Edgewater Road

Edgewater Road is the first in a new series by Shelley Shepard Gray. Set in Ross County Ohio, Jennifer Smiley inherits her grandmother Ginny's old farm house. Wanting a different life, Jennifer moves into the farmhouse with help from her neighbor Lincoln Bennett and his crew. However, Jennifer has a moment of unease when she realizes who these men really are. Will she be able to overcome her anxiety and accept his help and protection? Lincoln finds instant attraction but is worried that she won't see past his past. Can he convince both himself and her that not everyone holds one's past against them?
Edgewater Road is a book about forgiveness, acceptance, and learning that not everything is as it seems. The characters in the book must learn to come to love themselves before they can be loved by others. I look forward to the next in the series. I received a copy through Netgalley. A review was not required.

Edgewater Road is a romance between an ex con and his new neighbor, Lincoln runs a home for ex cons like himself to help them get acclimated to life outside of prison.. Jennifer is a sweet and precious soul who just inherited her grandmother's home and her secrets. This a great story with suspense, and mystery. I certainly hope there will be more stories to come from Edgewater Road.
Also, I love the cover but the heroine is described with golden blonde hair. The woman on the cover is a brunette.
*I was given a copy of the book by the publisher and this is my honest opinion.

This book was not at all what I normally have read from this author, that being lots of Amish books. It was about Jennifer Smiley, a young woman who inherited a house from her grandmother and finding out family secrets and that all is not always as it appears.

Jennifer finds new friendships and then is concerned when she finds out about these new friends that are not what she would have expected. It's a most interesting book and the storyline is new and different. There is a touch of Amish here as well! The book is about forgiving, moving on, and acceptance of those people that have made past mistakes and are trying to repair the past. And that love is not always perfect.

Such a good book. I really enjoyed this page-turner. And I am enjoying how this author is branching out into different styles of writing. I highly recommend this well-written book.

I received an ebook copy from the author. All thoughts are my own.

Edgewater Road ( The Rumors in Ross County #1 )
By: Shelley Shepard Gray
Edgewater Road is the first book in a brand new series in The Rumors in Ross County. When I got started Idid not want to put it down. Gray did not disappoint. I cannot wait for the next book in this series. The characters was great. A young lady inherited her grandmother’s farm house. Jennifer finds out that her home holds a lot of secrets she did not no about. Her neighbor and his crew are a mystery to her. The story holds secrets, mystery, ex-cons, friendship, and starting over. This story keeps you turning the ages to see what is going to happen next. Loved it.
I was given a complementary copy by the author and NetGalley. My opinions are my own.

I am used to reading Amish books written by Shelley Shepard Gray, so I was thrilled to give this book a try. I enjoyed the characters and the book kept me on my toes guessing what was going to happen next. There was some mystery, secrets and a little bit of romance that brought the book full circle. I would recommend this book for someone who was looking for something different to read than the usual Amish books by this author.

I was given a copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher for my honest opinion and review.

I received an arc of this story from Netgalley for a honest review

Edgewater Road by Shelley Shepard Gray is about personal growth and not fearing the unknown. Jennifer Smiley has inherited her grandmother's house and with it her grandmother's secrets. Lincoln Bennet is her neighbor and a ex-con, he has know her grandmother for a long time and through him Jennifer starts to see her grandmother for who she really was. It takes great courage to want to see the truth about life and the ones we love I liked both Jennifer and Lincoln and I really wanted them to find their happy ever after because I felt these two suited each other really well. Both character's grow throughout the story and it was lovely to have both POV's, so that we can hear how they are feeling and feel closer to them.

I enjoyed this read, and it really made you think! How would you feel inheriting a home that your Grandmother left you, and having it right next to a home with a lot of ex-cons? Well, once you get over the initial shock, I found that I really liked most of these kind hearted fellows.
Jennifer Smiley’s life changes tremendously as she embarks to make the home her own, and has the task of cleaning out mountains of boxes and crates. She also learns things, that she really didn’t want to know, but how Lincoln Bennett is tied to her Grandmother is also revealed.
We get to meet and assortment of characters here, from a young Amish boy to not really hard core criminals. We meet her parents, and wonder how this will all play out, and lastly her on line date!
Yes, this is a page turner for answers, and we are gifted with an epilogue!
I received this book through Net Galley and Blackstone Publishing, and was not required to give a positive review.

Very nice book. It surprised me in a lot of ways. Mostly the writing style. The author didn't take the "everything is a rose garden” approach. So it left the plot with a slightly gritty flare. Also, I don’t know why; but in my mind, Jennifer's grandmother reminded me of the grandmother in (if you’ve ever played it) Merge Manor. She had a very checkered past of which the heroine finds out about slowly over time throughout the book. I know that's kind of random, but there it is.

My favorite aspect of this book was the way the hero Lincoln and his fellow employees called the heroine Jennifer “baby” or “babe.” I thought it was very cute, and on several occasions when Lincoln did it, I may or may not have swooned a little.

I’ve read several books by Shelley Shepard Gray before, and she always graces her readers with outstanding books. I'm hoping she will continue this particular book as a series and tell some of the other ex-convicts' stories, like Bo and Seth. Also, if you're interested, Ms.Gray sets this book around an Amish community. She has several excellent series set around them. Overall I am very pleased with this installment. Looking forward to Ms.Gray’s future books.

"Edgewater Road" by Shelley Shepard Gray
More than a Love Story
Yes, I loved this story. This contemporary tale of people learning to trust each other and themselves. I thought I might get a bit bored at some point, but it never happened; there was always the curiosity as to what I would find on the next page. I do hope that you will enjoy your time in this story as much as I did. A Sweet Clean Romance & Friendship story. Happy Reading ! !
NOTE: I received an ARC of this story from the publisher via NetGalley.
This review expresses my honest opinon.

I was given an advance copy of this book by the author in exchange for my thoughts on the story.
I really enjoyed this first book in a new series by Shelley Shepard Gray. All of the characters are very interesting and there is lots of room for more stories from all of them! Plus still lots of things to learn the back history of, which is one of my favorite parts of a series.
One of the story lines I could really identify with is finding out more in adulthood about the relatives that we loved the most as children. Of course, with adult eyes we know that lives are always more complicated than we saw when we were young. And it's not a BAD thing to learn more of the way people really were, it just helps us understand that life is not perfect. Everyone needs grace, even in retrospect.

I love all of Shelley Shepard Gray's books! It doesn't matter whether they're her Amish series or contemporary romances. She is on my To Be Read list no matter what it is!

I was so excited to be able to read her latest and I did so in one afternoon. In this contemporary romance, Jennifer meets Lincoln, an ex-con who is now on the straight and narrow. As they get to know each other she not only learns about secrets from his past, but her grandmother's as well. Like Jennifer, we all struggle with forgiveness at times but God is faithful to help us move on and leave the past behind.

I really loved Edgewater Road and can't wait for the next in the series.

Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review. All opinions are my own.

Publishes 1 March 2022

This book was sent to me electronically for review by Netgalley…it is a quick read,and I look forward to more stories by this author…the characters are likable and the story moves along at a good pace…I could not get past the “babe” comments…that was distracting…try this one…

I have not read anything by this author in years and only then her Amish series. This book was fantastic and I highly recommend it - nicely paced, the characters and setting are well fleshed out, and it was an enjoyable read.

I was so excited when I was approached to review this book. The author writes incredible stories and takes the reader on an experience with each book!



The story revolves around Jennifer who moves in to her grandmother's house on Edgewater Road after her passing. She is quickly surrounded by Lincoln and his men. Lincoln is a neighbor who helps to rehabilitate people who have been released from prison. I really enjoyed how the men worked to protect Jennifer.

The story has lots of secrets and it keeps the reader turning the pages to find out what will happen in the story.

Thanks so much to the publisher and netgalley for the arc. The opinions are my own.

A fabulous story that will keep you wondering just how everything turns out. I'm used to Shelley's Amish Fiction but this book is a highly recommend. I encourage you to add it to your reading list. Well done Shelly.

From the moment that Lincoln spots Jennifer at her grandmother's funeral, he feels protective of her. Jennifer radiates sweetness and goodness and she is moving next door to him. Lincoln is an ex-con and runs a construction company that helps other ex-cons adjust to normal life. Lincoln's program has a very good success rate. Jennifer is taken back at first to find out that Lincoln and his men are ex-cons. Before long, Jennifer is baking for the men as she gets to know them. Clearing out her grandmother's home, she finds out that her grandmother had secrets and Lincoln helps her to understand her grandmother better. I received a free copy of this ebook from the publisher through Netgalley. This is my honest and voluntarily given review. I love this new series and look forward to the next book. This book has wonderful characters, some humor, romance and suspense. I am so glad that Jennifer had Lincoln's support since she is so sweet, innocent and naïve. Lincoln has genuine caring for the men he works with and works hard in his business. There are also wonderful secondary characters that I hope to see in future books such as Bo, Seth, and Danny. I really enjoy reading this book.

This was a great book! Jennifer has just buried her grandmother and moved into her grandmother’s house that was willed to her. She has met her neighbor at the funeral and wanted to thank him by being him a chocolate cake she baked. When she arrives at the house she is taken back. She had no idea that all of the men that are her neighbors are ex cons. The men start making trips over to her house to help her out. She starts to get to know them including the main person, John “Lincoln”. She is starting to have feelings for Lincoln but he is being very hot and cold with her. She then turns to a dating site thinking she will have better luck there. Little did she know how wrong she would be and the person who wants her has been there the entire time. Will they find their way to each other after a tragedy occurs? I was given an ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

loved Jennifer and Lincolns story. Second chances are a wonderful thing. The secondary cast was amazing and everyone seemed like family. Read this. Gray never disappoints

Edgewater Road was such a unique story! Jennifer struggled with her place in the world, content to be alone for her medical transcription job, yet also feeling as if she might be missing out on life in the isolation that it brought. I enjoyed watching as Jennifer’s new set of neighbors continually went out of their way to be helpful and protective of her. It was interesting and understandable to see her struggle with the reality that Lincoln and the men who worked with him were ex-cons.

Jennifer and Lincoln seemed a strange match at first, with not a lot in common in their backgrounds, yet they were definitely meant for each other and their hearts seemed to recognize that. They had some hurdles to overcome before all worked out smoothly for them, though. Lincoln’s help and care for Jennifer in a particularly trying time showed what a good heart he had and how committed he was to her.

Jennifer spent much of the book trying to learn more about the grandmother that she thought she had known. It turned out that her grandmother, Ginny, was much more complicated and secretive than she could have imagined. There were some things Jennifer wished she could forget and trouble that seemed to crop up at the worst times.

I am looking forward to seeing what future books in this series are about.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

Edgewater Road
by Shelley Shepard Gray
Pub Date: March 1, 2022
Blackstone
Edgewater Road is the first in a new series by Shelley Shepard Gray. Set in Ross County Ohio, Jennifer Smiley inherits her grandmother Ginny's old farm house. Wanting a different life, Jennifer moves into the farmhouse with help from her neighbor Lincoln Bennett and his crew. However, Jennifer has a moment of unease when she realizes who these men really are.
Thanks to Blackstone and NetGalley I was able to read the ARC. This book is unlike many of the books I have read by this author, but I am glad she is finding a new genre to write in.
I am recommending this book and purchasing it for my library.
4 stars

Quiet Jennifer Smiley moves to Ross County when her grandmother leaves Jennifer her country home. She sees this as a chance to be on her own and have a new beginning. What she never expected was to be both scared and fascinated by her new neighbors, all ex-cons. But especially so by their boss, LIncoln Bennett. A man who has redeemed himself and wants to give others like him a chance to become better men as well as one whose past was intertwined with Ginny, Jennifer’s grandmother. A woman who unbeknown to her granddaughter, kept many secrets, not all good.
As Jennifer gets to know her neighbors, a sort of friendship develops. Especially with Lincoln. The attraction is evident, but Lincoln feels he is not good for Jennifer, and continues to send mixed messages.
But whenever a possible danger arises, the men are there for her.
Will Lincoln and Jennifer allow the past or the future to keep them from finding their happiness? Will they stop being afraid to love?
I have to confess that it took me a while to get invested in the story. Something that has not happened before when I start a book by this author. That said, once I got into it, I did enjoy it.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley and Blackstone Publishing. The opinions expressed are solely my own.

I was so excited to have a chance to read the first book in a new series by this amazing and talented author. She has chosen one of my ideal settings of a small town to introduce us to the characters. There is something about a small town that makes me feel welcome and brings a sense of grace and comfort. Anything to do with a farmhouse piques my interest right away. When Jennifer inherits her grandmother’s place I was ready to walk beside her on her journey.

I’m not sure Jennifer would think the farmhouse was great since it looked like it had been overlooked in the upkeep of the place. Oh but wondering around in the house she knows there is history there. I loved the mystery that Jennifer uncovers about her grandmother. What a shock she had when secrets starting coming out and the hurt and disappointed she felt as the image of her grandmother suddenly changed. I’m sure we all have secrets in our family history that would be hard to deal with. Jennifer wanted the truth, but now what does she do with it? Will it change her feelings for her grandmother and father?

It is hard to say just how much I admired Lincoln. Being in prison is difficult but now that he is free he has a big heart to help others that need a fresh start like he got. I can just imagine the look on Jennifer’s face when she finds out about Lincoln’s incarceration. I loved how Lincoln didn’t shy away from telling Jennifer even though he saw the shocked look on her face. The author adds intrigue which connects Lincoln and Jennifer’s grandmother. This part of the story is where we see a man who is upfront about his past yet doesn’t want to share everything because he knows it will hurt Jennifer. What a tangled web it becomes when more secrets are revealed.

The story is well written with characters that share something in common. They all want to be accepted and loved. Out past doesn’t have to define was when we chose to follow God. Lincoln will always have a special place in my heart because he illustrates how you can overcome your past and be an example to others who need compassion and a second chance.

I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.

Edgewater Road
The Rumors in Ross County Series - Book 1
By Shelley Shepard Gray

Blackstone Publishing - March 2022

Contemporary Romance


When Jennifer had decided to move into the home her grandmother left her, nothing was as she expected. Her grandmother had secrets, and she had to decide if she wanted to leave them in the past, or learn the truth. She also might have initially been surprised by Lincoln's past, but she quickly got past that and was happy to get to know Lincoln and the men. She too was willing to give them all a chance.

Lincoln Bennett knew Jennifer Smiley the moment he saw her at her grandmother's burial. He hadn’t met her when Ginny was still alive, but he couldn't help but want to help her as she stood alone. Jennifer was everything Lincoln was not, naive, innocent, and not an ex-con. He had turned his life around, and was helping other recent parolees get a second chance and make the right decisions. Now, he knew that a future with Jennifer was the right future for him. It was just if he was right for her that needed answered.

Edgewater Road is a fascinating entry to Shelley Shepard Gray's new The Rumors in Ross County series. Lincoln is a wonderful hero, willing to own his past mistakes and help others. Jennifer is the perfect heroine for him, able to soften his hard edges and willing to accept him fully. There were multiple intriguing characters in Edgewater Road, and I look forward to seeing whose story will be next.

Kathy Andrico - KathysReviewCorner.com

I'm a big fan of Shelley Shepard Gray and when I found out about Edgewater Road I knew I had to read it. Edgewater Road is a slight departure from the Amish reads I usually read from Ms. Gray and is part Ms. Gray's Rumor's in Ross County Series . Edgewater road is a contemporary fiction novel full of unanswered questions and intrigue that centers around Jennifer and John "Lincoln". Jennifer moves into her grandmother Ginny's house after she passes away. John "Lincoln" is Jennifer's ex-con neighbor who helps fellow ex-cons build a life after prison.

As Jennifer goes through her grandmother's belongings she learns things about her grandmother's past that she never knew. She also learns things about the father that abandoned her that she never knew. Jennifer also finds out that her grandmother is part of the reason John ended up in jail. Despite everything, Jennifer and John fall for one another.

I loved the lesson of letting your past define you that was weaved through the book. It was a great book, but as the reader, I wanted to know more about Ginny's past and the secrets that were in her house. I'm hoping that the future books of The Rumor's in Ross County Series will answer some of my burning questions. All-in-all a great first book in a new series.

Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read this book. My review is also on Goodreads.

Jennifer Smiley inherited her grandmother’s farmhouse on Edgewater Road. She is unaware that her hunky neighbor runs a program for ex-cons out of his home nor that that the neighbor is an ex-con himself. Jennifer works at home as a medical transcriptionist and rarely ventures out. She is surprised when Lincoln and his friends offer to help her move in. They then begin showing up with offers to help. Jennifer finds herself looking forward to their visits, especially Lincoln’s. While cleaning out her grandmother’s bedroom closet, she finds a box of receipts and a ledger that arise Jennifer’s suspicions. It seems that her grandmother had secrets and the only person who can help her learn the truth is Lincoln. Can Jennifer handle what she learns about her namesake? Edgewater Road by Shelley Shepard Gray is the debut of The Rumors in Ross County series. I thought Edgewater Road was well-written with developed, realistic characters. I could relate to Jennifer who prefers her own company to that of others. I liked all the secondary characters that included Bo, Seth, and Wayne. Wayne was a great addition and provided a nice twist (a young Amish boy). I did feel that the romance between Lincoln and Jennifer was pushed into the background, but I did not mind (you know I love mysteries). I preferred the suspense and mystery portion. Jennifer discovers that she never really knew her grandmother and searches for more information on her. It is a good thing that her grandmother was a pack rat. There is drama in the story and a scary situation. There is violence that is very descriptive. I did have some trouble getting into the story. Once I did get into it, I was curious to see how the story would turn out. I found this story different from the author’s Amish novels. The Christian element was light, but it was nicely woven into the story. I did have some unanswered questions at the end of the book. I was curious as to why there was so much ammo in the barn and why did Jennifer’s father want the house (greed or was it something else). I liked how the ex-cons helped Jennifer and came to care for her. Edgewater Road mixes romance, family drama, secrets, hope, second chances, curiosity, and faith into one charming story.

Shelley wrote a really nice book in this novel. Jennifer inherits her grandmother's home and all of the things in the home and boy are they're a lot of them. She finds letters, ammo in the barn, and so much more. Lincoln is the guy who lives next door and they are attracted to each other from the time they met, but he feels like he is below her as he has been in prison. Little does she know that it is her grandmother's doing that put him there, but he was not so innocent. Lincoln is now helping men who have been released from prison to be successful. This story is a love story and sweet in the telling and not mushy at all. I really enjoyed this book and this is my honest review of this book.

This is a unique book. Many authors struggle to write fluently in more than one genre not so with this author her contemporaries are every bit as wonderful as her Amish books.
Edgewater Road is a very intriguing book that kept me flipping pages quickly after I started it because I just had to see how it ended.
I enjoyed seeing how the author shows the main character's strength after an unfortunate event happens to her. The character goes deep within herself to find inner strength,courage,fortitude and healing. The author could have had the woman portrayed as weak and helpless but I liked the strength she gave her. I also believe the saying " don't judge a book by it's cover" applies here as well in the sense that we should not judge a person by how they look and their past activities.
I was very impressed by this book and look forward to the next book in the series.

Pub Date 01 Mar 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

Edgewater Road is not the first book that I have read by Shelley Shepard Gray and it will not be the last. I absolutely loved reading Lincoln and Jen’s story. Jen and Lincoln’s story was by far my favorite book that I have read by Shelley Shepard Gray, I couldn’t put it down. Edgewater Road is the first in a new series called Rumors in Ross County and I can’t wait to read the next story in the series. It starts off with Jen inheriting her grandmother’s house and also a very interesting neighbor. Lincoln and Jen seem to hit it off from the very first moment, but things get a little rocky between them when Jen learns that Lincoln is an ex-con and so are all of his men. Will Jen be able to accept Lincoln for the man he is instead of judging him by his past? Read Edgewater Road to find out what happens.

Title: Edgewater Road
Series: The Rumors in Ross County Series, #1
Author: Shelley Shepard Gray
Genre: Mystery, Christian
Publisher: Blackstone Publishing
Release Date: March 1, 2022
Format: Kindle (read), Audiobook, Hard Cover
Pages: 289
Source: NetGalley
Cover: Eye-catching. Fits the plot. Love the typography.

Description:
A family’s mysteries and secrets of a small town are the basis of this new series.

Imagine! Your grandmother’s iron-clad will bequeaths you her home in the country. Your next-door neighbor is an ex-con. Whoa!

She thought she knew her grandmother but secret upon secret comes to light. And grandma may not have been at all who Jennifer thought she was.

Review:
And a bit of romance is thrown into this mystery story making it even better. Once I started reading it, I found excuses to read some more. And more.

I knew I wanted to read this book because I like how Shelley Shepard Gray writes. I’ve read several of her Amish-centric books. Two Amish characters are in the book — one who has gone ‘Englishe’ and one young man who needs a job to help his ‘daad’ buy a horse.

I like mysteries. I like plots that hint of a genealogy angle and this one did. Grandma had secrets. Oh boy! Did she have secrets!

John Lincoln Bennett, her next-door neighbor, was more than just a friend to Jennifer’s grandmother. And yes, he has secrets of his own and knows more about other people. Oh — btw, he’s a hunk. Then there is Jennifer’s father who was basically a sperm donor. He was never a father. Boo hiss!

I loved the pacing of this story — the ebb and flow of the scenes and actions of the various characters had just the right mix. There is a great group of characters. Rich. But never a problem to keep who is who straight.

The Christian aspect of this book is softly woven into the story. It always fits the scene.

Be sure to read the “Dear Reader” (preface) as well as “Acknowledgments” at the end. This book may have been a challenge to write but the result is wonderful. My thanks to the author for hanging in there.

Ms. Gray has a wonderful knack for ending a chapter exactly right. I believe that is called talent. I highly recommend this lovely mystery and am personally looking forward to the next book in the series.

I received a complimentary e-ARC copy of Edgewater Road via NetGalley from the publisher, Blackstone Publishing. A positive review was not required; the opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

#EdgewaterRoad #NetGalley #ShelleyShephardGray

In a change from her usual Amish writing, Shelley Shepard Gray pens a contemporary novel with a touch of suspense and a pinch of romance that is utterly unique. Jennifer Smiley has moved to Ross County Ohio to claim her deceased grandmother's home and acreage after her grandmother's death. She has always been close to her grandmother; but is Jennifer in for a huge surprise as she cleans the house out after she moves in? And is another surprise waiting for her next door when she discovers it is a huge ranch that is a recovery stop for released felons run by John Lincoln Bennett who himself is a recovered felon and who was close friends with her grandmother?

This is the first novel I have read that focuses on the needs for a "halfway house" for felons as they try to learn and earn their way back into regular society. John "Linc" Bennett was an amazing character. Yes he had his faults, but his caring and support for those men who he picked to try and assist back into society was immense. It was also wonderful to see the changes in Jennifer as she became more understanding and developed friendships with the men next door. In return, the way they all protected and looked after Jennifer during her trials and discovery about her grandmother made the all seem like a bunch of big brothers!

Well written novel and I look forward to what happens next in this series.

**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.

Edgewater Road isn’t the typical Shelley Sheard Gray story, because it’s not Amish but Contemporary. Please note while there are references to God, this book IS NOT listed as Christian fiction but as Romance. It’s very intense and there were times I had to set it aside for a while. But it always pulled me back to read more. I enjoyed watching romance develop and I can assure potential readers that it’s very clean.

With well developed characters you will come to either love or intensely dislike, I was especially drawn to Lincoln and the men he helps; they were very caring guys. Gray shows us that there’s hope for anyone who wants to change and to grow.

This book has a lot of mystery and I was always trying to figure out the next turn it would take. I failed. Ha! I will warn readers that there is a physical attack with attempted rape that takes place. Gray isn’t afraid to write it in detail so if this is a trigger for you, you need to be aware. Of course after the attack healing takes place.

I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.

Reading this book has shown me just how versatile this author truly is. I've enjoyed her Amish books and contemporary romances, but Edgewater Road proves that Shelley Shepard Grays knows her way around suspense and mystery. Jennifer Smiley and John "Lincoln" Bennett are the two main characters, but there are several other intriguing characters in this story that's set in Ross County, Ohio. Jennifer's deceased grandmother Ginny is a key player, and I couldn't read fast enough to learn more about this complicated woman who had such a major effect on Lincoln. Jennifer thought that she knew her grandmother but moving into her farmhouse proves just how wrong she was. Her search for answers leads Jennifer to discover some secrets that may have been better left uncovered, exposes her to danger, and introduces her to a man unlike any she's ever known! He's an ex-con who will protect her at all costs!

Edgewater Road shows how circumstances can affect both our past and present, but they don't have to define our future. Many of Jennifer's neighbors are former inmates, and Gray offers a poignant picture of Lincoln's desire to help them change their lives. This is an absorbing story with intriguing characters, many surprises along the way, and the poignant reminder that love and compassion are two qualities that we all need to cultivate! There's also a sweet, but powerful, chemistry between Jennifer and Lincoln waiting to be explored! I recommend Edgewater Road to all who enjoy contemporary romantic suspense, and I'm looking forward to the next books in The Rumors in Ross County series.

I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.

Edge water Road is a very well written and entertaining book. I enjoyed the plot and the character dynamics. I look forward to reading more books in this series. I received an advance ebook from the publisher and Netgalley and this is my unbiased review.

I read the "Dance with Me" series by this author and thoroughly enjoyed it, this is the start of a new promising series and I thoroughly enjoyed this novel.
It poignant and life affirming, compelling and enjoyable. The characters and the plot are well developed and I liked how the author dealt with the different topic.
I can't wait to read the next story.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine

Secrets, Secrets, and More Secrets

When Jennifer Smiley inherits an old farmhouse from Ginny, her grandmother, she is excited for the chance at a new beginning. Her first item on her agenda is to get her grandmother's house cleaned out. As she begins the task, Jennifer makes some discoveries that cause her to question the few memories she has of her grandmother, and also has her questioning who her grandmother really was.

In order to get some answers, Jennifer calls on her grandmother's very handsome neighbor, John Lincoln Bennett. One thing Jennifer knows is that her grandmother trusted Lincoln, and that must mean that Lincoln can shed some light on Ginny's secrets. And yes, Lincoln does indeed know many of Ginny's secrets, but he has some major concerns. Is Jennifer ready to hear Ginny's secrets, and in turn, is she ready to hear his?

Shelley Shepard Gray has brilliantly written this story in a way that draws you in from the start and keeps you holding on until the very end. Jennifer and Lincoln's story deeply gripped my heart. I so wanted their relationship to grow, but considering how Jennifer and Lincoln were like night and day and came from such different backgrounds, I had no idea as to how it could possibly happen.

But not to worry, because the way the author has blended the mystery of Ginny's secrets with Jennifer and Lincoln's relationship is just one of the many elements that makes Edgewater Road an absolutely awesome read. There are also some wonderful secondary characters which gave the story an even greater depth and made it all the more enjoyable. Also woven throughout the story were elements of judging others, overcoming your past, second chances and new beginnings, as well as a light message of faith. Some moments had me holding my breath, some had me reflecting, and yet others had me smiling and laughing. The author flawlessly combined all of these elements together into a beautiful and amazing story that left an impression on me long after I had finished reading it. Edgewater Road is just that good.

****I received a copy of this book from Blackstone Publishing via NetGalley. All comments and opinions are strictly my own.

I always love Shelley's books they keep getting better and better each and every time I can't wait to read more. I love the cover and the title and the characters, I wish I could do more for my reviews but I don't give spoliers.

I have said it before and I’ll say it again – Shelley Shepard Gray could write a phone book and I wouldn’t be able to put it down! I love the variety of genres she writes in while still under the romance umbrella, as well as the way her characters & plots always manage to surprise me in some way – even with as many books as I’ve read by her. I went into Edgewater Road not exactly sure what to expect. Is it a mystery? Suspense? Small town romance? Edgy? Sweet? The answer to all of those questions is ‘a little bit, yes’. And it’s a whole lot of good writing, too!

Jennifer is definitely a character I could identify with in many ways – she’s a bit sheltered, naturally introverted, and works from home. I liked her warm personality (once she relaxes a bit) but I did want to shake her a couple of times haha. (Like when her naivete causes her to make stupid decisions or when she keeps going back and forth between calling Lincoln ‘Lincoln’ and ‘John’ – his first name.) She is a character I would have fun spending time with in real life, though, and I enjoyed following along with her quest to solve the mysteries surrounding her grandmother’s secret life.

When she moves into her late grandmother’s house after the funeral, she encounters a group of ex-cons next door who are still a little (or a lot) rough around the edges. In fact, if you’re the type who is prone to pearl-clutching you might find yourself doing so a couple of times when some of them are on the page. For my part, I appreciated that the men had layers that made sense with their less-than-squeaky-clean pasts and that the author was able to depict those rough edges authentically while still staying true to a ‘clean read’ novel. I was particularly intrigued by Bo and Seth, and I hope the next books in the series feature them, too!

Speaking of intriguing men, there is Lincoln – who I found in equal turns swoony and exasperating. He frequently calls Jennifer ‘babe’ from the get-go, which I never like in men who don’t actually know a woman, and stakes his claim on her among his men but has no intention of pursuing her. Exasperating. BUT he also watches out for her from the get-go with a tender ferocity that is especially endearing, and once he does decide to pursue her? keep those fans handy. Swoony. He’s part alpha-male and part teddy bear, and his redeemed rogue persona is one that never fails to make my reader heart all twitterpated. His faith journey, while key to the person he is when we meet him, is brushed subtly across this story so that it isn’t ‘in your face’ while still showing the power of grace to change a life.

Bottom Line: Edgewater Road by Shelley Shepard Gray has a little bit of everything, appealing to a wide variety of readers. Family secrets. Small-town vibes. Swoony romance. Redeemed hero. Relatable heroine. It’s a little bit edgy and a little bit sweet, but both descriptions make sense given the characters’ backgrounds & the growth they undergo in this compelling romance. Even the supporting players in Edgewater Road grabbed my attention and held it fast, and I look forward to reading more about them in future books. If, like me, one of the reasons you love Gray’s Amish fiction is because it is rarely stereotypical or idealistic, then you’ll enjoy her new contemporary (decidedly non-Amish) romance too!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

Due to a whole lot of issues in life, I did not get to read this book as quickly as I would have liked! It actually took me three weeks of reading in between little moments when I had a chance to pick it up because life was so crazy. I am so glad it finally settled down enough for me to finish it! As always, Shelley Shepherd Gray does a great job and this book is no exception When Jen’s grandmother dies and leaves her house she moves in to find her next-door neighbor is an ex-con who helps other ex-cons get their lives together. She does not expect to find romance or hope in her future with any of these men but life takes her by surprise! Full of laughs and smiles and great moments, you will adore this book just like I did. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read it, finally!

Readers first meet Jennifer Smiley and friends at her grandmother’s funeral. Jennifer has decided to move into the house she inherited from her grandmother, Ginny. Her mother isn’t happy about this move since she works from home and the house is in the middle of nowhere. Jennifer’s mother wonders how she will ever meet a nice guy and get married, living and working in the woods.

Lincoln Bennett, Jennifer’s next-door neighbor, offers her help after the funeral, with moving boxes etc. Later, she stops by his house to deliver a cake she’d made to show, thanks. Lincoln then introduces her to all the men in his program.

Jennifer is scared to death (after meeting the guys) and tries not to show it, but visions of “every television movie and sensational headline about ex-cons and rolled it into her psyche. She had been afraid to trust.” She didn’t know quite how to act, so she didn’t. Furthermore, she just tried to be herself and do her job. All the while, Lincoln makes sure she stays safe, and her house is looked after. I liked Lincoln and the guys he helped.

Jennifer is fun, to hang out with and a wonderful baker, but her naivete gets her in trouble. I wanted to sit Jennifer down and tell her to listen to that still, small voice telling her what to do and giving her warning of possible danger. I enjoyed these believable characters, their complicated lives and how Lincoln’s passion for the work he does with the men willing to do what it took to turn their lives around.

I was intrigued at how this author combines an interesting mystery surrounding Ginny, Jennifer’s Grandmother, Lincoln’s men, and Jennifer’s father. She discovers documents and other items she never thought possible.

This author has written many Amish novels, it was fun she included an Amish boy in this one. I liked the light message of faith woven naturally into the story line. I also enjoyed the author’s well-timed humor. This is a great escape and one that would work well for your next book club pick. There is much to discuss.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a digital copy of this book by the publisher/NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. 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”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/

Things are not as they appear. Jennifer Smiley inherits her grandmother's house on Edgewater Road, she soon learns that her grandmother wasn't quite who she thought she was. Lincoln Bennett lives next door and runs a place for convicted felons to have a new lease on life. I loved the characters. The story drew me in and I didn't want to put it down. There is some mystery, humor, romance, and action in this book. I'm excited to read the next book in the series.

Edgewater Road

by Shelley Shepard Gray

Jennifer inherits her grandmother Ginny’s old farmhouse with acreage in Ohio and soon discovers that her neighbor is John Lincoln Bennett, an ex-con who has a business managing properties. He also helps other ex-cons reintegrate into society when they are released. Jennifer works in her home as a medical transcriber but wants to reach outside the shield she has established to avoid trusting others. Lincoln is immediately drawn to her and feels very protective of her.

Edgewater Road contains romance, but the real focus is on the characters as their backgrounds are revealed and relationships are developed. There is also some gripping action and danger along with moments of humor as the characters interact in some awkward situations. Lincoln is a natural leader who instills respect, and Jennifer is almost too nice and trusting for her own good. Both are characters that you want to be successful individually and together. The ex-cons in general turn out to be helpful and respectful, especially Bo, Lincoln’s right hand man and Seth, formerly Amish and very polite and trustworthy. Wayne, a young Amish boy, needs to earn money, and his role in the story adds interest as does that of Chad, a semi-feral cat that Wayne finds in Jennifer’s barn.

Author Shelley Shepard Gray excels with plot action. The book is a page turner for me with Gray alternating telling the story from Jennifer’s perspective and from Lincoln’s. Without sugar coating a life of crime, Gray presents the difficulties that might lead one down a bad path, what prison is like, and the reactions of people to ex-cons. They are often viewed with suspicion and distrust and many end up back in prison for various reasons.

I highly recommend Edgewater Road and look forward to the next book in this series.

I would like to extend my thanks to NetGalley and to Blackstone Publishing for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

Rating: 5/5

Category: General Fiction (Adult), Romance

Notes: 1. #1 in a new series, The Rumors in Ross County.
2. Although the books deals with some rough ex-cons, there is nothing graphic or offensive in the book, and it is clean in all aspects.

Publication: March 1, 2022—Blackstone Publishing

Memorable Lines:

There was a part of him that was drawn to her like a prisoner to a decent meal.

“That woman’s got more work that needs to be done than an old lady at the plastic surgeon.”

Back when he’d started this, his goals had been almost noble. He’d wanted to give men like him, men who’d made mistakes but were still decent, a second chance… Now, nearly eight years later, his aspirations weren’t quite so lofty. Oh, his heart still searched for the good in people, and he often shared some of the teachings he’d learned from the Bible. However, he’d also learned that not everyone could be rehabilitated.

A different kind of book from Shelley Shepard Gray. A departure from her Amish books. I loved Lincoln and Jennifer’s second chance story.