who are Christians just working to live out their faith every day.

My prayer with them would be that God uses it as one of the tools to draw them closer to Him.

I love getting emails from readers.

You have to keep taking the next step because it’s so easy to be stagnant.

It’s super important to have that core of people around you that are doing it together.

I just love Two Stones; he’s just the coolest guy.

Each character is their own person with their own story.

YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/K4xgZKvh8aA

Rumble Link: https://rumble.com/v6rqsjr-episode-154-the-inspiration-behind-the-brothers-of-sapphire-ranch-with-mist.html

Blog Post Link: https://www.literaryscape.com/podcast/154

Misty M. Beller’s Website: https://mistymbeller.com/

Our next Coffee and Books event will take place on Tuesday April 15th from 7:00-8:00pm EST. Join Lynn Blackburn and myself for an hour of book talk. Sign up for this free event at www.literaryscape.com/events to get the link to join.

I have another book giveaway for April through Book Funnel. Use the link in the blog post for this episode to claim these free reads.

April Historical Romance Giveaway

On Saturday April 19th I will be at the Branch Coffee Shop in Fairmount, Indiana from 9:30-11:30 am EST with author Abbey Downey. We will have BINGO and Door Prizes. We hope to meet some of you there!

If you have read Unwavering Faith, I would love to hear your thoughts. Send me an email at literaryscape@literaryscape.com. Also, help spread the word and send your friends to www.literaryscape.com/shop to get their copy of the book.

For those of you on my email list, I will have an early release email coming to you soon. Be sure to be on the lookout!

That is, it for announcements. Let’s jump into this week’s book discussion of Pretending to be the Mountain Man’s Wife, by Misty M. Beller.

Episode Notes

Embark on a journey through the rugged wilderness of Montana with the Coulter family in the latest installment of the Sapphire Ranch Series, Pretending to be the Mountain Man’s Wife by Misty M. Beller. This gripping saga of suspense and romance keeps readers on the edge of their seats. With the backdrop of the wild Montana territory, the series weaves a tale of family, mystery, and the pursuit of justice.

Uncovering Secrets in the Montana Wilderness

The saga begins with Gil Coulter’s relentless pursuit to uncover the truth behind his brother’s disappearance and a massive family theft. His journey takes him to a remote town rumored to be the hideout of a notorious mastermind. As Gil scours the wilderness, the story takes a twist with the introduction of Jess McFarland, a woman trapped by her father’s illicit mining operations. Her desire for freedom ensnares Gil in a web of deceit and unexpected attraction.

Gil and Jess: A Race Against Time

As Gil and Jess navigate the treacherous landscape, both literal and metaphorical, the stakes rise. Jess, with the knowledge of Gil’s brother’s whereabouts, strikes a precarious deal with Gil to masquerade as her husband to escape her dire circumstances. Their journey is fraught with danger and deception as they navigate the criminal underworld led by Jess’s father.

Engaging Characters and Plot Twists

The rich tapestry of characters adds depth to the story, with Gil’s family playing a pivotal role. The narrative tension is heightened by the constant threat from Jess’s father and his menacing operations. Readers are pulled into the saga as they learn about the family dynamics.

Suspense and Drama: A Page Turner

The “Sapphire Ranch Series” masterfully balances suspense and romance, making it a compelling read. Every chapter leaves you wondering, “What’s going to happen next?” This palpable tension keeps the pages turning late into the night. The protagonists’ bravery and wit shine through as they tackle myriad challenges along their journey.

LiteraryScape gave the following element ratings:

Mystery – Espresso

Drama – Mocha/Latte

Inspiration – Espresso/Mocha

Suspense – Mocha/Latte

Romance – Espresso/Mocha

(Espresso = light, Mocha = medium, Latte = a lot)

LiteraryScape gives Pretending to be the Mountain Man’s Wife, 3 lassos as we are sure it will have you hooked and hog-tied.

The “Sapphire Ranch Series” continues to captivate with its blend of heart-stopping suspense and deeply woven storylines. Look out for the next release, which promises to deliver yet another page-turning experience. In the meantime, revel in the unraveling mysteries of the Coulter family, and prepare for more thrilling adventures in the rugged Montana wilderness.

Book Link: https://mistymbeller.com/pretending-to-be-the-mountain-mans-wife/

Blog Link: https://www.literaryscape.com/podcast/153

Last Saturday we enjoyed a relaxing and fun conversation with authors Crystal Caudill, Lynn Shannon, and Sarah Sundin for an hour of book talk. Our next Coffee and Books event will take place on Tuesday April 15th from 7:00-8:00pm EST. Join Lynn Blackburn and myself for an hour of book talk. Sign up for this free event at www.literaryscape.com/events to get the link to join.

I have joined three book giveaways for March through Book Funnel. Use the links in the blog post for this episode to claim these free reads. Please note that these books are not all part of the Christian romance genre. I did join one titled steamy romances with the hope of getting Unwavering Faith in the hands of readers who may not have otherwise found my novel.

March Historical Romance

March Free Historical Romance

March Steamy Historical Romance

For those of you who can make it to an in-person event in Indiana, I have two coming up in April. First on Saturday April 5th I will be at the Warsaw Public library from 11:00-1:00 pm EST. Then on Saturday April 19th I will be at the Branch Coffee Shop in Fairmount, Indiana from 9:30-11:30 am EST with author Abbey Downey. I hope to meet some of you there!

If you have read Unwavering Faith, I would love to hear your thoughts. Send me an email at literaryscape@literaryscape.com. Also, help spread the word and send your friends to www.literaryscape.com/shop to get their copy of the book along with a t-shirt and coffee mug.

That is, it for announcements. Let’s jump into this week’s book discussion of Winning the Mountain Man’s Love, by Misty M. Beller.

Episode Notes

When you think of romance and drama set in the rugged Montana territory, Winning the Mountain Man’s Love, by Misty M. Beller may be just the story that captivates your heart. This latest installment in the popular Brothers of Sapphire Ranch series unfolds a tale of second chances, hidden fortunes, and lost love rekindled amidst the majestic and untamed landscapes of 19th-century America.

Summary of the Story

Winning the Mountain Man’s Love transports readers to the Coulter Ranch, a place steeped in familial bonds and rich with narratives of redemption. Jonah Coulter, the second child of six, has always found himself the second choice when it comes to love. As fate would have it, his former fiancée finds happiness with another, leaving Jonah seeking solace and purpose elsewhere. His quest leads him to a young girl, Anna, who needs to be reunited with her only living relative, Patience Whitman.

Patience, grappling with her past and the shadow of a violent former husband, has carved out an independent life in the Montana territory through her gambling prowess. Her aspirations for a new life are turned upside down when Jonah arrives with news of her niece, Anna. Together, amidst the challenges of trust and confrontation of their own fears, Jonah and Patience weave a narrative of vulnerability and love, challenged by lurking dangers.

Characters and Challenges

The intricate dynamics of the story are fleshed out through its robust cast of characters. Jonah’s journey from heartbreak to slowly trusting love again with Patience is one of the story’s core arcs. Patience herself is a complex character, one who has had to make hard, life-defining choices to survive. Her transformation and eventual acceptance of a family with Jonah is as much a fight within her as against the external peril they face.

Themes and Elements

Layered with themes of survival, trust, and familial loyalty, the book explores what it means to forge a family out of both tradition and necessity. While the plot involves a high stakes gamble with their lives and happiness, the real triumph lies in the deep emotional reconciliations the characters undergo.

The narrative is peppered with elements of suspense and romance. Drama unfolds between Jonah and Patience as they navigate their unresolved pasts – making the story both a heartwarming and heart-wrenching journey.

LiteraryScape gave the following element ratings:

Mystery – Espresso

Drama – Espresso

Inspiration – Espresso/Mocha

Suspense – Mocha

Romance – Espresso/Mocha

(Espresso = light, Mocha = medium, Latte = a lot)

Conclusion

Winning the Mountain Man’s Love by Misty M. Beller is a testament to the power of narrative to transform heartbreak and trials into a narrative of union and hope. It’s a story for anyone who roots for the underdog, who believes in new beginnings, and who champions the idea that family is about love beyond blood.

LiteraryScape gives Winning the Mountain Man’s love 3 lassos as we are sure it will have you hooked and hog-tied.

Join us next week as we discuss “Pretending to be the Mountain Man’s Wife,” a favorite for many and a continued exploration of life and love in the Montana territory. Stay tuned!

Link to Book: https://mistymbeller.com/winning-the-mountain-mans-love/

Link to Blog Post: https://www.literaryscape.com/podcast/152

We have Coffee and Books on Saturday March 22nd from 1:00-2:00 pm EST. Join authors Crystal Caudill, Lynn Shannon, and Sarah Sundin for an hour of book talk. Sign up for this free event at www.literaryscape.com/events to get the link to join.

I have joined three book giveaways for March through Book Funnel. Use the links in the blog post for this episode to peruse and claim these free reads. Please note that these books are not all part of the Christian romance genre. I did join one titled steamy romances with the hope of getting Unwavering Faith in the hands of readers who may not have otherwise found my novel.

March Historical Romance

March Free Historical Romance

March Steamy Historical Romance

For those of you who can make it to an in-person event in Indiana, I have two coming up in April. First on Saturday April 5th I will be at the Warsaw Public library from 11:00-1:00 pm EST. Then on Saturday April 19th I will be at the Branch Coffee Shop in Fairmount, Indiana from 9:30-11:30 am EST. I hope to meet some of you there!

That is, it for announcements. Let’s jump into this week’s book discussion of Earning the Mountain Man’s Trust, by Misty M. Beller.

Episode Notes

In this episode Jessica and Melissa discuss the plot and themes of the book ‘Earning the Mountain Man’s Trust,’ focusing on characters Naomi Wyatt, Jonah Coulter, and Eric LaGrange. Naomi, left alone with a baby after Eric’s disappearance, moves west and considers Jonah for marriage. Eric’s sudden return creates a love triangle, leading to conflicts and a journey of redemption and second chances. We share our reactions to plot twists, character development, and the book’s inspirational and dramatic aspects.

We dive into the world of Naomi Wyatt and her incredible journey through heartache, romance, and redemption. “Earning the Mountain Man’s Trust” is set against the backdrop of the Colter Ranch—a place of family, second chances, and a hidden fortune.

Naomi’s Journey of Love and Loss

The story begins as Naomi, who has endured the heartache of a vanished lover, finds herself alone with a child in need of provision. Her daughter, with her vibrant red hair, serves as a constant reminder of the man she loved and lost. As she moves west with her sister, new hopes arise in the form of Jonah Coulter. Jonah, a trusted friend through Naomi’s toughest days, offers her stability and love, leading her to consider his proposal of marriage.

But then, Eric LaGrange, Naomi’s former love, re-enters the picture. His surprise arrival brings turmoil to Naomi’s neatly planned future. Naomi is torn between Eric—who claims he’s been kept in the dark about their daughter—and Jonah, the steadfast man offering a happy future together.

Twists and Conflicts

Eric’s sudden appearance upheaves Naomi’s life. His fierce desire to reconnect with his daughter leads to conflicts, including a fight with Jonah when Eric questions Jonah’s ability to protect his child. This unexpected confrontation challenges the dynamics at play and sets the stage for emotional unraveling.

As the plot thickens, misunderstandings unravel, offering new insights into the miscommunication that kept Eric away. Their letters lost, intentions misunderstood, resulting in a passionate and tangled web of emotions.

A Deeper Meaning

Misty M. Beller delivers a story rich with unexpected twists and a captivating second-chance romance. With themes of regret, forgiveness, and divine timing, the narrative explores how both Eric and Naomi come to terms with past mistakes. Together, they navigate the possibility of rebuilding a life once torn apart by circumstances beyond their control.

Review and Ratings

The robust storytelling and deep characterizations left a lasting impact, even with early doubts about character arcs. The narrative was suspenseful and filled with dramatic and mysterious turns—keeping readers engaged. It blended raw emotion, unpredictable twists, and touching resolutions—a hallmark of well-crafted fiction.

-Inspiration Level: Mocha

– Drama Level: Latte

– Mystery Level: Mocha

– Suspense Level: Espresso to Mocha

– Romance Level: Mocha

(Espresso = light, Mocha = medium, Latte = a lot)

“Earning the Mountain Man’s Trust” is a rewarding read that should not be abandoned at the early moments of doubt. The series continues to deliver compelling developments, with each character contributing to a richly woven storyline. Through unexpected turns and heartfelt revelations, readers experience a genuine exploration of redemption and the courage to embrace second chances.

Our overall lasso rating of Earning the Mountain Man’s Trust by Misty M. Beller was a 3. We are sure this book will have you hooked, and most of you will be hog-tied.

Stay tuned for our next discussion as we continue to explore mountain man themes with “Winning the Mountain Man’s Love.”

Link to Book: https://mistymbeller.com/earning-the-mountain-mans-trust/

Link to Blog Post: https://www.literaryscape.com/podcast/151

We have Coffee and Books on Saturday March 22nd from 1:00-2:00 pm EST. Join authors Crystal Caudill, Lynn Shannon, and Sarah Sundin for an hour of book talk. Sign up for this free event at www.literaryscape.com/events to get the link to join.

I have joined three book giveaways for March through Book Funnel. Use the links in the blog post for this episode to pursue and claim these free reads. Please note that these books are not all part of the Christian romance genre. I did join one titled steamy romances with the hope of getting Unwavering Faith in the hands of readers who may not have otherwise found my novel. So please, peruse with caution.

March Historical Romance

March Free Historical Romance

March Steamy Historical Romance

For those of you who can make it to an in-person event in Indiana, I have two coming up in April. First on Saturday April 5th I will be at the Warsaw Public library from 11:00-1:00 pm EST. Then on Saturday April 19th I will be at the Branch Coffee Shop in Fairmount, Indiana from 9:30-11:30 am EST. I hope to meet some of you there!

That is, it for announcements. Let’s jump into this week’s book discussion of Protecting the Mountain Man’s Treasure, by Misty M. Beller.

Episode Notes

In this episode, Jessica and Melissa discuss Protecting the Mountain Man’s Treasure by Misty M. Beller. This is an action-packed romance that starts with a lie and ends in love.

Jessica and Melissa share why it took them a while to like the leading lady Angela. They also discuss their love for Judah’s deep faith and reliance on God.

We gave the following elements in Protecting the Mountain Man’s Treasure these ratings:

Drama – espresso/mocha

Mystery – mocha

Suspense – mocha/latte

Inspiration – mocha/latte

Romance – mocha

(Espresso = light, Mocha = medium, Latte = a lot)

Our overall lasso rating of Protecting the Mountain Man’s Treasure by Misty M. Beller was a 3. We are sure this book will have you hooked, and most of you will be hog-tied.

Link to book: https://mistymbeller.com/protecting-the-mountain-mans-treasure/

Link to blog post: www.literaryscape.com/podcast/150

Here is what’s happening in March.

We have Coffee and Books on Saturday March 22nd from 1:00-2:00 pm EST. Join authors Crystal Caudill, Lynn Shannon, and Sarah Sundin for an hour of book talk. Sign up for this free event at www.literaryscape.com/events to get the link to join.

I have joined three book giveaways for March through Book Funnel. Use the links in the blog post for this episode to pursue and claim these free reads. Please note that these books are not all part of the Christian romance genre. I did join one titled steamy romances with the hope of getting Unwavering Faith in the hands of readers who may not have otherwise found my novel. So please, peruse with caution.

March Historical Romance

March Free Historical Romance

March Steamy Historical Romance

For those of you who can make it to an in-person event in Indiana, I have two coming up in April. First on Saturday April 5th I will be at the Warsaw Public library from 11:00-1:00 pm EST. Then on Saturday April 19th I will be at the Branch Coffee Shop in Fairmount, Indiana from 9:30-11:30 am EST. I hope to meet some of you there!

That is, it for announcements. Let’s jump into this week’s book discussion of Marrying the Mountain Man’s Best Friend, by Misty M. Beller.

Episode Notes

In this episode, Jessica and Melissa discuss Marrying the Mountain Man’s Best Friend by Misty M. Beller. This is a sweet novella featuring Two Stones who is our book club’s favorite hero in Misty’s Sapphire Ranch series.

Jessica and Melissa share what they love about Two Stones. He is a fierce warrior, with a tender heart for his lady love, Heidi. This is a sweet marriage of convenience that will have you swooning.

We gave the following elements in Marrying the Mountain Man’s Best Friend these ratings:

Drama – mocha

Mystery – espresso

Suspense – mocha

Inspiration – mocha

Romance – mocha

(Espresso = light, Mocha = medium, Latte = a lot)

Our overall lasso rating of Marrying the Mountain Man’s Best Friend by Misty M. Beller was a 3. We are sure this book will have you hooked, and most of you will be hog-tied.

Link to book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CRVXGLJK/?bestFormat=true&k=marrying%20the%20mountain%20man%27s%20best%20friend&ref_=nb_sb_ss_w_scx-ent-pd-bk-d_de_k0_1_17&crid=36GC4VK8UP1YT&sprefix=marrying%20the%20moun

Link to blog post: www.literaryscape.com/podcast/149

Link to Rumble: https://rumble.com/v6q95yi-episode-149-the-intriguing-two-stones.html

Link to YouTube: https://youtu.be/fVS0aoN-R24

We kick of this series with Healing the Mountain Man’s Heart. Misty’s twist on the mail order bride trope will have you hooked and hog-tied.

Join us as we dive into this intriguing series!

Last week I announced a goal of selling 134 paperbacks or audiobooks or 286 eBooks in order to enter a writing contest by March 15th. Thanks to many of you, we are making our way to the goal! We now only need to sell 80 more paperbacks or audiobooks. Send your friends over to www.literaryscape.com/shop to get their copy today! With your help, we make this happen!

Tomorrow, I will host the online book club extravaganza from 1:00-2:00pm EST. We will chat and play BINGO. It is not too late to sign-up. If you plan to attend the online event, please complete the RSVP form so that I can send you the link to join.

Finally, when you visit www.literaryscape.com/events you will find all our Coffee and Books events for 2025. We have some incredible authors coming to chat with you this year. These are free events, just RSVP to get the link to join each chat. Our first event is on Tuesday, February 25th from 7:00-8:00pm EST. Join authors Liz Tolsma, Lynn Blackburn, Sarah Sundin, and Sara Turnquist for an hour of book talk.

That’s it for announcements. In today’s episode, we talk with author Beth White about her Gulf Coast Chronicles series. Beth grew up in the South, specifically North Mississippi, which has a rich tradition of fostering writers, storytellers, and musicians. She is fond of both music and literature, she has recently retired from teaching chorus and piano in an inner-city public high school. Making her secret life as a romance writer, not so secret anymore. You can learn more about Beth and her books at www.bethwhite.net.

Now let’s dive into this exciting author chat!

Episode Notes

In this engaging conversation, author Beth White discusses her series, the Gulf Coast Chronicles, exploring the complexities of character development, historical context, and the challenges of writing. She shares insights into her creative process, the importance of truth in storytelling, and offers valuable advice for aspiring authors. The discussion also touches on the dynamics of family relationships within her narratives and the significance of historical events in shaping her characters’ journeys.

Takeaways

Read good books by authors that you admire.

Be kind and humble in the writing community.

Characters should be relatable and fun.

Historical accuracy is crucial in historical fiction.

Explore all sides of an issue in storytelling.

Develop complex family trees for depth.

Use real historical events to inspire plots.

Engage readers with cliffhangers and multiple viewpoints.

Always strive for a balance between fun and truth.

Blog Link: www.literaryscape.com/podcast/147

YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/AWsQ16RFTug

Rumble Link: https://rumble.com/v6msgv6-episode-147-author-chat-with-beth-white.html

Last week I announced a goal of selling 134 paperbacks or audiobooks or 286 eBooks in order to enter a writing contest by March 15th. Thanks to many of you, we are making our way to the goal! We now only need to sell 83 more paperbacks or audiobooks. Send your friends over to www.literaryscape.com/shop to get their copy today! With your help, we make this happen!

Unfortunately, because of weather conditions, we had to postpone our Book Club Extravaganza at the Branch Coffee Shop tomorrow. We will have a new date soon, so stay tuned. Sign-up for our newsletter at www.literaryscape.com/newsletter or follow LiteraryScape on Facebook to stay in the know.

For those of you who do not live close, I will host the online book club extravaganza on February 22nd  from 1:00-2:00pm EST. We will chat and play BINGO. You can learn more about these events at www.literaryscape.com/events. If you plan to attend the online event, please complete the RSVP form so that I can send you the link to join.

Finally, when you visit www.literaryscape.com/events you will find all our Coffee and Books events for 2025. We have some incredible authors coming to chat with you this year. These are free events, just RSVP to get the link to join each chat. Our first event is on Tuesday, February 25th from 7:00-8:00pm EST. Join authors Liz Toslma, Lynn Blackburn, Sarah Sundin, and Sara Turnquist for an hour of book talk.

That’s it for announcements. In today’s episode, we discuss The Magnolia Duchess by Beth White. This is the third and final book in her Gulf Coast Chronicles series.

Now let’s dive into this exciting book discussion!

Episode Notes

In this episode, Jessica, Linda aka Mom, and Melissa discuss the third and final book in Beth White’s Gulf Coast Chronicles series, The Magnolia Duchess. This book centers on the War of 1812. Although former friends find love, their conflicting loyalties divide them.

Topics We Discuss:

The rich history woven into the story.

Family dynamics.

Living in war times.

Thinking before acting.

We gave the following elements in The Magnolia Duchess these ratings:

Drama – mocha/latte

Mystery – espresso

Suspense – mocha/latte

Inspiration – mocha

Romance – mocha/latte

(Espresso = light, Mocha = medium, Latte = a lot)

Our overall lasso rating of The Magnolia Duchess by Beth White was a 2.8. We are sure this book will have you hooked, and most of you will be hog-tied.

Link to book: https://www.bethwhite.net/the-magnolia-duchess

Link to blog post: https://www.literaryscape.com/podcast/146

Unwavering Faith is now available. Many readers have already finished the book and have shared how much they enjoyed it. Thank you all for your compliments and encouragement.

Many have encouraged me to enter Unwavering Faith into some writing contests. I especially want to try one, but entry requires $2,000 in sales. This is equivalent to 134 paperbacks or audiobooks or 286 eBooks. Any combination of these will get me to the $2,000 mark needed to enter the contest. Can you help me reach this goal? If you have not already purchased your copy head on over to www.literaryscape.com/shop to get yours today. If you have already purchased your copy, then please share the link to purchase with your friends. Let’s see if we can meet this goal by March 15th. Entries for the contest are due by March 31st. With your help, we make this happen!

We have two free book club extravaganza events coming up for you as we celebrate the release of Unwavering Faith. The first event will take place next Saturday on February 15th at the Branch Coffee Shop in Fairmount, Indiana at 9:30am EST. Author Abbey Downey will join me, along with the talented cover designer Nikki Boetger. This is an incredible opportunity to meet the authors, enjoy a cup of coffee, chat about books and play BINGO. We hope to see you there.

For those of you who do not live close, I will host the online book club extravaganza on February 22nd  from 1:00-2:00pm EST. We will chat and play BINGO. You can learn more about these events at www.literaryscape.com/events. If you plan to attend the online event, please complete the RSVP form so that I can send you the link to join.

Finally, when you visit www.literaryscape.com/events you will find all our Coffee and Books events for 2025. We have some incredible authors coming to chat with you this year. These are free events, just RSVP to get the link to join each chat.

That is it for announcements. In today’s episode, we discuss The Creole Princess by Beth White. This is the second book in her Gulf Coast Chronicles series.

Now let’s dive into this exciting book discussion!

Episode Notes

In this episode, Jessica, Jamie, Mom, and Melissa discuss the Creole Princess by Beth White. Our conversation delves into the themes of family dynamics, love, loyalty, and the historical context of the American Revolutionary War as depicted in the book ‘Creole Princess.’ We discuss character development, focusing on Lise and her relationships, while also reflecting on the impact of faith and resilience in challenging times.

Takeaways

The story highlights the struggle between personal loyalty and familial obligations.

Character development is crucial in understanding the dynamics of the family.

Lise’s character is central to the narrative, showcasing her growth and resilience.

The historical context adds depth to the characters’ relationships and decisions.

Faith plays a significant role in the characters’ responses to adversity.

The portrayal of love is complex, influenced by societal expectations and personal desires.

The family tree can be confusing, but is essential for understanding character connections.

Bitterness can lead to negative consequences, as seen in Madame Dussey’s character.

The book provides a nuanced view of the American Revolutionary War’s impact on personal lives.

We gave the following elements in the Creole Princess these ratings:

Drama – mocha/latte

Mystery – espresso

Suspense – mocha/latte

Inspiration – mocha/latte

Romance – mocha

(Espresso = light, Mocha = medium, Latte = a lot)

Our overall lasso rating of The Creole Princess by Beth White was a 2.5. We are sure this book will have you hooked, and some of you may even be hog-tied.

Link to book: https://www.bethwhite.net/the-creole-princess

YouTube: https://youtu.be/zUH1sY4LEkw

Rumble: https://rumble.com/v6huy5j-episode-145-love-and-loyalty-in-the-american-revolutionary-war.html

We are just one day away from the launch of Unwavering Faith. Tomorrow we will release the paperback and eBook of Unwavering Faith. It has been an exciting journey, and I cannot wait for you to enjoy Brody and Claire’s adventurous love story. For my friends who enjoy audiobooks, we hope to have that ready for launch mid-February.

If you are on my newsletter list, then you have seen the many unboxings we’ve enjoyed over the past few weeks as books, t-shirts, mugs, and totes have arrived. You can check out all we offer at www.literaryscape.com/shop.

We have two free book club extravaganza events coming up for you as we celebrate the release of Unwavering Faith. The first event will take place on February 15th at the Branch Coffee Shop in Fairmount, Indiana. Author Abbey Downey will join me. This is an incredible opportunity to meet the authors, enjoy a cup of coffee, sit, chat about books and play BINGO. We hope to see you there.

For those of you who do not live close, I will host the online book club extravaganza on February 22nd. We will chat and play BINGO. You can learn more about these events at www.literaryscape.com/events.

Finally, when you visit www.literaryscape.com/events you will find all our Coffee and Books events for 2025. We have some incredible authors coming to chat with you this year. These are free events, just RSVP to get the link to join each chat.

That is it for announcements. In today’s episode, we discuss The Pelican Bride by Beth White. This is the first book in her Gulf Coast Chronicles series.

Now let’s dive into this exciting book discussion!

Episode Notes

In this conversation, the hosts discuss the book ‘The Pelican Bride’ by Beth White, exploring its themes, characters, and plot twists. They delve into the living conditions faced by the characters, the dynamics among the Pelican Brides, and the contrasting personalities of the Lanier brothers. The discussion also touches on the societal expectations of women during the time period and the various relationships depicted in the story. The hosts share their thoughts on the book’s rating and its overall impact, highlighting the complexity of the narrative and the depth of the characters.

Takeaways

The Pelican Bride explores themes of bravery and survival.

Character dynamics play a crucial role in the narrative.

The living conditions at the fort reflect historical realities.

The personalities of the Pelican Brides vary significantly.

Choices made by the characters have lasting consequences.

Tristan and Mark Antoine represent different approaches to life.

The men at the fort display a lack of respect for women.

Nikka’s story highlights the struggles of women in oppressive marriages.

Twists in the plot keep readers engaged and surprised.

The book’s rating reflects its complexity and character depth.

The Pelican Bride

View more at www.literaryscape.com/podcast/144

Welcome back to the 2025 book club season. We are so glad to have you join us. Here are a few announcements before we jump into today’s kickoff episode.

We are just eight days away from the launch of Unwavering Faith. On February 1st, we will release the paperback and eBook of Unwavering Faith. It has been an exciting journey, and I cannot wait for you to enjoy Brody and Claire’s adventurous love story. For my friends who enjoy audiobooks, we hope to have that ready for launch mid-February. Originally, I was going to just narrate the entire book. However, when I went back through the recordings, I realized I would rather have different voices for each character. So, thanks to many family members and friends, we will bring you a dynamic audiobook that I hope you will enjoy.

If you are on my newsletter list, then you have seen the many unboxings we’ve enjoyed over the past few weeks as books, t-shirts, mugs, and totes have arrived. You can check out all we offer at www.literaryscape.com/shop. Then to stay up to date with all the happenings at LiteraryScape, you can sign up for our newsletter at www.literaryscape.com/newsletter.

We have two book club extravaganza events coming up for you as we celebrate the release of Unwavering Faith. The first event will take place on February 15th at the Branch Coffee Shop in Fairmount, Indiana. Author Abbey Downey will join me. This is an incredible opportunity to meet authors, enjoy a cup of coffee, sit and chat about books and play BINGO. We hope to see you there.

For those of you who do not live close to Indiana, I will host the online book club extravaganza on February 22nd. We will chat and play BINGO. You can learn more about these events and get your tickets at www.literaryscape.com/events.

Finally, when you visit www.literaryscape.com/events you will find all our Coffee and Books events for 2025. We have some incredible authors coming to chat with you this year. These are free events, just RSVP to get the link to join each chat.

That is, it for announcements. In today’s episode, we will share our 2025 reading list and make predictions for the year. You will notice that we have updated our podcast cover art. I think we finally found the perfect design for us.

Now let’s dive into this exciting episode!

Episode Notes

In this episode Tiffanie, Jessica, Mom, and Melissa introduce the 2025 reading list and make predictions. How will the 2025 reading season go? Which authors will be joining us? Find out in this energetic conversation.

Topics:

Reading Goals

GoodReads

Top 3 Novels Prediction

Top 3 Series Prediction

Reading List

Gulf Coast Chronicles by Beth White

Brothers of Sapphire Ranch by Misty M. Beller

The Art of Love and Danger by Crystal Caudill

Gossamer Falls by Lynn Blackburn

Texas Ever After by Karen Witemeyer

Defend and Protect by Lynn Blackburn

Adventurous Hearts by Abbey Downey

High Country Ranch by Jody Hedlund

Badge of Honor by Lynn Shannon

Convenient Risk by Sara R. Turnquist

https://youtu.be/Chsmtq7KVzw

https://rumble.com/v6bvqdj-episode-143-2025-reading-season-kickoff.html

Welcome to a bonus episode featuring author Sandee Taylor’s debut novel, More Than An Attractive Face. But first a few announcements before we chat with Sandee.

We are just ten days away from the launch of Unwavering Faith. On February 1st, we will release the paperback and eBook of Unwavering Faith. It has been an exciting journey, and I cannot wait for you to enjoy Brody and Claire’s adventurous love story. For my friends who enjoy audiobooks, we hope to have that ready for launch mid-February. Originally, I was going to just narrate the entire book. However, when I went back through the recordings, I realized I would rather have different voices for each character. So, thanks to many family members and friends, we will bring you a dynamic audiobook that I hope you will enjoy.

If you are on my newsletter list, then you have seen the many unboxings we’ve enjoyed over the past few weeks as books, t-shirts, mugs, and totes have arrived. You can check out all we offer at www.literaryscape.com/shop. Then to stay up to date with all the happenings at LiteraryScape, you can sign up for our newsletter at www.literaryscape.com/newsletter.

We have two book club extravaganza events coming up for you as we celebrate the release of Unwavering Faith. The first event will take place on February 15th at the Branch Coffee Shop in Fairmount, Indiana. Author Abbey Downey will join me. This is an incredible opportunity to meet authors, enjoy a cup of coffee, sit and chat about books and play BINGO. We hope to see you there.

For those of you who do not live close to Indiana, I will host the online book club extravaganza on February 22nd. We will chat and play BINGO. You can learn more about these events and get your tickets at www.literaryscape.com/events.

Finally, when you visit www.literaryscape.com/events you will find all our Coffee and Books events for 2025. We have some incredible authors coming to chat with you this year. These are free events, just RSVP to get the link to join each chat.

Now, for this special bonus episode, I am thrilled to introduce you to author Sandee Taylor. She is a member of HCRW, our historical Christian romance writers’ group. Sandee just releases her first indie published novel. It has been a joy to be part of her writing journey and watch her incredible story come to life. Sandee is also an active member of the Kansas Authors Club and enjoys working with fellow writers. Enjoy this chat with Sandee Taylor.

Episode Notes

Summary

In this engaging conversation, author Sandee Taylor shares her journey into writing, sparked by personal experiences and a newfound passion for Kansas history. She discusses the challenges of character development, the intricacies of writing about violence and passion, and the importance of historical accuracy in her novels. Themes of family, integrity, and faith are woven throughout her work, reflecting her values and beliefs. Sandy also shares insights into her upcoming book launch and ways for readers to connect with her.

Takeaways

Sandy began writing after retiring and caring for her mother-in-law.

Her interest in Kansas history inspired her first published book.

Characters can evolve in unexpected ways during the writing process.

Writing scenes with passion and violence can be particularly challenging.

Research is crucial for maintaining historical accuracy in fiction.

Sandy’s main character embodies strength and integrity.

The importance of family and community is a central theme in her writing.

Sandy’s book launch includes both physical and virtual events.

Engaging with readers through book clubs is a goal for Sandy.

Sandy’s audiobook is set to be released soon.

https://youtu.be/05rnf2-ZHPI

https://rumble.com/v6bvmqp-bonus-episode-interview-with-author-sandee-taylor.html

We hope that you have found our book discussions to be entertaining and inspiring. Our schedule for next year is full of great novels and authors. We hope you can join us for another year of adventurous reading!

Topics We Discuss:

Our favorite series

Our favorite author interviews

Our favorite podcast moments

Historical Christian Romance v. Contemporary Christian Suspense Romance

Psst… we would also love to connect with you, be sure to sign up for our newsletter here. Every Friday you will get an email with our latest episode and lots of fun goodies along the way. Can’t wait to read with you in 2025!

Please note this will be our last episode until late January as we take a short break before kicking off the new year.

Pre-orders for Unwavering Faith are now open along with lots of fun merchandise. Visit www.literaryscape.com/shop to place your order today.

Tickets for the Book Club Extravaganza events are now on sale! We have three in person events on January 25th, February 1st, and February 15th. On February 22nd, there will be an online event. We will have BINGO, Door Prizes, and all kinds of book club fun. For our February 15th event, author Abbey Downey will be co-hosting with me. We will also announce another exciting book event coming in the spring of 2025. You can get all the details and purchase your ticket at www.literaryscape.com/events. Please note that each event has a limited number of tickets, so don’t delay and get your seat today!

Let’s jump into this week’s Christmas novella discussion of The Best Gift of All by Julie Lessman.

Episode Notes

In this episode Tiffanie, Jessica, Mom and I discuss Julie Lessman’s Christmas novella, The Best Gift of all. This novella is part of the many O’Connor family stories. John Brady and Lizzie from A Passion Redeemed are featured is this incredible Christmas novella.

Topics We Discuss:

The balance between spouse and children.

God’s design for the family structure.

Redeeming  broken relationships.

We gave the following ratings to each of the story elements listed below.

(Espresso = an expression, Mocha = Medium amount, Latte = A lot)

Mystery – Espresso

Drama – Latte

Suspense – Espresso

Romance – Latte

Inspiration – Latte

LiteraryScape gave The Best Give of All by Julie Lessman 3 lassos!

(1 lasso – throw and a miss, 2 lassos – hooked, 3 lassos – hooked and hog tied)

Book Link

www.literaryscape.com/podcast/141

https://youtu.be/U9C9jnrW-tg

https://rumble.com/v60zjr8-episode-141-the-best-gift-of-all-by-julie-lessman.html

Pre-orders for Unwavering Faith are now open along with lots of fun merchandise. Visit www.literaryscape.com/shop to place your order today.

Tickets for the Book Club Extravaganza events are now on sale! We have three in person events on January 25th, February 1st, and February 15th. On February 22nd, there will be an online event. We will have BINGO, Door Prizes, and all kinds of book club fun. For our February 15th event, author Abbey Downey will be co-hosting with me. We will also announce another exciting book event coming in the spring of 2025. You can get all the details and purchase your ticket at www.literaryscape.com/events. Please note that each event has a limited number of tickets, so don’t delay and get your seat today!

The proof copies of Unwavering Faith came this week! This is my first time seeing it in print, and you get to enjoy unboxing it with me. I’ve included a link to the video in this week’s newsletter; be sure to open it and scroll down.

Let’s jump into this week’s Christmas novella discussion of A Whisper of Hope by Julie Lessman.

Episode Notes

In this episode Tiffanie, Jessica, Mom, and I discuss A Whisper of Hope by Julie Lessman. This novella features one of the infamous O’Connor couples, Mitch and Charity. Being a big Julie Lessman fan, I of course love this novella. However, I also love all of the characters in the O’Connor family and highly recommend every book in the series.

Topics we discuss:

Age differences in couples

The joy of children

The never-ending weight battle.

We gave the following ratings to each of the story elements listed below.

(Espresso = an expression, Mocha = Medium amount, Latte = A lot)

Mystery – Espresso

Drama – Mocha

Suspense – Espresso

Romance – Latte

Inspiration – Latte

LiteraryScape gave A Whisper of Hope by Julie Lessman 3 lassos!

(1 lasso – throw and a miss, 2 lassos – hooked, 3 lassos – hooked and hog tied)

Link to podcast.

Link to book.

Tomorrow is our last Coffee and Books event for 2024. Join us from 1:00-2:00 pm EST for an hour of entertaining book discussion with authors Abbey Downey, Jodi Basye, and Karen Witemeyer. Sign-up for the is free event at www.literaryscape.com/events.

Pre-orders for Unwavering Faith are now open along with lots of fun merchandise. Head on over to www.literaryscape.com/shop to pre-order your items today.

We have several fun announcements coming your way over the next few weeks. Be sure to sign-up for our newsletter at www.literaryscape.com/newsletter to stay in the know.

Let’s jump into this week’s Christmas novella discussion of I’ll Be Home for Christmas by Sarah Sundin.

Episode Notes

In this episode Tiffanie, Jessica, Mom, and I discuss Sarah Sundin’s novella, I’ll Be Home for Christmas. We loved reading this novella as it takes place in our home state and features our favorite university. It was also interesting to find out that the candy store featured in the story still exists today. Taking a trip there will be in our future!

Topics we Discuss:

Redeeming a bully

Kids

Candy Shops

We gave the following ratings to each of the story elements listed below.

(Espresso = an expression, Mocha = Medium amount, Latte = A lot)

Mystery – Espresso

Drama – Mocha

Suspense – Espresso

Romance – Mocha

Inspiration – Mocha

LiteraryScape gave I’ll Be Home for Christmas by Sarah Sundin 3 lassos!

(1 lasso – throw and a miss, 2 lassos – hooked, 3 lassos – hooked and hog tied)

Link to episode.

Link to book.

December 7th is our last Coffee and Books event for 2024. Join us from 1:00-2:00 pm EST for an hour of entertaining book discussion with authors Abbey Downey, Jodi Basye, and Karen Witemeyer. Sign-up for the is free event at www.literaryscape.com/events.

Pre-orders for Unwavering Faith are now open along with lots of fun merchandise. Head on over to www.literaryscape.com/shop to pre-order your items today.

We have several fun announcements coming your way over the next few weeks. Be sure to sign-up for our newsletter at www.literaryscape.com/newsletter to stay in the know.

I hope you and your family had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Let’s jump into this week’s Christmas novella discussion of Christmas Threat by Lynn Shannon.

Episode Notes

In this episode Tiffanie, Jessica, my mother, and I discuss the novella Christmas Threat by Lynn Shannon. This is the second novella in her Christmas novella collection. You can read all of three for free on Kindle Unlimited. Most, if not all her books are available on KU. As always Lynn delivers an action-packed romance you cannot put down.

Topics we discuss:

Evil laughs

Mom’s amazing date bars

Flying coats

Suspicious gifts

Scary feet

We gave the following ratings to each of the story elements listed below.

(Espresso = an expression, Mocha = Medium amount, Latte = A lot)

Mystery – Latte

Suspense – Latte

Romance – Mocha

Inspiration – Mocha

LiteraryScape gave Christmas Threat by Lynn Shannon 3 lassos!

(1 lasso – throw and a miss, 2 lassos – hooked, 3 lassos – hooked and hog tied)

Link to episode.

Link to book.

December 7th is our last Coffee and Books event for 2024. Join us from 1:00-2:00 pm EST for an hour of entertaining book discussion with authors Abbey Downy, Jodi Basye, and Karen Witemeyer. Sign-up for the is free event at www.literaryscape.com/events.

The Unwavering Faith pre-orders opened last Friday. If you’ve followed along for a while you know that I am only selling my books on our LiteraryScape website. I want to have a direct connection with my readers and ensure that my book sales do not support companies that put funds into organizations that do not align with God’s word.

So, to get my books and any merchandise we have you will need to head on over to www.literaryscape.com/shop. Now, I want to explain a couple of things real quick. If you are watching the video for this episode, then you will be able to see this part. The paperback books and merchandise are housed on our online store at www.literaryscape.com/shop. The eBook and audiobook are housed on our ThriveCart store. You can visit our home page or click on the Unwavering Faith link under Author Melissa LaShure in the context menu to access the buy links for these two books. Just click on the eBook button or the audiobook button. This will take you to our Thrivecart checkout where you can complete your purchase.

This is not as smooth of a purchasing flow as we want, but it is our current solution for directly selling the eBook and audiobook versions of Unwavering Faith. Currently, BookFunnel who delivers these books for us and Squarespace who hosts our website, do not connect for these sales. I am hoping that one day soon they will. Thank you for your understanding and patience as we work towards an easier checkout process for you.

I also want to point out that we have some merchandise on pre-order in our store. We have the men’s T-shirt featuring the Bounty Brothers logo and the women’s T-shirt featuring the Unwavering Faith logo. This week we added four different mugs and two totes, so be sure to head on over to www.literaryscape.com/shop and check them out. All items in the shop are on pre-order and will ship out on February 1, 2025.

You may ask why do I need to pre-order? Well, this is our first round of selling each of these items. Pre-orders help us determine how much of the product we need to order so that we do not end up with products no one wants. So, any item that does not sell during pre-orders will not remain in our shop. If you see something you like and want, then go ahead and pre-order today.

Episode Notes

In this episode we discuss Lynn Shannon’s Christmas novella, Christmas Danger. It is packed with suspense and makes for quick holiday romance read. We also discuss the Clark Griswolds in our families and share one our favorite Christmas treats.

Takeaways:

Who is a Clark Griswold when it comes to Christmas

Jessica is discussing the wrong book

Papaw was the ultimate Chex-mix maker

The library can’t keep Lynn’s books on the shelf

We gave the following ratings to each of the story elements listed below.

(Espresso = an expression, Mocha = Medium amount, Latte = A lot)

Mystery – Latte

Suspense – Latte

Romance – Mocha

Inspiration – Mocha

LiteraryScape gave Christmas Danger by Lynn Shannon 3 lassos!

(1 lasso – throw and a miss, 2 lassos – hooked, 3 lassos – hooked and hog tied)

Link to book.

Link for the blog post for this episode: www.literaryscape.com/podcast/137

In this episode, Melissa celebrates the upcoming launch of her first historical romance novel, ‘Unwavering Faith,’ and shares insights about the Bounty Brothers series. She discusses the creative process behind the book cover, character dynamics, and the unique approach to self-publishing. Additionally, she highlights upcoming events and community engagement opportunities for readers and writers.

Takeaways

The final cover of ‘Unwavering Faith’ has been revealed.

‘Unwavering Faith’ is the first book in the Bounty Brothers series.

The series is inspired by historical heroes and the Civil War era.

Each book in the series will feature a unique bounty hunter’s story.

The main character, Claire, undergoes a significant faith journey.

Melissa emphasizes the importance of direct connection with readers.

The book will only be available for purchase on Melissa’s website.

Future plans include helping other Christian authors publish their works.

Community events will be held to engage with readers and promote the book.

The newsletter is the best way to stay updated on events and releases.

https://www.literaryscape.com/podcast/136

We have another incredible line up for our final Coffee and Books event this year on Saturday December 7th from 1:00-2:00pm EST. Join authors Karen Witemyer, Jodi Basye, and Abbey Downey for an hour of book talk. Visit www.literaryscape.com/events to sign up for this free event today!

Authors we have KyLee Woodley joining us tomorrow Saturday November 9th from 12:00-1:00pm EST to talk about book proposals. Getting your creative works in front of professionals in the Christian Book Market can be challenging. You need to showcase your best writing and understand what industry professionals are looking for. This class teaches you to polish a query letter, proposal, and writing sample. Additionally, we will preview resources for improving writing and where to find agents and editors. Finally, this class provides three templates to get you started. Visit www.literaryscape.com/events to sign-up for this training today.

Today I am excited to bring author Abbey Downey back on the podcast. She is the author of the Adventurous Hearts series featuring when who make a splash in sports and exploring in the early 1900’s. If you enjoy a sweet romance with spunky characters, then be sure to check out her books.

I also want to mention that Abbey and I will be hosting a couple of adventurous reader events in 2025, so stay tuned for those announcements!

Now let’s hop into today’s author interview with Abbey Downey!

Episode Notes

In this episode of the Literary Escape podcast, host Melissa welcomes author Abbey Downey to discuss her latest release, ‘An Unexpected Catch.’ Set in 1907, the novel features a female umpire and a pitcher navigating their unexpected romance amidst the challenges of their time. Abbey shares insights into her characters, the historical context of the story, and the research that informed her writing. The conversation also touches on the dynamics between characters, the role of supporting figures, and the challenges of writing compelling antagonists. Abbey hints at her future projects, including a new book that breaks away from the sports theme.

Takeaways

‘An Unexpected Catch’ is set in 1907 and features a female umpire.

The story is inspired by real-life umpire Amanda Clement.

Emmett, the male lead, is a confident pitcher with hidden depths.

Character dynamics play a crucial role in the story.

Supporting characters significantly impact the main characters’ arcs.

Villains in stories should be complex and not caricatures.

Research on historical sports adds depth to the narrative.

The book balances romance with historical context.

Future projects may explore themes beyond sports.

Abbey’s newsletter includes fun trivia and games for readers.

Connect with Abbey at: https://abbeydowney.com/

Get your copy of An Unexpected Catch here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D5BQ28TF

View the show notes for this episode here: https://www.literaryscape.com/podcast/135

We have another incredible line up for our final Coffee and Books event this year on Saturday December 7th from 1:00-2:00pm EST. Join authors Karen Witemyer, Jodi Basye, Misty M. Beller, and Abbey Downey for an hour of book talk. Visit www.literaryscape.com/events to sign up for this free event today!

The Unwavering Faith crowdfunding campaign ends today. Head on over to www.literaryscape.com/campaign to get your limited-edition copy of Unwavering Faith today!

Authors we have KyLee Woodley joining us on Saturday November 9th from 12:00-1:00pm EST to talk about book proposals. Getting your creative works in front of professionals in the Christian Book Market can be challenging. You need to showcase your best writing and understand what industry professionals are looking for. This class teaches you to polish a query letter, proposal, and writing sample. Additionally, we will preview resources for improving writing and where to find agents and editors. Finally, this class provides three templates to get you started. Visit www.literaryscape.com/events to sign-up for this training today.

Let me introduce you to today’s special guest, author Lynn Shannon. It took an international move from Texas to Greece before Lynn turned her love of reading into a passion for writing. Now she spends her days penning fast-paced inspirational romantic suspense. Her novels combine intriguing mysteries with heartfelt romance.

Lynn lives with her husband, two children, an extremely spoiled dog, and a turtle who hibernates half of the year. The experience of a different country has provided amazing new foods—like Yemista and Kourabiedes—to accompany pecans and Blue Bell ice cream on her favorites list. She also never passes up coffee, chocolate, or the chance to watch cute animal videos.

We all crowded in on my couch to talk to author Lynn Shannon. If you’ve been listening over the past month, then you’ve heard us raving about her Triumph Over Adversity series. We are excited to feature her Badge of Honor series next year. Enjoy this fun conversation with author Lynn Shannon and be sure to click the link in the blog post for this episode to connect with her!

Episode Notes

Author Lynn Shannon discusses her journey from being a lawyer to becoming a self-published author. She talks about her Triumph Over Adversity series and how it came to be based on reader requests. Lynn shares her writing process and how she develops suspenseful storylines. She also mentions some of her favorite authors and books in the Christian romantic suspense genre. Lynn discusses her favorite Bible verse and what readers can expect from her next. The conversation ends with a discussion on her Christmas novellas and how listeners can connect with her.

Takeaways

Lynn Shannon transitioned from being a lawyer to becoming a self-published author.

Her Triumph Over Adversity series was born out of reader requests for a story about a character from a previous book.

Lynn’s writing process involves a combination of plotting and pantsing, and she often doesn’t know who the killer is until the end of the book.

She enjoys reading Christian romantic suspense and recommends authors like Lenora Worth, Christy Barritt, Jessica R. Patch, Laura Scott, and Melinda Leigh.

Lynn’s favorite Bible verse is 1 Corinthians 13:13, and she also finds inspiration in Hebrews 11:1.

Readers can expect the first book in Lynn’s new Badge of Honor series, set in the same town as the Triumph Over Adversity series, to be released soon.

Lynn has also written standalone Christmas novellas that provide a quick and festive reading experience.

Listeners can connect with Lynn Shannon through her website, newsletter, Facebook, and Instagram.

We have another incredible line up for our final Coffee and Books event this year on Saturday December 7th from 1:00-2:00pm EST. Join authors Karen Witemyer, Jodi Basye, Misty M. Beller, and Abbey Downey for an hour of book talk. Visit www.literaryscape.com/events to sign up for this free event today!

The Unwavering Faith crowdfunding campaign will end on November 1, 2024. Which means you have one week to order your limited-edition book. These special edition covers will only be printed once, so head on over to www.literaryscape.com/campaign to get your limited-edition copy of Unwavering Faith today!

Authors we have KyLee Woodley joining us on Saturday November 9th from 12:00-1:00pm EST to talk about book proposals. Getting your creative works in front of professionals in the Christian Book Market can be challenging. You need to showcase your best writing and understand what industry professionals are looking for. This class teaches you to polish a query letter, proposal, and writing sample. Additionally, we will preview resources for improving writing and where to find agents and editors. Finally, this class provides three templates to get you started. Visit www.literaryscape.com/events to sign-up for this training today.

That’s it for announcements. Let’s jump into this week’s book discussion. We had a few technical difficulties when we recorded the episodes for this series, so please excuse any audio blips. Enjoy our discussion of Tactical Force by Lynn Shannon.

Episode Notes

In this episode Tiffanie, Jessica, and Melissa discuss Tactical Force by Lynn Shannon. This is the final book in her Triumph Over Adversity series. It was the perfect ending to this edge of your seat suspenseful romance series.

Nuggets of Truth/Wisdom:

·      God brings goodness into our lives even in the darkest of times

·      Listening to God and trusting where He’s leading you

We gave the following ratings to each of the story elements listed below.

(Espresso = an expression, Mocha = Medium amount, Latte = A lot)

Mystery – Latte

Drama – Latte

Suspense – Latte

Romance – Espresso

Inspiration – Mocha

This entire series is a must read and we know you will be hooked and hog-tied which is why LiteraryScape gave Strategic Plan by Lynn Shannon 2.75 lassos! The just under 3 lassos comes from Tiffanie’s rating. She is not a fan of suspense but agreed that Lynn wrote the book so well she couldn’t put it down.

Our local library cannot keep these books on the shelf, so click the button below to get your very own Triumph Over Adversity books.

(1 lasso – throw and a miss, 2 lassos – hooked, 3 lassos – hooked and hog tied)

Link for the blog post for this episode: www.literaryscape.com/podcast/133

Series Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08Y99YBCN?binding=kindle_edition&searchxofy=true&ref_=dbs_s_aps_series_rwt_tkin&qid=1726788121&sr=8-1

Connect with Lynn: https://www.lynnshannon.com/

We have another incredible line up for our final Coffee and Books event this year on Saturday December 7th from 1:00-2:00pm EST. Join authors Karen Witemyer, Jodi Basye, Misty M. Beller, and Abbey Downey for an hour of book talk. Visit www.literaryscape.com/events to sign up for this free event today!

The Unwavering Faith crowdfunding campaign will end on November 1, 2024. Head on over to www.literaryscape.com/campaign to get your limited-edition copy of Unwavering Faith today!

Authors we have KyLee Woodley joining us on Saturday November 9th from 12:00-1:00pm EST to talk about book proposals. Getting your creative works in front of professionals in the Christian Book Market can be challenging. You need to showcase your best writing and understand what industry professionals are looking for. This class teaches you to polish a query letter, proposal, and writing sample. Additionally, we will preview resources for improving writing and where to find agents and editors. Finally, this class provides three templates to get you started. Visit www.literaryscape.com/events to sign-up for this training today.

That’s it for announcements. Let’s jump into this week’s book discussion. We had a few technical difficulties when we recorded the episodes for this series, so please excuse any audio blips. Enjoy our discussion of Covert Mission by Lynn Shannon.

Episode Notes

In this episode Tiffanie, Jessica, and Melissa discuss the novel Covert Mission by Lynn Shannon. This book is part of her Triumph Over Adversity series. Lynn writes incredible contemporary Christian suspense romance novels that our local libraries cannot keep on their shelves. We hope you enjoy our discussion of this amazing story!

Nuggets of truth/wisdom:

·      Praying your way through grief

·      God is always there

·      Death can come at any moment

We gave the following ratings to each of the story elements listed below.

(Espresso = an expression, Mocha = Medium amount, Latte = A lot)

Mystery – Latte

Drama – Latte

Suspense – Latte

Romance – Espresso/Mocha

Inspiration – Mocha

This whole series is a must read and we know you will be hooked and hog-tied which is why LiteraryScape gave Strategic Plan by Lynn Shannon 2.75 lassos! The just under 3 lassos comes from Tiffanie’s rating. She is not a fan of suspense but agreed that Lynn wrote the book so well she couldn’t put it down.

(1 lasso – throw and a miss, 2 lassos – hooked, 3 lassos – hooked and hog tied)

Link for the blog post for this episode: www.literaryscape.com/podcast/132

Series Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08Y99YBCN?binding=kindle_edition&searchxofy=true&ref_=dbs_s_aps_series_rwt_tkin&qid=1726788121&sr=8-1

Connect with Lynn: https://www.lynnshannon.com/

https://youtu.be/kH_UF-TUTSs

https://rumble.com/v5j2619-episode-132-covert-mission-by-lynn-shannon.html

Takeaways

Editing is a collaborative process that enhances an author’s work.

Developmental editing focuses on the big picture elements of a story.

Copy editing ensures grammatical accuracy and consistency in formatting.

Authors should be open to feedback and willing to make changes.

Professional editing is crucial for making a strong first impression.

Networking and putting oneself out there is essential for authors.

The editing process can be a learning journey for both authors and editors.

Helping new authors grow is a rewarding experience for editors.

Authors should seek professional help to improve their manuscripts.

The editing journey is a team effort, involving multiple professionals.

Episode Link: www.literaryscape.com/podcast/ww13

Our Coffee and Books event last Saturday with authors Julie Lessman, and Lynn Shannon was wonderful. If you missed it, you can catch the replay with the link provided for this episode. Our conversation was enlightening and inspiring for both readers and writers. I hope you can catch the replay.

We have another incredible line up for our final Coffee and Books event this year on Saturday December 7th from 1:00-2:00pm EST. Join authors Karen Witemyer, Jodi Basye, Misty M. Beller, and Abbey Downey for an hour of book talk. Visit www.literaryscape.com/events to sign up for this free event today!

The Unwavering Faith crowdfunding campaign will end on November 1, 2024. Head on over to www.literaryscape.com/campaign to get your limited-edition copy of Unwavering Faith today!

Authors we have KyLee Woodley joining us on Saturday November 9th from 12:00-1:00pm EST to talk about book proposals. Getting your creative works in front of professionals in the Christian Book Market can be challenging. You need to showcase your best writing and understand what industry professionals are looking for. This class teaches you to polish a query letter, proposal, and writing sample. Additionally, we will preview resources for improving writing and where to find agents and editors. Finally, this class provides three templates to get you started. Visit www.literaryscape.com/events to sign-up for this training today.

That’s it for announcements. Let’s jump into this week’s book discussion. We had a few technical difficulties when we recorded the episodes for this series, so please excuse any audio blips. Enjoy our discussion of Strategic Plan by Lynn Shannon.

Episode Notes

In this episode Jessica, Tiffanie, and Melissa discuss the fourth book in Lynn Shannon’s Triumph Over Adversity series, Strategic plan. Due to the stalker wearing a pig mask, Tiffanie and Melissa were reminded of their visit to a haunted hog house when they were teenagers, something they would never do again!

Enjoy this entertaining conversation.

Nuggets of truth/wisdom in Strategic Plan:

·      Giving your worries to God

·      Listening to God and following his leading

·      How faith in God impacts your marriage

·      God walks with us through the pain

We gave the following ratings to each of the story elements listed below.

(Espresso = an expression, Mocha = Medium amount, Latte = A lot)

Mystery – Latte

Drama – Latte

Suspense – Latte

Romance – Espresso

Inspiration – Mocha

This whole series is a must read and we know you will be hooked and hog-tied which is why LiteraryScape gave Strategic Plan by Lynn Shannon 2.75 lassos! The just under 3 lassos comes from Tiffanie’s rating. She is not a fan of suspense but agreed that Lynn wrote the book so well she couldn’t put it down.

(1 lasso – throw and a miss, 2 lassos – hooked, 3 lassos – hooked and hog tied)

Link for the blog post for this episode: www.literaryscape.com/podcast/131

Series Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08Y99YBCN?binding=kindle_edition&searchxofy=true&ref_=dbs_s_aps_series_rwt_tkin&qid=1726788121&sr=8-1

Connect with Lynn: https://www.lynnshannon.com/

Our next Coffee and Books event is this Saturday October 5th from 9:00-10:00am EST. Enjoy an hour of book talk with authors Julie Lessman, and Lynn Shannon. This is a free event, but you do need to register to save your spot. Head on over to www.literaryscape.com/events to register today. We look forward to seeing you on October 5th!

The Unwavering Faith crowdfunding campaign will end on November 1, 2024. At the time of this recording, we are just 24 books away from unlocking the first bonus item which is a 12×18 signed poster of the cover. You now can get a copy of either a paperback or hardback or both of the limited-edition cover. Head on over to www.literaryscape.com/campaign to see the updates. The link will also be in the show notes. Please consider sharing this campaign with others as we work toward the goal of publishing Unwavering Faith.

A huge thank you to Colin LaShure and Sarah Mason for purchasing a limited-edition copy of Unwavering Faith!

That’s it for announcements. Let’s jump into this week’s book discussion. We had a few technical difficulties when we recorded the episodes for this series, so please excuse any audio blips. Enjoy our discussion of Necessary Peril by Lynn Shannon.

Episode Notes

In this episode Jessica, Jamie, Tiffanie, and Melissa discuss Necessary Peril by Lynn Shannon. This is the third book in her Triumph Over Adversity series and is a contemporary Christian suspense romance story.

A verse that is highlighted in this story is Joshua 1:9. Given the miracles and devastation surrounding hurricane Helene it is such a sweet reminder that God is with us always.

Joshua 1:9 (NKJV) “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

We gave the following ratings to each of the story elements listed below.

(Espresso = an expression, Mocha = Medium amount, Latte = A lot)

Mystery – Mocha/Latte

Drama – Latte

Suspense – Latte

Romance – Espresso