Counterfeit Faith, the third book in the Hidden Hearts of the Gilded Age series, is an intriguing, touching story. The smoothly flowing plot combines just the right doses of action, romance, and faith, and history. Wonderfully crafted, diverse characters kept me engaged in the story from beginning to end. I love noble protector hero Josiah and courageous, determined heroine Gwendolyn as individuals and as a couple, and their witty dialogue made me smile. I enjoyed the way their romantic relationship develops despite danger and their own personal struggles. The author authentically portrays life in Pennsylvania during the Gilded Age, and her amazing historical detail teaches as well as entertains. I especially appreciate the compelling spiritual message that touched my heart. I thoroughly enjoyed this captivating, satisfying read and highly recommend it and the series.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Counterfeit Faith continues the story of the lives of people from the previous books in this series. Crystal Caudill writes in a style that draws the reader in from the very first page. They include the battle that exists of pure evil against good. And the author does a great job of interweaving faith into her novels. I loved the first two books in the series. This one was a little difficult for me. It is heartbreaking to come face to face with child abuse. So while I give Counterfeit Faith 5 stars for how well Crystal Caudill presented her theme of faith, I had to give it less stars for the fact that it was just not an enjoyable book to read. I would recommend the other two books in the series- Counterfeit Love and Hope. And I know Counterfeit Faith will be appreciated by those who like a tear jerker novel inspired by real historical events.

Crystal Caudill develops great characters with exciting stories and lots of romance and tension.. Losing myself in this book was an indulgent joy!

This book will keep you up way past bedtime! It's a great Christian historical romance with suspense that will keep you turning the pages to see what happens next. I loved it and highly recommend it!
I received a complimentary copy from Kregel Publications via NetGalley and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Very enjoyable Gilded age mystery romance featuring a young woman who is a matron at a home for orphaned boys and girls who becomes involved with a Secret Service agent who believes that counterfeit money is being passed through the facility by someone in the staff.

I loved the developing relationship between Gwendolyn and Josiah even though they were from different social classes. With a touch of mystery and suspense, Caudill penned an intriguing plot line that kept my attention from start to finish.
Well written with Interesting characters and an intriguing plot line., this is a first read by a new-to-me author, but it definitely will not be my last.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.

Crystal Caudill's Counterfeit Faith is the third installment from the Hidden Hearts of the Gilded Age series. I thought it was a great addition to this series. I am giving it five stars and highly recommend it for readers who enjoy reading clean historical fiction.

I enjoyed this book by Crystal Caudill. Gwendolyn had to work with Josiah, a known rake, to get justice for the children she cares for.

Josiah reputation as a rake resulted from his integrity as a gentleman. So when he meets Gwendolyn, he's worried that his association with her might result in a proposal as he's still in love with his dead wife.

Gwendolyn is immediately drawn to Josiah but several things, including her concern for the children puts barriers between them.

The two have to work together to shut down a dangerous scheme and oh, how much trouble they get into while they do.

I enjoyed both of these characters, watching as they grew in their faith as they got closer together.

Readers of Counterfeit Faith will be reminded that they should wait on God's perfect timing. When we push our own agendas, things rarely work out as they should.

I received an advanced reader's copy from the publisher through NetGalley; a positive review was not required.

On the opening pages of Counterfeit Faith, by Crystal Caudill, you are introduced to Gwendolyn Ellison, a matron at The Final Chance of Refuge, a girls reform school. This home is dedicated to caring for delinquent children and training them to live productive lives. After Gwendolyn is attacked by a former student who is now involved in criminal activity, she meets Josiah Issacs, a Secret Service operative, when he comes to her rescue. Little does she know, her life will never be the same!

Gwendolyn and Josiah begin to work together to discover the truth about who is behind the evil activity taking place at the school. By the end of this tale, not only will the culprits be identified, but both Josiah and Gwendolyn will discover the plans God has in store for them!

Counterfeit Faith is the third book in the Hidden Hearts of the Gilded Age series. It can easily be read as a stand-alone novel.
Counterfeit Faith gives us fascinating insight into houses of refuge, counterfeits, and the green goods game (con) that was going on in the late 1800s.
Gwendolyn is the matron of the Final Chance House of Refuge. She loves the children, and everything is going well until she stumbles across abuse in the boy's ward.
Josiah is not looking for romance. He is looking for a counterfeit ring. His search leads him to the Final Chance House of Refuge, and he wonders if Gwendolyn has anything to do with the counterfeiting. As things heat up, Josiah and Gwendolyn form an unlikely alliance to keep the children safe and sort out what is going on.
There is a lot of action, suspense, historical details, and a romance, literally something for everyone. This story is well-written, with a well-developed plot. It is a satisfying conclusion to the series.
Thank you to JustReads Publicity and the author for the opportunity to read this book. I was not required to provide a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I really enjoyed this novel! It tells a beautiful story of trust and love. Gwendolyn is a strong woman who’s love and compassion are shown through her work. When trouble arises she must lean on Josiah for help. Can the two solve the puzzle in time? Or will it be too late?
I really loved this book. I found it to be interesting and well written throughout the novel. I would definitely recommend this book to any friends or family!

This book was the absolute perfect culmination of the Hidden Hearts of the Gilded Age series. I’ve loved each layer, each agent, each character as these devoted men found their equal, their match—not just their mate. Josiah was so compelling, such a complex fellow, and this book revealed many of the reasons why. When he meets Gwendolyn though, his flirtatious ways find a purpose. The suspense ebbed and flowed and ebbed again, and meanwhile our leading characters find themselves on the same side of a dangerous situation which allowed them to become more closely connected than they would ever have expected. I always learn something from Crystal Caudill’s books, but frankly they just tick all the boxes of romance, flirtation, historical drama, and suspenseful moments. I’ll miss these characters, but can’t wait to see what comes next from the author’s pen! I received a an advanced copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to write a positive review.

Counterfeit Faith contains an interesting plot, lovable characters, and odious villains who'll make you want to clobber them with Red (if you know, you know). I especially enjoyed the research that went into this book. The historical Secret Service and Pinkerton agencies have always intrigued me.

PLOT
The plot is Christian historical romance mixed with suspense. I don't usually read suspense, and I've certainly never heard of it mixed with Christian historical romance before, so I was holding my breath as I read. These poor characters! I dare say my heart still hasn't quite recovered yet.

CHARACTERS
Gwendolyn has the prettiest name, and I liked how Caudill made her a strong female character, but not a feminist. Josiah is a solid MMC and I liked his character arc.

The kids were adorable, I want Wilhelmina's story (pretty please), and other characters like Mrs. Flowers made me laugh. I still have mixed feelings on Mrs. Issacs, though. Hopefully she'll eventually come fully around.

FAITH
This book had plenty of faith, and I loved it. I mentioned Josiah's character arc, and this was where he really grew.

There are plenty of prayers, characters attend church and mass, and God's will and timing are reflected upon. This looks like a short list, but there is a ton of faith packed in this book.

ROMANCE
Completely clean and sweet, just the way I like it. Characters kiss once.

CONTENT WARNING
An opiate addiction is discussed, characters are injured by the nasties, characters are cut, kicked, beaten, and battered, there is a counterfeit ring, and there's a brief mention of a young man raping two women, who are then forced to become prostitutes.

Caudill handles everything with tact and nongratuitous references. Nothing was improper and everything is tastefully addressed.

CONCLUSION
Counterfeit Faith is a book I believe all fans of Christian historical romance and suspense will enjoy, and I recommend it to everyone seeking clean romance with plenty of faith.

*I receive a copy of this book from the publisher in conjunction with JustRead. The opinions expressed are my own.

This is a New to me Author which I really enjoyed. I read it through Netgalley and didn't realise that it was 3rd in a series, so haven't read the first 2. It didn't really cause me much problem, but reading other reviews, some characters do pop up in all 3 books, so maybe better to read them in order if possible.
All that being said, I did enjoy Gwendolyn and Josiah's characters. Gwendolyn is a hard working matron of Final Chance House of Refuge. She is really dedicated to helping the children that are there and will protect them at all costs. Things do get quite dangerous for her though, that is where Josiah comes into the story. I don't want to give too much away, but this is historical fiction that has intrigue, mystery, danger and romance. I don't usually go for suspense type novels but did enjoy this one. The thread that keeps coming up in this book is, Lord help my unbelief. This book teaches us not to rely on our own strength, but to rely on God to strengthen us in our weaknesses.

This book was beautifully written from beginning to end. Counterfeit Faith tells the story of Gwendolyn, a matron in a house of refuge, and Josiah, a secret service agent investigating First Chance House of Refuge. Gwendolyn has suspicions of abuse on the boys side of the refuge. Josiah is trying to investigate a counterfeit money scheme that’s attached to the house of refuge. When he meets a distressed Gwendolyn, he can’t resist but help her. Gwendolyn is struggling with the need to investigate what’s happening with the boys and the threat on her life for trying to investigate. Will she put her trust in God and the handsome agent? Or will she let her past disappointments dictate her future?

I loved Josiah and Gwen! They make such an interesting couple. Josiah’s good looks and charming disposition often got him into trouble, most often with single eligible ladies. I loved that Gwen did not immediately fall for Josiah’s charm and actually waited for him to be sure of his feelings before committing to him. I really admired her concern for the children under her care and willingness to do whatever it takes to protect them.

One of my favorite parts of this book was the faith weaved throughout. Gwen and Josiah struggle with their faith in different forms. Josiah struggles with his loss of faith and Gwen struggles with putting her full trust in the Lord. The mystery and suspense was wonderfully weaved throughout the book and often left me on the edge of my seat. Especially when Gwen put herself in dangerous situations to investigate the abuse of the boys. This is the sort of book where things are happening from beginning to end. I actually had to take a break halfway through the book, the tension was just so much.

The villains in this book were very well written. Hated them from the very beginning. I got very annoyed at Gwen whenever she put herself in danger. I don’t often read mystery and suspense, I cannot take the tension, but this one was beautifully done. The romance worked perfectly with the suspense and one did not overpower the other, it was balanced well.

This is the third book in a series but I read it as a stand-alone, and it worked well by itself. I truly enjoyed reading Gwen and Josiah’s story. The mystery and romance made it a lot more fun. Very entertaining and faith-filled. I highly recommend it.

I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Gwendolyn is the matron of a "reform school" for children who have been in trouble or have no one to care for them. She has gone to the Board of Directors because something is not right at the school. One of the board members was killed after finding out what was going on. Gwendolyn was nearly kidnapped by one of their former students until Justin, a Secret Service agent, rescued her. As they work together to find out why boys are being severely beaten, and how a counterfeit ring has connections in the school, Justin and Gwendolyn develop an attraction that is undeniable.
Set in the 1800s in Philadelphia, Counterfeit Faith, by Crystal Caudill, is a delightful and thrilling Christian mystery/romance. While Josiah has a reputation as a "rake", she sees the good in him, They are opposite in many ways, but opposites attract. I thoroughly enjoyed this recent release I was able to read on #NetGalley.

Counterfeit Faith is my first book by Crystal Caudill, and I thoroughly enjoyed the story. Gwendolyn is matron of Final Chance House of Refuge which cares for children who are homeless or lack the care of a guardian. After becoming aware of shady practices at the facility, Gwendolyn finds herself in serious danger. Secret Service agent, Josiah, comes to her rescue, and the two work together to uncover the nefarious activities of a few of the refuge house employees.

I enjoyed this story very much. The characters were very well-developed and relatable. I really enjoyed getting to know their individual backgrounds throughout the story. I loved reading about Gwendolyn’s strong faith and how her faith influenced Josiah in his journey back to God. The historical setting and the mystery elements really made the story very interesting and entertaining. There were several times I was on the end of my seat as Gwendolyn risked her own safety for the good of the children in her care. I also really liked that the romance portion was more of a background plotline instead of the main point.

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading historical suspense. This was a great standalone story, but I will definitely be reading the previous books in the series.

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

I have thoroughly enjoyed the previous books in the Hidden Hearts of the Gilded Age series by Crystal Caudill so was not surprised that Counterfeit Faith also met my expectations of a great story. And what a story it was! With a heroine dedicated to taking care of the children under her care at Final Chance House of Refuge and a hero just as determined to protect all the women he perceives to be in danger, the action ramps up when their worlds collide.

Gwendolyn Ellison is a very self-sufficient young woman who has difficulty depending on others. It doesn’t matter to her that the children under her care are considered delinquents, she loves them all the same and wants the best for their lives. Suspicions that something is just not right at the home take her into dangerous territory but she refuses to give up her investigation. After rescuing her after a street attack, Secret Service operative Josiah Isaacs encounters her once again when his late sister’s children are taken to the refuge. Naturally the pair end up working together to solve the case of the dangerous counterfeiters who are using the home as a cover for their activities.

Counterfeit Faith is the perfect book for my tastes. I love both historical fiction and suspense novels so the combination of the two kept this reader happy. Ample action, danger, mystery, and suspense kept the unique plot moving along at the perfect pace while wonderful characters and vivid imagery rounded out the story. I liked how the author developed a strong message of faith through the lives of the characters and also liked that the romantic aspect was subtle. I would recommend this entire series.

I voluntarily reviewed a digital copy of this book provided by JustReads Publicity. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.

The Final Chance House of Refuge is the setting of this masterpiece .
Is it really a refugee ? Within a chapter or two the reader comes to find that there is mystery, intrigue , fear, theft , and possibly a murderer all within this place of refuge.
The shelter houses children who for various reasons can’t be at home and need further care . Gwendolyn Is the matron of the girls side . She does everything in her power to help raise the girls to be successful and happy. However something is happening on the boys side . Where she inquires she is told to mind her own business or else …

Josiah , a secret service operative , enters into the story as his nephew and nieces get taken and placed into the House of Refuge. He quickly learns that he wants Gwendolyn on his side in the investigation and on his team for life . The story addresses past love and building a new home and addresses friendship and doing the right thing despite being scared . The story takes you on twists and turns and there were several parts that I said out loud “no Gwendolyn!!!!” Ha ha .
The author knows how to build intrigue .
Well done !!!

I received a free download in exchange for a free download from Netgalley.

Counterfeit Faith is a wonderful Christian, Historical fiction story filled with suspense, mystery, fascinating Philadelphia history, and clean romance. The faith-filled messages are inspiring as you see main character, Gwendolyn Ellison facing great danger and trials but her faith in God remains strong. She's the matron of Final Chance House of Refuge where she gives her whole heart and soul to the children she loves and has dedicated her life to.

Secret Service operative Josiah Isaacs is brave and caring and always seeks for ways to help others. Gwendolyn and Josiah together make a good team as they investigate the misdeeds happening at the Final Chance House of Refuge. With such an exciting plot, loads of action, stalwart characters, snappy dialogue, and uplifting faith-filled words, Counterfeit Faith is an entertaining and engaging read for all Christian, Historical Fiction readers.

Crystal Caudill wraps up her Hidden Hearts of the Gilded Age series with a tale of an efficient woman with a heart for forgotten children and a secret service agent bent on protecting women. Counterfeit Faith is a fantastic way for this series to end.

Gwendolyn and Josiah both have huge hurts in their past that make them doubt what their hearts desire, yet the attraction between these two sizzles from their first meeting. Caudill adds danger and a counterfeiting scheme that will keep you guessing who is behind it all.

My favorite parts of this story were the moments when Gwendolyn opens her heart enough to share some tender moments with Josiah and the times when he pours on the flirting (not to mention all of the people who give him a hard time about his propensity for rescuing damsels in distress and the ensuing results).

For those who have read the first two books, you will enjoy some cameos by a few people you know. But if you haven’t read them, the author has done an excellent job of writing this book to stand on its own. This entire series was well-written, well-researched, and engaging. I cannot wait to see Caudill has in store for readers next.

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.