Loved this last Kalispell novel! Johanna is still grieving the death of her husband, when an old flame from her past and the brother-in-law both show up trying to win her over. Parker was her first real heart break and it is amazing what he has done with the traveling troupe, but she never wanted that life and she cannot even think of anyone else but Gerald still. James St. John is bound and determined to care for his widowed sister in law and his niece but Johanna doesn't seem to want to give him the time of day. Stepping in to care for them is only right after the death of his brother, how can she not understand that? As Johanna struggles with being a single parent and these two men, she realizes that each might have their own reason for trying to win her heart but who will do right by her? Can she get past her grief to love again and give her daughter what she needs most, a father figure in her life? Another great heartfelt read and I really enjoyed the theatre backdrop of the story. Thank you to the authors for the complementary novel and being a part of the launch team. This review is of my own opinion and accord.

The name of this book is perfect because you will see unexpected grace throughout the story. Johanna is a widow barely making ends meet as a milliner; someone who makes hats. She lives with her disabled dad and her young daughter. Parker Bennett comes back to town after being gone for ten years. Everyone thought he would follow in his father's footsteps and become a preacher, but he felt the Lord calling him to serve God in a different direction. I fell in love with this story from the very beginning, even though this book is the third in a series, it can be read as a stand alone. But once you read it, then you will want to read the other two, if not but to read more about Marvella and Sir Theophilus. If the book wasn't good enough as is, throw in a nosey brother-in-law and an actress with suspense woven into the story. This is one book that you don't want to miss, I hate to see it end. There was a few things that made me laugh, especially when it revolved around Marvella. "The older woman was actually stunned silent at the request, which the Judge said was a first." I want to thank Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an early copy of this book. I have already pre-ordered this book to go along with the first two. All opinions expressed are my own thoughts of the book. I leave you one last line, " Let the hat wars begin."

An Unexpected Grace by Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse is an uplifting second chance romance. There is suspense courtesy of a wicked brother-in-law who will use any means necessary to get what he wants. I like the authors’ writing style. I found myself slowly being drawn into the story. I liked Joanna, who grew up in the ten years since she last saw Parker. She is a strong, determined, and creative woman. Joanna creates stylish hats for the ladies of the town (the hats during this time period were beautiful). I liked that Joanna had matured in character and faith. Emily is a busy yet adorable child. She managed to wrap Parker around her little finger. Marvella is a great character. She added humor to the story. Faith is prominent throughout the story as well as hope and healing. I wish, though, that the plot had not followed a foreseeable path and there had been less reiteration. The story has a good message and an ending that left me smiling. An Unexpected Grace is a pleasing conclusion to The Jewels of Kalispell series. An Unexpected Grace is a touching tale with a blackguard brother-in-law, a rambunctious child, attractive chapeaus, a traveling troupe, a flirtatious Frenchwoman, and a gracious God.

I loved returning to Kalispell Montana, and 1900 for the third installment of this series. This could be subtitled: Marvella makes match number three, because Marvella Ashbury,the judge’s wife, has a romantic heart and wants to see a second chance for Johanna and Parker. Johanna and Parker have a history which turned out to be disappointing. A widow now, Johanna has invested in a hat shop and is caring for her daughter and father. But soon things get to be too much to handle. Enter Parker, who has returned from a career as a famous actor, and James, her brother-in-law, who has a nefarious reason to want to wed Johanna.
The love is still there between Johanna and Parker and they both want to honor God however, there are those who are plotting against them.
Full of interesting historical details, fascinating characters, complex family dynamics and with danger lurking, this book kept me turning pages until the very satisfying conclusion.
* A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House on behalf of the authors and via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*

A captivating read from the start to finish with a strong faith message interwoven into the story. An Unexpected Grace is filled with a beautiful faith message, hope, finding true peace. The lovable characters and a flawed deceptive villain packed the book full of tender and tense moments. Peterson and Woodhouse books are packed with gems to glean for a faithful Christian life.

Kalispell was home for Parker and when he was able to have his traveling troupe perform there, he found a warm welcome despite the tabloid stories printed about him. Johanna was a loving, dedicated mother, daughter and devoted milliner to her customers. With undue pressure from her brother-in-law tragedy events kept striking after Parker was seen with her. I appreciated the wisdom, support and prayers of her father, Judge Ashbury and Marvella for Johanna and Parker. Sweet Emma brought smiles with her charm, awareness and calling Parker Daddy unexpectedly during a difficult time. Will bygones be forgiven so new beginnings will bloom among characters?

I received an early copy of this book from Bethany House and NetGalley. I have expressed my own thoughts.

An Unexpected Grace, by Tracy Peterson and Kimberly Woodhouse is the third book in the Jewels of Kalispell series. This is an enjoyable story that is well written and easy to read. It is a clean romance that also contains likable characters with touches of suspense and mystery. Feeling called to be a preachers wife, Johanna ends her relationship with Parker when he decides to joins a traveling acting troupe. She is recently widowed with a young child, living with her father and running a hat business. After a very long absence from home, Parker is back with his group to perform shows.

This is an enjoyable story. I enjoyed how Johanna and Parker are able to rebuild their friendship and how they help each other in the process. I found the mystery and suspense with things happening to Johanna and her family kept me reading to see who was behind the event. I especially enjoyed how Johanna realizes how important Parkers acting is. I found the matchmaker to be a fun addition to the story and appreciate how supportive her husband is to her and her matchmaking.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.

This conclusion to the wonderful Jewels of Kalispell series is another winner for this super-talented writing duo. The well-paced, faith-filled plot with perfectly placed twists, grabbed my attention instantly and kept me reading intently to the end. The compelling, beautifully crafted cast of characters includes a determined heroine, an admirable hero, a precocious toddler, and one of the most devious and arrogant villains I have ever encountered! It was a delightful pleasure reconnecting with matchmaker Marvella, who kept me laughing, and honorable Judge Ashbury, whose protectiveness brought sighs of contentment. I enjoyed the way Johanna and Parker's second chance romance slowly evolves. I especially appreciate how they both show genuine faith as they seek to follow God's plan for their lives and learn to trust His sovereignty. A bit of suspenseful danger and an authentic 1905 Montana setting enhance the story. I think all Christian Historical Fiction fans will enjoy this story and the series as much as I did!
I read an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This was a great second chance romance. It is the third and last in the series, and works as a standalone. Although you do see a little bit of characters from previous books. Parker and Joanna were supposed to be getting married until God seemed to be calling them different directions. However, 5 years later, they meet again. Joanna got married but is now widowed with a 3 year old daughter. Parker made it pretty big in show business and the show he is apart of is traveling through town. I loved that they were able to reconnect and find love again. They were such great characters and I loved that they listened to God. I also loved how Parker took her daughter as his own so quickly and cared for her. Overall just a great story and I definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

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

Readers who like second chance novels will enjoy this third book of the Jewels of Kalispell series. Set in the early 1900’s in Kalispell, Montana, Johanna is deeply in love with Parker and dreams to become a preacher’s wife. When Parker gives up seminary to become an actor, Johanna breaks up with him. Ten years later, Johanna, a widow with a young daughter and Parker, who has been questioning his career get a second chance. Loved little Emily. The judge’s wife’s matchmaking skills are very obvious as well as the wicked uncle’s antics. Predicable, but had a good message.

This wonderful historical book is set in 1905 in Kalispell, Montana. A young couple in love gets a second chance for a reunion ten years after a broken engagement. Parker felt a call on his life to be an actor, and Johanna felt called to be a preacher's wife. So, when Parker's acting troupe came into town ten years later, they found they still had feelings for each other. However, not without opposition from Johanna's devious brother-in-law. I loved the characters (especially little Emily), the action, and the Biblical message that was so inspiring to me. *I was given a copy of this book by the publisher, and this is my honest opinion.

Will Parker and Johanna be able to build a future together, or will the past repeat itself?

This story is so heartwarming! The characters felt like dear friends, each relatable in their struggles and triumphs. I love Johanna and Parker's dedication to glorifying God in their callings and everyday lives. Johanna's daughter, Emily, added such a sprinkle of joy to the story—she is just precious.

This Book is For You If You Enjoy:
- Immersive historical fiction that transports you to another time.
- Sweet, second-chance love stories.
- A dash of suspense that keeps you on your toes.
- Relatable, lovable characters.
- Strong themes of faith interwoven throughout the storyline.
- Clean, wholesome fiction.

I received a complimentary ARC from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

A heartwarming second-chance romance!

Johanna had always dreamed of being a preacher’s wife, but when Parker, the love of her life, decided to leave the ministry, Johanna walked away. Ten years later, she’s a widow with a young daughter, and Parker unexpectedly returns to town. But the questions remain: Does she still have feelings for him? And does he feel the same? As Johanna navigates her past emotions and motherhood, a new threat emerges, someone is targeting her for reasons she can’t understand. As the mystery unfolds, Johanna must decide if she can risk her heart with Parker again, especially after walking away once before. Can they overcome the past, or will it repeat itself?

This story is a beautiful, slow-burn second-chance romance, filled with healing, faith, and hope. It was especially meaningful to me since the main character shares my first name. I’m so thankful to have had the chance to read and review this sweet, touching story.

I received a complimentary copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.

“I have the right amount on my shoulders. With God as bearer of my burdens, I neither struggle nor strain. I am blessed to have Him as my stronghold and refuge.”

Faith abounds in this second chance romance, with a good does of danger and suspense and of course a twisted villain.

Joanna has had some trials and they seem to just keep piling on. I loved that she didn’t back down or cower. Her strength, determination, and faith were beautiful. Her realization of her love for Parker and her growth in her faith and listening to God’s leading heart-warming. Her Emily is a precious little girl. Em’s interactions with Parker left me in a puddle. 🫠 I liked Parker’s determination to be a witness for God in his profession. His growth and steps in faith were amazing and his love for Joanna swoony. I loved Parker’s mother. What a wonderful example of listening, praying, encouraging, and gently directing a child (even a grown one) to their faith and purpose in God.

I loved seeing Judge Ashbury’s protective side and Marvella’s matchmaking is a delight. Her “hat wars” was so fun. The epilogue was fantastic!!

A few quotes:
“I fine, Mama. Daddy found me.” Daddy? Johanna raised an eyebrow at Parker. He smiled and shrugged. “She said it. But I am happy to take on the title and role, if you approve.”

“God has given me a new calling now.” “And what is that?” She smiled. “To love you.”

This ARC was provided by the authors. I was not required to give a positive review, rating and opinions are my own.

Sometimes you just need a good story to occupy yourself with... Peterson and Woodhouse have written a number of books together now and I have enjoyed each one that I have read.
I have a soft spot for a book set in Montana, since that is where I was born and lived for almost half my life.
The characters in this one are relatable, if a bit predictable, but I think most people are to a degree. There were several moments where I was eager to press on and find out what was coming next.
Yes, it's a typical romance where you know the characters are eventually going to end up together. Yes, it's Christian and very faith-filled.
Yes, it was an easy and quick read.
All of those are reasons why I will absolutely pick up a Peterson-Woodhouse book any time I need to unwind and enjoy a quiet moment reading. Really enjoyed all the books of The Jewels of Kalispell series! I am so glad that I was allowed to read an advanced copy of this story and I am more than happy to leave my honest review.

We are back in Kalispell, Montana in 1905. for the third book in the Jewels of Kalispell series. Marvella is back at her matchmaking, this time with young widow Johanna. Close-knit community and family tie the story together with twists and turns along the way, including a central villain. We also get to catch up with the characters we have come to know in the first two books. If you are looking for a heartwarming tale of years gone by, this is a faith-filled, moving, and rewarding read!

This is a book that became a page turner for me, yes it was a bit predictable at times, but I enjoy the way this author weaves a story.
Johanna St. John has experienced a lot in her young life, she has loved and lost and loved again. She lived the life she dreamed of and has a precocious two year old daughter, Emily.
Parker Bennett has left Kalispell, and has been doing what he thought the Lord wanted him to do, acting and sharing the God's word.
As this story begins life has changed for both the main characters, Johanna is now a widow and struggling to raise Emily and make a living. Parker has gotten his team of actors to come to his hometown and paths do cross.
There is another man whom wants to woo Johanna, her brother-in-law, he is a successful lawyer, and has a lot of plans.
I did need answers and the pages flew, were the answers what I wanted? Will justice come for those whom are doing Evil? Answers come!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Bethany House, and was not required to give a positive review.

"An Unexpected Grace" is a Christian romance set in 1905 in Montana. This is the 3rd book in the series but can be read as a standalone. Ten years before, Parker went to seminary, intending to marry Johanna and become a preacher in Kalispell when he finished. Without consulting anyone, he quit school and accepted a position as an actor in a travelling acting troupe, mainly performing Shakespeare. He expected Johanna (whom he knew felt called to marry a preacher) to happily marry him--love is enough!--and create their family on the road. She's shocked. That wasn't what she agreed to, and she called off their engagement.

When he returns 10 years later, he's growing tired of traveling, misses his family, and realizes that fame hasn't presented him with the opportunities to present the Gospel that he'd expected. Johanna's still wonderful, and her daughter's charming. He once again made his decisions about his future without consulting anyone, which made things hard on Johanna, who loved him but thought a relationship meant she'd have to join his traveling lifestyle with a toddler and a father who needed her help.

At the same time, Johanna's dead husband's brother was determined to marry her despite her repeated and clear statements that she would never marry him and didn't trust or like him. He's determined to force her into accepting him, either from financial need or to stop his threat of accusing her of being a poor mother and so take her daughter from her. Happily, Johanna asked for help from the Judge (her friend) and had friends in the community. The villain descended into insanity, determine to kill those she loves--like that would convince her. The end got a little far-fetched. Also, the villain's ability to prevent Johanna from learning of her inheritance (which he wanted) seemed unrealistic to me.

The romance was predictable but enjoyable. The villain thought himself very clever but was illogical and stupid. I liked Johanna, but I was exasperated that Parker didn't learn from the past and discuss with Johanna his changing feelings about life as a traveling actor. Johanna trusted God despite the hard things happening to her family. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this book to fans of the series.

Johanna St. John was not that young girl anymore that was so infatuated with Parker Bennett. She was a widow raising her young daughter alone.



But can she trust her heart? Parker is back in town after being away for a few years.



I loved the story. There was plenty of action and romance. James, her brother-in-law was one to watch out for. I didn't like him. His intentions were evil.


This book was written by two of my favorite writers: Tracie Peterson and Kimberly Woodhouse. I trust that the story will be Christian based and entertaining. And I was right with this book!!

This is the third book in this lovely series that takes place in Kalispell, Montana. Each of the books in this series really are stand alone. Only one set of characters carries forward--and they aren't primary.

This book is clearly the conclusion of the series based on how it ends. It was a good conclusion. Unlike many other books on the Christian fiction market, you can always count on solid biblical based fiction with characters striving to get closer to God.

The plot--it honestly was pretty predictable. But that's okay. It's good to have low key books that you know will have happily ever after.

Of the three, I liked this one the least.

3 stars as it was just okay. :)

*thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.

AN UNEXPECTED GRACE is the third novel in The Jewels of Kalispell series by TRACIE PETERSON and KIMBERLEY WOODHOUSE, but it can easily stand alone. It is a beautifully written book, with unforgettable characters and a strong Christian message on which it is based.
Both Johanna Easton St John and Parker Bennett are eager to follow the Lord’s leading in their lives, using their God- given ralents to His glory……
When Parker comes back to Kalispell in 1905 with the Franklin Travelling Theatre Group, a famous actor who has not only lost Johanna, his first love, but also seems to have lost his first lost love for His Lord and Saviour, he has many things to put right in his life. First of all with his mother and sister, Cora, after not being home when his beloved father died, and then to see how he can help the widowed Johanna who is battling with a toddler and sick father. It also seems as though their little family’s lives are in danger……..
I love the way the authors take us right into their characters’ emotions…….
There are a couple of villains and many twists and turns in the story with the suspense making things very excitng. There are also some lovely characters such as matchmaking Marvella and three year old Emily St John ……
I cannot recommend this most enjoyable and inspirational book highly enough.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.