To Love a Beast

Once Upon a Time in Texas #1

by Karen Witemeyer

Beauty & the Beast in 1800's Texas.
 
Once known among New York's elite as the American Adonis, Everett Griffin now lives as a recluse in the wilds of Texas. The treachery of a former admirer left his face and his spirit riddled with scars, so he hides himself away, his only companions a trio of trusted servants and an oversized dog. Locals whisper of the beastly man who lives in the gloomy manor outside of town and his tendency to attack anyone who dares approach. Everett relishes his fearsome reputation and uses it as a shield to guard his privacy. Until a young woman as stubborn as she is beautiful infiltrates his sanctum and lays siege to his defenses.
 
When an injury to her father jeopardizes the family's book binding business, Callista Rosenfeld determines to fulfill the contract herself, and no insufferable client or woman-eating dog will deter her. Finding unlikely allies among Mr. Griffin's staff, Callista secures her position and sets to work transforming the manor's remarkable library. Her employer transforms as well, his ill-tempered growls subsiding to reveal a considerate, intellectual nature. Affection blooms as Callista and Everett discover hidden depths in each other, but the evil schemes of a vengeful hunter threaten to leave their love and their lives in tatters.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Romance, Christian, Fiction, Historical, Historical Romance

219 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 10, 2025

About the author

For those who love to smile as they read, bestselling author Karen Witemeyer offers warmhearted historical romance with a flair for humor, feisty heroines, and swoon-worthy Texas heroes. Voted #1 Readers' Favorite Christian Historical Author in 2023 by Family Fiction Magazine, Karen is a multiple award-winning author and a firm believer in the power of happy endings. She is an avid cross-stitcher, tea drinker, and family board game player who makes her home in Abilene, TX with her heroic husband who vanquishes laundry dragons and dirty dish villains whenever she's on deadline.

Karen also loves to reward her readers. Every month she gives away two inspirational historical novels to someone from her newsletter list and offers substantial bonus content on her website. To learn more about Karen and her books, or to join her subscriber list, please visit www.karenwitemeyer.com.

Reviews

[Dana Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love a good Beauty and the Beast retelling, and this one has turned out to be one of my new favorites. Callie Rosenfeld, a bookbinder, is commissioned to the home of Everett Griffin to rebind all the books in his library. He is known as the Beast in the area for being a recluse and for the scars on his face. However, Callie's distinctive perspective allows her to see beyond his physical appearance and appreciate the man within. The author masterfully integrated the classic fairy tale into a captivating Texas historical western narrative. The conclusion was exceptionally sweet, providing a satisfying happily-ever-after ending that tied up all loose ends. I was given a copy of this book by the publisher, and this is my honest opinion.

[(Katie) Paperbacks · Rating 5 out of 5]

6⭐. This book hit just the right note for me! I've always loved Beauty and the Beast and this retelling hit all of the sweet notes. The way the author categorized the Beast and how he came to be was quite a different take and I loved it. And the swoony happily ever after kiss? Yummy! I was also completely in love with the household servants. They embodied Lumiere, Cogsworth and Mrs. Potts to a tee but also gave so much more to the characters!

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

To Love a Beast was a captivating story! I love Beauty and the Beast retellings and this one was really superbly done.

As the story opens, the reader gets a little peek at the man Everett used to be. He wasn’t a horrible man, but he was a handsome man who was used to being able to charm any woman he needed to and was willing to use that charm and his good looks to help him move up the ranks of society. Years after the attack, we meet a man who has lost his looks, suffers from headaches, battled depression for a while, and found the Lord. He is alone and isolates himself with only his dog and servants around him.

I loved the way Callista and Everett grew to appreciate each other and the way Callista looked at Everett as a man and not simply as defined by his scars. She brought light back into Everett’s life. The friendship that developed slowly into more was so sweet to read about.

This story was so much fun to read!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...

[Robin Hatcher · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audiobook (narration gets 1🌟)
I love the way the author honored the Disney version of Beauty and the Beast, and yet made the story fresh in its historical Texas setting. Making the heroine a book binder was so perfect and believable.

Robin’s Ratings
5🌟 = Out of this world. Amazing. Unforgettable. A personal favorite.
4🌟 = Loved it. Will recommend to others.
3🌟 = Liked it. Glad I read it.
2🌟 = The book was okay, but I’ve enjoyed others so much more.
1🌟 = I didn’t like it and can’t recommend it.

[Melissa (christianbooksandcoffee) · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75 stars

Calling all Beauty and the Beast lovers, this is a great western retelling of Beauty and the Beast you are not going to want to miss. This story was just great! It has so many elements of The Beauty and the Beast story you know and love. We have the beast, Everett and “Belle” who is named Callista. I loved the beginning with Everett’s backstory, and the way he became a beast from his encounter with “The Enchantress”, I thought it was a very creative way to do it. Callista is a book binder who takes the job at “the beast’s” residence in her father’s place. Everett does not want her there but his staff likes her and he lets her stay. I loved his staff they were great! Callista is a very determined woman. I loved how Callista and Everett’s relationship progressed to love. Of course there is a “Gaston” character who tries to ruin everything. There is also great Christian content. Overall, I loved this story and thought it very creative! I definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75

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

[Jo|Ruth Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely LOVED this story. It gave me everything I hoped for in a Beauty and the Beast retelling, and more!

She’s the brave, determined daughter of a bookbinder, willing to face the "beast" of the manor in hopes that restoring his personal library might save her family’s business. He was once the "American Adonis"...handsome, charming, full of promise until a terrible attack left him scarred, shut away from the world, and convinced he was no longer worthy of love.

But when Callista shows up, with her quiet strength and kind eyes, unbothered by Everett's scars and unshaken by his moodiness... something shifts. He lets her stay. She starts to repair his books. And maybe...just maybe, she starts to mend his heart too!

Ughhh this story was BEAUTIFUL..
Both Everett and Callista didn’t truly see their own worth at first. He thought his scars ruined everything. She thought she was “just” a bookbinder. But watching them slowly (truly) see each other...was everything.

And let me tell you… the chemistry! The lingering glances across the rooms, the brush of fingers, the way he reads to her, the dance lessons, her birthday surprise... every little moment was so romantic.

There’s also a thread of biblical truth running through it...reminders about where real beauty lies, about value and grace and love that sees deeper. It gave the story so much heart.

If you love slow-burn, grumpy/sunshine, Beauty and the Beast retellings with depth, and ALL the bookish feels, add this one to your TBR right now!

[Anna |This Curly Girl Reads| · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5⭐️ I was looking for a light read and this was perfect for that. Though there are a LOT of nods to the Disney Beauty and the Beast (the cartoon which happens to be my fav), it also has its own twist, turns, and unique aspects. The bookbinding was a fun touch! I enjoyed all the characters at Manticorn Manor (Everett’s home) and though the romance was a bit rushed, it was sweet.

There’s also a lot of solid faith content (verses shared naturally, praying mentioned).

Overall, a satisfying fairy tale (minus magic) type story.

Content: some violence, kidnapping, innuendo (vague)

[Lover of Romance · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review. Also my tags may have spoilers in them so be forewarned before checking out full review.

Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻‍♀️🦸🏻‍♀️🦸🏻‍♀️🦸🏻‍♀️🦸🏻‍♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖📖
Narration:🎧🎧🎧🎧
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨✨


First Impressions
To Love A Beast is the first book in a newest series but still has the fairy tale theme to her other series. This was one of my most anticipated reads of the year, and it definitely was so satisfying and worth the wait on it. I really adore how this author writes fairy tale retelling, she really stays true to the original while at the same time putting her own twist on it and its utterly delightful. I am curious what the next fairy tale will be (kinda hoping for little mermaid next but we will see). To Love A Beast had all the heart, inspiration and heartwarming character that melt deep inside of you.

First Line
Everett Griffin strutted through the halls of the Union Club like a thoroughbred stallion on the auction block-for that's what he was.

The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Everett Griffin (The Beast)
The Heroine: Callista Rosenfeld (Our Belle)

Summary
To Love a Beast started our with Everett Griffin, who was one of the most eligible bachelors in New York City, he had everything at his fingertips until one of the woman he was courting showed her true color and attacked him when he turned her down. He became disfigured and a beast to all who saw him. He settled in Texas, in a small community and built a massive manor that was full of gloom and doom. Then enters our heroine, Callista, who is the daughter of a book binder and when he becomes injured, she takes over. When Everett request his services, Callista goes in his stead. Callista never expected a man to be so rude but she was determined to let it not get to her, to remain steady through it all. Soon her steady patient nature, will bring out the real man that is hidden beneath the beastly exterior, but will he be able to win her heart and affection?

What I Loved
This story really showcases what real love is ALL about. I loved the fierce way in which we see their love blossom. The patience of it, the way they give so much to each other and are willing to sacrifice for one another's happiness. Its shows the true nature of love and what we should all strive towards. What I love about Inspirational romance is how it truly inspires you to be a better person and Karen Witemeyer truly takes it to another level.

To Love A Beast had so many fun connections to the original. The father being an quirky character. The heroine knowing his trade just as much as he does. The hero living in a glooming manor like castle (even has gargoyles on it lol ), then we have Mrs Potts (The cook and housekeeper) who is like a mother hen. The valet and the butler who have this fun banter going at it. One likes to play around with clocks and the other is all about fashion. We have a beautiful library room. And the epic dance. And seeing the change and growth in our characters and seeing them fight for one another. I think the heroine could have been willing to do a bit more sacrificing for the hero, but it makes sense as to why she doesn't. So I didn't hold it against her. I did love seeing the change in Everett especially. He literally was traumatized by a she devil (literally she was insane and had to be put in a mental institution type of insane) We do have a jealous villain. And how it all plays out was just perfection. I didn't want to put their story down. But what made this book even better was the love that blossoms between them so deeply. Seeing how selfless they are for each other in the effort to make one another better and to not think about the self in the process was beyond beautiful. I just wanted to stay in this book and their moments forever!!!

What I Struggled With
Nothing much, I think in the end I kinda wish the heroine had fought for the hero a bit more but she is also a devoted daughter so you can feel how torn she is on it.

Narration
I really have adored the narration that this author has for her books, and this one was wonderful. Not the best narration, some of the tones of some of the characters were kinda strange, but loved the ones for the main characters.

Overall View
To Love A Beast was a fascinating retelling that swept me up in the magic and selfless love of the tale while reinforcing a bold connection to God at the same time. It was timeless and truly magical!

Favorite Quote(s)
She longed to know this man, deeply and personally, not simply to feed the attraction she felt towards him. But because she sense if he opened the door to her he could open the door to others. It would give him the freedom to face the world as himself, and not as a man cloaked in mystery and scandal. She took her courage in hand and opened the gate and praying he wouldn't throw it in her face.


Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Historical Romance, Inspirational Romance
Character Types: Softer FMC, Tortured Hero, Protector
Themes: Small Town, Danger/Suspense, Beauty and the Beast
Tropes: Forced Proximity, Fairy Tale Retelling

Book Perspective
3rd POV

Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Both

If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Mary Connealy
Anita Stansfield
Jody Hedlund

Song This Book Inspires
If I Can't Love Her-Kane Alexander

Recommendation For Reading Order
Standalone

Steam/Spice Explanations

Simmering cup of tea---soft warm touches and light intimacy
Warmin' by the fire- a medium level of sexual tension, a balance of sexual and emotional intimacy, lighter on the details in the sexual moments.
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Blazing fire to the building-The prime focus is the sex scenes, scorching hot, and could burn one. Less focus on the emotional intimacy to the relationship.

Narrators:
Cara Firestone

[Kasey B · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

Loved the creative ways this author thinks to retell classic fairytales. I loved the potential in this one but it unfortunately fell flat for me. There were so many conversations that were important to the storyline that I felt like she skipped by simply stating they had taken place. I want to be with the characters more in their development so that their love feels more real. I did enjoy parts of the book but felt like “meh” when I finished it. 😕 That being said, I am definitely open to reading her next book in this series.

[Alayna | Literarily Persuaded · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a fun story! Loved all the characters (absolutely including the side characters!) and it was such a fun take on Beauty and the Beast, with Karen Witemeyer’s charm and wit!

“Books are magical in that way, don't you think? Capable of eliciting joy even before one opens them.”

Being a lover of books and all that, I was so excited about a book binder, a man with an extensive library, and a high appreciation for books! It was a such a cute story!

[Heather Wood · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Beauty and the Beast stories and this one was perfectly sweet with many little nods to the well-loved movies. plus, faith! yay!

[Joanne | wellreadcoffeeaddict · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars ✨

[Paula Shreckhise · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love these fairytale retellings with a Texas flair and this one is my favorite. It had me picturing the Disney version in my head with all the favorite characters. I liked the twist on the names like Mrs. Potter and Mr. Lightfoot. Mr. Griffen as the beast was just perfect! The descriptions put me right in the story. The information about bookbinding was very interesting and the paintings by Everett Griffen were so mesmerizing. They showed Calista what was in his soul. Ms. Witemeyer wove the story into a tale of beauty and gave a clear spiritual lesson. We should be looking at the heart and not outward appearances. She also touched on being a friend and seeking forgiveness.
This is a sure winner and I hope more Texas themed fairytales are in the works.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher on behalf of the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*

[Sylvia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beauty and the Beast is my absolute favorite fairytale, so I’m always excited to read a retelling of it. Karen Witemeyer’s story draws enough from the Disney version to satisfy my love of this tale, but adds plenty of new depth and intrigue. I really enjoyed both Callista and Everett, and I LOVE the fact that Callista is a bookbinder. Each side character added something personal and magical to the story too.

I really struggled to put this one down, and would absolutely recommend it to all! 4.5/5 stars

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

[Life of Literature · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a big fan of the fairytale story of Beauty and the Beast, I was very excited to read this retelling, and it exceed my high expectations! I found Callista to be the perfect blend of sweet and sassy for a heroine and I love how she slowly broke down the emotional scars Everett had built in response to his physical ones. As a lover of books, I greatly enjoyed the details of the book binding process and could only imagine the beautiful extensive library in the novel. I had hard time putting the book down and loved the supporting characters who rounded out such a delightful novel. Truly a must read, and highly recommended!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

[Kelly Hohenstern · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute modern retelling of Beauty and the Beast with a Christian theme

[Connie · Rating 5 out of 5]

After publishing three previous fairytale retellings with Bethany House, Karen Witemeyer has taken the plunge into self publishing. I couldn’t be more pleased with the outcome! Beauty and the Beast is my favorite fairytale, and she absolutely nailed it! As with her other retellings, this is set in Texas during the late 1800s. It has her characteristic Christian elements and lots of Disney version nods.

Callista is a bookbinder determined to help her injured father with a large commission to save their business. This takes her to the home of Everett Griffin, a wounded man whose soul needs rebinding even more than the books in his library.

Karen Witemeyer is an instant-buy author for me. I love the western settings and Christian themes she utilizes in all her novels. She does a beautiful job with her fairytale retellings by also making them fun. Callista and Everett are great characters. I loved to see them fleshed out in Witemeyer’s typical style. Her unique take added emotional depth, even for some of the side characters which was a beautiful addition. If you love fairytale retellings, I highly recommend giving this western take a try.

[J.E. Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

To Love a Beast is a Beauty and the Beast story with an unexpected twist. It is a story you won't forget anytime soon. The characters will come across as very real, with strengths and weaknesses, and in the end, an amazing amount of faith. I enjoyed this story so much. It is filled with depth, compassion, faith, redemption, danger, and love.

The characters are well-developed, and the layers come off slowly as I turned the pages. Once handsome and through a past out of his control, Everett Griffin has changed more ways than he realizes, especially when a female bookbinder, Calista Rosenfield, comes calling to work on his library. Working under her father at their shop in Texas, she is sent in his place due to her father's injury. She finds more than she ever imagined.

I read the story in one sitting; I couldn't put it down. There was so much going on to hold my attention until the very end, which wrapped everything up nicely. Highly recommended.

I received a complimentary copy from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

[JaneReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This included a lot of nods to the Disney movie, Beauty and the Beast, but with the inclusion of faith and looking beyond a person's appearance to see their heart. Opened with a scene showing us what happened to Everett and how he became 'the beast'. I enjoyed seeing the slow change in him as he learned to open up to other rather than constantly push them away. I really liked Callista and how she wasn't afraid to stand up to Everett no matter how much he tried to scare her. She was determined to make the situation work for her father and enjoyed the close relationship they had. At times I struggled to understand and picture the work Callista was doing and found this part a bit slow at times. But I really enjoyed the family feel between the staff and Everett, and how they protected each other but also challenged one another. It is a fun story with laugh out loud moments, but also moments of danger. I recommend this story if you are looking for a fun read.

[Emily Waits (emilylovesreading_) · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Hope sees possibilities where fear sees only barriers.”

I loved Karen Witemeyer’s Texas Ever After series, and was so excited to see her independently publish a Beauty and the Beast retelling as the first book in a new series called Once Upon a Time in Texas. [If you haven’t read the Texas Ever After series, there are three titles: a Cinderella retelling, a Snow White retelling, and a Sleeping Beauty/Little Red Riding Hood retelling.]

This was really cute! Set in 1800’s Texas, this story captured Beauty and the Beast and everything we love about it so well. I loved Mr. Griffin (Beast) and Callista felt unique and yet really classic as Belle.

I loved that the author squeezed in Gaston’s character saying, “I use antlers in all of my decorating.” If you’ve read this already, did you immediately read that in Luke Evans’ singing voice? I did.

Definitely recommend!

Good news for Kindle Unlimited subscribers: this title is available!

[Melmo2610 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Karen has been my favorite author for over a decade. I adore all of her stories and her release(s) each year are among my most anticipated. I have been looking forward to reading this one since it was announced as it is inspired by Disney’s Beauty and the Beast which is one of my all time favorites. This story completely charmed me! I loved the nods to the movie and story itself was spectacular. The read was absolute perfection for me and shot right to the top of my favorite reads for 2025. A wonderfully woven story that is tied for first place for me of all of Karen’s releases. Loved this one!

I received an ebook copy of this book but have already purchased an audio and paperback copy for myself. I was not required to post a positive review and all thoughts are my own.

[Carolyn Bryant · Rating 5 out of 5]

My expectations are always high for a Karen Witemeyer book, and she surely delivered with this captivating tale. The well-designed storyline features details mirroring the classic fairy tale Beauty and the Beast, but it is its own story with an 1800s western flair. Emotions run high in this intriguing narrative whose prologue took me completely by surprise and compelled me to continue reading expectantly all the way to the satisfying ending. Compelling characters including Everett, a physically and emotionally scarred hero, and Callista, a kind and determined heroine who I totally adore, drive the story. I love the way their beautiful love story blossoms. Their interaction with the wonderfully crafted Manticore Manor staff is endearing and made me smile. A vengeful villain brings tension and excitement to the story. I greatly appreciate the inspiring faith thread with reminders of what true beauty is and how trusting God brings hope and restoration. I thoroughly enjoyed this initial book in the Once Upon a Time in Texas series and can't wait to read the next one!
I read an early copy of this book from the author with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Gloria W · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was cute, but it could have used a little more subtlety.

[Casey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an adorable Beauty and the Beast retelling and I loved it. Highly recommend for a quick, romantic, satisfying tale!

[Niki Miller · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF
I couldn’t handle listening to this narrator. It may have been a good book but the narrator ruined it for me.

[Jorie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this sweet retelling of “Beauty and the Beast”, set in 1800s Texas.

The easter eggs all throughout that gave nods to the animated movie were so fun to see but I also felt like the author did a really great job making this story her own, with her own ideas & plot lines.

There were some twists and surprises I didn’t see coming and the resolution was certainly swoon worthy! (Very clean/closed door)

I also really liked the spiritual aspect of it ~ the author did a great job including scripture & faith aspects in a very natural way.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Trisha · Rating 5 out of 5]

heartwarming

I enjoyed everything about this sweet heartwarming story!
The characters are dynamic and compelling. I enjoyed the fun nods to the Beauty & The Beast fairy tale. This is definitely a story you will want for your keeper shelf!

[Brandi · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a sweet, beautiful story of love and redemption!
Just as Beauty and the Beast so artfully captivates my attention, so To Love a Beast arrested my heart and held it tightly until the last line was read. I so adored Callista and Everett and wish I had chapters more of them spending time together. Their chemistry was rather electrifying!
The continual thread of nods to the original with Mr. Lightfoot, Mr. Timens, Mrs. Potter, and so on was so incredibly endearing. I found myself grinning ear to ear at each subtle reference. I love Karen's ability to draw from the classic tale, while also weaving in plenty of her own creativity so you don't know what will happen next.
The side characters truly stole the show in this novel! I was quite enthralled with the banter between the starch butler and friendly valet. Karen Witemeyer's witty humor shone through their sarcastic quips.
And Mr. Batton was the perfectly horrible Gaston. Ugh, what an absolute boor! Very well depicted. He made my skin crawl.
I was intrigued by Callista being a bookbinder and I really enjoyed all the detail shared about the bookbinding process. What a fascinating art! I have to learn more about it.
I thoroughly enjoyed To Love a Beast and you will too.
4.5 stars
*An ARC was provided to me by the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Holly Bleggi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this Beauty and the Beast retelling. I love that it was set in Texas and that it kept all the things I love about Beauty and the Beast while being a unique story. I also loved the Christian elements in the story that made it believable. I loved how Callista helped to break down Everett’s walls by not being afraid of his scars and loving him for who he was. I loved watching the characters grow through the story. I also loved learning a little bit about book binding since that is what brought Callista and Everett together. I would highly recommend this book.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.

[BlueJeansAndTeacups · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another delightful fairytale reinterpreation
Set in the late 1800s, Everett Griffin is the toast of New York; until he isn't.
He has a love of art and socializing. His mother is set on him marrying into the elite 400 until a horrible encounter changes his life forever.
Calista Rosenfeld and her father are well are their way to financial security, until they aren't.
When a large contract comes their way, and circumstances abruptly interrupt their plans, Calista is forced to proceed to ensure their dreams are realized. She is a strong, kind soul and very determined.
She recalls her mother's dying words, "The world might seem dark and frightful, but as long as you have hope, you have power. Power to persevere."
This story stays very close to the Beauty and the Beast story we are all so used to. The characters are wonderful, particularly the staff at Manticore Manor who are faith-filled, kind souls who come to deeply care for Calista.
The villains are deranged and added interest and an appropriate level of anxiety to the tale.

I greatly enjoyed the building romance and the faith elements. Easily read in a day or less.
OH! AND WHAT A GORGEOUS COVER!!
Five Stars

I received an advanced eVersion as part of the author's Influencer Team.
I was not required to write a positive review.

Expected Release Date: 06/10/2025
Published by: Hope & Light Publ., Abilene, TX

If you have an opportunity to interact with this author, please do. She is extremely kind and approachable.