Author: sandramervillehart

An Amish Baby in Her Arms by Patricia Johns

/ sandramervillehart

Reviewed by Sandra Merville Hart

An Amish Chocolate Shop Brides Novel

Miriam Yoder, widow, is reminded of all she lost when a newborn baby is left outside the candy shop where she and Zaak, her brother-in-law, are closing for the day. A terrible storm prompts him to drive baby Ivy and Miriam to her grandfather’s.

The storm worsens. Zaak has no choice but to stay her grandfather’s home to wait it out. He has loved Miriam since before his brother, who hadn’t been good to her, married her. Zaak avoids her as much as possible because she doesn’t like him. Little Ivy brings them together.

This story wasn’t predictable for me. In fact, I wasn’t sure how they’d overcome the challenges between them. I fell in love with characters.

Sweet baby Ivy tugged at my heart. I was anxious to see what happened with her.

I enjoyed the story.

Amazon  

Cream of Beef Soup Recipe

/ sandramervillehart

by Sandra Merville Hart

I have often used canned cream of chicken soups and bullion in casseroles and crockpot recipes. It never occurred to me to make this from scratch until I watched a chef prepare it on a cooking show.

I tweaked some recipes until I was happy with the results. What a game-changer this has been for me in the past year!

This homemade soup has enhanced the flavor of every dish that I’ve used it in—all of them. I highly recommend it.

The soup takes about 20 minutes to prepare. I usually cook it while making the main dish.

Stock, which is water enriched by the food cooked in it, is an important ingredient in numerous soups. Homemade stock brings full-bodied flavor to recipes. Here’s a recipe for homemade chicken stock:  https://sandramervillehart.com/2017/05/15/preparing-chicken-stock/.

Chicken stock can be substituted for the beef stock when preparing chicken-based recipes. Turkey stock (or chicken stock if you can’t find turkey) can be substituted when preparing turkey-based recipes. In the same way, use vegetable stock for cream of celery. (When I next need cream of celery soup, I’ll simmer a celery stalk in the vegetable stock for a few minutes to draw out that flavor.)

Ingredients

½ cup butter

6 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups of beef stock

2 cups of milk

Melt the butter in a medium saucepan. Stir in flour. Once combined, add the stock and milk. Stir until blended. Cook over medium-low heat until thick and creamy, about 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

This recipe makes 4 cups of cream soup. If your casserole recipe calls for 1 can of soup, prepare half the recipe.

What a game-changer this has been for me in the past year!

This homemade soup has enhanced the flavor of every dish that I’ve used it in—all of them. Everyone I’ve served it to has noticed the difference. I highly recommend it.

It’s also good when served over rice or as the base for creamy soups. Enjoy!

Home Away from Home by Penny Frost McGinnis

/ sandramervillehart / 1 Comment

Reviewed by Sandra Merville Hart

Abbott Island Series, Book 2

Marigold Hayes lost her mother as a teenager, at the same time that her father went missing. Now in her fifties, she still wants nothing more than to find her dad. She’s never married. Her relationship with Johnny Papadakis is the longest she’s known, yet what if he leaves like her father did?

Johnny loves Marigold. His Greek restaurant keeps him busy while he waits for her trust in him to build. He also wants to strengthen bonds with his adult daughter, a relationship that his ex-wife had tried to destroy.

This story is told through multiple viewpoints. The villain had me shaking my head. Believable characters made me care about their journey. Unexpected twists kept me turning pages.

Surprises await the characters in this small-town island setting. The setting was one of my favorite parts, as I got to know other residents I might see in upcoming novels.    

I’m enjoying this series.

Amazon

Finding Juniper by Cindy Thomson

/ sandramervillehart

Reviewed by Sandra Merville Hart

Patrick Doyle thought he was doing the right thing by fighting for Ireland during World War I, yet he’s treated as an enemy when he returns home, especially by his pregnant girlfriend’s father. Paddy asks Roisin to flee with him to the United States. She refuses. Fearing for his life, he leaves despite his desire to raise his child.

This time-slip novel actually begins in 1950, when he receives a letter from his and Roisin’s daughter, Juniper. It’s written in childish handwriting, and Juniper would now be 30.

Patrick had married an American, and they had a daughter who is now in her twenties. He has never returned to Ireland. He never met Juniper, whom he is certain had died many years before. Is the letter real?

This multi-layered tragic story is told from several viewpoints. The action slips from 1950 to the past in a masterful way. Some parts were so tragic that they were difficult to read, yet it was impossible to put down.

Believable, flawed characters drew me into their plight. This book is a page turner.

This well-written, gripping story tugged at my emotions.

Recommended for readers of historical fiction and Irish history.

I will look for more books by this author.

Amazon

ACFW New Releases October 2025

/ sandramervillehart

October 2025 New ReleasesMore in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website

Biblical:

Rescued Heart: The Story of Sarah by Angela Hunt — A master of biblical research, Angela Hunt delivers a series starter that transports readers to the Old Testament world of Sarah and Abraham, making this novel a perfect read for those who love Francine Rivers, Mesu Andrews, Connilyn Cossette, and Jill Eileen Smith. (Biblical/Historical from Bethany House)

Leading Philippi by Jenifer Jennings — In the raging sea of fear, Epaphroditus finds his faith. (Biblical/Historical, Independently Published)

Contemporary Romance:
The Second Story Bookshop by Denise Hunter — She inherits the bookshop of her dreams . . . But she has to run it with the ex she vowed never to speak with again. (Contemporary Romance from HarperCollins Christian Publishing [Thomas Nelson])

Trying to Save Christmas by Dawn Kinzer — A new teacher trying to save Christmas for a grieving student and his guardian brother risks losing her heart to them both. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

A Heart to Protect by Judith McNees — Can two grieving hearts find healing with each other…and God? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Christmas in Granite Harbor by Candice Sue Patterson — Small-town traditions, a Maine Coon, and a decades-old mystery knit hearts together this Christmas. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Who Stirs Up the Sea by Deborah Raney — So many secrets between them. But when the truth comes out, will it drive them apart? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Two Hearts, One Piano by Catherine Richmond — Ten years ago, rock star Alan Wolfe trashed Maren’s life. Now his brother is on her doorstep, asking about the baby. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Cozy Mystery:

Troubled Truffles by Leslie Lantrip — Ruby Starr breathes a sigh of relief that all is well in the whimsical town of Iris Cove, but while making a routine bakery delivery, she’s shocked to discover a dead body inside the new bookshop. She assures everyone that she will never again be involved in sleuthing, but with clues all around, will her inquisitive mind be able to comply? (Cozy Mystery from Trilogy Christian Publishing)

The Last Scam by Jean Rezab — Courtney’s lifelong dream is finally within her grasp, but when a guest turns up dead during the inn’s very first week, her perfect plans turn into chaos. (Cozy Mystery, Independently Published)

General Contemporary:

Tangled Roots by Jessica Brodie — When newspaper editor Tiff Steadman’s ex-convict brother returns seeking reconciliation, she must choose between protecting the respectable life she’s built and risking everything to embrace the messy grace of family forgiveness. (General Contemporary from Valor Publishing Group)

The Bridge by Shanna Hatfield — The fate of strangers intertwines when a man contemplating suicide commandeers a bridge on Christmas Eve, forcing everyone into an unexpected detour from their holiday plans. (General Contemporary, Independently Published)

Every Life Treasured by Hannah Hood Lucero, Aubrey Reiss Taylor, and Jennifer Q. Hunt – Three Novellas about the value of life. (General Contemporary, Independently Published)

The Song Awakens by Linda Sammaritan — One moment of temptation. Years of separation. How much of the truth does she dare to confess? (General Contemporary/Women’s Fiction from Winged Publications)

General Historical:

To Outwit Them All by Peggy Wirgau — Inspired by a true story, “To Outwit Them All” is told from the perspective of the only woman in George Washington’s Revolutionary group of citizen spies known as the Culper Ring. (General Historical from Iron Stream Media)

Historical Romance:

A Heart To Treasure by Dienece Darling — The vicar’s son and the draper’s daughter have fought against all odds to be together, but with less than a fortnight to their wedding day, a coming storm will shatter everything. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

A Very English Christmas by Marguerite Gray, Carole Lehr Johnson, and Carrie Turansky — Celebrate the Season with three timeless tales inspired by Jane Austen, Charles Dickens, and Beatrix Potter. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

Love on the Horizon by Penny Zeller — Return to Horizon, Idaho, for Timothy Shepherdson’s story and meet newcomer, Mags, in this tender romance that reminds us that God is the author of new beginnings. (Historical Romance from Maplebrook Publishing)

Military Suspense:

Tick, Tick, Tick … Boom by Felicia Ferguson — With her marriage to clinical psychologist Matt in shambles, Army CID Officer Gabby Carmichael wakes up to a bomb threat. They reluctantly work together to find the bomber, but as pressure mounts, which will explode first? The bomb or their marriage? (Military Suspense from Salt & Light Publishing)

Novella (Romance):

Christmas on the Islands by Annette M. Irby — Washington Island Christmas series novellas all in one place! Visit Puget Sound and the Salish Sea islands in this series of holiday novellas! Enjoy getting to know new characters, with some cameo visits from previous friends. Here you’ll find heart-warming scenes, layered family dynamics, romance, and hope in Jesus. (Romance Novella from Prism Effect Publishing)

A Christmas Inheritance by Myra Johnson, Delia Latham, and Tanya Stowe — Three Christmas stories in one! “His Christmas Refuge:” He came home to leave it all behind. She’s convinced he’ll run again. “A Montana Christmas Promise:” He gave everything to the land. She came only to let it go. “The Prodigal Preacher’s Christmas Homecoming:” A story of redemption, brotherhood, and love reborn under the gentle hand of grace. (Romance Novella, Independently Published)

Romantic Suspense:

Mistletoe and Malice by Lori DeJong — He’s sworn to protect her life … but guarding his heart may be his biggest challenge. (Romantic Suspense from Scrivenings Press)

Fatal Past by Sarah Hamaker — When a pediatrician foils an attempted child abduction, she’s thrust into a dangerous game in which she must rely on the help of her former boyfriend to stay alive. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)

Defending You by Robin Patchen — She stumbled onto a deadly secret, and the man she once wronged is the only one who can keep her alive. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)

Texas Christmas Cover-Up by Terri Reed — A widowed FBI profiler must turn to her ex, a commanding Police Chief to protect her child and solve a cold case. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Speculative Fiction/Fantasy:
Dust and Ashes by Demi Griffin — Even mistakes and failures were folded into the king’s plan! (Speculative Fiction/Fantasy, Independently Published)

 

Plus check out these recent additions to Fiction Finder published within the past month:

Unexpected by Kimberly Keagan — The heirs of Denwall Department Stores find unexpected love In the glittering era of the Gilded Age. (Historical Romance)

Where Secrets End by Rebecca Lake — One man’s obsession. One woman’s past. One chance to survive. (Romantic Suspense)

But There Were Signs by Georgia Curtis Ling — When one of their own is found dead, four pastors’ wives–turned amateur sleuths are playing a deadly game of cat and mouse with a suspected killer in Appalachia. (Contemporary Suspense)

The Dreamer by Jenny Marcelene — To the Ends is an international adventure series helping children ages 6-10 cultivate a biblical worldview and spark prayer for the nations. (Children’s/Middle Grade Chapter Book)

Escaping the Wilderness by Carrie Stuart Parks — On the run through the mountains— with only each other to trust. (Romantic Suspense)

The Realm: The Awakening Begins by K Ross — In a world where dreams are more real than not, and harsh realities collide with visions of eternity, only one god can rule. (Supernatural Suspense)

His Wagon Train Sweetheart by Catherine Kennedy

/ sandramervillehart

Reviewed by Sandra Merville Hart

Introduction to Walton Valley Series

Georgiana Walton has been raised by her father to ride with wagon trains. Her mother died during childbirth. George longs to wear dresses. She wants a permanent home, but marriage and a family of her own are only dreams.

Dr. Elijah Mitchell has a job waiting for him in Santa Fe, where he plans to give his mother a fresh start after his father’s death. Although the prickly George captures his attention, there can be no future for them. Something besides the job is pulling him toward Santa Fe.

I quickly began to care about the heroine’s difficulties. Her character was believable and unique in the story. I loved how the author introduced not only the main characters but also a new community. I’m interested in seeing what happens in the series.

This was an easy, quick read that I enjoyed. I will look for the first book in the series.  

The Last Memory by Kathleen Rouser

/ sandramervillehart / 1 Comment

Reviewed by Sandra Merville Hart

Part of The Great Lakes Lighthouse Brides Collection

Mallory has no memories of her past. The ship she’d been aboard, the Mallory, sank, and she was the sole survivor. Cal Waterson had saved her and brought her to his lighthouse to recuperate. Lily, his sweet daughter, and Cal’s Aunt Ada tend her head wound. But Mallory wonders who she is and what her life had been like.

Although Cal has grown accustomed to loneliness since losing his wife in childbirth, he can’t deny being drawn to Mallory. Lily wants her for a mother, yet Cal tries to deny his heart while waiting to learn her identity.

I was drawn into the story from the first page. Lovable characters—including a sweet little girl who is desperate for a mother—tugged at my heart. I loved that Mallory’s artistic talent brought glimpses of her old life.

I couldn’t put the story down.

This historical novella is a sweet, nostalgic story. I will look for more stories by this author.

The Summer of Keeping Secrets by Jill Lynn

/ sandramervillehart

Reviewed by Sandra Merville Hart

Only something as important as cleaning out her deceased parents’ house could prompt Marin Henderson for an extended stay at her childhood home. Too many bad memories and secrets resided there, things the widow intended to keep hidden from her adult children at all costs.

Her daughter Slade and son Reed arrive to help, but they have wounds and secrets too.

But secrets can create their own scars.

Relatable, wounded characters quickly drew me into the story. There were many unexpected twists and turns. It’s a story about family, of growing apart and denying each other the strength that can be found together.

This contemporary novel was a page-turner for me. Highly recommend.

Amazon

Healing the Mountain Man’s Heart by Misty Beller

/ sandramervillehart / 1 Comment

Reviewed by Sandra Merville Hart

Brothers of Sapphire Ranch, Book 1

1868—Rock Creek, Montana Territory

Dr. Dinah Wyatt accompanies her pregnant twin sister Naomi to the Montana Territory. Naomi was responding to a mail-order bride advertisement from Jericho Coulter. Once her sister is settled, Dinah plans to open a clinic in one of the few towns nearby, regardless of its reputation for wild behavior among the men. They’d hardly bother a female doctor determined to treat their illnesses, right?

Jericho Coulter doesn’t trust the sisters—or any strangers, for that matter. He didn’t advertise for a bride. What did they really want? His brother’s accident requires a doctor’s care. Begrudgingly, he allows them to stay a few days. He must protect his siblings…and the hidden treasure.

I fell in love with both families and they drew me into the story. The lovable main characters possess believable, relatable flaws. This story had many surprising twists that kept me turning pages from the beginning.

I’m already hooked on this series! I can’t wait to read the next book.

Recommended for readers of inspirational historical romances.

Amazon

Spying for Love – New Wild Heart Books eBook Collection Released Today!

/ sandramervillehart

Spying for Love: Five Espionage Historical Romance Novels, released on September 16, 2025.

            Sandra’s novel in the collection: Byway to Danger

Love blooms in the shadows of history’s most pivotal moments as five extraordinary couples risk everything for duty, honor, and love.

Spark of the Revolution by Megan Soja

Patience Abbott has long felt unsettled and anxious to leave behind her painful memories in England for a fresh start in America. As tension grows in her new home of Boston, so does the distance between Patience and her estranged father. So when Josiah Wagner walks into her life, it finally feels like she’s not alone. His patriotic leanings put him at odds with her father’s loyalties.

Josiah Wagner yearns for a true home and family, something he works toward forging tools as a blacksmith, and forging plans with the Sons of Liberty. With the destruction of tea in Boston Harbor, Josiah finds himself drawn into its tumultuous wake, pulling the woman he loves along with him.

A Conflicted Betrothal by Denise Weimer

As a King’s Ranger, Ansel Anderson loves his independent life. He’s also a second son, which means he’ll need the favor of someone influential to secure a land grant to settle his future. What better way to win support than by marrying the daughter of a member of the Governor’s Council?

When Savannah erupts into riots and intrigue following the passage of the Stamp Act, Ansel is tasked with identifying a spy passing sensitive information to the Liberty Boys and the author of anonymous letters threatening those loyal to the governor. And as suspicions focus on the Scott family, which is he prepared to sacrifice—love or loyalty?

Petticoat Spy by Elva Cobb Martin

When Anna Grace Laurens’s parents are murdered and plantation burned, she seizes her only option for escape—a desperate leap into the Cooper River. She’ll do anything to survive…and get revenge.

John Cooper Vargas is used to danger as he sails his sloop upriver through war-torn colonies, but seeing a woman plunge into the river amidst Tory gunfire is something he wouldn’t have thought possible. Until now.

Rescuing her draws him into a web of intrigue, but he can’t let her fight the British on her own. As the American Revolution closes in around them, it may take a miracle for them—and their love—to survive.

The Sword and the Secret by Jan Davis Warren

Lord John Stanton is the last male heir of his royal lineage. He has the responsibility to marry and carry on the family name, but a secret vow to God could change his future from royal heir to humble servant of the church. His journey to the monastery to become a monk is interrupted when he meets a dangerous, but beautiful, woman who has secrets of her own.

Raised as property of the Crown, Julianna Westerfield longs to be free to pursue love and have a family of her own. Trained to be a spy and assassin, she has a chance to earn her freedom by completing a mission to uncover a murderous plot and the identities of the Black Guard. Now the assassins are after her. To survive she must depend on a handsome monk and his cantankerous donkey.

Byway to Danger by Sandra Merville Hart

Meg Brooks didn’t stop spying for the Union when her job at the Pinkerton National Detective Agency ended, especially now that she lives in the Confederate capital. Her job at the Yancey bakery provides many opportunities to discover vital information to pass on to her Union contact.

Cade Yancey knows the beautiful widow is a spy when he hires her, and he has secrets of his own. The more his feelings for the courageous woman grow, the greater his determination to protect her by guarding his secrets. Her own investigations place her in enough peril.

Five complete novels in one collection, each a sweeping tale of intrigue, faith, and romance set against the backdrop of America’s most defining conflicts.

Amazon