Angel From the East: A Grumpy/Sunshine Western Christian Historical Romance

by Barbara A. Curtis

His path to redemption lies in the hands of the citified newcomer who believes the worst of him.

Caleb Morgan has had everything stolen from him—his strength, the job he loved, even his good name. He’s determined to even the score with the man responsible, until he meets the captivating new owner of the Double E Ranch. Though he’s drawn to her compassion, he fears she may never see beyond his supposed wrongdoings, unless he can prove his innocence and reclaim his honor.

Eliza Roberts is a teacher, not a rancher. But if she has any hope of selling the ranch she inherited from her grandfather and continuing on to her new life in California, she needs to restore it to some semblance of order. If only the man her grandfather advised her to trust wasn’t refusing to help her.

When an offer of courtship arises from the current foreman, Eliza sees the practicality in the offer. So why does her heart keep wandering back to Caleb? And why can’t she shake the feeling that something’s not right at the Double E Ranch? Will she have the courage to follow the clues behind the strange mishaps at the Double E—and possibly embrace a different life than she imagined?

268 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 24, 2025

Reviews

[Melissa (christianbooksandcoffee) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first read by this author and I enjoyed it. Eliza is such a sweet lady and very caring and helpful to others. She inherits her grandfather’s ranch but it is not what she expects. She is put in a though spot and struggles to see red flags and also struggles with forgiveness. But I love the Christian content and how she prays and is able to forgive and get through the other situations in the story. Caleb has been falsely accused of stealing and that leads him to be bitter. I liked seeing him come back to God, I really liked his character and felt bad for him. I liked watching Eliza and Caleb work out their differences. The ending was so sweet. I thought the Christian content throughout was very strong and I really appreciated that. Overall, a good story and I recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Shonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful, rounded characters, make this story easy to love. A great plot that isn’t rushed or slow, but instead keeps the reader entertained and guessing what will happen next. The word of God is lived out in the story beautifully. It is not preachy, but it shows how a follower of Christ acts and lives. This whole story is filled with secrets, romance, and love. This book is entertaining and captivating, and it is about a simple time long gone. A new to me author but one I will continue to read!

[Lucy · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a beautiful beginning to the Blooms of the Bitterbrush series. The characters are realistic and deal with unforgiveness in their hearts but when God deals with hearts and lives and submission to His word happens transformation takes place. I love that Eliza was brave enough to travel to her grandparents farm to seek answers after their passing and finds herself intwined in the mystery of what caused the financial crisis of the ranch she inherited. As she seeks answers she uncovers lies, deception, and is unsure just where the truth lies. Caleb is a man of many hurts both physically and mentally but as he finds healing within he finds God has been working to restore and renew. I love the sweet three little girls that are a great addition to the story. Gus and Nellie are characters that we all wish were in our corner. This is a new author to me and I was impressed with how well the story flows and that she uses scripture to bring change to hearts and lives. Great truths to ponder in your own life as you read. I look forward to reading more.
I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit/Wild Heart Books. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.

[Cover Lover Book Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

Angel from the East is an engaging opposites-attract tale of redemption that follows Caleb, a man determined to reclaim his honor, and Eliza, a woman on a quest for truth.

I appreciate how Eliza’s character unfolds as she faces many surprises and challenges, revealing her unwavering commitment to uncovering the truth. Caleb’s journey to restore his name and honor is equally compelling, making it easy to root for him.

This story is rich with action, mystery, emotion, and spiritual depth. The tender romance adds a sweet touch, and the elements of faith are both moving and inspiring. I really enjoyed this exploration of healing, truth, trust, and redemption.

First Line: Impulsive and foolish…impulsive and foolish…
Series: IBlooms of the Bitterbrush, book 1
Genre: IChristian Historical Romance, Western Fiction
Author: IBarbara A. Curtis
Page Count: I266

#CoverLoverBookReview received a review copy of this book. Opinions are 100% my own.

[April Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forgiveness

This is a new author to me; her writing style flows well and makes this an easy read. There are many Bible verses and Biblical truths taught through the characters’ lives and actions. Caleb, like us, lets bitterness control his actions and thoughts, and only God’s forgiveness can bring peace. Eliza is a gentle, tender hearted lady that learns to lean on God when life gets hard, dangerous, and confusing. Their romance is slowly built through hardships and forgiveness.

I enjoyed this novel and am looking forward to the next in the series. I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and these are my voluntary and honest opinions. I was not required to leave a positive review.

[DevotedToHope · Rating 5 out of 5]

There’s something disarming about a story that refuses easy answers. Angel from the East doesn’t pat you on the back with polite morality … it actually digs into the real cost of living in a way that honors God, even when it stings. I didn’t expect it to feel so personal. Honestly, it broke something in me—in the best way—reminding me that wanting to be light means choosing it even when it costs everything.

It’s really a story of restoration, but not the kind that wraps up neat with a ribbon. Watching Eliza wrestle a dusty, neglected ranch back to life while refusing to compromise felt so achingly real to me. “Peace on earth” here isn’t some cute Christmas sentiment—it’s a choice to stand in grace when everything feels unfair or murky.

And Caleb? His struggle is just as sharp. He doesn’t get a tidy redemption arc. He has to fight for every inch of his honor, anchored by his quiet, beautiful, God-honoring heart: Caleb whispered to Ruby (the horse): “What does it matter, anyway, what people think? God knows the truth.”

I paused there. Just stopped reading. Let the Spirit work on me. This book is full of Scripture, but it doesn’t preach at you. It lives it out. You see characters hold on to verses in the middle of fear, accusation, and loneliness. It felt messy but true—exactly what I crave in Christian fiction.

And then there’s the Bitterbrush. I can’t get it out of my head. That stubborn life pushing out flowers in the desert. It felt like the author was daring me: Will you choose to bloom when it’s harsh? Will you offer God praise even here? I felt so seen in that metaphor. Like Eliza realizing her grandparents stayed in Caldwell to reflect Jesus, I closed the book committing myself to the same way of living—every day, every moment: Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace.

It’s not just a romance or a ranch mystery (though yes, there’s sabotage and you’ll keep guessing). It’s a call to help restore what’s broken in others. To forgive even when it’s safer to suspect. To worship God with your whole life—even when the world would rather you shut up.

If you want something real, something that doesn’t shy away from what faith actually costs while celebrating the grace that makes it possible—this is it. I didn’t just love this book. I’m honestly grateful for it.

I received a digital ARC from Celebrate Lit Publicity Group. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the great writing and the story’s wonderful content, ensuring transparency and reliability.

[Becky Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

“But yet, God offered hope. Forgiveness. For charity shall cover the multitude of sins.”

Inheriting a ranch from her grandfather, young Eliza Roberts leaves NYC for the untamed land of Idaho at the turn of the 20th century. Surprised at the run-down condition of the place Grandfather has spoken so glowingly about, Eliza decides to discover what changed the ranch’s fortune so quickly, before she heads on to California for a teaching job.

Eliza is pleased to find out that her grandparents were well-loved and respected members of the Caldwell, ID community. Their faith was evidenced to all by their actions. As Eliza hears stories of her grandmother’s great kindness and generosity, can she resemble her grandmother in more than just looks?

What secrets is the town so carefully hiding about the ranch’s history and former foreman? With two men obviously vying for her attention, which one, if either, is worthy of trust? Both Benton and Caleb greatly distrust the other, and the peace that Eliza brings with her is wearing thin. Can she trust God and the right people to help her find her heart’s desire?

I loved the gradual unveiling of the personalities of the different characters. Like peeling an onion, it has to be done slowly. We gradually see who Eliza decides to be, trusting God for wisdom. And these words were so timely for my life, yet today! “Remember, God cares for you so much. He’ll provide for your every need. Just ask Him.”

I’d love to have been a fly on the hitching post in this town! The gossip I might have been privy to, the people I might have seen and understood better by observing more closely (as in Gus, for one! Nellie had my attenae up, also! ) But it is the Rev. Thompson who doles out great advice: “And when you hear God’s words in a whisper, listen hard. And follow them. He’s the one who changes hearts.”

I also enjoyed the inclusion of Mrs. Billings and her three young, exuberant daughters! They light up the novel and lives wherever they appear!

I received a copy of this book from the author through Celebrate Lit. I also bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“Love isn’t easy, but it’s worth pursuing.” -Rev. Thompson

“The old fight had waged in his heart—vengeance versus forgiveness. Every time he’d felt God’s spirit drawing him to
obedience, the flesh put up a fight anew.“

“We’re safe in God’s hands alone.”- Nellie-

“Trust and position are two different things.”- Gus

“That’s her legacy to you. To remember God’s goodness and faithfulness. You are so much like her.” - Gus

[Patti Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Angel from the East by Barbara A. Curtis is a Christian Historical Romance. It is the first book of the Blooms of the Bitterbrush series. Caleb Morgan lost everything from his job, his fiancée, his good name, and even his strength. He determines to get even with the man who destroyed his life until he meets the captivating new owner of the Double E Ranch.

Eliza Roberts is a teacher and not a farmer. But when she inherits the Double E Ranch, she comes to sell the ranch and move onto her future in California. But she finds her life taking a different direction. As she works to restore the ranch her grandfather left her to some semblance of order, she requires the assistance of the only man her grandfather advised her to trust, Caleb Morgan.

The two navigate pain from the past while trying to forge a future. I loved getting to know the characters and storylines in this book. Eliza works to discover why she feels that something is wrong with the ranch and the ranch foreman. Completed with a fiancée who jilted him, but then decides she wants him back, the author takes you through some amazing twists and turns.

As the first book in a new series, I am captivated by this series already and look forward to reading the next book. So if you want a Christian Historical Romance, check out Angel from the East by Barbara A. Curtis.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

I usually write a review by sharing my thoughts about the main characters. This book has been so powerful to me that I want to tell readers about the lessons I learned while soaking in this story. There are times when a person you think is a friend will cause you to doubt and become less trusting. Jealousy and greed is very relevant in this story as the author slowly exposes evil.

As I read one part of the book in particular I saw how each of us can be guilty of judging others. The enemy wants nothing more than to cause us to stumble, feel hatred toward someone and have unforgiveness in our heart. It was so sad to read that one character was so upset by lies she believed that she had decided that she would have a difficult time forgiving. Why do we think it is alright to think that someone deserves to suffer and not allow them to share the truth with us?

Little by little the author reveals the lies that have labeled someone as a thief and therefore not worthy of being in church. The message the pastor was sharing hit characters differently. By the grace of God we are forgiven and He is the One to that will shine truth. It is hard to not want to seek justice and defend ourselves. The author does an excellent job of illustrating how God will turn what was meant for evil to good. The truth will set us free and in this story we see how God prevails.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christian Historical Romance is a genre that I truly enjoy. Angel From the East by Barbara A. Curtis is the most recent in this genre that I have read. It is Book 1 in the Blooms of the Bitterbrush series.

The story intrigued me and captivated my attention from the very beginning. The setting is 1897 in Idaho. The 2 main characters in this book are Caleb Morgan and Eliza Roberts. Caleb and Eliza are from different parts of the Country, yet their paths cross when Eliza stops in Idaho on her way to California. Eliza's grandfather had a ranch, Double E Ranch, and Eliza was stopping to check on the Ranch. Eliza learns that the Ranch that used to be her grandparents, now belongs to her, is in major disarray and she might be in Idaho longer then anticipated. Caleb and Eliza are growing closer to one another, yet there is a trust issue as Caleb knows why the Ranch is in poor condition, yet won't tell Eliza. The book takes an interesting turn as the truth is discovered. I really LOVE that the book is very scriptural, yet not preachy. Both Eliza and Caleb go through Redemption and Forgiveness. The characters learn to trust one another and a sweet romance blossoms. The book is one of God's plan is better then our own plans. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Historical Romance. FANTASIC BOOK!

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a family drama where a young woman travels west to see about the ranch inheritance her estranged grandparents left for her, much to her parents and aunt's chagrin. When she arrives, the ranch is not at all the place her grandfather wrote about, nor does everyone have high opinions of her late grandfather. What happened and why is there so much animosity between the two men who are vying for her attention?

Caleb Morgan was treated like a beloved son on the Roberts ranch until allegations arose up against him. He needs to prove his innocence to the town and to the granddaughter, Eliza. I liked how Caleb really controlled his temper, and it showed in his actions and his words. It was a real struggle, but he relied on his faith and the truth to come out eventually.

I felt bad for Eliza and the deep chasm of family discord. It would be very hard to live like that, but Eliza was determined to find out the truth and to know what kind of people her grandparents were and how they lived their lives.

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.

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[Valri Western · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found myself captivated by this story from the first page! A new to me author, this story is not one I will soon forget. The complexities of trying to live a life of honor is thoughtfully played out in this story. Things are not as they seem and as Eliza tries to unravel all that is the Double EE Ranch that her grandfather left her, she relies on God to guide her on what is truth and what are lies. Caleb is a grumpy man, but she is continually drawn to him for some reason. Her grandfather told her in a letter to trust him, but Caleb won't give her any information about the Double EE so why should she trust him? No one she talks to will give her the real story. The current ranch foreman, Benton, seems to constantly disparage Caleb so that should mean something, right? Eliza just wants to follow God and spread His word throughout the town.
I loved the themes of love, following the will of God, forgiveness, hope and faith. A beautifully written book with a perfect pace and wonderfully, flawed characters who try to follow God and put into practice the things they are striving to live.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Eliza Roberts is a kind, courageous young lady who rises to the challenge of being the new owner of the ranch her grandparents left her. Hoping to spend a couple of days at the Double E Ranch, settle affairs for its sale, and then continuing westward, she encounters the unexpected. The ranch is in need of repair and there are whispers of wrongdoings of the ex-foreman.

If you enjoy a slow romance, then you'll enjoy the romance between Eliza and Caleb. They had some bumps in their relationship due to misunderstandings and jumping to conclusions, but I was happy to see their HEA. They had to work through things, discover the truth, and learn to forgive those who had wronged them.

Things to enjoy:
opposites attract
saddle maker
mystery
secondary characters
loving your enemy
faith of characters

This is the first book in the Blooms of the Bitterbrush series. Readers both young and mature will enjoy this faith based book that is set in the ranching area of Idaho.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher and Celebrate Lit. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.

[Nyla Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Angel From the East by author Barbara A. Curtis is the first book in the Blooms of the Bitterbrush series. This is a Christian historical romance novel set in 1897 Idaho with a mystery. I was immediately invested in the story from the first page.

This is the story of Eliza. As she travels from the East to California, she stops in Idaho to see her grandparents’ ranch, the Double E. They left it to Eliza after they died. When she arrives at the ranch, she discovers it neglected, in need of repair, and a dusty mess.

The author did a wonderful job with crafting her characters. They are realistic and true to the time and location. The majority are lovable and kind, but there are a few that are downright mean. I loved the Christian messages and faith aspect of the story.

I highly recommend this beautiful story. It held my attention from beginning. I learned about bitterbrush, tried to solve a mystery, and made friends with a bunch of new characters. It gets a 5 star rating from me. I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit, but these are my honest words.

[Marilyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a touching and clean read from the start to the finish. Eliza’s arrival in Idaho did not go as planned, but her faith, peace with God and wanting peace for others along with her gentle ways gave this tale elements that portrayed ranch life in 1897. There is misunderstandings, hidden secrets, deceitful characters mixed with others who desire righteousness with their gentleness, fortitude and strength as God provided for them. The story flows easily with twists and turns among the strong and flawed characters till the end. The scriptural truths are beautifully woven into the tale to show that God’s ways are higher than individuals desires when trusting Him.

This is a new to me author and I definitely look forward to her next book in Blooms of the Bitterbrush series. I received an early copy of this book from Celebrate Lit Bloggers tours and Wild Heart Books. I have shared my own thoughts.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Angel from the East is a wonderfully fun historical fiction romance novel that you’ll love losing yourself in. Caleb has lost everything that he has ever cared about. So understandably, he is a bit bitter, a bit cranky, and a lot grumpy. In contrast, Eliza is a teacher who has inherited a ranch. She’s not a rancher. But she’s pure sunshine and roses and all things sweet.

And what you get is a mix of romance, love, secrets, and characters learning to rely on others and possibly find love as well. Oh, and three little girls are always a great addition as well. Such a sweet novel and a great start to a new series.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from Celebrate Lit. 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.

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Angel From the East, by Barbara A. Curtis is the first book in the Blooms of the Bitterbrush series. This is such a sweet, inspirational story. I was drawn into the story from the very beginning and found myself not wanting it to end. I enjoyed the characters so much. I also enjoyed the mystery surrounding what has happened to Eliza’s grandfather’s ranch since his death. The actions of the housekeeper gives a sense of secrecy to the story. I enjoyed how Caleb has moved on with his life when he was forced away from the ranch. I also enjoyed the strong faith the characters have and how important their faith and Christian fellowship is to them.

This is such a well written and easy to read nice story, I look forward to the rest in the story

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.

[Vicky Sluiter · Rating 4 out of 5]

There’s nothing like a good cowboy story. And this one by Barbara A. Curtis is a really good read!


Caleb is wounded, both physically and emotionally. Eliza has gotten sidetracked on her way to California and realizes she wants to restore her grandfather’s ranch. But these two just don’t trust each other. And a sneaky ranch foreman doesn’t help.


I love the faith theme throughout, and the use of scripture and yet it’s not preachy at all. If you enjoy a slow moving story (not in a bad way at all) with great characters along with bad guys as well as a sweet romance, you’ll enjoy Angel From the East.


I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review. All thoughts are my own.

[Holly Bleggi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. I liked the elements of faith that were woven through out the story. I loved how the characters learned to lean on God and trust Him even when life was rough. I liked the characters and I liked how Eliza helped to break down Caleb’s walls by sharing her faith and helping him see God’s love. I enjoyed the bit of adventure and I loved how Caleb helped Eliza with the ranch and how she helped him in return. I loved how their romance bloomed. I loved seeing the growth in these characters throughout the story.

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.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Angel from the East" by Barbara A. Curtis is the first book in this series. This is a sweet romance, but it is also a short mystery. The mystery is what happened to Eliza's grandfather's ranch since his death. This is a clean story, and the characters have Christian beliefs but are flawed humans as we all are. It is also a story of forgiveness. I am eagerly awaiting the next book in this series.

I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

[Susan Sloan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Angel from the East by Barbara A. Curtis isn't a typical Western bride romance. In fact, the heroine, Liza Roberts, has no plans to stay on the ranch she inherited. She only plans to stay a few days before continuing her journey to teach in California. Conditions at the ranch change her plans, and a mystery challenges her opinions of people connected with the ranch, Caleb Morgan in particular. Though Caleb is drawn to Liza, he can't convince her he's not the villain she thinks. One secondary character, Gus, almost "steals the show" with his cunning antics.

[Psusan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Angel from the East (Blooms of the Bitterbrush Book 1) by Barbara A. Curtis is a This story of following God’s direction, compassion, forgiveness, faith, and love. An even paced plot that has strong character development showing lives that are living for God but also not perfect. It may be a western historical novel, but it sounds is still true today for us. A new-to-me author that had me captivated by the storyline so I will be looking forward to more books in the future.

[Terri · Rating 3 out of 5]

A story of trusting God and not believing everything you hear. Caleb is a good man but has been dealt a bad deal. Eliza has come West to see why her grandparents left their family to move west. She finds things are not as she believed. This is a who done it and who to believe story.

[Jessica · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked the storyline. Loved the addition of the three little girls.

I was left feeling whiplashed every time the characters made dramatic changes in their perspective without time to process or the whole picture.

I felt the characters could have been more developed, especially Nellie, George, the other guy I forgot his name.. It made it harder to feel connected or to know what was going on.

Not sure I would read another novel by her 😅 but I might give it a shot.