Engaging Deception is the final book in the Joplin Chronicles and it was a fun read. I've really enjoyed all the books in this series (still need to read the novella someday) and definitely recommend it to fans of historical romance.

I liked how the characters both enjoyed architecture, even if she was hiding that fact for a while. The romance was okay...not bad, but not a favorite either. I enjoyed Olive's family in this book and the ending was good.

All in all, a good read.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*

Excellent read. Keeps you hooked. Interesting to the very end. Love the characters. Sweet and caring, down to earth. Olive has always wanted to be architect, something women just didn't do at that time, so she keeps it a secret. Max is a successful architect who hires Olive to watch his children. Each has emotional scars that they need support and understanding to get through. Great sense of humor. Tough to put down but you want it to go on. Sweet romance with great depth.

I received this book free from the author, publisher and NetGalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
#NetGalley #EngagingDeception #ReginaJennings #BooksYouCanFeelGoodAbout #BethanyHouse

Engaging Deception is a delightful story that had me laughing out loud frequently as I read it. The heroine, Olive Kentworth absolutely loves architecture and has learned quite a bit about it through reading. Turns out that although self-taught, she is very talented at designing homes. Unfortunately society is not yet ready for women architects. Her solution is to design homes while her cousin implements the plans for her and also takes all the credit for them.

Maxfield Scott is the award winning architect who Olive most admires. When she finds herself acting as nanny to his children, she is thrilled to have access to his extensive library. Maxfield soon discovers that he is drawn to his home when Olive is there. Could this be a romance in the making?

Several hilarious scenes are in store as two prominent men compete to have the biggest, most elaborate house in town and Maxfield is baffled at how the seemingly inept contractor can possibly be responsible for the designs.

Loved this story but I will leave further details to the reader. I will say they will not be disappointed at the outcome.

This series has been a joy to read, and this book is a perfect addition. A very fun, heart-tugging, and uplifting book that will make reader both laugh and swoon. Beautifully written with a unique story/plot and engaging characters. Olive is so relatable and absolutely delightful. This is one of those books I didn’t want to put down, and when I had to I looked forward to the moment I could pick it up and return to Joplin.

Regina Jennings is a lovely writer. I love the characters she created, especially the children.
Both Maxwell and Olive struggle with grief. As I read the first few chapters, I sensed that Olive really hasn't let go of her mother because she visits the grave so regularly to clean it and keep it in tip-top condition. She loves art and architecture which is great, but she seems far too willing to just lie low and let someone else stand in for her and take the credit for her work. I realize that in this era, almost every profession screamed, "It's a Man's World!," but I really wanted her to be different. I wanted her to be bold and take some pride in her God-given talents.

Maxwell is intrigued by her. I like that. I imagine that he was a very interesting character to write as he's a grieving widower with two lively children. He's courting a woman but now has eyes for that sweet new nanny. Love isn't easy, but I know it's worthwhile.

Great work, Ms. Jennings. I look forward to reading more in the future.

Engaging Deception
by Regina Jennings
Pub Date 13 Dec 2022
Bethany House, Bethany House Publishers
Christian | Historical Fiction | Romance


I am reviewing a copy of Engaging Deception through Bethany House and Netgalley:


A lively competition ends up drawing her into her rival's blueprints and perhaps even her heart...


Olive Kentworth has had a lifelong interest in architecture, but she's spent most of that time hiding her interest, despite the fact that pores over architectural books and sketches buildings. When she accepts a job on a home expansion, it's only because her cousin Amos agrees to pose as the builder. To further hide her involvement, Olive takes a position as a nanny--not knowing that she'll be working for her idol, Joplin's leading architect, widower Maxfield Scott.


Maxfield finds himself intrigued by his new nanny, he makes his home and his life bearable again. His work, on is a disaster though. An untrained builder is remodeling a completed project of his. What's worse, Maxfield's current client wants changes to his plans because of that builder's work.


As the architectural one-upmanship heats up Olive's involvement becomes harder to hide. Will the relationship between her and Maxfield survive, or will they both miss out on building something for their future?



I give Engaging Deception five out of five stars!


Happy Reading!

Olive Kentworth has spent her life hiding her interest in architecture, even though she pores over architectural books and sketches buildings. When she accepts a job on a home expansion, it's only because her cousin Amos agrees to pose as the builder. To further hide her involvement, Olive takes a position as a nanny, not knowing that she'll be working for her idol, Joplin's leading architect, widower Maxfield Scott.

Maxfield is intrigued by his new nanny. She makes his home and his life bearable again. His work, on the other hand, is a disaster. An untrained builder is remodeling a completed project of his. What's worse, Maxfield's current client wants changes to his plans because of that builder's work.

As the architectural one-upmanship heats up, Olive's involvement becomes harder to hide. Will the relationship between her and Maxfield survive, or will they both miss out on building something for their future?

My review: This is book three in the Joplin Chronicle Series. It's not necessary to read the first two books in the series to read this book. I enjoyed reading Olive's story. There's not a great mystery in this book. It's just a nice easy read. The characters have flaws. But strive to overcome them.

I recommend this book to all who want a nice clean romance story.

I was given this book by Bethany House Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way.

Engaging Deception, the third and final book in "The Joplin Chronicles," was written by Regina Jennings. Despite being the third novel in the series, it is also perfect as a standalone.

The plot takes place in Joplin, as the series' name implies. It is set in the late 1800s when it was still verboten for women to work in several fields.

Olive Kentworth has a strong enthusiasm for architecture as well as a deep interest in it. However, women weren't welcomed into the profession of architecture.

The premier architect in Joplin, Maxfield Scott, is a widower who urgently needs a nanny like Olive. Unbeknownst to Maxfield, Olive wants the job so she can read his architectural books and magazines.

Engaging Deception was enjoyable to read. I've always had a strong appreciation for construction and architecture, and the story piqued my curiosity. In fact, I worked for a number of years in both new and renovation construction. Because of the disparities in how women were viewed, I found reading this book to be particularly fascinating.

The characters were relatable, which caused me to laugh sometimes and cry at other times. Jennings has produced a carefully researched, inspirational novel that will touch your heart. The editor's note she includes at the end is also essential reading.

I received an advanced review copy of this book from NetGalley. All opinions are my own and I am voluntarily leaving this review.

I have loved all of the books in this series. They’re so fun and the characters are engaging. Seriously. These characters are full of it, well it being a good thing. They’re genuine and bigger than life. If you love a good character this book has lots of them. Some of the characters had their debuts and were the main focus of the previous two books. You don’t have to have read the other two books to read this one but you also will get more from it if you’ve read the other books.

In Engaging Deception, we follow the life of Olive. She’s an architect but no one outside of her family knows this because her designs are viewed by the public as the designs of her cousin. He’s rather, well, not up to the level of sophistication and education that you would expect of an architect.

Olive’s family is out to get her. Or rather get her out into the world more. She’s rather reclusive and they want her to live her life now that she’s no longer taking care of her mother who was ill. Part of their plan is to eventually have her take the credit for her designs but the first step is giving her confidence. And step one is getting her out of the house!

And so begins her journey of caring for two children who are adorable but also who are the children of an architect who is quite well known in Joplin.

From there the fun and adventure begin! You’re going to want to grab your copy today and read this book! It’s so good. I definitely didn’t want to put my copy down.

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.

This book pleasantly surprised me! I don’t normally read from this time period, so I didn’t know what to expect. However, I really enjoyed it. The main character was relatable and interesting, and the love interest was swoony. That isn’t to say he didn’t have some growth—as did our main character, Olive! They both changed so much throughout this book, in the best ways, and ended up complimenting each other even better by the end.

While this is the third in a series, it’s only a companion novel. You do not have to read the first two in order to appreciate this book.

I loved Olive's story. She is a woman ahead of her time and self-taught in architecture, and does quite well.

This book is a lot of things. It is a story of growth and development. It is a story of family and faith. It is a story of an unexpected romance. Olive is stronger than she thinks and has a large wonderful supportive family, Her growth is inspiring and makes a wonderful story.

Maxfield is a widower and the leading architect in town. His story is trying to balance his two children, his projects, and trying to have a relationship. He needs a nanny at night. Enter Olive. She loves the chance to have access to his library,

Maxfield and Olive learn to to be friends as she helps as his nanny. From there, they find out many things about themselves and each other. The growth is inspiring and the story is sweet. I love the humor that weaves into the story as we meet Olive's family.

The story was sweet and worth the read.

I received an early copy from the publisher on NetGalley and this is my honest review

Have I been hiding under a rock or something?? How am I just now reading a novel not only from this series but from this author in general? From the beginning I was intrigued. It’s been awhile since I’ve read a novel featuring a female lead with a passion for architecture and being that the story is set in the early 1900’s makes this an even more compelling fact. Olive might be stuck in life but her passion shines through the pages and there’s no denying the spark shared between her and Maxfield begins here, even if neither of them initially realize it.

My heart couldn’t hep but fall for Maxfield and his plight. To have such passion and zest for life while also battling being a single parent and loneliness is heartbreaking to say the least. I love seeing his progression from trying to busy himself to distract from the pain to accepting his circumstances and seeing the blessings that are right in front of him.

Olive is a kindred spirit. Sadly her confidence doesn’t match her immense talent, but lucky for her this talent shines so brightly that everyone can see it even if she doesn’t believe it herself. I love her calming presence, and the special relationship that she has with everyone. She is a beautiful soul and I loved seeing her come into her own.

The relationships that progress throughout the novel weren’t rushed at all but felt as natural and organic as breathing. I adored the Kentworth clan gatherings on the farm, but what really impressed me was the moments that transcended time. There were a few scenes that went outside the societal norm for that time period and I have to admit those were the moments I felt myself charmed the most. I won’t give any spoilers away, as they are some you need to experience on your own, but it adds a certain spunk to the story that I immensely enjoyed.

I could rave all day about this novel, as it captured my heart and imagination. I loved all the talk of architecture, the organic relationships, and how lovable all the characters are. It’s already a favorite for 2023 for me, and I cannot wait to get my hands on the other two novels in this series.

Olive’s mom passed after she took care of her for a long time. Now her cousins are trying to get her out of her grieving. All she wants to do is be an architect during a time when that was not accepted as a woman’s job. She uses her cousin as a front but it blows up in her face when her cousin can’t answer specifics about blueprints for a big job. Find out how things go. You won’t want to miss this book.

I of course read this series completely out of order but honestly I didn't think I missed too much. I felt like this could easily be read as stand alone book. The only thing you will miss out if you haven't read the whole series is the dynamics of the family.

I really enjoyed Olive's story. She had huge dreams of being an architect in a time where it was uncommon for a woman to hold such a position. She definitely had great talent that was being hidden despite her projects coming to fruition through the hands and voice of her cousin who acts more like a hillbilly than an actual architect. Everything unfolds when Maxfield comes into her life. She takes the position of nanny at his house and he is actually a very prominent architect.

I have to be honest Max drove me a bit bonkers. He was so clueless about the person who stood in front of him. I felt like there were plenty of clues for him to piece things together but alas... you will have to read it and let me know your thoughts.

Overall I thought it was a great story and a great addition to the series.

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

Engaging Deception, by Regina Jennings, is book three in her Joplin Chronicles series from Bethany House.

I always liked Oliva in the previous stories, but this book took me by surprise with how much I loved her character. She was spunky in such an understated way. The humor she—and her family—brought to the story was wonderful. And her battle with herself over standing by her name as an architect was one with which I could relate.

Maxfield was more difficult to put a finger on, but that was exactly his struggle. Who was he after the death of his wife? His inner struggles showed so much. And his children were adorable.

If you’re looking for a fun read, that also wrestles with deep inner conflict, then definitely grab a copy of Engaging Deception. You don’t have to read the previous three or four books (the novella that kicked off the series is about Willow, Oliva’s sister), but they are all delightful, so I recommend them.

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I received a complimentary copy of this book from JustRead Tours and Bethany House Publishers.
I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with FTC guidelines.

Engaging Deception, by Regina Jennings, is set in late 1890’s Joplin, Missouri. Olive Kentworth is having trouble moving forward with her life following her mother’s death. Her best friends are intent on finding just the right man for her; however; Olive is not so convinced about this plan!

Olive would much rather spend her days dreaming of the next building she could design. When her father comes home with a new design opportunity, Olive cannot pass it up. But before she knows it, Olive has become a governess to Maxfield Scott’s children. This man is not only an accomplished architect, but also desperately in need of help caring for his children!

You will not believe the situations Olive finds herself as she tries to keep her interest in design from this handsome architect!

4 1/2 stars!

Regina Jennings is a favorite go to author whenever I need romance and a good laugh. Engaging Deception is a thoroughly delightful read. With a little more heart than humor this time, the author deals with difficult subjects like grief and self confidence in a thoughtful, positive way.

Olive has a secret. She designs buildings but passes them off as her cousin Amos’ work. She’s self taught and doesn’t have the confidence to openly share her talents. When she becomes the nanny to famous architect Maxfield Scott, it’s a dream come true.

The widower has many books on the subject of architecture. While he’s out dating, she tries to read and glean all she can from his expertise. As they come to care for one another though, Olive’s secret projects (namely redesigning one of his designs) threaten to destroy everything she’s come to love. Will she be brave enough to share the truth or lose it all?

This story has a lot of heart. Both Olive and Maxfield are dealing with grief. Olive lost her mother and still mourns her death, cleaning her gravestone every week. Maxfield tragically lost his wife. They learn to lean on each other as a way to overcome their sadness and find new happiness. There are some humorous yet swoony situations involving a lake, rollercoaster, and laundry. That first kiss is amazing! But, along with the humor and swoony romance are some poignant messages of faith, letting others see your talents, and accepting love.

It’s a slow burn unique romance that will definitely have you turning the pages. Highly recommend to Christian and historical romance fans. Though it’s the third book in the series, it can easily be read as a standalone. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher through LibraryThing and JustRead Tours via NetGalley. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.

I absolutely love this series by Regina Jennings! These books have the most unique set of characters and love matches I’ve seen in a while. Engaging in Deception is the third book in the Joplin Chronicles series and I enjoyed every moment of it. If you haven’t read the other two books in this series you can easily read this as a stand alone, but just a heads up, you will be missing out on a lot of fun. These books follow a group of cousins that aren’t what anyone would call “high class”. You never know what any of them will do next, and I couldn’t wait to see. This novel follows Olive as she navigates life with out her mother, whom she took care of for years.

Olive doesn’t want to be the center of attention, but somehow her cousins decided she is next on their list of people to help. Heaven knows what they might come up with and decide she needs in her life. Some of them finding their true love, got it in their head, that marriage is the best thing for every one. Olive prefers drawing in her room and pretending that her cousin Amos is the one who drew up the amazing architecture designs that are popping up here and there in Joplin. Being a woman she knows that she wouldn’t be taken seriously in such a man dominated field.

Maxfield Scott is known for his masterpiece homes, and it doesn’t seem like he will run out of work any time soon. Little does he know, he has some serious competition, and it seems to be in the form of a backwoods country boy named Amos. His life seems to be quickly turned upside down, and there is nothing Maxfield can do about it. Luckily he has his children and their unique and intriguing Nanny Olive.

This book is full of fun twists and turns and I loved every second of it. Jennings makes me laugh out loud, and stay up way later than I should. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Historical Romance. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and was in no way forced to post a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

I enjoyed going back to Joplin and visiting with the cousins once again, and this was dear hearted Olive's story. The one who took on the care of her fragile and sick mother. Who after her mother died continued taking care of her father and visiting her mother's tomb. And, since that is all well and good, what she did continue to do was to squash her dreams of being an architect, which she had a natural talent for, and decided to live less than. However, due to the continue encouragement of her father, she finally submitted a bid on something that was not her family's. Though she did it under her silly cousin's name.

Maxfield Scott is a renowned Joplin architect often sought after. He also is no stranger to tragedy; he just decides to handle it differently. He adores his children he just cannot seem to stay home much. The house depresses him so he seeks out enjoyment with a woman who, in my opinion, could be downright silly and self-centered.

Maxfield needs a nanny and Olive wants to read his architectural books in his library, on the sly of course. What could go wrong? Plenty and I enjoyed this comical yet heartfelt courtship of two people who are so right for each other, yet so blind to it. And their first kiss was a memorable one. Sigh!

I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

I thought this book was just charming! Olive Kentworth comes from a respectable family in Joplin, Missouri. They’re hardworking if not super wealthy, and books 1 & 2 of the series (which I haven’t yet read) tell the story of Olive’s cousins. She’s harboring a bit of a secret though—while caring for her recently departed mother on her sick bed, she developed quite an interest and aptitude in building design. As a result, she became a burgeoning architect in a time when women simply weren’t permitted that type of interest. Her answer to that restriction, however, is to have her very ranch-oriented cousin Amos front the work she does while she fades into the background. Maxfield Scott is a very accomplished architect who is grieving the untimely loss of his young wife by staying away from home as much as possible, and allowing nannies to raise his children. When Olive fills in to care for his children for an evening while he courts a socialite, she immediately finds the children to be sweet and genuine. The true attractions, however, are Max’s library of architecture books and journals, and the quiet moments they steal when Max walks her home. It puts Olive in a precarious situation though, as she soon realizes as she becomes a regular visitor in their home that they have 2 clients who are competing against each other to build the largest house in Joplin. I loved the funny, sweet, and serious moments when Olive and Max learn about each other and come to value each other’s opinions, thoughts, and personal revelations. Even though it was probably not even considered an issue at the time, I didn’t like that Max left his kids at home alone to walk Olive home. I also would have liked a clearer idea of when this book takes place (perhaps that’s revealed in previous books, but it would be helpful for readers who grab the books out of order). The banter, hilarious moments as Max realizes where his heart lies, and the chemistry between them makes for a lovely story filled with subtle faith elements and feel good moments. Fans of Jen Turano and Karen Witemeyer will love Regina Jennings! I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher, and was not obligated to leave a positive review.