I picked up The Heart’s Choice by Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse (Bethany House, 2023), the first in their Jewels of Kalispell series, and I couldn’t put it down! This Christian historical romance, set in 1904 Kalispell, Montana, follows Rebecca McCutcheon, the state’s first female court reporter, and Mark Andrews, a librarian who loves books more than ranching, as they dig into a murder trial’s secrets. Fans on Instagram and Goodreads can’t stop talking about its warm characters and faith-filled story. In this The Heart’s Choice review, I share why this book stole my heart and why it’s a must for fans of clean, uplifting romance.
Book Summary
In 1904 Kalispell, Montana, Rebecca McCutcheon moves from Chicago to become Montana’s first female court reporter, haunted by a childhood memory of a wrongful conviction. During a tense murder trial, she feels something’s off, but only Mark Andrews, the new Carnegie librarian, believes her. Together, they chase the truth, facing danger, growing in faith, and finding a sweet spark of romance. The Montana setting, with its wild beauty, feels alive, and historical touches, like early women’s suffrage, make this story of justice and love so rich.
What I Loved
The Story’s Flow
Peterson and Woodhouse write in a way that pulls you right in—think cozy evenings with a warm blanket! Their words paint Montana so vividly, I could almost feel the cold. The story moves at a gentle pace, perfect for soaking in the setting, though it slows a bit in the middle. I loved how every page felt alive with history and heart.
The People I Met
Rebecca, the trailblazing court reporter, is my kind of heroine—strong, faithful, and so real. I was rooting for her and Mark, the bookish librarian, whose sweet chemistry made me smile. I wished we got more of Mark’s rancher family, but side characters like Marvella and her rambunctious dog Sir Theophilus brought such fun to Kalispell.
What It’s About Deep Down
This book is all about justice, redemption, and trusting God, wrapped in a story that feels like a warm hug. Rebecca’s faith journey was heart touching and never felt preachy. The romance is gentle and clean, perfect for anyone who loves a slow-burn love story. The mystery kept me guessing, though some twists weren’t huge surprises. The courtroom drama adds a fresh, exciting layer that makes this story stand out.
Who Should Read This Book?
The Heart’s Choice is a gem for Christian historical romance fans, especially if you love Janette Oke’s tender stories or Mary Connealy’s spunky heroines. It’s great for readers wanting clean, faith-filled tales with strong women and a hint of mystery. Older teens and adults will enjoy it, though the suspense and past trauma might hit deeper for older readers.
Rating and Final Thoughts
I give The Heart’s Choice 5/5 stars. Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse crafted a beautiful, uplifting story that blends romance, faith, and a touch of intrigue. Rebecca’s court reporter role adds a fresh twist, making this a standout. If you love heartfelt, clean reads, grab this one!
Have you read The Heart’s Choice? Share your thoughts below!
Book Details
- Authors: Tracie Peterson, Kimberley Woodhouse
- Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
- Publication Date: May 16, 2023
- Pages: 337
- ISBN: 978-0764238970
More in the Series
Did you enjoy my The Heart’s Choice review? My review for Book 2 in the Jewels of Kalispell series drops next week! Check back for my Book 3 review soon after, as I’m already diving into it!
