This is a wonderful story of second chances. Rev. Ian McCormick is struggling to forgive himself for the suicide death of one of his parishioners - a young lady who was dealing with an unexpected pregnancy, through no fault of her own. Will he finally find forgiveness?

Sophia Biddle grew up as a Bidershem - a well loved daughter of the world renowned piano manufacturer. When a family friend takes advantage of her, she finds herself in a very awkward situation. Deciding it is better to leave, she takes her young daughter, Caira, and heads for the small town of Stone Creek, Michigan. In 1900, her predicament was not easily accepted and many looked on her as a loose woman. Will the small town treat her any better?

An ecopy of this Stone Creek Brides series was received through Wild Heart Books and BookFunnel. These impressions are my own and were in no way solicited. ( )

Rumors and Promises by Kathleen Rouser is a Christian historical romance. Sophie Biddle and her “sister” arrive in Stone Creek, Michigan, looking for a new life after being abandoned by her family. When their paths collide with Reverend Ian McCormick, and her past threatens her future, she has to decide whether to keep running or to trust Ian and God with her heart and their lives.

With themes of forgiveness, faith, love, and more, this book kept me reading. I loved how Kathleen Rouser developed the characters in this story. I truly found myself unable to put this book down. These characters have a second chance to overcome their individual pasts and get things right together.

With several characters who have to be the story’s nemesis, I specifically enjoyed watching the somewhat quiet and meek husband of the town busybody eventually appropriately deal with her.

So, if you enjoy Christian historical romances, check out Rumors and Promises by Kathleen Rouser for yourself. I definitely recommend it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own. ( )

This is book one in the Stone Creek Brides series and I found it fascinating to be transported to Stone Creek Michigan in 1900. I was saddened to meet Sophie as she has been abandoned by her family in her time of need as she navigates life trying to protect her child at all costs. I loved Reverend McCormick and his compassion and empathy for others as he deals with past mistakes that makes him doubt himself. His love for family, his church, and others makes me want to meet him. I admire the strength of Sophie as judge-mental and narrow minded people make hurtful comments and was glad she was accepted and loved by others showing sometimes family doesn’t have to be blood. It is a beautiful story of redemption, reconciliation, acceptance, and forgiveness of others and self. It was an impressive read that drew me in and left me wanting more as I loved the twists and turns that kept my attention. I recommend adding to your TBR pile and enjoying the journey.
I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required. ( )

Sophie intrigued me right away because I just knew she was keeping a huge secret. Traveling alone with a child is a big red flag for me. I kinda figured out a little about the child but I knew there was more to the story. I admired Sophie for taking a job that didn’t pay much but she worked hard and was appreciative for the people in the town who welcomed her.

The early 1900s were hard for everyone ,but as a young woman alone raising a child it was more difficult. Of course the town had their gossip group who loved to be judgmental instead of being filled with grace and reach out to her. Sophie will have to learn to trust God and remember that He loves her as trials come her way.

One of Sophie’s secrets is a sensitive subject that may trigger some readers. It has become impossible for Sophie to feel completely safe until her past is exposed and she receives God’s healing. Her self esteem at times is very low and therefore her trust is almost non existent. Perhaps the Reverend McCormick can help her.

I did like Ian right away and thought his character was humble, kind and filled with grace. He does try to get to know Sophie better, but there is a barrier that Sophie has put up. As Sophie decides to play the piano at church, she starts to let her heart open up very slowly. Ian is very encouraging and genuinely wants to help her overcome whatever is bothering her. He has such a pastor’s heart and you can feel his gentle spirit. I really liked this character and how he makes everyone feel loved and accepted.

When Gertrude made her entrance into the story, I was displeased . She is a mean spirited judgmental and unhappy woman. Why does it bother her so much that Sophie is now playing the piano at church? Her harsh words of Sophie “parading around in an evening gown at church and their questionable upbringing,” made me instantly remember how God loved even the lost or those who had sinned.

I loved how the author illustrates redemption and reminds us that we all have a past. The good news is that God forgives us and we have been set free. I loved getting to watch Sophie mature in her faith and begin to feel confident in herself.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion. ( )

Rumors and Promises, by Kathleen Rouser is the first book in the Stone Creek Brides Series. This is a Christian historical fiction story that focuses on, Sophie, and Reverend Ian. While Sophie is running from her attacker and father of the child she is caring for, Ian is running from letting down a young lady when she needed help.

This is a nicely written story that is easy to read. I so enjoyed the caring characters that supported Sophie and those that supported Ian’s dream for unwed expectant mothers and their children. I especially enjoyed the strength Sophie has and the determination she has for the young girl she cares for. It’s enjoyable to read of Ian and his interaction with the young girl and how quickly they form a friendship. The parts in the story that stand out to me is the different types of reactions Sophie and Ian get from members of the church. And, the misunderstanding that cause Sophie to leave her family. This is a heartwarming story to start off a new series, I look forward to reading the rest in the series. This story is a story of forgiving one’s self and contains suspense and romance.

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