Secrets of My Heart

January 27, 2020
Childhood friends reconnect during sad circumstances in the consuming launch of Peterson’s Willamette Brides series (following her Brookstone Brides series). In 1879 Portland, Ore., newly widowed Nancy Pritchard mourns the death of her husband, Albert, though her loveless marriage made her husband a stranger to her. Rumors begin to spread that Albert was murdered, and evidence is found suggesting Albert was involved in illegally selling guns and liquor; Nancy can’t help wondering what other kinds of business her husband was involved in. When lawyer Seth Carpenter, Nancy’s childhood friend, comes to town to investigate Albert’s illegal dealings, he gets reacquainted with Nancy and develops feelings for her. As Seth continues to investigate, he discovers more secrets about Albert, and after Nancy’s life is threatened, Seth desperately tries to keep her safe. Meanwhile, Nancy’s angry at God for her baby brother’s death 15 years ago—but letting go of her bitterness could finally allow Nancy to feel the love she had been missing. This is a beautiful story of redemption.

February 15, 2020
Nancy Pritchard has been harboring bitterness against God since the childhood death of her youngest brother. In 1879, she is living in Portland, Oregon, when she is suddenly widowed. To add to her trauma, she is surprised to learn that her late husband, Albert, was involved in illegal activities. When his associates begin to threaten her, she begins to wonder if his death was truly accidental. Seth Carpenter, a young lawyer and family friend, is sent to Portland by the federal government to investigate Albert's activities, not knowing that Nancy is his widow. Nancy is not a suspect, yet Seth can't really tell her why he came to Portland even as they search for the truth and even as he falls for her. Nancy learns about grace, forgiveness, and being open to others and to faith as she lets go of past bitterness. The start of the prolific Peterson's Willamette Brides series will appeal to readers who enjoy either or both inspirational and western romance.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2020, American Library Association.)