Undercurrent of Secrets is a riveting and heartwarming split-time romance that takes place on an old-fashioned riverboat in both the 1920s and present-day. Split-time romances are typically hit or miss for me, but this book is one of the best split-time stories I have ever read! Both the historical storyline and the present-day storyline weaved together perfectly to create mystery that kept me guessing and invested until the last page! I adored both sets of couples, and both heroes were extremely dreamy. The scenes of courtship, adventure, and romantic reunions were full of chemistry and often had me weak in the knees. The ending of this story was a happily ever after that had me teary eyed, and I hardly ever cry at books! I cannot wait to see what Rachel Scott McDaniel writes next, and I highly recommend Undercurrent of Secrets to those who love a delightful story with lots of swoon-worthy romantic moments and a touch of mystery.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. My thoughts are my own—I really did love it!

A nicely interwoven story of past generations and current. Secrets hidden become known. It's not an easy job to blend the past and the present together seamlessly but the author pulled it off perfectly.

I loved the characters of Jack and Hattie and was surprised when the secrets started to evolve. It kept me on the edge of my seat. Undercurrent of Secrets is one of the best Christian mystery/suspense novels I've read this year.

The current time characters of Chace and Devyn are inspirational and also had a wonderful love story to offer. Everything wrapped up beautifully in the end. Highly recommended.

I received a complimentary copy from the author and willingly choose to review it. All opinions are my own.

Two sweet romance stories, two time periods woven together perfectly in this well written romance. I highly recommend this book. I received an advance ebook from the publisher and Netgalley and this is my unbiased review.

A romantic, inspirational addition to Barbour’s Doors to the Past series! Undercurrent of Secrets is utterly enthralling—this story is impossible to put down. Author Rachel McDaniel pulled off a story where you think you know what is going to happen, and suddenly you’re thrown the opposite way. I loved all the surprises! This is the first book of McDaniel’s I have read and it certainly won’t be the last. I highly recommend this dual time story! 4.5/5 stars

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This has been my favorite book in the Doors to the Past series so far. I loved all the characters in both the past and the future. This story really kept me guessing all the way to the end of the book. Both of these couples learned many lessons through the book. I did not want to put the book down. I received a copy of this book from Barbour Publishing for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

Rachel Scott McDaniel has penned an excellent book with Undercurrent of Secrets, which is a Doors to the Past book. This dual timeline takes place on the Belle of Louisville, previously the Idlewild, steamboat on the Ohio River.
Devyn Asbury is a wedding planner on the present day Belle, getting ready for the Timeless Wedding Venue contest. Chase Jones comes aboard with half a picture showing the boat Idlewild and a young girl named Hattie. Together Devyn and Chase follow leads to find out who Hattie is.
The other timeline from the past features Hattie Louis, a young girl who has grown up on the boat under the wings of Captain Duffy. First Mate Jack Marshall comes aboard as the boat is making its final journey to Pittsburgh before Duffy retires.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading the book and not wanting to put it down just to see what was around the corner in the life of Hattie and Jack and how Devyn and Chase were able to put the pieces of the puzzle together. There were several supporting characters that made the stories even more enjoyable.
I was given a free copy of this book for review and the opinion is my own. #UndercurrentOfSecrets #DoorsToThePast #RachelScottMcDaniel

The Doors to the Past series takes readers to protagonists living in two different centuries, but seamlessly weaves their stories together. Devyn, a wedding coordinator on a historic boat, finds herself immersed in the mysterious story of Hattie, the steamboat handy-woman born a century before. Both women embark on adventures like no other, finding love along the way.

“the second you try to convince a guy to love you is the exact moment he’s not worthy of your love.”

Devyn finds herself completely embarrassed by her ex-fiance when he uses their breakup to elevate his social media platform. Now, she finds herself planning everyone else’s wedding but her own. When a contest comes her way involving the Belle, so does Chase. Chase Jones come seeking the identity of a mystery woman in a picture from the 1920s. In exchange for her help, Chase offers his artistic skills.

Hattie has lived her entire life aboard the Idlewild (now known as The Belle). Duffy, her adoptive father has let her participate in more duties aboard the Idlewild than was typical of women in that time. When a man comes on beard to be Duffy’s second, Hattie finds herself learning not only the true identity of Jack, but of herself.

McDaniel takes readers on a journey aboard the Idlewild “Belle” following the journeys of two women who find love along with the discovery of themselves. Undercurrent of Secrets is a story for lovers of romance, intrigue, and strong family bonds.

There's something about a vintage riverboat that evokes romance and a time when life was slower paced, and Undercurrent of Secrets by Rachel Scott McDaniel, the latest novel in the Doors to the Past series, perfectly captures these emotions.

The novel features an actual riverboat, a National Historic Landmark, with a long and unique history. The contemporary story centers around Devyn, Chase, and the ship’s current name, the Belle of Louisville, while the historic plot features Hattie, Jack, and the boat with its original identity of The Idlewild.

One-half of a historic photograph brings Devyn and Chase together in the present-day story at a time when Devyn is struggling to rebuild her life after a high-profile breakup. The events behind the photograph are shared in Hattie and Jack’s 1920s story. Hattie, raised as an orphan on the Idlewild, meets Jack when he’s hired as the new First Mate.

The witty banter, swoony romance, and cliffhanger scenes involving each pair propelled me through this 250-page novel. I appreciated the ship’s history and the way the storylines were woven together. Both couples seemed to fall into “insta love” but the book’s length required these condensed timelines. I also anticipated some of the twists, but was pleasantly surprised by others.

Thank you to the publisher for a review copy. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

"Undercurrent of Secrets" is a Christian romance set modern day and in 1926. Hattie was kind, hard-working, and resourceful. She helped out Jack even though he was taking over her unofficial position as first mate. Jack appreciated her help and supported her rather than feeling threatened by her. Devyn had control issues, only feeling safe when she could control every detail. Her boss helped her trust that God was in control and would give her strength to face life's uncertainties. Chase gently showed her that not all men are jerks and built her up.

The historical details about the steamboat were woven into the story. The mystery was a (nice) excuse for the two to spend time together learning about each other and a way to connect the stories, but it wasn't the main focus. It was interesting, but the reader (having both timelines) could guess a lot of it before the modern couple. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this sweet romance.

Filled with faith, romance, and suspense in equal measure, Rachel Scott McDaniel’s latest release earns a spot on the must-read lists of readers across the board.



When it comes to Rachel Scott McDaniel’s novels, I have never been able to pace myself. Try as I might to keep the magic going even longer, I can’t keep myself from devouring her books! Undercurrent of Secrets was no exception. In fact, I do believe it has been my favorite of her books so far.



The thing that is so addictive about McDaniel’s writing is that it has amazing flow. The dialogue is always snappy, which definitely fits her niche of the 1920s era, but it also fits in seamlessly with the contemporary timeline, proving her deft ability at writing stories that take place in both the past and the present. Just thinking about it has me longing to get lost in those pages again!



The characters in the book are so well developed, you feel like you really know these people when it’s all said and done. Devyn was such a delight! From her love of all things vintage, particularly old movies, to her devotion to junk food, and the way she put her whole heart and soul into everything she did, she was so relatable and felt like the type of character you would want to befriend in real life. And Chase was my favorite kind of hero; strong and full of heart. These two were perfect for each other.



Hattie was a joy to read about as well. She’s as tough as any of the men in the steamboat’s crew, but there is also a softness about her; she has a sweet personality that really draws you to her. Reading her amazing story was a true joy.



The Belle of Louisville is a character herself in this story. It was so intriguing to read about the different changes the steamboat went through over the years. I totally want to visit this place that meant so much to Hattie and Devyn someday!



Undercurrent of Secrets is the perfect title for this book, because secrets abound throughout the story. There were so many twists and turns that kept me guessing and made for a truly fun reading experience. When you combine this with lifelike romance, a sweet message of faith, and a bevy of historical facts, you have a truly amazing novel.



Full of faith, mystery, romance, and history, Undercurrent of Secrets is a book that I would recommend to anyone. A must read!



All opinions expressed are my own. Many thanks to the author and Barbour for a complimentary copy of this book.

As long as she stayed in the current of God’s love, He would safely steer her through still and troubled waters.

What a wonderful story! The Belle is a steamboat built in Pittsburg in the early 1900’s. Having changed its name and purpose several times over the years, it is now a boat for special occasions, like a wedding. Devyn Asbury is a party planner with the job of preparing this lovely venue to win the Once Upon a Wedding contest, a most prestigious designation. Chase Jones, an artist, is looking for someone last seen on the Belle, back in the late 1920’s, a mystery that begs to be solved.

An orphaned child, a crusty sea captain, a suave second in command, prohibition and more send our intrepid mystery solvers into all sorts of different places. Come on down to the river to join them as they try to figure out the code left many years ago.

This ARC of a Doors to the Past novel was received through Barbour Publishing and NetGalley. These impressions and comments are my own and were in no way solicited.

After reading this split time book, I wanted to rush down to the Ohio River and see if the Belle of Louisville might be docked there. This dual timeline book weaves two interesting stories in with the history of the boat and the area. It was a fun read as I recognized several of the towns from the excellent descriptions in the book.

The curiosity of Devyn and Chase uncovering clues of a photograph was unique and clever in moving the events throughout the story from the present to the 1920’s. I thought each story was well done and loved the surprising conclusion. I enjoyed the way the lives of Hattie and Jack from the past intertwined with Devyn and Chase.

One quote that I especially liked about faith and love was, “I had to say goodbye to all I knew. Up to then, my entire life was spent between the banks of rivers. The first step was the hardest, but the most important. I ventured past, and in losing sight of the shores, I caught a glimpse of truth. Of what love is. Love is bold. It takes a good deal of courage and a trusting heart.”

Thank you to NetGalley and Barbour Publishing for this book in the Doors to the Past series. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.

I loved this dual timeline story, but living within an hour of the story's setting made it even more special. Both the current timeline and the one set in the mid 1920s revolved around the steamboat once known as the Idlewild, and now known as the Belle of Louisville. Hattie's story of life aboard the Idlewild is the more compelling of the two, and is made more so by the mystery Devyn and Chase are working to solve while also planning a grand ball on the Belle.

Undercurrent of Secrets is not only a story of uncovering secrets, but is also a story of uncovering ones own true identity. It is a tale of discovering independence through dependence on God, yet both fans of Christian and secular, historical and dual timeline fiction will love this novel. I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy from Barbour Publishing via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.

Undercurrent of Secrets by Rachel McDaniel

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
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Story Notes

Its pretty clever to write both a dual time line and historical fiction book. That’s what Rachel McDaniel does here with this incredible engaging read and I was honestly sad when I got to the last page. She begins with with a fabulous first line that succeeds in ensuring you don’t walk away until you have all the answers. Devyn Asbury is a wedding planner aboard the Belle of Louiville and she loves her job. Having suffered a devastating and very public broken engagement the year prior, she is blessed to have found something to love again. Her faith has grown stronger than ever through everything and while she is not quire ready for love she is ready to help others have wonderful events. Her boss lets her know that the Once Upon a Wedding magazine contest they entered has confirmed that the Belle is a finalist for the “Timeless Wedding Venue” Award. Thrilled but also terrified, Devyn determines to make their Benefit Ball, which is also the event the judges of the contest will attend, the event of the season. They need a headliner for the event to make it stand out and the theme will need to showcase the Belle to it’s finest. In the middle of her ponderings comes the appearance of one Chase Jones, a handsome and mysterious man who offers to help Devyn with her event in exchange for her help with a mystery he’s trying to solve about his family. Little does Devyn know that this quest will teach her more about herself and her own family than she ever dreamed of learning. Plus, she just might get a chance at love she never hope to have again. Now they just have to find out who Hattie is and how she’s connected to the Belle, or as it was first named, the Idlewilde

1926 – Hattie Louis has lived aboard the Idlewild since her adopted father and ships’ captain, Duffy, found her as an infant on the docks. Faced with the last season of the riverboat’s tours, Hattie will soon have to find a new life on shore. But not before she gives her all until that time. When Duffy hires a new first mate, Hattie is somewhat put out since she’s always served in that role, unofficially. Jack Marshall is a handsome young man with a mysterious air around him. His large size belies his kindness but Hattie isn’t eager to trust this man until he proves himself. He’s too fastidious about the cargo they carry and, though always polite, doesn’t seem too willing to tell too much about himself. What could Jack be hiding and what does it have to do with the Idlewild? Searching out this mystery and others that come up along the way will bring Hattie and Jack closer. Will they both be willing to sacrifice what once was for what could be?

I loved reading both of these amazing love stories. They played well off of each other and every chapter drew me deeper into the situations. I was mad, excited, happy dancing, crying and cheering as I read each page and loved how it all turned out. I don’t want to give any spoilers but I’ll tell you that this is for sure one story you should read and soon. The true history that was woven into the pages and the marvelous characters will stick with you long after you finish the story. You might even find yourself rereading parts of it immediately to spend a little more time with it. So, go grab your copy now and settle in for a story that will hold you captive from beginning to end. Well done, Rachel!!

I received a complimentary ARC copy of this book from Barbour Publishing via NetGalley. I am not required to write a review but am most pleased to do so. I will receive no fiscal compensation for this review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.

This was a beautiful love story. Actually, we got two love stories in this book. One set in the past and one in the present. It was done in a beautiful way. I loved the setting with the old steam boat. I loved the mystery surrounding the girl in the photo. I enjoyed the story in which the secret of the past was unravelled.

An engaging dual timeline story! It starts out feeling like a light contemporary romance, but switches gears as the past story is blended in. Hattie's tale is told in first person, adding a bit more insight into her character as it unfolds through her perspective. Unexpected twists and a mystery add plot interest, especially towards the end. The "love is bold" theme comes through both past and present character's stories. The faith element is added in later too, helping the characters through their dilemmas with a touch of hope.
Romance fans will enjoy this. Yes, it is one of those 'kissing books', but it has other focuses too. A satisfying read overall. Recommend!

This was a fun book to read. I loved the history, intrigue and romance. It was fun getting more than one love story. I really enjoyed the way the author transitioned from the present to the past. She's really good at cliffhangers. I enjoyed watching the story unfold and learning more about these characters. They had some interesting challenges, but ultimately put their trust in God and made it through.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Netgalley, and this is my honest review.

I have read all the Doors To The Past books and cannot pick a favorite. All of the books are so well-written and intriguing. Undercurrent of Secrets did not disappoint. In these books, you are transported between different time periods. The stories and characters are connected but don't assume you know how. As each story unfolds you find yourself more and more intrigued to find out how each person ends up. In the book Undercurrent of Secrets we board a riverboat in the 1920s and the same riverboat in current time. As in the previous books the characters are somehow related. But it's never in an obvious manner. In this particular story we meet a young lady who thought she knew about her past and another young lady who thought that her past defined who she was. Of course neither one is accurate. I highly recommend any of the doors of the past books but especially Undercurrent of Secrets. I voluntarily received a copy of this book from NetGalley.

Title: Undercurrent of Secrets
Author: Rachel Scott McDaniel

Ch: 38

Pg: 256

Series: Doors to the Past

Genre: Dual time Christian Historical romance, Christian contemporary romance with a hint of mystery

Rating: 5 stars

Publisher: Barbour



My history genealogy and rom com loving nerd self, loved Undercurrent of Secrets. I was hooked from the first line. I knew I needed to read it as soon as found out the setting was on a beloved landmark in my hometown The Belle of Louisville. Of which Rachel made her a character in the story as well.


I loved this dual time story that’s both a romance and a genealogical mystery. What I loved about this was both stories were intertwined. And I didn’t see Rachel’s twist coming.


Normally I tend to favor one of the stories in the dual time story. But with this one I loved both stories equally. I also found myself relating to both Devyn Asbury and Hattie Louis though Devyn was a favorite and like her The Belle holds sentimental family value to me. Though my parents didn’t get married on the Belle they did have one of their first dates there. But when it comes to the heroes, I can’t decide which one I like more I love them both equally Chase Jones in the modern time period and Jack Marshall in the historical period.


Reading Undercurrent of Secrets I felt like I was on the Belle Louisville rolling on the Ohio. I hope Rachel’s wonder story bring new attention to the Belle as well as new readers to her books.



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

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

This is such a fascinating story! Told in dual timelines, this book is about Devyn is present day and Hattie in the 1920's. I especially love the mystery surrounding Hattie and Jack and The Belle of Louisville. This is Christian fiction and there are a couple of parts that felt a little preachy, but overall it was tastefully added into the character's lives. This story had a few twists that I did not see coming!

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my copy of this book. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.