I really enjoyed this book by Crystal Caudill. I liked the characters and how they had to come to terms with their past. I thought the story was engaging and one that kept your attention from the first page. I liked how the story showed that people could change and that they didn’t have to follow in their parents footsteps. I also liked seeing how God could heal their guilt and make them see their worth.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.

This story was full of adventure and danger at nearly every turn. Andrew has a connection to a notorious gang and Lu is trying to escape the same. Andrew works for the secret service and needs to bring down the gang.

Lu's desperation leaps from every page. My heart ached for her throughout the whole story and I wanted to save her every moment. I also wanted Andrew to save her and her son.

Crystal Caudill brings this mystery to life and manages to keep the suspense dripping from every page. She can tell a story that is so believable that you forget you are reading a book.

The tension in the stories carries through right until the end with some unexpected twists and turns brought about by stubborn characters. I felt the emotions, the fear, and the love. The growth was beautiful as well. I believe the Pastor and his wife were among my favorite characters because they saw people where other people only saw sin.

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

Crystal Caudill can write. She is a historical fiction boss, and this is only her second book. Her plot line is intriguing and keeps you reading into the late night hours. Her characters are all over the place in a good way. Some are dangerous and keep you guessing. Some are sincere, sweet, warm and inviting. And yet others make you second guess what you think of them throughout the entire book. Caudill doesn’t stop there. She adds plot twists at the perfect spots. She has sparks of romance sprinkled throughout, again at just the right moments. And her faith thread? Oh my goodness it was good. Probably my favorite out of my recent reads. I’m telling you – Caudill can write. And while this seems like a book that might be going in fifty different directions, I promise you it isn’t. Caudill brings every single aspect together flawlessly.

Andrew is such a wonderful hero. He’s got everything you want – faith, loyalty to the right people, strength, patience, and more. There were so many times I was on the edge of my seat wondering how he would handle situations, and he handled them with such grace and ease. He sacrificed himself in order to make the world a better place. SWOON. And the way he was with Lu? Oh boy. Patience doesn’t even begin to describe it. But in true Hosea fashion, he was willing to follow the Lord’s lead. Let me tell you – that in itself makes him swoony.

And then there’s Lu. Her character surprised me so many times during this story, all in good ways. She was so much more then people gave her credit for. The things she had to deal with, I can’t even imagine it. (Also – please make sure you read the very first page before diving into this book. Caudill gives some trigger warnings for those with reading sensitivities) And Caudill never makes it “come alive” on the pages so to speak. She handles each situation poetically, and only gives enough so the reader knows what is going on.

Caudill has really outdone herself with this novel. It surpassed my expectations, and then some. Her faith thread has touched me in ways I never imagined, and Lu’s story is going to stay with me for a very long time. I highly recommend not only this novel, but Counterfeit Love as well. Carve out some reading time, because you are going to need it. And get those sticky flags ready, because you are going to note a LOT of great quotes!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

A wonderful "marriage of inconvenience" novel. Two characters are thrown together, who don't want to be, but in the end it might be the best thing for them. A retelling of sorts of Hosea and Gomer. This story portrays a beautiful redemption for two very broken people. It asks, how far would one mother go to keep her family together? Counterfeit Hope is a whirlwind blend of romance, danger, mystery, and faith. I loved how characters from book one are included, but in a way that book two still stands on its own. One thing I enjoyed is how tactfully the author handled the "marriage" part of the story. I love that she didn't shy away from the hard things, but still made them palatable to sensitive readers. I highly recommend it for mature readers. (Some themes may be unsuitable for younger readers due to the nature of Lu’s circumstances and past life.)

Oh wow Crystal Caudill has done it again! She captivated me with her debut novel and I impatiently and nervously awaited for this second installment of the Hidden Hearts series. Why nervously? Because you never know what direction an author will head after their debut novel. I have to say that she more than met my expectations. I really loved Counterfeit Hope. It had all the elements that I look for when I am reading a Christian Fiction story.

Let's start with the characters... we immediately meet who has been through a lot. She just wants to break free from her past and the toxic environment that she has been a prisoner of and make sure that her young son is not involved in any sinister things the family is involved in. You really feel for her throughout the whole story and just want her to finally have a chance in life. I really loved that despite what she has been through and how people see her, the pastor and his wife love on her like Jesus would. I think this is so important because it is the way the church is supposed to be towards others. Love and teach who God is in the midst of their circumstances.

The Thornes wow... you always have to have a character that you immediately despise but with this book you get an entire family. They are just pure evil. What Ma Frances puts them through and how she treats them will make you cringe and wonder how God can also love people like them. As sinful humans it's hard for us to comprehend, but that is the thinking that kept running through my mind every time they came into the story.

I was so glad to have a story about Andrew after meeting him in the previous book. His story was a bit surprising and I know it will surprise you where he comes from. God works in mysterious ways and He sure does work within Andrew's heart as he meets Lu and gets deeper and deeper into the case he is working.

If you are looking for a book in which the storyline is embraced with the Gospel then this is it. Don't get me wrong it is not preachy at all but you can tell it is present. I am grateful that the author doesn't shy away from making sure this is present in her stories and I pray that she never does.

Overall I absolutely loved the story. It was great seeing characters from the previous book present in this one. It always makes my bookish heart happy when I see repeat characters in a series. Although this could be a stand alone book, why would you want to skip on the first one?! I definitely recommend you grab both!

I received a copy of this book for review. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
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After reading Counterfeit Love, I despised Andrew Darlington. Who knew I'd fall in love with him in the reading of Counterfeit Hope?

In this book, we find out why he is the way he is. With some of that background (obviously not to that extent) in our family, I can totally see how it would happen.

I had no idea how this book was going to end. I mean, I had an idea, but had no idea how that would be accomplished. The suspense was fantastic. The characters, both lovable and despicable. The trials and tribulations, realistic.

Crystal, there WILL be a book about Josiah, right???

~I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own, and no positive review was required.~

I loved this story of hope and redemption. I really enjoyed that this story has some laughs and some tears. I love that Andrew and Lu each have secrets that they are hiding from each other. I love how they learn from each other. I did not want to put the book down. I received a copy of this book from the publisher for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

The first book in the series, Counterfeit Love was amazing, but this book was even better! Although you could read it as a stand alone, I totally recommend reading them in order (it helps you understand the characters). Counterfeit Hope is a beautiful story of redemption, hope (of course) , faith and justice - sprinkled with romance and a nice dash of suspense! I loved all of the characters (except the Thorne family, they were just mean!). I loved how strong Lu was and how even though her childhood was awful and her dead husband's family was horrible, she didn't let that affect who she was. Sure, she wasn't the best person when Andrew met her (she was a thief, who dressed in the manner of a prostitute so that when men would fawn over her, she would steal their wallet), but God had a path for both of them. One more thing I loved about this book is that it is a wonderful reminder of God's grace, how even if our sins are as numerous as the stars, we can rest assured that he isn't counting. Overall, I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars and would give it more if I could - can't wait for the next book to come out!

Special thanks to Crystal Caudill, Netgalley and Kregel Publications for allowing me to read and review this book - all opinions are my own.

Loved this second book in the Hidden Hearts of the Gilded Age series! Crystal Caudill weaves an amazing, heartfelt story of second chances, redemption, and faith in this fast paced, suspense filled, slow burn romance. There’re some pretty dastardly villains and the premise was so intriguing, I was pulled in right from the first. It’s a clever twist on the age old story of a woman trying to escape her past in order to provide a better life for her son.

Andrew is a no nonsense, serious Secret Service operative who’s been called in to bring justice to a small Indiana town plagued by a crime family of murderers and counterfeiters. Before the US Marshal was murdered, he was working with an informant. Unfortunately, Walt didn’t leave any information behind. Going undercover, Andrew and his partner Josiah try to find the informant and worm their way into the family to bring them down. He doesn’t anticipate his ties to the Thorne family or the woman who will eventually capture his heart.

Widowed Lu Thorne desperately wants to escape from the Thorne family and provide a better life for her son. She was willing to be an informant until the Marshal she was working with was killed. Now the Thornes are even more suspicious and she must bide her time until she can flee. But when Andrew and his partner come to town, they become new obstacles in her plan. As she and Andrew become unwitting partners, both have to decide if they can trust one another. It’s a dangerous dance that might prove deadly as they try to suss out who’s trustworthy and bring down the Thornes.

This story begins with a trigger warning, mainly because of Lu’s tragic past where she was forced to do things against her will. Lu really grows throughout story, and her new found faith helps her see herself the way God sees her. I loved the slow burn romance. What starts out as a forced relationship, really blossoms into a strong bond. Andrew is a bit of a grump and it was fun seeing him discombobulated by Lu. Ma Thorne is downright evil. While she loves her family in her own twisted way, she has a sick, cruel way of controlling them. Her children are not much better with the leering Clint who’s always out to get Lu.

The author does a fantastic job contrasting how others deal with tragedy and evil. Will they become bitter and spiteful or accept the consequences of their actions and the actions of others with grace? I loved how the author incorporated hope into the story. The suspense was intense and I couldn’t wait to see how everything would play out. The intensity is expertly balanced with humor, romance, and a darling little five year old boy who loves his puppy and Jack and the Beanstalk.

It’s a well written, powerful story that will definitely keep you on the edge of your seat. Unputdownable! While it’s the second book in the series, it could definitely be read as a standalone. I was happy to recognize previous characters from the first book and the author does a great job introducing them to new readers. Highly recommend to Christian historical romance & romantic suspense fans. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author and publisher. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review. 4 1/2 stars

Set in rural Indiana in 1884, Counterfeit Hope stars Andrew Darlington, a Secret Service operative who is hunting counterfeiters, and widowed Lu Thorne who is trying to take her son and escape from her lawless in-laws. With a stellar supporting cast of colorful, interesting characters, some law-abiding and many with no regard for laws, this story takes the reader on a wild ride. Andrew and Lu spend quite a bit of time trying to decide whether they trust each other, while they each harbor secrets from the past. I enjoyed seeing their relationship change over the course of the tale.

“With time and nurturing, a deep and lasting love could develop. That was, if the requirement of arresting her at the end of the case didn’t destroy their tentative partnership.”

With plenty of intrigue, suspense, action, a budding romance, and a sprinkle of inspiration, this book has something for everyone. Messages of hope, forgiveness, and redemption give extra depth and meaning to it. The author has added some interesting historical notes in the back of the book and a triggers warning in the front. 4.5 stars

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from the author and Kregel Publications. All opinions are my own.

With danger lurking around every corner, I couldn’t even take a moment to breathe while waiting to see if Lu and her son would make it out of the Thorne family clutches alive. The suspense was deliciously drawn out especially in the last half of the story. But wait, not only was there suspense, but a romance pushing its way into the story. It was also drawn out in a very sweet way making me want to savor every page. But wait, there’s more! An inspirational redemptive thread, no make that thick yarn, was woven in here as well.

I received this book complimentary as a member of the author’s launch team. I was not required to give a positive review. All of the opinions I have expressed here are honest and my own.

Dramatic Western full of Peril, Heart and Hope

I really appreciate that the author gives a strong warning at the beginning of the book so you understand the book is centered around a woman who suffers through instances of abuse and life situations that forced her, at a young age, to do things she did not want to do. But there is so much beauty in the healing power of Jesus and the author weaves a compelling story set in 1884 Indiana, that is both interesting and incredibly well done.

The synopsis is well-written so I won't re-do that here.

I highly recommend this book and I am grateful for the chance to review the ARC provided to me by the author and publisher.

All opinions are mine alone, without compensation or expectation.

Series: Hidden Hearts of the Gilded Age (I have given the first three books five stars each!)
0.5 Counterfeit Truth (free to newsletter subscribers)
1 Counterfeit Love
2 Counterfeit Hope
3 Counterfeit Faith

Side note: Crystal is a lovely soul and highly approachable through her newsletter and social platforms.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Read 1/27 - 2/3/2023

Book 4 GoodReads Reading Challenge 2023 📚

POSTED TO CBD, GOODREADS, B&N, My IG, My Blog, My FB

Pending 2/14/23 release for Amzn

Counterfeit Hope is book two in the Hidden Hearts of the Gilded Age series that is written by Crystal Caudill. This book can be read as a stand alone. The author does a great job filling in back stories on characters that were introduced in book one. This book is set in 1884.

Lu Thorne is a widow. Her husband is part of a crime family that has taken over Landkreis, Indiana town. The Thorne family will stop at nothing to ensure that their family is in control. Especially Ma Thorne. Lu has had a rough life. She was previously a lady of the night and has suffered abuse at the hands of the Thorne family. Her son, Oscar is the only thing that is keeping her going. She dreams of a life where she can escape their grasps.

Andrew Darlington is a Secret Service agent. He is brought in to investigate an counterfeit coin/bill ring that they are 100% sure that the Throne family is behind. He also has had a past that he has to overcome, and he is worried that his identity will be compromised if he lets his guard down. Andrew is not a fan of Lu in the beginning. She pickpockets both Andrew and his partner, Josiah.

They are thrown together and find themselves having to work together, both think the other is the enemy. Lu desperately wants to break free and start fresh with her son, Oscar. Andrew wants to bring down the counterfeiters and come to terms with his past.

This book is a must read. I have read book one - and was happy to see pervious characters return. The characters are well written and well developed. The author has written a beautiful story of forgiveness, trusting God and Redemption. No matter how far you have fallen from God, HE will always welcome you back with open arms. The author has woven in a powerful message within the pages of her story.

Thank you to the author and publisher for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own.

I thought I loved Counterfeit Love, but Counterfeit Hope is so much better.

I love everything about it. The suspense, the character arcs, the faith thread. Man, I don’t even know how to fully express how much I enjoyed this book.

Andrew Darlington reminds me so much of myself. He means well, but he can be too hard on people. And Lu Thorne is a morally gray character just begging for a redemption arc. (Don’t worry, she gets one!) The way they learn from each other and grow through their relationship was beautiful to see. I love how Caudill manages to touch on God’s design for marriage and the true meaning of love without getting preachy. She doesn’t just tell you, she shows you through the character arcs.

The plot paired with Caudill’s writing style made it hard to put the book down once I started it. There are so many tense moments, and each time a new problem arose, I couldn’t wait to see how Lu and Andrew would work through it. I wasn’t very productive, but hey, at least I got to see their happily ever after!

Overall, Counterfeit Hope is a compelling novel that historical romance and romantic suspense fans will enjoy.

Due to illness, I will not have my full length review written prior to the book’s archive date. However, as I have finished this novel, I wanted to briefly share my thoughts.

Like it’s predecessor, Counterfeit Hope contains rich historical elements, while weaving a compelling tale. While the first book has a strong mystery emphasis, book two is more suspenseful.

Counterfeit Hope was not an “easy” book to read, and there was a lot of painful content, including the constant threat of sexual assault, as well as a good dose of child endangerment concerns. With that said, the redemptive plot line is beautiful and the romance was quite sweet.

Those who enjoyed book one will appreciate the reappearance of Theresa and Broderick in this second installment of the series.

This is a wonderful addition to Caudill’s series. I enjoyed it so much. The plot was very well done and the characters well fleshed out. I love when a book pulls me in quickly. As usual, the author’s spiritual themes are powerful. Hard to put down, this book will resonate after the last page is turned.

My thanks to Kregel Publications for a copy of this book. The opinion here is my own.

Counterfeit Hope is the second book in the Hidden Hearts of the Gilded Age series. It can be read as a stand alone, as all of the books feature a different Secret Service agent and the counterfeiting ring they are tasked with exposing. This second book features some characters who were in book one (Counterfeit Love) and the prequel novella (Counterfeit Truth), but as they play a secondary role it is not necessary to read the first one or the prequel. But I liked both, so I recommend reading it anyway, whether in order or if you are feeling rebellious...out of order.

A secret service operator and a pick-pocketing former prostitute are forced into marriage by gunpoint in this sweet story of love, redemption, repentance and forgiveness. With parallels to the biblical couple Hosea and Gomer, Crystal Caudill shares her heart and God's love throughout the story in a way that feels natural and not overbearing. The insane attempts of Ma Frances to keep her family under thumb (who knew uncooked kidney beans can make you sick?) and the ever evolving relationship between Lu and Andrew kept me glued to the pages. This counterfeiting family is full of flawed and disfunctional characters which made for some pretty unscrupulous situations. I finished Counterfeit Hope in two days and I can see myself picking it up again for a re-read in the future.

Fans of Karen Witemeyer or Regina Jennings would like this book.

Choose this book if you like:
Forced marriage
Crime solving
Feisty heroine
Grumpy hero
Forgiveness/Saving grace
Mercy and Compassion

The next book in this series, Counterfeit Faith will be available May 16, 2023! Hardly any time to wait!

Thank you Crystal Caudill, Kregel Books and Net Galley for the complimentary copy of Counterfeit Hope. The opinions expressed here are my own.