Reviewed by Priya Mathew for Readers' Favorite

Soap Opera Digest by Stacy Thowe is the story of a woman whose past has cocooned her into believing that her best days were in the past and how that has affected her present life and relationships. Twenty-five years ago, Julia Melrose experienced the kind of love that seemed destined to last forever, but life had other plans and pulled those dreams apart. Now, a divorced mother of two, she is constantly re-evaluating the choices she made long ago. The voice of her beloved Ritchie calls her to reclaim the life she was meant to live. However, her daughter Lauren’s unexpected pregnancy, her son Bobby’s struggles with addiction, and her mother’s stroke make her want to pause in following her dreams. Her chance meeting with Andy at her workplace sparks a connection that makes her want to believe in love again. While standing at life’s crossroads, between the comfort of the known life and pursuing the long-lost dream, which path will Julia choose?

Stacy Thowe’s Soap Opera Digest is a contemporary romance about second chances, with a touch of the paranormal. Using a mix of detail-oriented narrative and inner monologues, Stacy Thowe draws us into the bittersweet portrait of Julia whose mental state seems to be a mix of nostalgia, regret, and mainly clinging to past dreams. Flashbacks are used effectively, giving a better understanding of Julia’s past and showing glimpses of her lost loves, especially the love she felt for Ritchie. You can make out the contrast between the youthful woman Julia once was to the lonely figure she now seems to be. The story unfolds at a slow pace, reflecting the theme of gradual healing and emotional introspection. This also allowed me to grasp the experiences of each character – whether it was Carmen’s humor and determination to get over her experience with stroke, Bobby’s struggle with addiction, or Julia’s affection for Andy. The appearance of Ritchie’s spirit provides a unique magical element, helping Julia get emotional release and closure from her past. Soap Opera Digest offers an unexpected sense of serendipity and fate throughout Julia and Andy’s story, making it an engaging read for fans of emotional, character-driven romances.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Walking By Your House by A W Anthony is a wholesome Christian romance that brings fresh authenticity to the young adult genre. Alan Weiss, a socially awkward teen, embarks on a heartwarming, comical journey of love, faith, and self-discovery that will appeal to both religious and secular readers. The novel deftly handles themes of first love, personal identity, and spiritual growth through the lens of Alan's endearing mishaps and genuine struggles. Anthony creates a world where faith feels natural rather than forced, allowing readers to connect with Alan's experiences regardless of their own beliefs, while his journey through the complexities of teenage social life provides both humor and touching moments of growth.

Author A W Anthony captures the authentic feel of adolescence while maintaining a delicate balance between faith and entertainment. I particularly appreciated how the narrative approaches teenage romance with both humor and respect, avoiding common tropes or the need to over-dramatize a situation. It also delivers genuine emotional resonance that is on the right level for YA readers to relate to. Anthony's portrayal of Alan's awkward yet earnest attempts at love and friendship rings true, creating moments that are both cringe-worthy and deeply relatable. Some stellar dialogue moments made me chuckle and sometimes genuinely brought a tear to my eye. The integration of faith elements feels organic, adding new elements of self-reflection to the character development without becoming preachy or overshadowing the central story. Anthony depicts Alan's growing self-awareness and emotional maturity through both comedic and touching situations to create a satisfying journey that feels earned rather than contrived. This arc exemplifies teenage insecurity and longing, but with a tone that remains uplifting and hopeful throughout. Overall, I recommend Walking By Your House to readers seeking a genuine, heartwarming story that handles both faith and teenage romance with equal sincerity and charm.

Reviewed by Christian Sia for Readers' Favorite

Jessica Ashley's Bravo: Hunt Brothers Search & Rescue is a gripping romantic suspense novel set against the rugged backdrop of Texas ranch life, intertwined with daring rescue missions. The story follows Bradyn Hunt, a former Special Forces operative turned head of Hunt Brothers Search & Rescue. He dedicates himself to rescuing victims from human trafficking and other dark threats. His quiet strength and unwavering faith contrast with Kennedy Smith, a woman on the run from her past, hiding as a ranch hand on the Hunt family’s property. As Kennedy struggles with her secrets and the danger closing in from her past, she falls for Bradyn, whose protective nature and faith offer her hope. When her enemies discover her location, she must decide whether to keep running or fight for the love she’s found—and for her life.

While the plot is twisty and filled with intriguing points, the characters won my heart. Bradyn is a resilient, faith-driven hero whose past military service shapes his dedication to justice and rescue. Kennedy is complex and guarded, haunted by trauma and secrets, yet her bond with the Hunt family and her faith hint at the possibility of healing. The setting shifts from the dark, jungle hideouts of international human trafficking operations to the warm, tight-knit ranch community in Texas, a contrast that I found thoughtful and indicative of the conflict that is also well-handled. Bravo deftly explores themes of trust, whether in each other, faith, or divine purpose, and the redemptive power of love that refuses to give up. Jessica Ashley has crafted a captivating romance filled with tension, engaging characters, a delightful plot, and a satisfying denouement.

Reviewed by Edith Wairimu for Readers' Favorite

Amanda Lewis has beautifully crafted an unforgettable story rich with emotion, romance, and faith in her enchanting contemporary romance novel, The Musician: A Goodwater Ranch Romance. Nearly seven years ago, Isaiah Matthews disappeared without a trace. His best friend, Taylor Strauss, was left feeling lost and abandoned. After he left her behind, she was forced to pick up the broken pieces alone. Now Isaiah is back and is determined to get some answers and rekindle the love he shared with Taylor. Taylor, however, is still struggling to move past his abandonment and wants nothing to do with him. But Isaiah is not deterred. As they share their versions of what happened between them, new revelations emerge and they begin to see the past through each other’s eyes.

Lewis offers an absorbing story about God’s redemption and His ability to piece together even the most broken circumstances. The novel also explores other important themes about healing and forgiveness that I found hopeful. Laced with humor, the dialogue is entertaining and skillfully woven into the story. Lewis has an amazing gift of developing original characters with complex lives that portray real-life struggles which will resonate with many readers. With an expert hand, she brings to life the people and places in Goodwater Ranch town. This quaint town has its own eccentric, compelling characters and delightful places that form wonderful backgrounds for Taylor and Isaiah’s soul-stirring love story. The Musician by Amanda Lewis is a hope-filled, captivating story packed with intriguing revelations and uplifting themes. Readers will love its witty conversations and fascinating characters.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Victory: Where There’s A Will, There’s A Way is a work of fiction penned by author Mayra Barry in the historical, romantic drama, and Christian fiction subgenres. It is best suited to the general adult reading audience. The story unfolds with Joe Smith, a young man whose life takes a dramatic turn after betrayal, captivity, and laboring on a plantation. Despite the hardships, Joe's resilience and skills make him indispensable to the Kemet family, particularly catching the attention of Victoria Kemet. The novel weaves together elements of action, romance, and a hidden message of finding blessings in adversity.

Author Mayra Barry really knows how to captivate an audience and immerse them in history, taking her readers on an adventurous journey to explore faraway places, turbulent storms, and moments of betrayal and forgiveness. The narrative is well-paced, with great rise and fall in the action, and the structure of the carefully crafted scenes makes it rich with suspense and thrills whilst the overarching themes of faith, hope, and love gently simmer and build in the background. The central character of Joe Smith is penned with sincere emotion and deep resonance, and Joe soon becomes a symbol of overcoming challenges and creating a new legacy that makes him more heroic as the novel goes on. The story delivers a Christian romance in a richly-developed historical world that was perfectly in keeping with the morals, attitudes, and lifestyles of the time, and it had some really strong, atmospheric dialogue to keep that sense of period alive throughout. Overall, readers seeking a story of resilience, love, and the triumph of the human spirit will find Victory a compelling and uplifting read indeed.

Reviewed by Edith Wairimu for Readers' Favorite

Set in a quaint town situated along the stunning Devon coastline, Thanksgiving in Welcombe Bay: Sweets By The Sea by Kate Darroch is a captivating romance story about recovery, healing, and second chances. After a traumatic accident, Eric Wilcox joins Alcoholics Anonymous and begins his sobriety journey while serving a probation sentence. He meets and begins to fall in love with Lily, a woman who is still traumatized by her abusive ex-husband. The novel chronicles Eric’s journey in AA, including his struggles and growth during his early sobriety days. Challenges arise as Lily and Eric navigate their personal lives and their budding romance. God’s constant love and their enduring love for each other become their guiding light even during difficult moments.

This unforgettable story is a powerful illustration of love and redemption. It offers an eye-opening look into alcoholism and the journey to sobriety. It also masterfully tackles other important topics including abuse, trauma, and recovery. I loved that both main characters face struggles that will resonate with many readers. Though fraught with obstacles, their journey is hopeful and encouraging. Secondary characters who mainly comprise members of Lily’s Christian community at Welcombe Bay are equally interesting. The story takes place in a splendid town with breathtaking scenes. Lily’s café is beautifully described and is a wonderful setting for Lily and Eric’s meetings. Thanksgiving in Welcombe Bay by Kate Darroch is an enthralling Christian romance told with faith and heart. Readers will love its authentic characters, lovely backdrop, and powerful lessons.

Reviewed by Delene Vrey for Readers' Favorite

Ophelia Day is practicing her mayoral debate speech when she meets Chase Bondurant – the owner of Bondurant Construction. For Ophelia, winning the election will be the pinnacle of her career in Goodwater Ranch, a small city in Texas. Over the past ten years, she has built a life for herself that she never thought she would achieve. The Goodwater women's shelter is her passion, giving down-and-out women opportunities for a new beginning and a meaningful life. Chase settled in Goodwater Ranch, successfully building his construction business. When he meets Ophelia, he has no idea of the drama he is about to be drawn into. He is caught off guard by Ophelia and the past that has caught up with her on the eve of the election. Will Chase run away, or will he allow Ophelia to help him deal with his personal issues while he protects her in her time of need? The Marine: A Goodwater Ranch Suspense Romance by Amanda Lewis is the third in the Goodwater Ranch series.

The Marine by Amanda Lewis is a romance with Christian themes. It is refreshing to read any romance in which the characters have self-restraint and values, and they can sit and converse and deal with trust issues before acting on their mutual attraction. This book series shows that it is possible to write emotionally charged stories without compromising values and beliefs to make them sell. Lewis has written a suspenseful story that reflects growth in the characters, emotionally and spiritually, without any Bible bashing. She interweaves belief and faith in Christ into the plot so that it feels natural and right. May we see more of these stories that reflect the values that Christians live by and want to read about.

Reviewed by Nino Lobiladze for Readers' Favorite

Cassius and Bracus, two best friends from Tuscany, serve in the Roman Xth Legion in Jerusalem. Both were distinguished soldiers, but Judea was dangerous for invaders in 16 AD. Zealots had taken Bracus' life, and Cassius, becoming overcautious, accidentally killed a local Jew in a tavern, where he and his men had sought refreshment after a hard day. Killed by Cassius, Joseph was a decent person leaving behind a family on the edge of starvation. Joseph's young son, Johnathan, witnessed his death. Now, his life and the lives of his mother and baby sister depend on Joseph's old friend, the mysterious Matthias. A girl named Mary lost her parents and was sold to the palace of Herod Antipas by her relatives from Magdala. She suffers from seizures but is very beautiful, which cannot escape Cassius' eyes. A carpenter from Nazareth, Yeshua, is a hard worker, but how come he sees the deepest corners of human hearts? And why is it so good and peaceful to be around him? The Temple keeps its secrets, Fortress Antonia is watchful, while Jerusalem and the Jewish people await the promised Messiah. A Man in Darkness by Foster Nash, the first book of a series, is a wonderful story of lost souls craving hope, love, and God's forgiveness.

Foster Nash paints a multilayered picture for his readers and creates an unforgettable atmosphere of anticipation of events yet unknown but magnificent and even frightening. Judea was conquered by the Roman Empire; nevertheless, the fight for freedom never ceases. There is something in the air of the holy city, where the Temple loses its significance for Jewish people because of the wrongdoings of the priests. We can feel this impatience on every page of A Man in Darkness. Nash crafts amazing characters that evolve and come to an understanding of the essence of things. Mary learns to trust a Roman soldier as she sees his true nature and kind heart. Johnathan's maturation is the centerpiece of the story, and he goes through its stages step by step to gain strength despite the enormous pain. In the first part of the series, Nash introduces the main characters and entangles their fates into something that promises to be much more crucial and decisive for the history of humankind. We can undoubtedly recognize many of them, but the author leaves some riddles unsolved to surprise us even more, and I can't wait to read the second part. A Man in Darkness is adventurous with many twists and philosophical at the same time, reminding us of the importance of forgiveness. Those who struggle to find faith should read A Man in Darkness. Also, it is a great book for young adult readers; for adult fans of historical and adventurous prose and novels based on biblical accounts.

Reviewed by Edith Wairimu for Readers' Favorite

In the Christian contemporary romance novel, Helping Hands: Companion of Baggage Burdens by Ken Saik, a woman finds solace and guidance from a loyal friend as she deals with painful memories and heals from physical wounds. Jill is struggling to re-establish her life as she recovers from a devastating accident. She longs to be involved again in her children’s lives after her long hospital stay but the children seem to have made their own plans. Without a car and unable to return to her former job in the short term, Jill wonders whether her life will ever return to what it used to be some months ago. Her friend, Bill, sticks by her, helping her navigate current challenges and face other traumatic events in her childhood and past.

Through Jill’s courage in dealing with her past and recovering from physical and emotional wounds, Helping Hands shows that healing is possible even though Jill has lived in pain for years. I found Bill to be a likable main character too for his support and patience when guiding Jill toward recovery. I loved that the book portrays a realistic image of relationships and includes helpful tools for handling disputes within families and working toward reconciliation. Each character is fleshed out including the supporting characters as the motives behind the decisions they make are examined. Helping Hands: Companion of Baggage Burdens by Ken Saik is a realistic and moving romance novel with authentic characters. It inspires hope that healing from psychological and physical trauma can be achieved through faith and support.

Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite

Music is what binds the soul. For concert pianist Meredith Mason, music is also what keeps her sane. After losing her parents in a tragic accident while they were on their way to hear her perform, Meredith has poured her life and her soul into her music, making her fame on the world concert stage as a pianist. But is that enough? Is her music merely a smokescreen to block the endless pain, her guilt over her parents’ deaths? She has reached her zenith in the music world. What next? What is her life’s purpose now? When a fellow musician enters the picture and captures her heart, things begin to change, as does the music that binds.

Gail Miller Mahaffey’s novel, Music of the Soul, is a touching musical tribute to all that is beautiful in the world. The author has masterfully woven a tale of passion, love, and the ultimate purpose of life to the finely tuned (no pun intended) workings of music and the soul. Beginning each chapter with a profound quote about music, written by some of the greatest minds throughout history (from musicians to artists to writers to political thinkers and more), the plot is music-driven. The author, a musician herself, knows her music. The protagonist, Meredith, is driven by a powerful force of guilt as she navigates her way through life in the music world and on the concert stage. But there is more to life and the music she so poignantly performs needs a release of this guilt, a release she only discovers through love and spiritual renewal. And, with each new encounter, Meredith unravels some of the mysteries of her own life and where her journey should ultimately lead her. The story is about music, success, and overcoming guilt, but it is also about coming to terms with your inner self and finding your ultimate purpose in life. Powerful story. Loved it!