I found this book very slow and boring. I was hoping for a good experience, but unfortunately it was not.

The description of this story had several appealing features. The Montana setting in the early 20th century is intriguing. I liked the idea of the heroine being a pioneering female court stenographer, and the hero as a librarian. But unfortunately, the execution fell flat for me. The villain of the piece was terribly obvious and had all the personality development of Snidely Whiplash. The idea of the heroine wanting to investigate the crime and apply early forensic techniques could have been very interesting, but is totally glossed over, and what is there makes little sense. The saddest part was the inspirational content. Instead of flowing naturally from the characters, the heroine's religious journey is speedy, and facile. The whole thing reads rather like "Nancy Drew solves a murder and settles the whole "Faith vs. Works" theological conundrum faster than you can say '95 Theses'!"

It's all well-intentioned, and there are a few charming and humorous passages, usually involving the town matriarch Marvella and her dog, but overall, it misses the mark.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Peterson and Woodhouse has written another wonderful piece of historical fiction in their newest release, The Heart's Choice. I adored the characters, setting and plot in this one. I loved it. It will be getting a very well deserved five plus stars from me.

Rebecca goes to Montana to be the first woman court stenographer. There she meets Mark. He is more interested in books than ranching, much to his father’s disappointment. Mark gets a job at the library. Marks sister Kate just recently got married and loves ranching but their father still wants Mark to run it too. And his fathers health is declining suspiciously rapid. There was also a murder in town and Rebecca feels that the one accused is not the real murderer. She and Mark work together to figure out who the real murderer is and it might be someone close to them.

Librarian and Court Stenographer make an interesting pair and are great at solving a murder mystery. This story was really good! I enjoyed it a lot. Some of it was a little cheesy but I didn’t mind at all. The person who was the villain is quite evil and of course horrible. I really liked Rebecca and Mark. They are very cute together. I also liked the Judge and his wife a lot. Great Christian content and message. Overall a great read and I definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

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

There were things I loved about The Heart’s Choice by Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse. And then there were parts I wasn’t too impressed with.

Let’s start with what I loved. The hero and heroine. I love that the hero is bookish. I mean, he’s a librarian, after all. I liked that even though there was strife, he loved his family. I also enjoyed getting to know Rebecca—who is the first female court report in the state of Montana, and she has even greater ambitions. I adored the friends to more romance which progressed at just the right pace.

However, the mystery in this story was on the weak side. I knew who the villain was the moment he was on the page, and he felt like a very one-dimensional character. I also can’t stand it when a story takes too long to get to what’s on the back cover blurb (yes, I read those to help me determine whether or not I will like a book). For this particular story, what’s on the blurb is such a small part of the story and doesn’t even take place until halfway through the book, I was beginning to wonder if it ever would.

In conclusion, weighing my likes and dislikes of The Heart’s Choice, the book falls into the average category for me. But because I’m a fan of these two authors, I’ll still be reading the next book in the Jewels of Kallispell series and hoping for a story I love as much as many other books written by Peterson and Woodhouse (together and separately).

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

4.5 stars

First of all, before I say anything else about The Heart’s Choice, I have to mention the cover. I was drawn to the mauve tones right from the beginning, but as I read this compelling story the various elements of the cover took on new meaning & I liked it even more.

Second, I have two words for you: bookish. hero. Oh yes, I said it. The hero of The Heart’s Choice is – drag that fainting couch closer to you for safety reasons, dear readers – a LIBRARIAN! And he loves the smell of new books. (Are you hooked yet?) And reading serial mystery novels. And he loves shared reading with the people he cares about. And he thinks about doing a story time for children at the library. I mean… be still my readerly heart!!!! I was all aswoon before we got any farther than our intro to Mark Andrews where he indulges in the smell of the library’s books and I blissfully-sighed into fictional-character love with him.

I also love that the ‘typical gender role’ swapping doesn’t just stop with Mark as a librarian (a role typically given to females in historical and contemporary fiction alike). For onto the scene comes our delightful heroine, Rebecca Whitman, and her newly acquired job which makes her (fictionally, anyway) the first female court stenographer in Montana. Neither Mark nor Rebecca are fussed with each other’s profession of choice over the course of their growing friendship; rather, they show deep respect for and enjoyment of the other’s talents and ambitions. I adored watching their friendship become more layered and less platonic as the story progressed, and I just plain had fun reading about them together. The sidewalk scene in the blizzard is one of my very faves, and I caught myself grinning like a fool and chuckling like one too.

Oh goodness, there are so many other things I want to talk about. Judge Ashbury and his determined wife Marvella who steal almost every scene they’re in. (And if one of them doesn’t, then their dog Sir Theophilus will.) The way Rebecca and Mark team up to try and clear an innocent man of murder. The intriguing things we learn about Montana history. And – most importantly – the faith journeys that both Rebecca and Mark take throughout the book. Because of the different stages they are at when our story begins, the faith element not only presents the gospel message clearly and organically but it also addresses rubber-meets-the-road issues that longtime followers of Jesus need refining too. I thought this was very sweetly done in a way that fit the story flow and the characters.

Bottom Line: The Heart’s Choice by Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse is a sweet friends-to-more romance, an entertaining look at an intriguing time of history, and a compelling story with different layers. The characters are relatable and engaging, and dashes of humor throughout made my heart happy. The solid faith thread will tug at your heart and doesn’t feel preachy or forced. This is one of my fave reads by these two authors so far, and I look forward to the next book!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

Yes - read it!

It's a Tracie Peterson so you never get a bad read! I hope this is a start to another super series.

Great characters - kind of nice to start off a story without a sorrowful past. Location and time where very interesting to me. Enjoyed not knowing where the story would go.

I sat outside enjoying the sunshine, lilacs and birds with a great book. Really, it doesn't get better!! I thought it was a wonderful read for a summer afternoon.

I received an ARC from Netgalley to help me prepare my honest review.

A gripping story, that you know will end well, but have no idea how events will pan out. Such a reminder of extended family and friends and how they influence us.

This is book one of the Jewels of Kalispell series, so what a great place to start. Rebecca McCutcheon,the first female court reporter in Montana, wants to be sure an innocent man does not get charged with a crime again. When she meets the handsome librarian Mark Andrews, they clash, yet when they decide to become friends and work together, things really do heat up. This book is full of some mystery, drama, romance and more, I look forward to reading more from this series. If you enjoy historical romance you will love this book. I was given a copy of this novel for my honest opinion.

It's an interesting read for sure and certain! Anything written by these ladies is always good!
I knew the moment that I opened this story it was going to be awesome!
In my opinion, there's nothing sweeter than books and libraries together.
Peterson and Woodhouse have added some twists and turns that you won't see coming. This is what made me keep turning the pages to see what happened next! So realistic that it sometimes made my heart thump!
A wonderful confession of faith added in as well to make it that much more interesting.
My favorite thing was the little tidbits of information on how this story came about.
This story will keep your attention the whole way, and it will leave you full and satisfied!
5 stars for a wonderful adventure!
Thank you Netgalley for a copy of this wonderful adventure!
I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own!

Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse are both names that I associate well with good historical fiction. When I pick up something from either of these authors individually, I know I am in for a well-researched and entertaining story. Seeing both of their names on the cover of this first book in a new series, I knew it would surely be good. And they don't disappoint in the slightest. This was a beautifully written historical romance that was well-researched and a story that draws in the reader. If you are a fan of either of these authors--- or are just looking for a new Christian historical romance read, this is worth checking out.

**I received a complimentary copy for consideration. All thoughts are my own.

These authors are wonderful writers, each on their own,but together they are an amazing duo who puts a series out there that you don't want to end. This story is about reaching for your dreams when you have only a couple of people who believes in you. Overcoming fear and trusting in the Lord to see you through.For standing up to what you believe in, also searching for answers instead of just taking for granted what people tells you. Just like this sentence in the book, "But the hour is late and it's time for cake, so rest assured I will get her saved in the morning." Don't you just love how the Lord works? He is always there with His arms outstretched waiting on us to ask for forgiveness. I love faith based books that has just enough suspense in them to keep you turning the page and still shows God's Love. I can't wait to read more in this series. I'm so grateful for Netgalley and the publisher allowing me to read an ebook copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.

Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse have teamed up to give us a new historical fiction series based in Kalispell, Montana. The Heart's Choice is their first novel which introduces the court and new Carnegie library in the growing region.

Rebecca Whitman travels from Chicago to assume the position of first female court stenographer of the state of Montana. She is very interested in the law from childhood forward after seeing an injustice done taking the life of an innocent man. Timely advice from her parents insisting she not marry the first man she meets certainly reflects on what is expected of single women during the early 1900's.

Mark Andrews's father also has insistent expectations for his only son. He wants him to show interest in the ranch he has built from the ground up so he can take it over. Mark is interested in education and has been awarded the job of running Kalispell's brand-new library. A dream come true. He knows his sister Kate loves everything about the ranch and is wholly capable of running it. He recognizes the capability of women.

I received this book from Bethany House as an advanced reader's copy though NetGalley. This is my own unsolicited opinion of it. I enjoyed it very much and recommend it to readers who like to experience the feel of history. I particularly love the characters of Judge Milton Ashbury and his very involved wife, Marvella. Her character gave me laugh out loud moments. She is a force for sure.
The characters are believable, the plot carried me right along and the sweet friendship between Mark and Rebecca is just right. There's also a very sneaky bad guy who the authors give the readers a chance to 'figure out'. I give this story a solid 4.75. It's a good read. I look forward to the next book in the series.

This is the first entry of The Jewels of the Kalispell series. Ms. Peterson and Woodhouse have cowritten several series before and fans of those series will not be disappointed. Readers that like light romance and historical settings will find this novel a quick read. The characters are believable and the tensions about their chosen careers very true to the time period. There is even a little mystery thrown in to keep the plot moving.

I received an ARC ebook from NetGalley and the publisher, Bethany House in exchange for an honest review.

The Hearts Choice
By Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse
Publisher: Bethany House
Series: The Jewels of Kalispell, Book 1
Rated: 3
Obtain: Borrow
Back of the Book: “They must uncover the truth before it's buried forever.
After witnessing a wrongful conviction as a young girl, Rebecca Whitman--the first female court reporter in Montana--is now determined to defend the innocent. During a murder trial, something doesn't sit well with her about the case, but no one except the handsome new Carnegie librarian will listen to her.
Librarian Mark Andrews's father sent him to college hoping he would take over the business side of the family ranch, but Mark would rather wrangle books than cows. When a patron seeks help with research in hopes of proving a man's innocence, Mark is immediately drawn to her and her cause.
In a race against time, will Rebecca and Mark find the evidence they need--and open their hearts to love--before it's too late?”

Impressions: I think this was a pretty basic romance. The beginning was slow however the story became more interesting as the story continued. I don’t think the villains story was well developed. It was sparse with little depth in his backstory and motivation. In the end I think the romance could have developed without his character.

Quotes: “What doors reading could open. The dreams it could spark.” -This is why I love to read!

“‘Dear, what a horrible example we have been to you.’ She glanced around the circle of women. ‘Perhaps we should remember that our lips should be speaking only that which is edifying.’” – Oh what a perfect reminder.

I received an ARC of this book via the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review shared here. For more book reviews go to: https://thebluestockingbooknook.wordpress.com

✨Book Review ✨

The Heart’s Choice by Tracie Peterson and Kimberly Woodhouse

Synopsis:
“After witnessing a wrongful conviction as a young girl, Rebecca Whitman--the first female court reporter in Montana--is now determined to defend the innocent. During a murder trial, something doesn't sit well with her about the case, but no one except the handsome new Carnegie librarian will listen to her. 

Librarian Mark Andrews's father sent him to college hoping he would take over the business side of the family ranch, but Mark would rather wrangle books than cows. When a patron seeks help with research in hopes of proving a man's innocence, Mark is immediately drawn to her and her cause. 

In a race against time, will Rebecca and Mark find the evidence they need--and open their hearts to love--before it's too late?”

I enjoyed this sweet and easy read. Check it out if you like:
* Friends to lovers
* Montana Ranch Living
* Librarians & Book Lovers
* Historical fiction early 1900’s
* Women’s suffragists movement
* Powerful faith moments
* Easy to understand theology

Favourite Quotes
* “We women must stick together if we are to accomplish our goals”
* “My dear, you have a beautiful heart from what I have seen this far, but God wants your heart devoted to Him”

I liked it - ⭐️⭐️⭐️

(Review will appear on social media tomorrow morning - scheduled 9.30am May 5th)

"The Heart's Choice" is a Christian romance set in 1904 in Montana. The main characters were engaging, complex, and reacted realistically to events. This was not a detective novel: Rebecca had a good eye for bringing up things that would cast doubt in the case, but she didn't really try to prove who the real murderer was--though she suspected. The judge, a good man who was also a friend and mentor, felt that they needed to remain impartial, so anything she did to help the defendant potentially threatened her job. Historical details about the time (especially the legal system and the library) were woven into the story, providing a distinct feel of the time and place. Rebecca and Mark quickly became friends through shared interests and spending time together. They supported each other through difficult events and came to care for each other. They were a good match and worked well together.

Rebecca had been to church occasionally, but her boss's wife was appalled to learn she didn't have a personal relationship with Christ. A good chunk of the story was about Rebecca coming to a saving faith in Christ after reading the Bible and asking questions. Mark was a Christian and helped answer Rebecca's questions about faith. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this enjoyable story.

The Heart's Choice has it all--romance, interesting history, a mystery, and some suspense. Mark Andrews and Rebecca Whitman are likeable and believable characters that are justifiably proud of their careers and determined to do well in them. They don't have time for a romantic relationship, but they both are interested in friendship. Mark and his father have a very tense relationship, and Rebecca is far from home. I enjoyed the warm relationship that both Mark and Rebecca had with the judge that Rebecca worked for and his wife, who took Rebecca on as her protégé. Our main characters do get their HEA, and there is a lovely Epilogue. I liked the faith element in the book. The plot moves along at a good pace, and the dialogue flows well. I truly enjoyed reading The Heart's Choice and look forward to the rest of The Jewels of Kalispell series. I would be happy to read more by both author Tracie Peterson and author Kimberley Woodhouse.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and am sharing my opinion of this very well written book.

DID NOT CLICK.

I gave this an honest try and did enjoy the first 30-40% of it. Then some stuff went downhill and I never recovered my attachment to the story. I struggled with the way some of the faith elements were addressed and handled that ultimately let to a disconnection from the novel. There might have been some reasoning with the time period? But it didn’t work for me.

The romance between Mark and Rebecca was pretty sweet. They had some cute moments and really seemed to connect with each other across the board. I liked their happy ending and their unique career paths in the early 1900’s.

With the little bit of mystery and multiple points of view it kept the general plot progression moving. There was a bit of a full circle moment that was nice to see and while this didn’t work for me I think it could work for others.

Overall audience notes:

Christian Historical Romance
Language: none
Romance: kisses
Violence: moderate
Trigger/Content Warnings: murder, poisoning, attempted murder

Mark is kicking against his father's desire to pass his ranch on to his sister and him in equal shares. His calling is not in ranching but in keeping the town's library. His father is livid that he doesn't consider ranching to be the highest work he could do.

Rebecca is the first female court reporter in Montana and wants to be able to see justice done after she witnessed a murder and the wrongful conviction of an innocent man in that murder. Since she was just a child when the events happened, she was not considered credible. So now she has a strong desire to see the justice system work like it is supposed to.

Kate is Mark's sister and loves nothing more than she loves the ranch and the life it brings. She is newly married and her husband seems to be as excited as she is about the ranch.

Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse have collaborated to bring this novel in the first of a series taking place in Kalispell, Montana. The parts I really liked centered around Mark's friendship with Rebecca that grew into a mutual love, the reconciliation between Mark and his father, and Kate's understanding nature. The parts I really didn't like involved the way the authors set up the bad guy in the very beginning of the novel and tried to weave it through the plot lines to create a tension that was supposed to keep the reader involved, but it came off to me as being very predictable and trite. I normally like the books I've read by Tracie Peterson and the books by Kimberley Woodhouse, but this one fell short of the mark for me. There are parts that are truly enjoyable and parts I wanted to skip over simply because I felt they added nothing to the plot. Three stars.

Bethany House Publishing provided the copy I read for this review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.