This book was so fun to read! I enjoyed watching Calista try to find a balance between being herself and being a Pinkerton. The best operatives seem to have a little bit of themselves mixed in to their disguises, but when Calista is surrounded by her big and boisterous family the lines tend to get even more blurred. I loved hanging out with her unique family. Far from being a society lady like her, they tended to be blunt and truthful to a fault. I just couldn’t get enough of them. Calista and Matthew shared a great connection, and I enjoyed watching their chemistry. Seeing a seedier side of town was a unique adventure, and I could easily imagine a woman getting herself in way over her head. I loved seeing Matthew as a pastor and his heart to help those around him. I could picture his outrage about the “baby raffle” and couldn’t imagine someone actually doing that! I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Historical Romance. I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and was in no way forced to post a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

The story takes place in 1898, featuring a strong female lead who’s flying by the seat of her pants, determined to keep the stories straight that she’s telling people; like the one about her being a nurse. How could she pull that off when she fainted at the sight of blood? She would make it work because Calista was trying to become a full-fledged Pinkerton operative. Currently she was an agent in training but not for long. This is the first book in the Jopling Chronicles series where readers get to know Calista York, her family and how she uses her agent skills. Things were going ok until Calista takes a missing person’s job in her hometown Chicago. She tries to keep her family in the dark as to what she’s up to, but they are everywhere, literally. Calista likes to keep things simple and business like, but she finds that almost impossible with family around. Her family is a hoot.

Matthew is new to the city; he is a pastor trying to get to know the locals. In order to do this he starts to work in the mines. Matthew learns a lot and gets to know the men better. He hopes to invite them to a bible study in his small cottage. Matthew genuinely cares. Then there is a whole thing with a baby raffle that Calista and Matthew cannot believe is taking place and the whole town is embracing it.

Calista is determined to keep the main thing the main thing but there are so many unexpected distractions. One of them being a handsome man named Matthew. Both Calista and Matthew are willing to give their all to make a difference in the world and help the people around them.

I enjoyed Calista’s quirky family, especially her grandmother; she is fun. I liked both main characters, their witty dialogue, an array of quirky minor characters that make you smile, and a wonderful blend of mystery, clean romance, with splash of suspense. This is a delightful, light-hearted, fun getaway, that will have you smiling in the end.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog www.bookfun.org

I really enjoyed this first book in the Joplin Chronicles series! It was extremely interesting learning the history of a town I've been through many times. The heroine was spunky and clever. I loved the premise of her being a Pinkerton agent on a case in her hometown. It created a lot of conflict, especially when a handsome missionary comes onto the scene.

The author did an excellent job setting the stage for this series with a cast of fabulous side characters - Maisie! - that will hopefully got their time in the spotlight soon! Can't wait for the next story!

I received a copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

I so thoroughly enjoyed Calista's story that for possibly the first time ever, I was disappointed that it was a love story, since that would mean her personal story changes.

Calista's family was an excellent addition to the mix - very "can't live with em, can't live without em." They were sufficiently frustrating, interfering... and protective, helpful and loyal. And hilarious. Honestly, if I could it my way, this story/series would have taken after The Gresham Chronicles, covering many years and multiple family story lines, all woven together, so we could read about the antics the cousins get into over the years and I could have had more of Calista as a Pinkerton.

There was so much to appreciate in this story. The subject matter was surprisingly heavy (kidnapping, human trafficking, prostitution, alcoholism, etc), but balanced with levity at just the right times and in just the right ways. There were moral disagreements between characters without a clear "right" answer, which was a healthy departure from the way moral dilemmas are typically handled. Characters exercised restraint in challenging or tempting situations. Faith, prayer, provision, waiting on answers from God were all present themes and well-applied.

*SPOILERS*
The plot was pretty clear and I felt disappointment simmering under the surface, knowing that Calista's unique and interesting path was going to be coming to a close. Her work as a Pinkerton agent was an original tale and I was so bummed that it was over already. She may have been lacking in a few areas as an operative - putting herself in obvious danger without adequate defense and missing some necessary skills (her fabrication and evasion needed some work, haha) - but reading about a young, resourceful, independent, intelligent female agent in historical times was fascinating.

I was also disappointed in Robert Pinkerton's decision at the end. I'm not sure if this was done to give Calista one clear path, but such an attitude by a pillar of justice was certainly a let down.

My only solace is that this is the first in a series that just HAS to involve more Kentworth cousins, which is a guaranteed good time.

What I Loved:
There’s nothing I love more than a well-crafted mystery. And, boy, was I in for a treat here! I had portions figured out but not the whole thing, so it was a joy to watch it all unravel. I also have a sweet spot for a Pinkerton story. There’s just something fun about the historical setting and the undercover agency.
Add to that a sweet romance and solid Christian characters, and we’re in for an entertaining novel! I also found the historical details about Joplin very interesting.
Truly, I have no complaints. I love reading Jennings because she keeps a solid Christian message while telling an engaging historical romance.

Rating and Recommendations: I’m giving Courting Misfortune 5 stars. I highly recommend it to Christian historical or Pinkerton fans.

~ I received a copy from NetGalley. All thoughts are my own. I was not compensated for this review or required to give a favorable one.

This is the first book in the Joplin Chronicles Series set in the very late 1800’s, and it sure promises to be an amazing, fun, laugh out loud and charming Series!
Calista York is a Kansas City girl and an undercover Pinkerton agent in training, and this new assignment she’s been given may be the perfect opportunity to secure her job. A little unexpected, though, as she is sent to Joplin, Missouri, where she has an extended family that may get in the way of her keeping a low profile in order to succeed in her task, which is to rescue Lila Seaton, the kidnapped daughter of a Chicago well known mobster boss.
Matthew Cook is a former farmer turned into a missionary preacher and sent to Joplin, known as a sin city full of many lost souls: gamblers, drunks, women of ill repute, and the miners that still have many things to learn about living a godly life. He sure is having a hard time at it, but things get even more complicated when reckless and captivating Miss York arrives to town and seems to be getting in one scrape after another, always putting herself in danger.
But Calista doesn’t want a man -or anyone else- interfering in her investigation. But it seems that instead of keeping her identity undercover, she is attracting more attention than she ought to… That is, if she wants to find the mobster’s daughter and finally get the recognition she craves.
Things get more complicated as the local people organize a raffle for the orphanage, where the prize is a baby, and Calista’s name is entered in the drawing. Can you see the trouble brewing? And will Calista ever find Lila, before she ends up kidnapped herself or worse? Will she and Matthew, opposites as they are, ever have a chance of acknowledging their growing feelings? I won’t spoil the story, you’ll have to read it for yourself to find out. I’ll just say it was a delightful journey, full of everything I love in my novels: sweet romance, humor and laugh out loud moments, mixed with intrigue and danger. The plot kept me engaged the whole time. There are unexpected twists and lots of action and funny moments. The romance is sweet and clean, a bit hard for them to let down their walls, but so endearing. Most of all, I loved the characters: Calista’s spunky, naïve and straightforward nature had me smiling a lot. And Matthew was funny and too, especially because he took everything so seriously, and how he sees Calista as a lost sheep at first. His feeling of helplessness is deep, and he will have to learn and mature in regard as what is most important in his mission. Calista will be a help in that. They both have heart of gold and are selfless and interested in. helping others. The book has an inspiring message that wasn’t preachy at all.
The secondary characters, especially Calista’s cousins, were a wonderful addition and made the story more fun and enjoyable. I can see some characters in this book getting their long story later in this Series.
The book is well written, the descriptions enough detailed for me to transport myself to Joplin and the characteristics of the place and people in that era.
I definitely recommend this book to anyone! It was delighful and endearing! A great escape for these days!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.

This book was a blast—charming characters, an intriguing plot, and a wealth of funny moments! I love a good Regina Jennings novel and this one was a delight to read!

Absolutely fantastic!!! That’s how I feel about “Courting Misfortune,” the new book by Regina Jennings. Calista York is a refreshing female lead who is trying to develop her career in an area most often dominated by men. Matthew Cook is the missionary who is trying to make a difference in Joplin, Missouri, a town that appears deep in sin. Calista is sent to Joplin where she must discover the whereabouts of Lila Seaton, who has been kidnapped. Jennings does so much more than just tell a story. She entertains the reader in a way that keeps one thinking and laughing and loving all at the same time. Her addition and development of the characters that make up Calista’s family in the Joplin area put this story over the top and add an element that keeps the reader smiling.


Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and was not required to write a favorable review. All opinions are my own.

Courting Misfortune begins Regina Jennings new Joplin Chronicles, which is a series based in the rough mining town of Joplin, Missouri in the late 1890s. Calista York is the daring, yet somewhat naïve heroine of the story whose eagerness and escapades endear readers to her dangerous and comedic life as an undercover Pinkerton operative. The mission that Calista faces holds more danger than merely finding the kidnapped daughter of a dangerous mob boss. Calista must go undercover to find this missing woman in her hometown. Not only must she face dangerous groups and nefarious people, but Calista has to keep her family from discovering her true reason for being back in Joplin. If Calista can successfully complete this case, she will be able to finally become a full-fledged Pinkerton detective. Can Calista find Lila Seaton unharmed before others get to her?
A chance encounter leaves Calista sitting across the table from a young and pleasant missionary pastor, Matthew Cook. Calista doesn't know if she should be infuriated by his interference with her mission or appreciative of his concern for her safety. Regardless, Calista must not let Matthew see through her disguise and the many inconsistencies with her excuses and stories. In his young life, Matthew Cook had never experienced the wide array of corruption that he now sees vividly in his new mission field of Joplin. The only confusing thing to Matthew is his suspicion that Calista isn't as truly down-trodden and far from truth as she pretends to be. When Calista keeps changing her story, Matthew becomes more and more suspicious of her true motives and her heart. Can Matthew help her to see the truth? Will he be able to help her to keep away from the danger she always seems to be drowning in? Will he be able to keep his heart from being tangled with hers? Can Calista find this young lady and help save her life without letting her disguise slip?
Courting Misfortune was a very entertaining, wholesome, and hilarious tale full of intrigue, romance, mystery, adventure, faith, family, and much more. I truly enjoyed the constantly changing and adventurous plot and the relatable and realistic characters that Ms. Jennings crafted for this book. As much as I enjoyed the plot, characters, and well-crafted storyline, I honestly appreciated the strong themes of family, faith, and humor that Ms. Jennings filled this work with. I am a fan of her writings, but I particularly enjoyed this exciting tale full of danger, humor, and of course a sweet love story. I hope you have the opportunity to read and enjoy Courting Misfortune as much as I have. Happy readings!
Disclaimer: Bethany House Publisher graciously provided me with a copy of this book through NetGalley. All opinions are my own and part of an unbiased review.

Calista York is a probationary Pinkerton agent searching for the kidnapped daughter of a Chicago mobster somewhere in the rowdy city of Joplin, Missouri. She must work undercover to save the missing girl from harm, and nothing can stop her-- not her nosy extended family in the area, the seedy crowd of miners and fallen women of Joplin, and especially not the handsome missionary determined to keep her safe.
Matthew Cook is a missionary trying to reach out to the fallen community known as “wicked Joplin.” When he learns that the local children’s home is raffling off a baby to raise money, he is determined to stop the spectacle while continuing his Christian outreach to the unruly miners he befriends. The only thing that could possibly distract him is the confounding and beautiful Calista York, who always seems to be hiding something and getting herself into trouble.
Can these two find a way to face their feelings for each other with such important missions on their hearts? And will they be able to intervene and help those who need it the most?
Regina Jennings delivers a spunky and exciting tale full of adventure and romance that keeps you intrigued until the very last page. This was an extremely enjoyable and upbeat read with just enough danger and mystery to make it exciting. A cast of colorful, offbeat, and sometimes exasperating characters like Calista’s cousins bring humor to adventurous plot, but did try my patience at times. This may very well be the intention because they annoy our hero and heroine to no end! Calista’s recklessness and Matthew’s overrighteous attitude at the beginning were not quite to my liking, but their character arcs show growth and maturity in the end, which makes the book less predictable and therefore much more entertaining. The romance between the two was both sweet and swoon-worthy! There were some great scenes between the two that made this such a well-written love story. Both the romance between the two charcters and the overall plot had twists and surprises that made this book impossible to put down. I loved this tale of adventure, mystery, and romance from Regina Jennings, and I cannot wait for the next books in the series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and publisher to review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

From Calista’s drive as a Pinkerton agent and ability to back herself into corners to Matthew’s heart to reach lost souls in a town full of darkness, Courting Misfortune drew me in. Calista’s extended family kept me there.

Regina Jennings has once again written a historical romance full of wit, humor, and memorable characters with an underlying thread of mystery to solve. And the theme of finding your calling is clear throughout the novel.

If you’re looking for an engaging read that will make you laugh out loud at moments, look no further.



Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Regina Jennings takes a whole new look at the Pinkerton agency in this one of a kind, baby raffling, laugh out loud historical novel filled with romance, a darling hero, a determined heroine, and her meddling family.

I have been looking forward to reading this book since it first came out, how could I not with a title like "Courting Misfortune" and a cover that just jumps out begging to be read?!

Calista York is the kind of character that I would not expect to like as much as I did, only because I did not think there would be as much character development as Jennings so carefully wove throughout her newest novel.

I knew I loved Matthew Cook from the start, he is the kind of hero that I like reading about, (but may or may not love in real life, ;)) and I love seeing how like-minded characters come to have their own romance even when it is unexpected.

With an abundance of missteps, numerous tales woven and nearly forgotten, and twists that will keep you guessing this historical work of fiction is one I am happy to say I highly recommend.

Content: Dealings with prostitution, and other likewise topics.

18+

I voluntarily received and reviewed a complimentary e/copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

I love this new series. I especially love that this brings in people that were minor characters and main characters from previous stories. Calista thinks she wants certain things in her life but maybe she wants something else. Mathew needs to learn what some of the people go through each day before he can preach to them. I really enjoyed the laughs in the story. I loved the twists and turns. I received a copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

In Courting Misfortune, you'll meet a spunky heroine and an honorable preacher whose lives collide when Calista goes to Joplin on a case for the Pinkertons. At first Matthew thinks she's up to no good and is on a mission to save her. Calista struggles between wanting Matthew and needing to finish this job. This is an adventurous Christian romance written by one of my favorite authors. The extra characters (mostly Calista's cousins) help make this a fun romp!

Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review.

This was a fun lighthearted mystery. If you are familiar with and enjoy Ms Jennings’ books, you won’t be disappointed in this latest one. Good, solid storytelling with a moving plot and interesting characters

Courting Misfortune by Regina Jennings is the first in a new series Joplin Chronicles. I live close to Joplin, so I found it fascinating to see what type of town it was historically.

I enjoyed seeing the heroine, Calista, as the Pinkerton detective. The story kept me guessing as to if she would find the lost daughter. It was a very satisfying ending.

The author balanced humor and series storylines for an enjoyable read. Some of the scenes with Calista and Matthew, the pastor were funny. Matthew dealt with some interesting situations trying to be a pastor to this unusual group of miners.

I was pleased with the author’s ability to create strong female characters that were also likable.

I look forward to more in the series.

I received this book from Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review.
You can see my full review at More Than a Review dot com where I rate the level of sex, violence, language and drug/alcohol use in books.

With Courting Misfortune, Regina Jennings has once again crafted a book with a great cast of characters and plenty of incentive to keep turning pages.

I love a good Pinkerton story, and Courting Misfortune did not disappoint. Calista’s determination makes her a great detective, and I enjoyed watching her go about the city trying to find Lila. Matthew’s presence not only provides a distraction but also conflict that threatens to keep Calista from her goal. The resulting tension is delicious and keeps you turning pages.

And the secondary characters definitely provide comedic relief. The antics of Calista’s cousins had me laughing out loud, and I loved their interactions with both Calista and Matthew.

I loved the reminder that not everything is as it seems. Matthew assumes Calista is a sheep gone astray, not realizing she has a deep faith that sustains her. A lot of this issue stems from Calista’s willingness to enter a gray area in order to progress in her investigation. I think this definitely gives Christians some food for thought. Is it important how we present ourselves to the world? And does our conviction to witness to lost souls sometimes lead to an inflated sense of self-importance? Matthew’s frustration that his mission wasn’t going the way he wanted definitely made me wonder about this. Do we want to serve God or create a name for ourselves? I think it’s an easy line to cross.

I think Matthew’s zeal and the lessons he learns also deepened the romance with Calista. Their determination to help others is what makes them a great couple, even if it sometimes creates conflict between them. But all that conflict made the ending that much sweeter.

I could say so much more, but I want to avoid spoilers. Let’s just say Jennings takes you on an adventure filled with misunderstandings, mishaps, and an unexpected twist.

Overall, Courting Misfortune is an entertaining read historical romance readers will love.

(Note: I received a complimentary copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.)

Some books are a pure joy to read! I found that while reading Courting Misfortune that I was just smiling the whole way through it and even laughing aloud in some parts. Calista York's family was so entertaining and reminded me a bit of my family. The baby raffle in the story was definitely one of the most outrageous things I've ever read about but is a real event that has happened in the past. I love Matthew's very black-and-white attitude, it's people like him that lead the charge on change and reform. People with a very black-and-white attitude are most effective when they have someone by their side who have the same hunger for justice but are able to see the gray areas and soften their edges and approach. Such a person is Calista, who's pursuit of justice is sincere though the way she goes about it isn't as straight cut as Matthew's. Their first meeting was so much fun to read! So take a journey to Joplin, the raucous mining town in Missouri. Follow Matthew as he tries to right the wrongs of the city and Calista as she attempts to work undercover while hiding her true motives from her family. Courting Misfortune was both entertaining and enjoyable, you won't be disappointed!

I added Courting Misfortune to my reading list based on the recommendation of readers in my online community. Then when Regina Jennings secured a spot as a finalist in the 2020 Christy Awards, it amped up my desire to begin reading her new series.

What friends had to say about the author was true, she expertly uses humor and wit to capture and hold the attention of her audience. I especially enjoyed this aspect of the story when it was delivered through Calista's family. Maise, Howie, and Granny's antics provided some of the best laughs.
Calista and Matthew both had admirable reasons for being in Joplin. She's on a mission to save a woman who had reportedly been kidnapped and taken to a house of ill repute. Matthew had come as a missionary—bent on saving the citizens of Joplin from vice. They would have made a good team had Calista been willing to break her cover and confide in him. Instead, she spends a prolonged period of time spinning outrageous stories in order to maintain her cover as a Pinkerton. For this reason, I had difficulty comprehending how their romance could progress.

Courting Misfortune was a little too light and whimsy for my tastes, but I can see how it could provide the perfect escape for others.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

An entertaining story to start off a fun new series

This story reminded me a lot of Jen Turano's books, though the comedy's a little more understated, not quite as "madcap".

Calista is trying to figure out how to find & rescue a missing young woman, so she can become a Pinkerton detective. Matthew is trying to figure out how to rescue lost souls, so he can become an effective pastor.

They're both earnest, a little light on life experience, & slightly bumbling, and eventually decide to work together - especially since Calista's surrounded by relatives trying to keep her out of trouble despite herself. It makes for both funny and occasionally dangerous situations. It did feel a little laggy toward the middle, but nothing excessive.

It's an enjoyable story that has a bit of a twist at the end to keep you second-guessing things along the way - I totally recommend it!

*Romance level: sweet kisses, nothing graphic

*Religion: Christian, but organic to the story & not heavy-handed at all