Home No Matter Where

Great Summer Read!

Third in a Series

Learn more about the author at this website:

https://www.nancynaigle.com/contact/about

One late spring day I requested an advance reader’s copy of this book from NetGalley. I was dreaming of the arrival of summer and joy filled days enjoying walks outside. This title and the book’s description caught my eye. I have to say upfront, this author is brand new to me. I’m not sure how I missed her books. Her deep portfolio of successful novels spans more than a decade.

At the start, my jaded, cynical brain rejected the character Fisher. I decided he was just too good to be true. His budding relationship with Nina was moving way too fast for my comfort zone. Plus she was mired in solving relationship issues with her ex-husband and disgruntled teenage daughter. But something changed when Fisher showed his driftwood sculptures to Nina and her daughter Kendra. From that point forward I was rooting for Nina, Kendra, and Fisher to find a path forward.

This book is the third book in The Shell Collector series. There are a few character references and plot points that are hard to understand if you are unfamiliar with the previous books. The pace of the dialogue is satisfying and the multi-generational characters added a good dimension to the plot. Some of the proverbs or axioms that studded the prose didn’t land positively with me because they seemed to be so frequent. Whether it was older characters advising Fisher about relationships, his musings about storms and peace, or the analogies comparing the sea and life; in total I found their appearance just a tad too frequent. It’s just these two points about needing to be familiar with the series to know all the characters and the plethora of wise sayings and sea analogies that hold me back from giving the book a five star review.

The conclusion is very strong and satisfying. I would definitely read another book by this author. One of the most positive points in the book is the transformation of the mother and daughter relationship. Oh and it was just wonderful to read about Kendra’s experiences helping at the shelter for the retired military service dogs. Thank you to NetGalley for supplying me with the copy in exchange for my honest review.

A great read for Women’s History Month

Caroline Hershel discovered a comet and nebula in the 18th century. She earns a salary for her efforts from the King of England! Wow!

I chose this book to read during Women’s History Month. Caroline Hershel is the protagonist and this story is based on her experiences during the Georgian Era. It’s a remarkable story. The author Penny Haw used great care to weave a heaping measure of facts into her historical fiction novel. There are so many great features of the book to highlight. First and foremost is starting every chapter with the date. These headings call attention to the fact that Caroline and her brother William accomplished these amazing astronomical feats during the 18th century when this field of science was just gathering momentum in England. Williams’ appointment to the the court as the King’s Astronomer is a unique position that holds our fascination. Later, Caroline is offered a salary for her efforts in the field of astronomy from the court. This move is simply jaw-dropping. (Maybe she felt the earth stand-still that day!) By this time, Caroline had discovered a comet and a nebula and invested hours in recording her brother’s observations as his assistant. For the King of England to offer her a salary to continue this work distinguished Caroline as the first woman to be paid to work in this field.

Next I just loved all the supporting characters. Gabriel Corden is a knight in shining armor in my book. Caroline’s shy mis-steps with Gabriel were frustrating, but their enduring friendship became an important story element. Margaret, Alex’s wife, struggled with health complications, yet she showed great strength and spoke words of wisdom to Caroline. Mrs. Mary Pitt, William’s wife, was another character to warm up to and respect.

Throughout, I was just reminded of how vulnerable women were previous centuries. Caroline’s life could have been turned upside down at any moment if her brother William had been an unreasonable man full of self-pride and folly. My favorite quote from the book was when Caroline realized she had choices!

I read a digital format of this book supplied to me from Netgalley and the publisher Sourcebooks Landmark. Grab a copy of this new release. You’ll learn a few new scientific terms and maybe you will end up being a stargazer yourself.

Considering Sparrows

Considering Sparrows: What Birds Teach Us About Who We Are, Where We’re Going, and the Joy of Following Jesus
By Kevin Burrell / Multnomah

The annotations you mark in an ebook tell an evidence-based story about your reading adventure. I just finished Considering Sparrows and the data shows I marked 189 highlighted sentences. Since these highlights are grouped by chapters, I can easily pick out my three most favorite chapters. Each of these favorites has twenty or more highlights. No chapter was sans highlights. This data proves beyond a doubt, I loved this book!

Bible and birds; you might think there’s not enough material on these two topics together to fill a 240-page book. But Kevin Burrell, a pastor and birder, has authored a book that sings like a nightingale and soars like an eagle. His knowledge of scripture and ornithology is extensive and accurate. From beginning to end, the book is filled with insightful analogies. All are pearls of wisdom to treasure. The book’s layout is enhanced by Burrell’s focus on the book of Philippians. Each chapter begins with a selected verse from this scriptural letter and then in the following paragraphs Burrell expands on themes related to this verse.

Readers can invest confidently in Burrell’s conclusions since his experience with birds is current and wide-ranging. He references the highly popular Merlin app, thousands of individuals around the world use to accurately identify birds. The retelling of his field experiences across the globe solidifies his credentials. He includes references to birding in India, Costa Rica, Spain, Mexico, and Panama to name just a few.

Burrell’s thoughtful book is a pleasure to read. His style includes humor, popular references, and draws quotes from both religious giants and illustrious avian writers.

As a former twenty-year librarian, I think I might be hard pressed to figure out the best place to shelve this book. Should it be assigned to the religion section or nestled in the non-fiction books on birds. Just for fun, I asked CHATgbt for an answer. The AI generated answer recommended shelving it alongside other bird books, especially since sparrows are featured in the title. But I’ve decided the best place I would shelve Considering Sparrows once it’s spot on the new books section expired, is to give it a perpetual “Staff Picks” favorite designation.

Considering Sparrows by Kevin Burrell will appear in bookstores and online on March 24, 2026. I read an advanced readers copy supplied by the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. #ConsideringSparrows #NetGalley

The Westerners: Mythmaking and Belonging on the American Frontier

New Release from Megan Kate Nelson

Publication Date: April 2026

I found The Westerners to read one night when I was browsing lists of upcoming releases. The description of both the author’s background and the book’s theme caught my eye. Megan Kate Nelson is a new author to me and I love to read a great history book. After turning the last page, it’s clear this book will have a tremendous impact on how we view our growth as a nation.

The rose colored glasses are off and this is a clear-eyed view of western development.

I have traveled throughout Montana and the Three Forks region. Consequently I was totally immersed in the opening chapters on the Lewis and Clark Expedition and the up-close review of Sacajawea’s life and her impact on this exploration.

All other western people Nelson featured made this book come to life. The book is simultaneously a great academic resource and top-shelf story you will find hard to put down. Her prose is so accessible. As I think back over the book, I’m impressed by the absolute diversity of the stories she told. Yet one common thread links all their biographies. The historical record for these individuals is marred by misinformation and blatant instances of omission. Each person experienced prejudice and oppression for breaking the mold and pushing the boundaries. Qualities that are frequently celebrated for some, but rarely in the lives of minorities like women, multi-racial individuals, and immigrants.

I rate this book highly since the text piqued my interest in so many additional areas that I want to investigate further. Plus I’m more likely to choose one of the author’s previous books since I was so engaged in this one. History buffs who choose The Westerners will happily recommend the book, but maybe not loan it out to others. It’s a “keeper” for your personal library to keep front and center among your most favorite reads that have made a lasting impact. I reviewed an advanced reader copy supplied to me through Netgalley by the publisher in exchange for my honest review. The book is scheduled to be released and in bookstores in April 2026.

The Fault Between Us

The Fault Between Us
By Stephanie Landsem / Tyndale Fiction

The Fault Between Us

By Stephanie Landsem

Five stars. Loved it. I chose this book because the setting captured my attention. The vivid characters each with their own well developed and diverse personalities kept me hooked. Once the natural disaster became central to the story, the plot moved at a breakneck pace. I enjoyed this book from cover to cover. The Christian message is overt and the timing of each person’s reflection on faith is spot on.

Despite a good portion of the plot being tied to a natural disaster, it’s a story full of heart. Relationships are redeemed. Hope soars to an apex and then drops precipitously to its nadir, but never leaves. Hope, renewal and restoration triumph in the end.

Following the book I immediately researched the true facts of this historical event. I loved how accurately the author covered the facts and crafted such a multi-layered novel around this earthquake. I would choose another book by Stephanie Landsem with expectations of enjoying a great historical fiction book with great attention to detail and an engaging plot.

I read an advanced copy of this ebook supplied to me by Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

The Highland Heist

#4 in the Freddie and Grace Mystery Series

The Highland Heist
By Pepper Basham / Barbour Fiction

The setting captured my attention. The Scottish castle, village, and characters delivered an engaging twist to the storyline. Such a great book. The pace was excellent and the vibrant characters were brought to life in a realistic plot. I had not read previous books in this series titled the Freddie and Grace Mysteries. This novel is book #4. I was able to jump right into the series and not miss a beat. This book delivers mystery, drama, action, and some fun dialogue. I appreciate the “can-do” attitudes of the protagonists. The ups and downs of the relationship between the two sisters is spot on accurate. Thank you to Netgalley for an ARC to review and give my honest opinion. #TheHighlandHeist #NetGalley

Last Light Over Galveston

Last Light over Galveston
By Jennifer L. Wright / Tyndale Fiction

This book will be released for publication on Aug. 12, 2025

This is an excellent novel you’ll love to read! Jennifer Wright always delivers stories with unforgettable characters in captivating settings. This book based both in Galveston, Texas and Hudson Valley, New York delivers a story with a powerful punch. One plot line is tied to the devastating hurricane that brought its wrath down on Galveston in 1900. The population was unaware since the Weather Bureau was in its infancy. Wright displays her master level writing skills when she describes the sights and sounds of Galveston before and after the hurricane. Her prose grabs our senses. The hurricane’s catastrophic nature comes to life with each paragraph and page turn.

The book has a strong Christian theme that is stated overtly at the conclusion. In life people are often disappointed by family and friends. In Last Light Over Galveston, our main character, Kathleen Ann McDaniel, experiences emotional pain inflicted by her father who blurts out hurtful words just as the plot takes a treacherous turn. Her father is her only remaining parent. All his actions are driven by his greed and self-centered agenda. The disappointment he causes in Kathleen’s life leaves a gaping hole in her heart. At this point, she flees her upscale Hudson Valley home and eventually arrives at an orphanage in Galveston. She assumes a new identity and tries to hideout in this sheltered community while caring for orphans. The hurricane touches down just as she is making preparations to go on the run once again.

Kathleen eventually builds authentic bonds of friendship and mutual respect with most of the supporting characters. Wesley’s point of view shines a light on the poor working conditions and exploitation of immigrant labor at this point in history. Matthew and Maggie are characters to love. Readers will cheer for the future path Matthew, Kathleen and Maggie choose when the wind dies and the flood waters subside.

Non-fiction Christian writers encourage people to fill their broken heart’s gaping hole with faith and a personal relationship with the Lord; the One who is steadfast in love and mercy and is always for us. In Last Light over Galveston, Jennifer Wright’s novel arrives at the same conclusion. Kathleen’s earthly father disappointed her, but she finds healing for her heart through faith and trust in the Lord. This is my honest review in exchange for receiving this ARC from NetGalley and Tyndale Fiction. #LastLightoverGalveston, #NetGalley

Cloaked in Beauty

Cloaked in Beauty, Softcover, #3
By Karen Witemeyer / Bethany House

This book is a fun and enjoyable love story set in Texas beginning in 1881 . I chose it to read because I do like “journey stories”. An heiress to a shipping fortune on route back to her childhood home is guarded by a Pinkerton Agent. The young lady’s villainous uncle is committed to thwarting her arrival and makes plans to bring about her demise. The Pinkerton Agent is fully occupied keeping her safe. Along the way, major accidents and harrowing adventures threaten to keep them from their destination. The two main characters Letty Hood (aka Scarlett Radcliffe) and Philip Carmichael discover a deep admiration and abiding love for each other. The author portrays them both as capable and wise. Throughout the story they most often act unselfishly and care deeply about social justice. At first glance the wealthy heiress and traveling security guard may not seem like they could make a future together work, but the author resolves this perfectly. Reader’s will be happy with the conclusion. I also like the elements that gave a nod to fairy tales. There were many instances when what you might expect was turned upside down. For example: While Letty Hood needed protection, she was not damsel in distress. Her country upbringing while in hiding with her grandmother allowed her to acquire a range of skills that helped to keep her safe until she could reach her twenty-first birthday, return home, and claim her inheritance. The other element turned on its head was the wolf’s role in the story. No big bad wolf here. Just a loyal companion named “Rusty” who is a main character in his own right. The duo of Letty and Philip aren’t going to Grandma’s instead they leave her and make the journey away from her home, only to be reunited with her later. A true “fracture fairy tale” and a fun story to read. This book is Book #3 in the Texas Ever After Series

I read an ARC supplied by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. #CloakedinBeauty, #NetGalley

Recommended for the New Year

When Stars Light the Sky
By Elizabeth Camden / Bethany House

Look for this book when it is released in January 2025. I highly recommend it for historical fiction fans. This book is excellent with smooth writing that is a pleasure to read and flows at a superb pace. The setting and perspective of the characters make this book a standout. I loved learning about an ambassador’s role and the varied duties of his highly qualified staff. The main character Inga is a protagonist with a heaping measure of heart, talent, and charm. Benedict is portrayed vividly and to the reader he is equal parts intelligent, thoughtful, ambitious, and annoying. The conclusion is just what the reader hoped for, yet I never saw the plot resolving the way it did. A delightful surprise.

While some of us may know some general details about World War I, this book with a focus on America’s Embassy in Germany during this tumultuous time offered a good overview into the issues of the era. Even though our nation hoped to stay neutral and out of Europe’s turmoil, events made neutrality impossible. By the story’s end, America declared war and entered the conflict. The historical facts were accurately woven into the story in a way that added to the novel.

This is the second book in the series Elizabeth Camden has titled The Women of Midtown. The parts of the story that shared a glimpse of life in New York City during this time period were well done and highly engaging. I expect to read book one in the series based on how much I enjoyed the sequel. I read an ARC from NetGalley. #WhenStarsLighttheSky #NetGalley

Unforgotten

Unforgotten, Softcover
By Shelley Shepard Gray / Revell

I was interested to read a different genre created by an author I haven’t read before so I requested Unforgotten by Shelley Shepard Gray to read. While this book fits the Amish Fiction category, there is a parallel plot with “English” people to enjoy. I enjoyed the action in middle most of all. The villain was well developed at all points in the story. The author created a cast of great female protagonists with life experiences that are realistic. The ladies, who are cousins, are celebrated for their good sense and bravery in the face of danger. Cynics with their hearts on lockdown might not care for some parts of the two love stories. The men, cast as knights in shining armor, overflow with devotion to their fair maidens. At some points, their dialogue seemed a little over the top for me. But the men were good hearted characters with good intentions even if they seemed a little possessive.

The author shared a realistic view of Amish daily life. I think the reason we like to read Amish Fiction is because we admire the Amish populations’ productivity and steadfast faith. Throughout this book, the men and women, demonstrated these traits.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher Revell in exchange for this honest review. #Unforgotten, #RevellFiction!