I enjoyed this historical romance story. This is a new author for me which I enjoyed reading and look forward to seeing what is next for this author. I enjoyed how the author used details to bring her story to life. This is a well written story that is hard to put down. It is an engaging story that is about strength and finding romance despite what life throws at you. This is a fast paced story that will bring hope and inspiration. The characters are relateable and supportive of each other. They have great growth throughout the story. This is a really great story and I highly recommend it.

Norah’s character is such a beautiful example of tenderness and love of fellowmen. She sees a need and acts without thinking about the long term consequences. Her fiancé is a complete ninny. I can’t stand him and his big headed attitude. When sparks start flying between Norah and Quincy, I was cheering for Quincy all the way!! Such a fun book!

Where the Road Bends is a lovely historical romance that winds down the roads of forgiveness, redemption, and unconditional love. The characters are so unique in this story, especially the hero, Quincy. I loved his half ruffian/half gentleman charm, and the way he always sought to pay his good fortune forward to the less fortunate. I also appreciated the slow-burn romance between Norah and Quincy. They had the familiarity of old friends with the excitement of new affection. And I loved the family feel of Quincy’s hotel. Mrs. Dover and Nels were adorable and added to the charm of Quincy’s family.
And I was so happy to see Sam, from A Life Once Dreamed, again. He’s such a fine man, it was fun to learn more of his story and watch him open his heart after such heartache.
Overall, this story was soft and sweet with beautiful lessons on how to deal with life’s harder moments. Fans of historical romance will not want to miss this novel by Rachel Fordham. She writes excellent stories with characters you can cheer on in their journey.
I was given a copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.

It is a sweet historical fiction and Christian romance novel about strong-willed Christian young woman who was about to get married while trying to save her bankrupt ancestral land yet made a major mistake by taking, allowing and caring a male stranger who accidentally stumbled and ended up onto her property. The strangers turned friends to marriage (no “lovers” since the book kept the content as chaste as it could) have many sweet spots in the novel. Quincy and Nohrah have found their unlikely friendship with strong chemistry while dealing with obstacles and trials.

I’ve never read a Christian romance book before and I had my qualms in the beginning but I must say it didn’t turn me off. Just wanted to note that mere mentions of “God and praying” were subtle and inconspicuous in the novel. Other than that, there are no Bible verses nor anything biblical references that would probably turn some readers off. To me, it is a clean and cute read about love, friendship, loyalty, deceit, disappointment, frustrations, fear/trauma, healing, self-love and compassion. This is something I would suggest to my devoted Christian and non-Christian friends to enjoy. I know I did and I hope you do too!

Thank you Revell Books for this #ebook #WhereTheRoadBends by #RachelFordham in exchange for my honest review.

Oh my goodness, my heart! What a sweet and romantic read this beauty turned out to be. I haven't read a lot of Rachel Fordham books (yet), but I thoroughly enjoyed her voice and style in this one. The pacing felt consistent and the storytelling was just beautifully done.

I LOVED getting to read more of Sam's story! That was perhaps one of my favorite parts of the book. Readers will surely remember him from Fordham's previous novel, A Life Once Dreamed. But I also enjoyed getting to know new characters in this novel. Once again, Fordham showcases her ability to create communities of memorable characters who feel like friends.

Overall, this novel is a moving tale of grace, God's perfect timing, and how He redeems the good, bad, and ugly of our stories to make beautiful things. I highly recommend for fans of sweet historical romances.

I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. All expressed opinions belong to me.

This book had all the elements I wanted in a book. I’d definitely recommend this to my family and friends

It doesn’t take long for Quincy Barnes to fall for Norah King, she saved him after all. But Norah is engaged to be married and sends Quincy on his way, however reluctant she may be to see him go, determined to make a life with the man who has promised to save her farm. There’s more in store for Norah and Quincy, though, and when they find each other again will their secrets continue to keep them apart?

Each new release by Rachel Fordham brings a new favorite read to my shelves, and Where the Road Bends is no exception. I loved the references to my favorite Jane Austen book, Persuasion, that Norah and Quincy save each other at their lowest, and that I knew so little of what would happen that each development was a delightful surprise.

While I found this particular book to be a light and joyous read that seemed to speed by, it also has heavier themes dealing with grief, guilt, adversity, and the depths to which some sink in their treatment of others. So if you enjoy your Historical Fiction with romance, faith, and storylines of found family, second chances and redemption, and just a wonderfully told story that delights and touches the heart, Where the Road Bends is a not to be missed book.

Highly recommended.

This review refers to a finished copy that I voluntarily received courtesy of the publisher’s Revell Reads program. A positive review was not required and all opinions expressed are my own.

I have read a few books by Rachel Fordham and really enjoyed them but I have to say this by far was my favorite. This book had all the elements and made you feel all the emotions. This story is all about redemption, faith and coming to realize that sometimes what we hope for and dream of may be not be in the same path that God has for us. Our characters definitely realize this especially Norah. I absolutely loved her. She was so innocent and coy. I loved that happiness to her is being on her land, wading in her creek and reading a stack of books. Her faith in God is strong and she portrays that as she takes in Quincy who is in her land and injured.

Oh goodness Quincy... be still my heart he is SO swoon-worthy!! From the very beginning as he lets her babble on he is just the sweetest. I loved how his life turned around and the way it happened. I will not divulge more because then I would give the story away and I don't want to do that. But let's just say you the love story aspect of this story was on point and Rachel Fordham did an excellent job with it.

I can't stop writing about characters until I mention Mrs. Dover, she was a delight and definitely one of those characters that every story needs in order to put things to right. She was like the glue of the plot line. I know you will love her as much as I did!

The story does deal with a rather tough issue of abuse and prostitution but the author does a great job at handling it. It reminded me a bit of the story Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers. It was well handled and definitely added a whole new emotion to the story. One that I wasn't expecting but welcomed.

If you are looking for a new Christian Historical Romance I definitely suggest you grab this one. It was a beautiful story and I know you will enjoy it.

I received a copy of this book through the publisher Revell. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

Norah King wants to save her family’s land, but her aid of an injured man may cost her everything. Quincy Barnes owes his life to the caring woman who came to his aid, and their lives seem entwined even though he moves on. The compelling story moves along, catapulted from the decisions these two characters make. The struggles and problems they face seem devastating because the author makes the reader care about them. They come across as authentic and realistic, although their decisions may frustrate the reader. It makes you want to keep reading to see how everything turns out. I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own. #WheretheRoadBends #NetGalley

This book is probably the best book that I have read in a long time! I really enjoyed it. I do love historical fiction/romance novels. This one was so well written and really kept you wanting to read more and more. It is the type of book that is hard to put down once you get started. This book is about love, hardship, family, and so much more. I really loved the characters and was almost sad when the book ended. You readers out there know exactly what I mean. I highly recommend this book, even if you don’t think you are the type who likes historical fiction….I’m pretty sure you’ll enjoy this one.

Where the Road Bends by Rachel Fordham is another really great read. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with this story and with these characters. The pacing is a tad on the slow side for me, but I didn’t mind. I felt like I could take my time with this story and really get to know all the characters. I enjoyed the setting very much. Longfield sounds like such a cozy, inviting place. I like how the citizens of Longfield band together and have each other’s backs. If only we were all so lucky to live in a community that cares for one another like they do in Longfield. I found the conflicts very engaging and admit to reading late into the night because I just had to know how characters were going to deal with all life threw at them. One of my favorite aspects to this story is how well Fordham utilizes tension. I was stressed over Percy and I was stressed for Norah. I also kept yelling at Quincy to just tell Norah his secret: “Come on man, get it over with. Spit it out!” I like when a book captures my interest so much I’m yelling at characters. What a testament to a truly good story.

What I so enjoyed in this story is the easy give-and-take between Norah and Quincy. They have an immediate soul connection that is very deep and familiar. They can talk about anything, are honest with one another (for the most part), and are funny. In fact, I chuckled quite a bit during the first few chapters. Because of this ease with each other, their journey to love, their innate chemistry, is not hard to believe. In fact, I found the pacing of their relationship quite realistic. One of the topics Norah and Quincy discuss early on in their story is the idea of changing as an individual. Norah, ever the optimist, believes that anything is possible for Quincy. He is down on his luck when they first meet, but that doesn’t mean he has to stay down. As she so eloquently states, “…Follow where the road bends. You can have a different life.” Of course, Norah is correct, we can have a different life. We are not bound to our pasts or our mistakes. If we don’t like something, we have the power to change. And that is just what he does. Quincy sets out to make a new, better life for himself, and it is a fun journey to watch.

Where the Road Bends is another home run by Rachel Fordham. I really enjoyed my time with this book and highly recommend it. If you love well-written Historical Romances, you definitely do not want to miss out on this book.

I received a review copy of this novel in eBook form from the publisher, Revell, via NetGalley. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

I cannot begin to describe how I feel after reading Where the Road Bends by Rachel Fordham, but I can say that it was an amazing, heartfelt, emotional and beautiful ride.
It’s a must read!!

Rachel Fordham instantly drew me in from the first page and kept me engaged till the last page. It was very well written with a powerful message. This book deals with the power of condemnation that one or a few decisions can bring. The characters, Quincy and Norah, have to deal and confront their past before they can truly be set free from the condemnation that keeps lingering in their life.

I instantly fell in love with Norah and Quincy and enjoyed their journey. It was a very bumpy one, but by the Grace of God, they made it. The characters were very enjoyable and very realistic. There was never a moment that I thought the characters or the plot seemed unrealistic. Rachel Fordham painted a beautiful picture making everything crystal clear and never left me wondering what the scenery looked like or what was transpiring between the characters.

Anyone who loves history or romance or even action scenes will find this book enjoyable. I loved this book; it was very hard to put down. Also it was a clean book so it was even more enjoyable.

I received a review copy courtesy of Revell through NetGalley and Interviews & Reviews, for my honest opinion.

You might think it’s a bad idea when you’re a single woman to take a strange man into your home, especially in 1880. Yes, he’s injured but what if he recovers? What if he doesn’t? And what if the man you’re supposed to marry in two weeks finds out about it? But if Norah King hadn’t come across Quincy Barnes and taken him into her home, Where the Road Bends wouldn’t be much of a read.

But this isn’t a book about Quincy’s healing. Instead, most of it takes place during a time I didn’t expect. There are twists I didn’t see coming. The plot involves money, contracts, and… Jane Austen? There’s a strong Christian message of redemption and change. A vulnerable kid plays a major role, and there’s a lovely housekeeper. And I’m trying very hard not to give away any spoilers or major plot points.

There’s a list of book club questions at the end, and one asks if Quincy could have done more? What he could’ve done more of, I won’t say because of those spoilers, but my answer was an immediate yes. And there’s my big problem. Where the Road Bends is an entertaining story, but it is only a story. In real life, a single woman in 1880 shouldn’t take in an injured stranger. In real life, Quincy could’ve done more to resolve a particular situation. But without those two situations, there wouldn’t be a new book by Rachel Fordham. Or if there was one, it would be short and boring. And that’s the thing about novels. They’re not reality, and that’s mostly a good thing. We all want a time of enjoyable escapism, and Where the Road Bends provided me with exactly that.

Disclaimer: Although I received an electronic copy of this book from the publisher, the opinions above are my own.

While historical fiction set in the 1800s are not always my favorites to read, Rachel Fordham is one of those authors whom I know does historical fiction very well. She draws readers into the past and helps us to feel what life was like for her characters. Where the Road Bends is no exception. While I must admit that it's not my favorite that I have read by this author, it was a very enjoyable story nonetheless... I just personally felt I didn't connect with the story quite as much as I had with others. It was a quick paced story, and one that I believe fans of historical fiction are sure to enjoy.

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

This was a lovely story of redemption, forgiveness, and the power of God in the lives of people.

The dynamics of relationships were very relatable. Though Norah's experiences are certainly not common, many have felt a spark with someone only to have life circumstances take them in another direction. It doesn't always happen that things come full circle, and you get to be reunited with the 'spark'.

I enjoyed the author's writing style, the character development, and the storyline. There was enough tension sprinkled throughout that kept you on your toes, wanting to know what would happen, but it didn't take over the main storyline, or overshadow the relationships between characters.

Many people can relate to Quincy's internal struggle as well. We have all made decisions that seemed harmless at the moment, especially when we don't or can't know how they affected another person, but it goes to show that we should always seek the Lord when moving forward in any situation. You don't know what your one choice may do to someone else.

I would definitely read another book by this author, and recommend it to a friend. Very enjoyable!!

A lovely romance about second chances and forgiveness. Fordham has crafted yet another sweet tale that old and new fans are sure to love. The characters are easy to root for, and the faith element is present without being preachy.
Norah does experience some trauma after falling on hard times, but it is nicely handled. Plus, watching Norah overcome her fears and confront those who did her wrong is inspiring and satisfying to watch unfold. Besides a lovely central romance, there is also a nice portrayal of female companionship. Overall, an inspiring story of hope and second chances.

Rachel Fordham’s Where the Road Bends is the story of Norah King, who lives alone on her family's farm, and Quincy Barnes, a stranger she finds injured on her land. This heart-warming story is about kindness, loyalty, truthfulness, second chances, hope, redemption and most importantly forgiveness. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this uplifting, well-written story with its message about learning to trust others even after we have been hurt. I simply adore this book and the characters in it!

"This shouldn't surprise my longtime readers - I'm completely enamored with Rachel Fordham's writing!

Where the Road Bends is such a lovely and heartwarming story. It is beautifully written, wrapping me in the comfort of its hopeful message.

It has such a clever beginning - when Norah found Quincy beaten and left for dead in her field. I loved the witty banter between them when she rescued him, quite literally, from the vultures! The author masterfully used this rescue from the birds as a recurring motif between them, which was both humorous and sweet.

Norah's hope and faith were such an inspiration to Quincy. He not only turned his life around, but he also sought to help others whenever he could.

The situation Norah found herself in was - unexpected. I hadn't expected it, and Quincy certainly hadn't either. The author did such a great job of making her circumstances clear without compromising the clean nature of the story. Her journey from shame to hope and forgiveness was inspirational. I loved its crescendo at the baseball game!!

I enjoyed the secondary characters as well. Nels was a super addition. That ragamuffin quickly captured my heart with his streetwise manners and tender heart.

Where the Road Bends is a wonderful story of hope and redemption. I recommend it to readers who enjoy historical Christian fiction.


I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own."

“I can fetch a light. Would that help?”
“It’s not the dark that torments me.”
“That’s a shame. The dark is easier to cure than other fears.”

I love this quote because it is so true, darkness can easily be overcome by a single flame of light, but other fears, deeper fears, are much harder to extinguish.

✨Book Review✨
Where the Road Bends
@rachel_fordham
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This book … I don’t even know what to tell you because I don’t want to give away ANYTHING. It’s cover and synopsis are deceiving - in a good way! The title really says it all, because this book took me on a very different path (the bend) than I thought based on cove and description alone. And while I want to tell you ALL the emotional depth that Rachel wrote in here, of sacrifice and grieving the life you lost, I don’t want to deprive you of the surprises I found as you read.

If you want to know more, DM me and we can chat! Because I need a debrief from this one!! So so so good!

Let me put it this way, I would put this on the same shelf next to my Redeeming Love book. It’s THAT GOOD!

Thank you to Rachel, @revellbooks and @justreadtours for allowing me to be on your launch team for this book and to @netgalley for the complementary ebook copy! All thoughts are my own and a positive review was not required.

Where the Road Bends was my first Rachel Fordham read and it was a beautiful historical romance that will stay with me in my heart. The setting, characters and story pulled me in and didn’t let go. I was transported to 1880 Iowa right there with Quincy and Norah and loved every moment of their journey together. This is a story of forgiveness, new beginnings, dreams, and God’s redeeming love. A beautiful 5 star read that will have you in tears by the end, leaving you with a full heart.

This story begins with Norah King working on her farmland left to her by her parents. She is unable to make her mortgage payments on the property and risks losing her land unless she can marry Jake, a man who has offered to pay for the land in exchange for her agreement to marry him. Norah believes this is the only way she can keep her land and agrees. However, everything takes a turn when she finds a man, Quincy Barnes, on her land unconscious and bruised, in need of healing. She takes him in her home and works to heal him and restore his health. They have an instant connection together, but they don’t act on it due to her scheduled marriage to Jake soon. Quincy leaves after he starts to feel better, afraid of the reputation that could follow Norah if everyone learns of his presence in her home.

After he leaves Norah’s home, the story cuts to two years later --- Quincy has started a new life in a new town as a successful businessman, after a long young life struggling to make ends meet, boxing for money. However, upon his new start, he finds something he needs to return to Norah and tries to do so. When his letter goes undelivered, he goes to visit her and what he finds is unexpected. The story takes off from there as Quincy sets out to find Norah.

Quincy and Norah each have been through many hardships in their lives, but the Lord has prevailed as they work through them. You can see the characters in the story are Christian and God’s redeeming love is there. I think there could have been a smidge more discussion on the Lord, but I appreciated the discussions that were had, and it didn’t take away from the story not having additional faith discussions.

The ending to this was amazing and I was in tears. I love Quincy and Norah’s story so much and can’t wait to discuss this on my YouTube channel BookLoverAmanda in my June wrap up! I will also post a review to Amazon and my Instagram account.

Overall, a beautiful 5 star read! I can’t wait to read more of Rachel’s books in the future. Thank you to Revell and NetGalley for providing me with a free advanced reader copy to honestly read and review.