The Red Canary

by Rachel Scott McDaniel

Music sparks her world, but can love ignite her heart?

In 1928, soot from the local mills and music from speakeasies linger in the Pittsburgh air. When the manager of The Kelly Club is found dead, nightclub singer Vera Pembroke is thrust into peril. As the only witness to the crime, she’s sentenced to hide away in the Allegheny Forest with a stuffy police sergeant as her guardian.

Sergeant Mick Dinelo harbors a burning hatred for Pittsburgh’s underworld after the devastation it left on his life—and heart. He should be out exposing culpable gangsters rather than tending to the impetuous woman who defies his every effort to keep her safe.

Mick and Vera must set aside their differences to solve the murder that someone wants to keep buried beneath the soot of Steel City.

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

313 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 1, 2020

About the author

Rachel Scott McDaniel is an award-winning author who writes historical and contemporary romance with heart, mystery, and humor. When she’s not dreaming up swoony heroes or happily-ever-afters, you can find her chasing adventures in Ohio with her husband, two amazing kids, and an endless supply of chocolate. Rachel loves hiking trails almost as much as plot twists and is always on the hunt for the next great story … or snack. Connect with her at www.RachelScottMcDaniel.com or on your favorite social media platform!

Reviews

[Cindy aka "The Book Fairy" · Rating 4 out of 5]

A satisfying and enjoyable read as always with Rachel's books! She is a go to author whenever I am in the mood for a quick "escape" story to read in a sense. Lots of spiritual elements and gospel sprinkled throughout, a decent and wholesome one. It was neat getting another bit of a look into the roaring twenties with the illegal speakeasies during the 1920s prohibition era , with the typical bribes and corruption being prevalent as well; some aspects of history are always a given as we know. Interesting with relatable characters, some lack of communication but not a big deal...

[Staci · Rating 4 out of 5]

There isn't a lot of CF set in the 1920s so I enjoyed that aspect of the novel for sure. Vera is a singer at a speakeasy and has no trust in men. Police officer Mick is an honorable man and a Christian. After Vera overhears a murder, Mick provides protection to Vera. Watching Vera turn from a sarcastic and skeptical woman to one who believes that there is kindness in the world was nice to see unfold.

[Cara Putman · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Cause your head’s been shouting, and your heart’s been whispering. It takes some persistence to hush the thoughts, but when you do, the right power can direct. The heart never makes a mistake. God’s in there, sugar.”

In The Red Canary, Rachel McDaniel immediately transports her readers to 1928 in Pittsburgh. The book opens in a speakeasy with all the angst and turmoil that entails. When Vera hears a murder, she becomes a witness who has to be protected. Mick is assigned the job, but it’s not an easy one when the DA doesn’t believe she’s a credible witness.

From the dialogue to the setting, the author does a masterful job taking us back in time one hundred years and firmly establishing us in the Roaring 20s. The characters are complex and interesting, and the plot engaging. You would think being stuck in a hideout for half of the book would ease the tension, but it doesn’t. In this season of reading, I’m loving historicals more than ever, and I loved that this book was set outside Regency, Gilded Age or WWII (all timeperiods I adore). A wonderful read for those who love being immersed in a different time zone with characters who are closer to us than you initially think.

[Paula Shreckhise · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The night was quiet, but he was about to knock on death’s door”
Ms. McDaniel continues her expert writing in a new tale about the 1920’s.
This time we meet spunky Vera Pembroke in a speakeasy run by her boyfriend, Carson Kelly. Sergeant Mick Dinelo has a hot tip to go to The Kelly Club. There he encounters Vera who has escaped a hard past. She is more than he bargained for when they are faced with fleeing a murderer.
There is lots of cute banter and jargon of the era for good measure. The feisty heroine and stoic hero make the sparks fly.
Both Mick and Vera are flawed and find strength and healing on their faith journey. “Didn’t she know to be flawed was to be beautiful...To be healed by His wounds was to be freed by His surrender, now that was a beauty no cosmetic could duplicate.”
If you are looking for a terrific story filled with fun and faith, come back to 1928 Pittsburgh and see what Mick and Vera get up to. You will be so glad you did.
*I received a complimentary ebook from the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*

[Emilee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cover Love

I was immediately drawn to this book the first time I saw the fabulous cover. The story within this cover is just as amazing! The characters are such a treat to read and the mystery, it was very well done! It really intrigued me. The spiritual aspects of this story came together so beautifully. And of course my favorite, the love story, let me say that Mick and Vera have great chemistry. The banter between them kept me smiling. And the sweetness of it was very tender. So many small details in this story not to be missed. I would recommend this book to all my reader friends!

[Kerry Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a delectable treat for lovers of historical romance! Snappy dialogue, fascinating historical details, and chemistry that crackles from page to page.

I loved Vera's humor and feistiness. Steady, strong Mick balanced out her liveliness perfectly, and their back and forth is a delight to a romance reader's heart. And all the 1920s jazz lingo--so much fun! The story moves along at a quick clip, from the sooty Pittsburgh streets to the beautiful Allegheny National Forest.

I especially appreciate the author's tender touch with skittish, guarded Vera. Her growth in the story made me choke up in a couple scenes.

If you appreciate inspirational Historical Romance with lots of heart, humor, and swoony chemistry, you must check out The Red Canary!

[Natalie Walters · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enough moxie and gumption, this story will drop you into the roaring 20's among the bootleggers, rum runners, and murder.

I love how instantly author Rachel McDaniel's writing sweeps you right into the story through her descriptive setting and dialogue. You can easily read her love of the era and genre as she expertly weaves a story with heart, gritty villains, a moody hero, and an unforgettable heroine. If you love the 20's and noir films-this story is the bee's knees!

[DevotedToHope · Rating 5 out of 5]

This author did it again! Outstanding, relatable writing complete with flawed, lovable characters, genuine faith-content, and perfect settings.

Easily earned the maxed number of stars.

[Melanie Tillman · Rating 5 out of 5]

From everything to Vera's wardrobe, hair, and makeup, to the slang and the smoky speakeasy, this book immersed me completely in the roaring twenties. I read a lot of historical fiction, but never one in this time period. Now, however, I'm hooked! It was all natural too, no info dumps of historical background or over the top dialogue. The opening chapter where Vera (The Red Canary of the title) is crooning and working the room at the Kelly Club was a fantastic set up to the rest of the book. I love that she first meets Mick at that point, who is of course undercover and is of course forced to risk blowing his cover to protect her from an unruly patron. The story is bookended with violence, danger, and shady characters, but the bulk of the romance occurs when Vera is taken into protective custody. Of course this means it's just her and Mick in a cabin in the woods. Two stubborn people with clear sexual tension stuck in a secluded location? Yes, please! Is it a trope? Heck yeah, and for good reason. You can pry this trope from my cold, dead, romance loving hands. I love that act two slowed the action down and focused on guilt-ridden Mick trying desperately not to fall in love and closed off Vera desperately trying to do the same. And did I mention at one point they had to pretend to be married? Stick a fork in me, I'm done. I'm a swooning puddle on the floor!

[Rebecca Jordan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A powerful story of love and forgiveness. And my first read by this author. Well done.

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars
"She'd worn pride as thickly as her makeup, covering her flaws, concealing her shortcomings. Didn't she know to be flawed was to be beautiful? That no matter how layered, how far beneath the surface was scarred, mercy ran deeper. To be healed by His wounds and to be freed by His surrender, now that was a beauty no cosmetic could duplicate."

When Sergeant Mick Dinelo is assigned protective custody over a material witness for a high profile Pittsburgh murder investigation, he never imagined that his heart would wage war with his head over how to manage the ravishing beauty many referred to as "the red canary". Night club entertainer Vera Pembroke had made serious allegations, stating that she knew exactly who had killed the manager of the The Kelly Club. Whisking Vera off to a remote location, fearing that her life could be in serious jeopardy, Mick instinctively knows that Vera's prickly demeanor hides a vulnerability that presents him with a challenge; he must convince her to be completely honest with him about what exactly happened on that rainy night when she returned to the club. Realizing that Vera trusts virtually no one but herself, pushes Mick has to face the fact that his own demons are preventing him from being completely forthcoming with her.

What a luscious blend of an unique historical setting with characters (and two fantastic secondary personalities) perfectly sculpted to match; the flame of romance breathing life out of death, and the power of the cross providing solace for two very troubled souls. Rather than feeling like outsiders looking in, readers will readily embrace their role of impassioned participants, working tirelessly alongside Mick and Vera to put the details of this case to rest, so that the canary can live the rest of her life filled with song.

"You said you needed a song."

[Kelly-Ann ~ Sassy Bookish Mama · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another amazing story by Rachel Scott McDaniel! I am always in shock that she doesn't have more books out! She definitely is an amazing writer and has a great gift at transporting you into the era her books are set in. From the descriptive settings to the way the dialogue is between the characters this one was no exception! In this book we travel to the 1920's to the age of speakeasies and the prohibition era. We meet Vera who is a singer at the Kelly Club who is owned by her "boyfriend" Carson Kelly. Vera is spunky, has goals and dreams for her life she wants to accomplish but unfortunately her boyfriend and lifestyle hold her back. She was raised to know God by her grandmother but life circumstances have her leaving her faith.

We also meet Mick Dinelo, an upstanding cop, who becomes guardian to Vera after she witnesses a murder. He carries a heavy burden with him and doesn't like getting close to anyone. However, he can't help being drawn to Vera and falling for her. I absolutely loved the chemistry between them. The witty banter and the way that their romance develops is quite dreamy!

If you have not read anything by this author I highly recommend it. You will definitely be drawn into the story and these characters. The way that she also interweaves faith into the story was very well done and perfectly suited for this story.

(I received this book from Just Read. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.)

[Rachel McMillan]

read for endorsement:

The Red Canary features a dazzlingly intelligent heroine, an evocative sense of place and a pitch-perfect historical narrative. Toss in a whiff of suspense expertly captured with a voice that makes the roaring twenties sing and you have an unputdownable read. The whip-smart dialogue and shadows of danger nipping at the heels of our delightful protagonists is underscored by chemistry that snap, crackles and pops every time Mick and Vera share the page. Yet, deeper still, McDaniels has penned a treatise on finding ourselves and our value in a higher place beyond our human limitation. A delightful read from a stand-out talent

[Sydney · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m so conflicted about this one. The setting is so fascinating; the “underworld of Pittsburg” as the blurb calls it is really the perfect description. I haven’t read any books with this type of plot so I was really excited to see what kind of story this would tell.The good cop/bad cop situation of the late 20s really set up a “who can you trust” thought in the back of your head because nobody was truly safe in that sort of environment. Very sad in reality, but it made for a good story. Vera and Mick were both good characters. I felt like their chemistry was lacking, but on their own I enjoyed getting to read about them. The faith content I did like and thought it was pretty solid, and I like the way Rachel worded those conversations and thoughts. I also liked how it wasn't terribly dark. The 20s decade was filled with so much hardship and trouble it makes me think of that period with a black and white filter over it. Though this book is gritty, it's not as heavy as I thought it might be.

While there were parts I liked and found interesting, I did skim over a lot of the book. It had a really good start, a good middle, and everything else was just sort of middling. And truthfully I think its a “me” problem because I don’t think I like this period of 20s history as much as I want to. The 20s lingo that Vera uses fits her character well, but I just found it annoying to read. Something was lacking in this book that kept me from fully enjoying it. It may just be that the 20s setting is not my favorite, but I want to give her another try since her books have been very well received.

I definitely think the Christian Fiction genre is lacking in 20s era fiction, so this is absolutely worth giving a shot.

[Rosalyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a fun story about life in the roaring twenties! Rachel McDaniel has given us a beautiful portrait showcasing a speakeasy and a lovely young lady in those good old days.
Vera. What a heroine. I liked her character from the very beginning.
I liked her character from the very beginning. She’s fallen into hard times and is singing in an illegal bar. Then things go from bad to worse when she is the only witness to a murder, and is forced to disappear for her own safety.
This book is a delight. It brings to life the days of the twenties. And Pittsburgh, and all it’s glitz and glamor back in the day.
I especially liked the hint of mystery, murder, and suspense mixed in.
And I can’t forget the hero, Mick. The police man. He’s protecting Vera, and trying to protect himself from her.
These two have had some difficult things in their pasts, and neither one of them are looking for any kind of real relationship.
This is an excellent read, particularly if you enjoy historical fiction.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

[Janine Rosche · Rating 5 out of 5]

McDaniel takes readers on a delightful jaunt back to the time of speakeasies, gangsters, and quick-witted songbirds who have a talent for finding trouble at every turn. Vera is a feisty and daring heroine with a pure, but shadowed heart. Mick is a steady, rule-touting hero with a heartbreaking reason for keeping his distance from Vera—a tough feat when he’s charged with protecting her. The red-hot chemistry between these two is enough to start a blaze, and the suspense is spine-tingling. McDaniel has carved herself a place at the tip top of Prohibition-era romantic suspense with The Red Canary as well as her previous title, Above the Fold. I’m looking forward to more from this talented author.

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the banter between the two main characters! Such a fun book. Yet filled with a great message and danger. Vera is hilarious and Mick is the quintessential version of a straight laced guy. They’ve both had so many hurts in their lifetime. And Lacey! Such a sweet addition to the book. Her quotes and care made me smile. There’s one scene (I won’t spoil it) that really made me laugh. Another must read from this author. I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All views stated are my own.

[Randi Sampson · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I first saw this stunning cover, I knew without a doubt it was one I wanted to read. When I saw that it was written by Rachel Scott McDaniel, it moved up even higher on my TBR. While I had only read one book by this author in the past, it was enough to know that she has a beautiful talent for really transporting the reader into another place in time and I so looked forward to that experience that again. I was not disappointed.

This story takes place in Pittsburgh in the midst of prohibition where we meet sassy speakeasy Vera. Upon hearing a murder take place, she finds herself stuck with police Sergeant Mick in an effort to keep her safe. Where Mick is ordered and predictable... Vera is anything but, seeming to find her way into trouble again and again. The dynamic between the two was fantastically written, and I couldn't help but enjoy their rocky start. Still, as with any good characters, they both have histories that have made them who they are. I enjoyed seeing these pasts revealed and truly gain a better understanding of their reactions not just to one another, but the events at hand as well. In the beginning, while I enjoyed the banter and her sass, I didn't really think I was going to really come to like her character much... but by the end, I'd come to love her!

I must admit, I don't know a ton about the speakeasy culture during the 1920s, merely the basics taught in the history books. Yet the story was so well researched and described that I was able to picture it so perfectly. I loved that, and found myself wanting to read more about this period in time (and was very thankful for some of the actual historical facts found in the author's notes that helped me to appreciate the story all that much more).

With the mystery, the romance and the setting, it already had the makings of a fantastic story. For me, the elements of faith made it all the better. With messages of forgiveness and God's love and protection, it all weaved together effortlessly in this beautiful story.

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

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a historical fiction title from the Christian fiction genre. I like that it's a time period that we don't see a lot of novels set in so it gives you another time to look into.

Vera is a night club singer. Thus the name of Canary or bird or singer. Her past isn't pristine. Which during this time period if you sang in a nightclub most people are going to assume things anyway.

And then it happens. There is a crime committed at the nightclub and she witnesses it. Keep in mind that during this time period a lot of times you can pay off the police and such so that it never happened. Vera doesn't know who she can trust or where to turn. Add to that that they will most likely try to discredit her because of her past and you've got quite the novel going on.

When Vera finally finds an officer that she can trust he also protects her. And then you get to watch Vera as she changes and emerges through the rest of the novel.

This was a great read and I hope you give it a go.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through JustRead Publicity Tours. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

[MJSH · Rating 4 out of 5]

"The sorrow may last for a night, but joy comes in the morning. He had tasted the sorrow. Had plenty of it. It was time for the joy."

Rachel Scott McDaniel returns her readers once again to 1920s Pittsburgh during the Prohibition Era; this time she delves into the world of speakeasys and corruption running rampant in that city. The nightlife in Pittsburgh is so vivid that you can touch, hear, taste, and smell the jazz and alcohol in smoke-filled clubs as other nefarious dealings occur underground and imminent threat looms. There is suspense and intrigue as Vera goes into hiding in Allegheny National Forest after witnessing a murder and Mick provides the protection she needs. The main characters are memorable and the secondary characters of Mrs. Chambers and Pops are hilarious and lovable. There is also a powerful theme of salvation and redemption woven throughout the story.

Vera is a beautiful, sassy, loud-mouthed speakeasy singer who's constantly running from her past and mistakes. Mick is an investigator on the Pittsburgh police force who is haunted by his past. Oil meets water when spontaneous, emotional, and stubborn Vera is thrown into close quarters with the straight-laced, ordered, and disciplined Mick. Their conversations are lively, quirky, and witty; their relationship is achingly sweet and beautiful as it unfolds.

If you enjoy historical fiction with a good dose of suspense, you will really enjoy this book. Kudos to Rachel Scott McDaniel for another well-written and captivating book.

I received a copy of the book from the publisher via JustRead Publicity Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.

[Connie Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Red Canary by Rachel Scott McDaniel transports us back to the year 1928. We visit Pittsburg, Pennsylvania and catch a glimpse of what real life was like back then. We meet Vera Pembroke, a speakeasy singer. Vera has not had an easy time performing. She has been drug away as soon as she came off the stage, she is also receiving threatening notes. Her manager, Artie does not seem concerned about that. Vera finds herself in the middle of a mystery when the manager of the Kelley night club where she performs is found dead. She is the only witness and is forced into hiding as they investigate the crime.

The author writes this story where you pulled into it as soon as you start reading. You will become mesmerized with Vera and her lyrical talent and how her story plays out. She has had a shattered past and grows throughout the book. Her boyfriend, Carson was not my favorite character. When you think of the 1920's you think the rise of the gangsters. He reminds me of a shady gangster. He was possessive towards Vera. That bothered me. Because of her boyfriend and his shady dealings - she is scared of talking to the police.
The police show up on her doorstep after the murder and Vera is taken into protective custody. Sergeant Mick Dinelo knows that she is the only witness to a high profile case. Mick can't stand the underground world and all the hurt and pain that it can cause. I love how the author writes about trust. Mick and Vera learn to trust each other and most importantly, God through out the story. I loved how the mystery unfolded and why Artie was killed. Well written characters, intriguing storyline, historically accurate. Bravo to the author.

I received a copy of this book through the JustRead book tours program, all thoughts are my own.

[Rebekah Morris · Rating 2 out of 5]

I picked up this book unsure if I’d like it or not. I don’t read many books set in the 1920s so that interested me.
In some ways I enjoyed the story, and in others I didn’t.

Thinks I liked:
I did like Vera and felt sorry for her. She needed a real friend and someone who could show her Christ’s love and forgiveness.
Mick had me liking and not liking him. His constant obsession over a past event made me want to sit him down and tell him a few plain truths even if he didn’t want to hear them or got mad.
Oh, the captain and Lacey! Loved ‘em both.
The setting of Pittsburgh, PA and the world of bootleggers and illegal whisky sellers and evil men, contrasted with the beauty and quietness of a mountain cabin were quite striking.
I did like that there was fairly clear gospel message and some prayers.

Things I didn’t like which dropped my rating:
I didn’t like all the 20s slang. It felt overdone and almost as though the author had found and put in every bit of it that she could. Sometimes it felt natural, but other times it was annoying.
There was a lot of talk about guys who just wanted sexual pleasure from a woman which I didn’t like.
The physical attraction was mentioned and noticed between the main characters too many times for my enjoyment, and there was quite a lot of physical touching that wasn’t described in a sweet innocent way. It felt that most of the time the author put in just a hint of lust or wrong thoughts in those situations which make me uncomfortable.
The bad guys were evil who didn’t care for any life except their own.
There was blood, murder, drunkenness, mentions of prostitution or assault, mentions of people living together without being married, corrupt officials, and illegal activities.
I don’t recommend this book, and won’t be reading it again.

[Gretchen Garrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the beginning of this book, I felt like I stepped back into the 1920's. I am not sure if the author watched lots of movies or read a book called, "How to Talk Like a Flapper," she nailed Vera Pembrooke's character. There is a fine line when writing a historical character with a strong personality, and by the end, I felt like I had truly gotten to "know" Vera. She was up in your face, yet her actions did not seem cliche.
The book's setting also was interesting. I am not sure that I have read a book about Pittsburg before - I am fairly certain that I would not want to have visited this city back then as it was definitely a lawless place. Now the Allegheny Forest on the other hand - I would go there in a heartbeat. I liked how the scenes set in this part of Pennsylvania also became an important part of the plot. HE and Vera's relationship was definitely something to behold.
Did I forget to mention Mick? Part protector, part enforcer, Sergeant Mick definitely plays the other significant part in this book. He is presented as a man of integrity, yet he still is struggling to get over a tragedy.
The minor characters also play an important role in this story. Figuring out all of the details as to why Vera needed to flee also made for an interesting storyline. And I liked the musical elements. If you enjoy historical fiction that includes a Christian element of truth as well as a suspenseful story, you will enjoy this book. While I did receive an advanced copy to read, this review was my idea and reflects my opinions. I appreciated being able to read this one!

[Caitlyn Santi · Rating 5 out of 5]

A stunning, superb sophomore novel from Rachel Scott McDaniel!
I fell head over heels in love with this author's writing last year when I read her amazing debut novel, Above the Fold, so needless to say The Red Canary was one of my most anticipated reads of 2020! And oh my word, what a gorgeous, gorgeous story it is! From the first line I was swept away into the world of 1920's Pittsburgh, and the Allegheny forest, and I did not want to leave! This story held me utterly and completely spellbound, every word was like music to my heart and soul!
I loved Vera and Mick instantly! Vera has a super sweet heart and just the right amount of spunkiness and sass (my favorite type of heroine!) my heart broke for her and all she'd been through and I kept wanting to reach through the pages and give her a hug! And Mick, oh my stars, can you say swoony?! His strength, tenderness, and steadfastness, melted me into a puddle, and he will always have a spot on my list of favorite heroes!
The Red Canary is one of my top ten favorite reads of 2020!
I seriously adored every minute of this completely captivating story, it's totally one for the keeper shelf, and I most highly recommend it!
Trust me, you need this book in your life ASAP!
Rachel Scott McDaniel is one of my favorite authors and I'm impatiently anticipating her next book!
(5 Stars!)



I received an ebook copy of this book from the publisher. Which did not influence my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own!

[Carolyn Bryant · Rating 5 out of 5]

In The Red Canary, Ms. McDaniel masterfully melds romance, history, mystery, and faith into one exciting, captivating read which is definitely what I expected from this consummate storyteller! Her expressive prose evokes a myriad of emotions, and her descriptive language paints wonderful, clear word pictures. Vivid, detailed imagery brings to life the sights, sounds, and smells of the locale whether it be the smoky Kelly Club speakeasy, the “soot tarnished” streets of Pittsburgh, or the tranquil Allegany National Forest. Use of the jivey lingo of the era adds credibility and flavor to the narrative. The characters are well-crafted and memorable. Stubborn, outspoken Vera and strong, confident Mick are the perfect 1920s heroine and hero. Strong secondary characters Lacey and “Pops” add depth and interest to the read. I especially appreciate the thoughtfully integrated spiritual truths that are consistently and effectively conveyed. I loved this book and highly recommend it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but am under no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[Hallie (Hallie Reads)]

4.5

Venture back to Pittsburgh of the 1920s with Rachel Scott McDaniel’s The Red Canary!

As the only witness to a murder, speakeasy singer Vera Pembroke must go into hiding. Sergeant Mick Dinelo must protect her—and neither one is all that happy with the situation. Of course, sparks fly as they sort through what can be uncovered (with both the murder and their feelings), and they prove to have the makings of a delightful historical romance.

I definitely enjoyed The Red Canary. With a blend of mystery, character growth, and romance, it is a book not easily put down. I highly recommend it to historical-romance readers.

This review is also posted on Hallie Reads.

I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.

[Morgan Giesbrecht · Rating 4 out of 5]

Set in the Roaring ‘20s with bootleggers, speakeasies, murder, and hurting hearts beneath the glittering lights.

Vera doesn’t trust a soul, particularly men, while Mick is duty bound to protect her. Neither are prepared to lose their hearts in the process. But they do & it’s adorable.

It has a forced proximity & enemies-to-lovers feel because they definitely ain’t friends at the start. 😂 But the character growth is amazing & I absolutely LOVE Lacey & Pops!

And the themes! Ahhh… a beautiful reminder of grace & God’s love, even when we feel worthless.

[Kailey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I instantly knew that I would love this book! Rachel Scott McDaniel writes some of the best Roaring Twenties fiction! She puts so much detail into her stories that they just come alive! She also created some wonderful characters that had great chemistry. I loved this book and was sad that it ended. I look forward to reading more from her!



I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

[Marilee · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a fantastic book! I have not read many historical fiction books that take place in the Roaring Twenties but I am now a huge fan! The plot was captivating and the characters were so well crafted that sometimes I forgot I was reading fiction. If you enjoy a wonderful blend of intrigue, suspense, and romance all wrapped up in a fascinating period of history, this book is for you!

I received a complimentary copy of this book but it in no way affected my review.

[Sophia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love this one so much! It was a spunky, adventurous read, but also a tender, emotional one. So many scenes and quotes resonate with me, and the ending was utterly beautiful and endearing. Vera's transformation was heart-warming and especially so touching. I appreciate this book immensely!