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The Lost Story of Via Belle
Searching for a story to adapt for film, an aspiring screenwriter becomes captivated by a bestselling classic novel and the mysterious disappearance of the woman who wrote it.
1940. Via Belle's sweet romance novels made readers believe in happily ever after. But Via's reality was much more complicated. While her first husband was alive, her creativity thrived in a beautiful stone estate situated above a pristine lake and moonflower garden. After his tragic death and a whirlwind second marriage shrouded in secrets, Via vanished from public life, leaving behind a shadow of scandal . . . and her final story.
2006. Screenwriter Harper Rayne is desperate for a breakthrough, if only she can find the right story to tell. But when she digs into the life of her late mother's favorite novelist, she never expects it to become personal. Drawn to the quaint Pennsylvania town where both her mother and Via once lived, Harper discovers more than a mystery to solve—she finds echoes of her own longing for love, healing, and home. As long-buried secrets come to light, Harper must decide if she'll protect the past or rewrite this particular ending.
Described as a "powerhouse in dual-timeline Christian fiction" (Library Journal), Melanie Dobson delivers another rich, atmospheric novel about the legacy of sacrificial love and the redemptive power of truth.
Standalone dual-timeline historical mystery filled with drama, faith, and intrigueClean, suspenseful historical fiction, perfect for fans of Susan Meissner, Lisa Wingate, or Patti Callahan HenryIncludes discussion questions for book groups
1940. Via Belle's sweet romance novels made readers believe in happily ever after. But Via's reality was much more complicated. While her first husband was alive, her creativity thrived in a beautiful stone estate situated above a pristine lake and moonflower garden. After his tragic death and a whirlwind second marriage shrouded in secrets, Via vanished from public life, leaving behind a shadow of scandal . . . and her final story.
2006. Screenwriter Harper Rayne is desperate for a breakthrough, if only she can find the right story to tell. But when she digs into the life of her late mother's favorite novelist, she never expects it to become personal. Drawn to the quaint Pennsylvania town where both her mother and Via once lived, Harper discovers more than a mystery to solve—she finds echoes of her own longing for love, healing, and home. As long-buried secrets come to light, Harper must decide if she'll protect the past or rewrite this particular ending.
Described as a "powerhouse in dual-timeline Christian fiction" (Library Journal), Melanie Dobson delivers another rich, atmospheric novel about the legacy of sacrificial love and the redemptive power of truth.
Standalone dual-timeline historical mystery filled with drama, faith, and intrigueClean, suspenseful historical fiction, perfect for fans of Susan Meissner, Lisa Wingate, or Patti Callahan HenryIncludes discussion questions for book groups
371 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2026
About the author
Melanie Dobson
56 books1,859 followersWriting fiction is a fun excuse for Melanie to explore ghost towns and old houses, travel to unusual places, and spend hours reading dusty books and journals. She writes both contemporary and historical fiction with threads of romance and suspense.
Melanie is the award-winning author of almost thirty time-slip, historical romance, suspense, and contemporary novels including Catching the Wind, The Winter Rose, and The Wings of Poppy Pendleton. Five of her novels including Chateau of Secrets have won Carol Awards, Catching the Wind won the Audie 2018 Inspirational Fiction award, and Love Finds You in Liberty, Indiana won Best Novel of Indiana. Catching the Wind and Memories of Glass were both finalists for Christy Awards in historical fiction.
Melanie and her husband, Jon, have two daughters. After moving numerous times with Jon's work, the Dobsons have finally settled near Portland, Oregon, and they love to travel and hike in both the mountains and the cliffs above the Pacific. When Melanie isn't writing or researching, she enjoys line dancing, biking, and making up stories with her kids.
More information about her and her books is available on her website at www.melaniedobson.com. You can also connect with Melanie at www.facebook.com/melaniedobsonfiction.
Melanie is the award-winning author of almost thirty time-slip, historical romance, suspense, and contemporary novels including Catching the Wind, The Winter Rose, and The Wings of Poppy Pendleton. Five of her novels including Chateau of Secrets have won Carol Awards, Catching the Wind won the Audie 2018 Inspirational Fiction award, and Love Finds You in Liberty, Indiana won Best Novel of Indiana. Catching the Wind and Memories of Glass were both finalists for Christy Awards in historical fiction.
Melanie and her husband, Jon, have two daughters. After moving numerous times with Jon's work, the Dobsons have finally settled near Portland, Oregon, and they love to travel and hike in both the mountains and the cliffs above the Pacific. When Melanie isn't writing or researching, she enjoys line dancing, biking, and making up stories with her kids.
More information about her and her books is available on her website at www.melaniedobson.com. You can also connect with Melanie at www.facebook.com/melaniedobsonfiction.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 255 reviews
April 29, 2026
5+ stars (6/10 hearts). WOW. That was SO unexpected and so intense—and so amazing! I've never read Melanie Dobson before, but I think this must be the best thing she ever wrote, because it is unbelievable. There's everything—suspense and danger, sweet romance, fury over wickedness, bittersweet redemption, and so many twists... I don't even know what to say without giving everything away. I loved Olivia—I related to her writing, of course—and it was nice to see an older widow as a FMC... just something a bit different. Izzy hurt my heart... she made bad choices, of course, but she was so naïve and trusting... but hey, she found one of the Peters I look for. (What is it with amazing MMCs named Peter?) Finally, I related to Harper again over the story-writing and the love of water, and I enjoyed watching her scrabble for the truth. She was such a fun FMC. There was a perfectly hateful villain, a really nice MMC (even if he didn't show up a ton) and a layered storyline with so many connections.
I don't think this review does the book justice—but I'm a little starstruck. This was so unusual—and I read it SO FAST because I don't think I've ever been so desperate to see how a story would turn out before. Nothing went as I expected... but I was perfectly satisfied at the end. 💙
Content notes: Out of wedlock relationship leading to pregnancy; ; violence, attempted murder; MAJOR SPOILER . All handled well, but best for ages 18+.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
I don't think this review does the book justice—but I'm a little starstruck. This was so unusual—and I read it SO FAST because I don't think I've ever been so desperate to see how a story would turn out before. Nothing went as I expected... but I was perfectly satisfied at the end. 💙
Content notes: Out of wedlock relationship leading to pregnancy; ; violence, attempted murder; MAJOR SPOILER . All handled well, but best for ages 18+.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
May 10, 2026
4.25 stars "Searching for a story to adapt for film, an aspiring screenwriter becomes captivated by a bestselling classic novel and the mysterious disappearance of the woman who wrote it."
Harper Rayne is a struggling screenwriter looking for her big break. When she gets fired from her job, she flees to the small east coast town where her mother has ties. While she is there, she stumbles upon the story of her mother's favorite author from 1940, Via Belle. Harper discovers secrets about her life and an untold story.
Set in dual timeline on a beautiful rural estate, this novel was much more than I expected. Filled with strong female characters, secrets, faith and romance, I was thoroughly absorbed in the plot and the lush setting. I highly recommend this engaging historical mystery.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Tyndale House, UpLit Reads and Melanie Dobson for the gifted advance reader's copy and finished copy. All opinions are my own.
Harper Rayne is a struggling screenwriter looking for her big break. When she gets fired from her job, she flees to the small east coast town where her mother has ties. While she is there, she stumbles upon the story of her mother's favorite author from 1940, Via Belle. Harper discovers secrets about her life and an untold story.
Set in dual timeline on a beautiful rural estate, this novel was much more than I expected. Filled with strong female characters, secrets, faith and romance, I was thoroughly absorbed in the plot and the lush setting. I highly recommend this engaging historical mystery.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Tyndale House, UpLit Reads and Melanie Dobson for the gifted advance reader's copy and finished copy. All opinions are my own.
November 14, 2025
Wow, what an amazing story!
This well-written dual timeline tale expertly weaves together characters in a modern day situation with a backstory from the 1940's, pulling the story threads tighter with a mystery, some romance, and building suspense. It was hard to put down especially towards the end!
I love the nod the author gives to Grace Livingston Hill's books, with their tender romances and hope filled plots. The mentions of prayer and faith are brief but meaningful. It ultimately features an uplifting, redemptive theme that was encouraging and quite touching; also a longing for home, family connections, and finding a purpose in life.
There are some instances of peril and difficult circumstances because of a character's deception, but nothing too graphic. If anything, it kept me reading on, holding my breath as the tension grew, hoping for a good ending. It was definitely worth the angst and the wait. Have the tissues handy!
Highly recommend to readers who enjoy an inspirational story with a nostalgic feel, a good mystery, clean romance and brushstrokes of faith.
5 stars!
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
This well-written dual timeline tale expertly weaves together characters in a modern day situation with a backstory from the 1940's, pulling the story threads tighter with a mystery, some romance, and building suspense. It was hard to put down especially towards the end!
I love the nod the author gives to Grace Livingston Hill's books, with their tender romances and hope filled plots. The mentions of prayer and faith are brief but meaningful. It ultimately features an uplifting, redemptive theme that was encouraging and quite touching; also a longing for home, family connections, and finding a purpose in life.
There are some instances of peril and difficult circumstances because of a character's deception, but nothing too graphic. If anything, it kept me reading on, holding my breath as the tension grew, hoping for a good ending. It was definitely worth the angst and the wait. Have the tissues handy!
Highly recommend to readers who enjoy an inspirational story with a nostalgic feel, a good mystery, clean romance and brushstrokes of faith.
5 stars!
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
July 24, 2025
Absolutely stunning! Read for endorsement (full endorsement coming soon). My friends, you must add this book to your Goodreads must-read list immediately! I could not put this book down.
May 10, 2026
This was my first book by Melanie Dobson, but it definitely won’t be my last. The balance between the dialogue and details was spot on for me, and her writing style in general was the highlight. I found myself rereading passages over and over, just immersing myself in the story.
Two writers, separated by 66 years, a story filled with mystery and romance, perfect for those who love books about books. This story was amazing. From the very beginning, we’re transported into Via Belle’s time, a woman trying to fight off writer’s block and face a future without her late husband. Then we meet Harper, who is writing in hopes of landing a movie deal. But as one door closes, a path back to her hometown opens others in more ways than she ever imagined. As she researches her late mother’s favorite author Via Belle, she finds more dead ends than details, leading her to dig deeper into Via Belle’s past. A woman who wrote romance and happy endings....but did she ever experience the same?
I can’t give much away with this one. There are so many layers to this story that I don’t want to spoil any of it for you. But wow, as the storyline and mystery begin to unravel and the truth about Via Belle is revealed, you’ll never see it all coming! This is one you truly need to experience for yourself.
Excuse me while I rush off to start planning my shopping list for her backlist books now!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. This review reflects my honest opinion.
Two writers, separated by 66 years, a story filled with mystery and romance, perfect for those who love books about books. This story was amazing. From the very beginning, we’re transported into Via Belle’s time, a woman trying to fight off writer’s block and face a future without her late husband. Then we meet Harper, who is writing in hopes of landing a movie deal. But as one door closes, a path back to her hometown opens others in more ways than she ever imagined. As she researches her late mother’s favorite author Via Belle, she finds more dead ends than details, leading her to dig deeper into Via Belle’s past. A woman who wrote romance and happy endings....but did she ever experience the same?
I can’t give much away with this one. There are so many layers to this story that I don’t want to spoil any of it for you. But wow, as the storyline and mystery begin to unravel and the truth about Via Belle is revealed, you’ll never see it all coming! This is one you truly need to experience for yourself.
Excuse me while I rush off to start planning my shopping list for her backlist books now!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. This review reflects my honest opinion.
May 11, 2026
Wow! The Lost Story of Via Belle kept me riveted! It’s definitely a new favorite from Melanie Dobson. I loved the intriguing dual-time period mystery, beautifully crafted with endearing characters, romance, betrayal, & a lovely homage to the writing process.
In 1940, Via Belle is searching for inspiration. After her husband’s death, the spark behind her bestselling romances seems to have died with him. Under a tight deadline, she accepts an invitation that changes her life. She meets a man who rekindles her imagination, & she’s writing again. But before her latest book is published, she suddenly vanishes from her beautiful Pennsylvania home & moonflower garden.
In 2006, screenwriter Harper Rayne’s hoping for her big break. When her employer’s daughter gives her a chance to pitch her idea, she’s caught off guard & believes she’s blown it. And, on top of that, loses her job. Returning to her mother’s roots to find a story worth telling, she embarks on a fascinating journey to uncover what happened to Via Belle, whose books inspired both her & her late mother.
I don’t want to say too much more because most of the enjoyment comes from unraveling each clue. Olivia (Via) is such a dear character, & I loved traveling back to the early ’40s with her, seeing her get lost in her stories & finally uncovering the truth. I also loved learning about the moonflowers & how they’re creatively woven into the story. When another POV is introduced, I was on pins & needles. Even with my suspicions, the ending still surprised me.
I thoroughly enjoyed Harper’s story as well, especially her verbal sparring with Finn, the handsome caretaker of Via Belle’s estate. I enjoyed following right along with her as she investigates the mystery. Like Via, Harper gets lost in storytelling, & I loved watching her finally find her story to tell.
All the stars for this dual-time period mystery! Highly recommend to inspirational, historical mystery fans. I received an advanced copy with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions are completely my own & provided voluntarily.
In 1940, Via Belle is searching for inspiration. After her husband’s death, the spark behind her bestselling romances seems to have died with him. Under a tight deadline, she accepts an invitation that changes her life. She meets a man who rekindles her imagination, & she’s writing again. But before her latest book is published, she suddenly vanishes from her beautiful Pennsylvania home & moonflower garden.
In 2006, screenwriter Harper Rayne’s hoping for her big break. When her employer’s daughter gives her a chance to pitch her idea, she’s caught off guard & believes she’s blown it. And, on top of that, loses her job. Returning to her mother’s roots to find a story worth telling, she embarks on a fascinating journey to uncover what happened to Via Belle, whose books inspired both her & her late mother.
I don’t want to say too much more because most of the enjoyment comes from unraveling each clue. Olivia (Via) is such a dear character, & I loved traveling back to the early ’40s with her, seeing her get lost in her stories & finally uncovering the truth. I also loved learning about the moonflowers & how they’re creatively woven into the story. When another POV is introduced, I was on pins & needles. Even with my suspicions, the ending still surprised me.
I thoroughly enjoyed Harper’s story as well, especially her verbal sparring with Finn, the handsome caretaker of Via Belle’s estate. I enjoyed following right along with her as she investigates the mystery. Like Via, Harper gets lost in storytelling, & I loved watching her finally find her story to tell.
All the stars for this dual-time period mystery! Highly recommend to inspirational, historical mystery fans. I received an advanced copy with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions are completely my own & provided voluntarily.
November 12, 2025
Goodness sakes. I read a lot of books each year but this one is one of the best, most compelling I’ve read so far this year. Melanie Dobson writes such beautiful descriptions and does a fantastic job of letting her reader see inside her characters’ emotions without overdoing it. This novel left me on the edge of my seat for hours, wondering how it would all be resolved. This story happens in two different times, the 1940s and the early 2000s. Via Bella is a writer of touching stories, in the 1940s. Her stories are well received by her fans but her personal life has been hard since the loss of her daughter and her husband. She ends up meeting Simon Farrow at an author panel and their relationship takes off, much to the chagrin of her aunt. Simon seems kind and loving but signs start to appear that something is off in their relationship. Izzy, a college student, is also in a relationship with a man whose stories start to feel off. In the early 2000s, Harper is an aspiring screen writer, looking for the story that will land her her big break. After a series of missteps in CA, she finds herself in PA, doggedly researching the life of Via Belle, the favorite author of her late mother, an orphan who never knew anything about her family. Finn, the caretaker of Via’s estate, closely guards Via’s home and secrets from those he perceives to be looking to take advantage of Via’s story. What proceeds is a story of love, heartbreak, redemption, and sacrifice, and much like the stories of Via Belle, wraps up beautifully at the end, in a way that brought tears to my eyes. I could not recommend this book more. I am super grateful to have been given the opportunity to read the ARC and the opinions expressed are my own.
April 16, 2026
“The Lost Story of Via Belle” by Melanie Dobson is a wonderful dual-timeline story! The book has such great mystery and faith content. The mystery kept me guessing until the end. The two timelines are 1940 and 2006. I loved how the timelines tied together and the characters in each were great. “The Lost Story of Via Belle” is a great story about stories and a love note to clean, inspiring books. I love that in the author’s note at the end, Ms. Dobson says that the plot of this book was inspired by the lives of Grace Livingston Hill, Agatha Christie and Dorothy Sayers. The book does deal with some heavier topics, but it is done well and from a Christian perspective. The author weaves in messages about grief and other beautiful Christian truths and messages. I especially love how she shares the message that God speaks through story to help people sort out their questions. If you love a clean mystery with great faith content, you’ll love this wonderful story!
Content: I give this a low PG-13 rating. Some examples of the content: mention of gambling and alcohol; pregnancy out of wedlock; mention of sharing a bed.
TW: loss, grief, past loss of a child and spouse; infidelity; orphan; mention of past su*cide; alcoholic; domestic violence; emotional abuse and gaslighting; adoption; attempted child abduction.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Content: I give this a low PG-13 rating. Some examples of the content: mention of gambling and alcohol; pregnancy out of wedlock; mention of sharing a bed.
TW: loss, grief, past loss of a child and spouse; infidelity; orphan; mention of past su*cide; alcoholic; domestic violence; emotional abuse and gaslighting; adoption; attempted child abduction.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
April 16, 2026
“A good story is strong enough to save a life.”
I am partial to dual-timeline stories and Ms. Dobson is an expert at weaving the two times together.
This is such a great story about a popular author Via Belle of the 1940s who goes missing after her second marriage.
Harper in the 2006 returns to a place she visted as a child and is caught up in the stories of Via Belle as she searches for a topic for a script that she wants to write. What she finds is a little romance and connections that are surprising.
Especially interesting is the historical look at the life of an author from the past and her struggles with her faith and her newfound love. The descriptions of the house, gardens and lake that were an inspiration to Via put you right in the story. I began to care about the heroines in both timelines and cringed at the duplicity of the villain. All the mystery and subterfuge made for an exceptional story.
You will want to put this on your list!
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Tyndale via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
I am partial to dual-timeline stories and Ms. Dobson is an expert at weaving the two times together.
This is such a great story about a popular author Via Belle of the 1940s who goes missing after her second marriage.
Harper in the 2006 returns to a place she visted as a child and is caught up in the stories of Via Belle as she searches for a topic for a script that she wants to write. What she finds is a little romance and connections that are surprising.
Especially interesting is the historical look at the life of an author from the past and her struggles with her faith and her newfound love. The descriptions of the house, gardens and lake that were an inspiration to Via put you right in the story. I began to care about the heroines in both timelines and cringed at the duplicity of the villain. All the mystery and subterfuge made for an exceptional story.
You will want to put this on your list!
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Tyndale via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
June 11, 2026
4.5 rounded up to 5
Wow. I was so hooked and invested in this story. I did not want to put it down. Dual-timeline following characters in 1940 and 2006. Harper from 2006 is discovering the story of her mom's favourite author in hopes to write a screenplay. As she begins to learn more about Olivia's life she is unsure if a screenplay is the right choice. While I like Harper's story and felt like her research was a great way to learn the past story, I definitely was more invested in the characters in the 1940s. There was one in particular that was horrible and I was very concerned that some other characters were going to pay dearly for this person's actions. Ms. Dobson created characters that I had very strong feelings about and was pleasantly surprised with the way it wrapped up. My only negative is that I would have appreciated more faith in the story as it is published by Tyndale. This was my first Melanie Dobson book and I will definitely look for more books by her.
Wow. I was so hooked and invested in this story. I did not want to put it down. Dual-timeline following characters in 1940 and 2006. Harper from 2006 is discovering the story of her mom's favourite author in hopes to write a screenplay. As she begins to learn more about Olivia's life she is unsure if a screenplay is the right choice. While I like Harper's story and felt like her research was a great way to learn the past story, I definitely was more invested in the characters in the 1940s. There was one in particular that was horrible and I was very concerned that some other characters were going to pay dearly for this person's actions. Ms. Dobson created characters that I had very strong feelings about and was pleasantly surprised with the way it wrapped up. My only negative is that I would have appreciated more faith in the story as it is published by Tyndale. This was my first Melanie Dobson book and I will definitely look for more books by her.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A dual time read, 1940 and 2006, that the author has messed together perfectly!
There is a lot going on here, with crime that is hidden, but hurting so many. There is some sweet romance, and some very deep caring characters given to us.
This quickly became a page turner, I needed answers, and we get them, along with a great epilogue!
Yes, I recommend this historical Christian read to get lost in! I will warn you, you will be holding your breath as danger approaches, and with people you quickly care about making the wrong decisions!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Tyndale, and was not required to give a positive review.
There is a lot going on here, with crime that is hidden, but hurting so many. There is some sweet romance, and some very deep caring characters given to us.
This quickly became a page turner, I needed answers, and we get them, along with a great epilogue!
Yes, I recommend this historical Christian read to get lost in! I will warn you, you will be holding your breath as danger approaches, and with people you quickly care about making the wrong decisions!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Tyndale, and was not required to give a positive review.
November 25, 2025
I love dual time novels! They are probably my favorite way to enjoy historical fiction. :) It's like peeling back an onion as things get revealed.
In this novel, we are in the timeline of Via Belle, a famous romance author in 1940 and Harper Rayne, a wannabe screenwriter in 2006. Harper and Via Belle's stories intertwine when she decides to write a screenplay in the style of the stories she loves--those of her mother's favorite author Via Belle and gets lost in the mysterious story of Via Belle herself.
I love the mystery that was woven through the plot--what actually happened to Via Belle? We got layers peeled back slowly. Little tidbits given here and there. But the ending--the actual what happened came from left field. :) Isn't that always fun?
Harper grows so much in this story. And I love that she got her own redemption arc. The book was very good and I didn't want to put it down.
5 stars
*Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for my ARC of this novel. All opinions are 100% my own.
In this novel, we are in the timeline of Via Belle, a famous romance author in 1940 and Harper Rayne, a wannabe screenwriter in 2006. Harper and Via Belle's stories intertwine when she decides to write a screenplay in the style of the stories she loves--those of her mother's favorite author Via Belle and gets lost in the mysterious story of Via Belle herself.
I love the mystery that was woven through the plot--what actually happened to Via Belle? We got layers peeled back slowly. Little tidbits given here and there. But the ending--the actual what happened came from left field. :) Isn't that always fun?
Harper grows so much in this story. And I love that she got her own redemption arc. The book was very good and I didn't want to put it down.
5 stars
*Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for my ARC of this novel. All opinions are 100% my own.
June 17, 2026
3.5 stars rounded up. A compelling story although some elements weren’t my favorite. Melanie is a wonderful storyteller!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
1940 & 2006
A truly captivating story! I was hesitant about this book because I have no interest in Hollywood or film and I had very low expectations. However, I was surprised to find myself so drawn into this story. I thoroughly enjoyed both timelines. It takes a turn about a quarter of the way through and becomes somewhat of a mystery which I really liked.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Tyndale House Publishers for providing me with this ARC. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Content – death of child & spouse, grief, & deceit
A truly captivating story! I was hesitant about this book because I have no interest in Hollywood or film and I had very low expectations. However, I was surprised to find myself so drawn into this story. I thoroughly enjoyed both timelines. It takes a turn about a quarter of the way through and becomes somewhat of a mystery which I really liked.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Tyndale House Publishers for providing me with this ARC. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Content – death of child & spouse, grief, & deceit
June 17, 2026
4.5 rounding up to 5. This story had me so invested!! After about 30ish% in the book, I could not stop reading this! Everything else in life was put on hold for a bit!
Melanie writes dual timelines so well!! The timelines go perfectly with each other. I had a hard time picking my favorite timeline, I liked them both so much. It was set in the 1940s and 2006. The town and house where Via Belle lived sounded so beautiful. That cover is gorgeous, too.
Oh man, the villain in this story is really mean and will make you really mad! I don't want to give away any spoilers, so I can't say too much about the story. I really love that it's a story within a story. There were a couple of times I wanted to shake some sense into a couple of the characters. There is a faith element, but it's very light in this story. There's a little romance, mystery, action, and drama.
Highly recommend this book!!!
Melanie writes dual timelines so well!! The timelines go perfectly with each other. I had a hard time picking my favorite timeline, I liked them both so much. It was set in the 1940s and 2006. The town and house where Via Belle lived sounded so beautiful. That cover is gorgeous, too.
Oh man, the villain in this story is really mean and will make you really mad! I don't want to give away any spoilers, so I can't say too much about the story. I really love that it's a story within a story. There were a couple of times I wanted to shake some sense into a couple of the characters. There is a faith element, but it's very light in this story. There's a little romance, mystery, action, and drama.
Highly recommend this book!!!
September 30, 2026
I keep forgetting why I love Melanie Dobson’s stories and don’t know why I always delay reading the author’s books. Maybe it is because I actually know I will love it and do not want to be done with it too soon.
This story was captivating. I was totally committed to finding out how everyone was connected, especially the two female leads in the historical setting. I was drawn in by the women’s hopes, dreams and journey to finding their love and happiness.
My heart broke for Olivia who started to see who the person she married really was. I felt the betrayal, loss of dreams and a future along with both women. The ending had me holding my breath and putting everything else on pause so I could see what happened. It was so sad and I couldn't stop reading until everything was revealed.
This was a great story and fans of the author will not be disappointed.
*I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.*
This story was captivating. I was totally committed to finding out how everyone was connected, especially the two female leads in the historical setting. I was drawn in by the women’s hopes, dreams and journey to finding their love and happiness.
My heart broke for Olivia who started to see who the person she married really was. I felt the betrayal, loss of dreams and a future along with both women. The ending had me holding my breath and putting everything else on pause so I could see what happened. It was so sad and I couldn't stop reading until everything was revealed.
This was a great story and fans of the author will not be disappointed.
*I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.*
June 29, 2026
Fantastic book! This is my first book by this author and I am heading to the library for another, hoping it is as gripping. The characters were very well developed and really made you love (or hate) them. Hard to put down for sure & I always appreciate a book that contains romantic relationships but stays clean.
November 1, 2025
This was my second book by this author. She is a gifted storyteller. A beautiful novel with rich characters. Get swept away in this novel.
April 18, 2026
Two women writers a couple generations apart are connected by coincidences and much more! This novel is a time/slip mystery romance novel. Olivia (pen name Via Belle), seen in the 1940s, has a resume of over 30 popular novels, all romances with happy endings. Harper, in the early 2000s, is a discouraged wannabe screen writer in Hollywood. She and her late mother were fans of Via Belle's books and had happy memories of reading them together. Coincidentally, Harper's mom grew up in Pennsylvania, near the home of Via Belle, who mysteriously disappeared in the early 1940s. When Harper becomes disillusioned with her prospects in Hollywood, she decides to return to her mom's hometown and find comfort with old friends. She also plans to search Via Belle's background, books, and perhaps track down the mystery of her disappearance. Harper also hopes that she will find a story to turn into a screenplay, in hopes of impressing a director who gave her a nod.
As Harper pursues Via Belle's books and backstory, so does the Reader. The pursuit involves romances, some suspicious motivations, a dark mystery, a surprising discovery, and connections beyond stories.
The book begins slowly with a bit too many unnecessary named characters and inconsequential dialog. But before the halfway point, the story catches fire with the introduction of another main character, and from then on, the novel is not easy to put down. The author neatly ties up all complex loose ends in a quite satisfactory bow, as Via Belle would have appreciated.
As Harper pursues Via Belle's books and backstory, so does the Reader. The pursuit involves romances, some suspicious motivations, a dark mystery, a surprising discovery, and connections beyond stories.
The book begins slowly with a bit too many unnecessary named characters and inconsequential dialog. But before the halfway point, the story catches fire with the introduction of another main character, and from then on, the novel is not easy to put down. The author neatly ties up all complex loose ends in a quite satisfactory bow, as Via Belle would have appreciated.
September 29, 2026
So I felt like it started slow and a little dismal with the grieving widow and the writers’ blocks for both Olivia and Harper. I don’t really consider myself a writer so maybe I can’t sympathize very well. Anyway, you find out quickly that Simon is a jerk, and then you start to get irritated with the ladies for liking him, but then the author does such a great job of slowly unfolding all of his treachery, and the path of discovery that they tread. I found it absolutely riveting towards the middle and end! I really really liked this book.
On top of that, she dedicated the book to Grace Livingston Hill. So when you look up her story and compare it, there are some interesting similarities! Not that Hill married a complete con, but that her second marriage was to somebody much younger than her and didn’t go well. I just thought it was absolutely fascinating to think of GLH and then that the author would make a spinoff of her life into a fascinating fiction book. I am very impressed.
On top of that, she dedicated the book to Grace Livingston Hill. So when you look up her story and compare it, there are some interesting similarities! Not that Hill married a complete con, but that her second marriage was to somebody much younger than her and didn’t go well. I just thought it was absolutely fascinating to think of GLH and then that the author would make a spinoff of her life into a fascinating fiction book. I am very impressed.
May 9, 2026
I have been a Grace Livingston Hill fan for over two decades and knew I had to read this when I learned it was inspired by her life. I have not read anything else by this author and generally don’t care for split time novels, but I could not put this book down - it was pins and needles towards the end of the 1940s storyline!
This is clearly very lightly inspired by Grace Livingston Hill, as her real life marital dramas were very different. But still an enjoyable and compelling read. I don’t know if I’ll read anymore by this author – I’d have to be really intrigued by the plot because I don’t love split time. But I definitely am in the mood to read a GLH!
You don’t need to be a GLH fan or have any background knowledge to enjoy this novel – a very enjoyable historical fiction mystery with threads of romance.
This is clearly very lightly inspired by Grace Livingston Hill, as her real life marital dramas were very different. But still an enjoyable and compelling read. I don’t know if I’ll read anymore by this author – I’d have to be really intrigued by the plot because I don’t love split time. But I definitely am in the mood to read a GLH!
You don’t need to be a GLH fan or have any background knowledge to enjoy this novel – a very enjoyable historical fiction mystery with threads of romance.
October 12, 2026
I really enjoyed Melanie Dobson’s The Lost Story of Via Belle. Dual-timeline mysteries can be tricky to pull off, but she did a great job weaving Via Belle’s life in the 1940s together with Harper’s search for the truth in 2006. Beyond the plot, what I appreciated most was how naturally the faith elements were handled—it deals with real issues like grief, forgiveness, and God's grace without feeling preachy or overly sentimental. It’s just a solid, clean, and thoughtful story, and would be great for a Christian book club group.
June 10, 2026
Loads of characters, if listening pay close attention!! many times I wished I had the actual book to see the chapter title so I’d know who I was reading about…..loads or rewinding! But still an enjoyable story!
September 4, 2026
If you love historical fiction and dual timelines as much as I do, Melanie Dobson’s The Lost Story of Via Belle is an absolute must-read. She completely hooks you with a mystery that jumps between Olivia Belle Ash in the 1940s and Harper Rayne in 2006.
What I loved most was how the past and present timelines perfectly mirror each other. Both women are searching for truth and healing, and the mystery is perfectly paced as the author uncovers secrets at just the right speed. I also loved the characters—some are incredibly sweet, while others are downright creepy and manipulative. Plus, the setting of the beautiful stone house and moonflower garden is so vivid that it practically feels like another character in the story.
Besides the great mystery, the book has a beautiful, inspiring undercurrent of faith. It handles heavy themes like grief and loss with a gentle, redemptive hand, reminding you of the power of truth and sacrificial love. If you are a fan of rich, atmospheric time-slip stories like those by Kate Morton or Jaime Jo Wright, put this one at the top of your TBR list.
****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors. A review was not required, and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****
What I loved most was how the past and present timelines perfectly mirror each other. Both women are searching for truth and healing, and the mystery is perfectly paced as the author uncovers secrets at just the right speed. I also loved the characters—some are incredibly sweet, while others are downright creepy and manipulative. Plus, the setting of the beautiful stone house and moonflower garden is so vivid that it practically feels like another character in the story.
Besides the great mystery, the book has a beautiful, inspiring undercurrent of faith. It handles heavy themes like grief and loss with a gentle, redemptive hand, reminding you of the power of truth and sacrificial love. If you are a fan of rich, atmospheric time-slip stories like those by Kate Morton or Jaime Jo Wright, put this one at the top of your TBR list.
****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors. A review was not required, and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****
May 2, 2026
“A good story is strong enough to save a life.”
Y’all. The Lost Story of Via Belle held me captive from beginning to end. I would have been clamoring to read it anyway – after all, Melanie Dobson wrote it and she’s long been one of my fave dual timeline authors – but learning that it was inspired by the life of Grace Livingston Hill elevated it above ‘must read’ status for me to… well… to whatever is a few levels above ‘must read’ haha. I gobbled up Grace Livingston Hill books when I was a tween and teen, and though it’s been many years since I’ve read one I still have a soft spot in my heart for these sweet stories. I knew absolutely zero about Hill’s life though, and after devouring The Lost Story of Via Belle, I researched her history and found it to be more bittersweet than I realized. A word that could be used for Via Belle’s personal life too, though there are several key differences that made fiction stranger than the truth in this case and kept me glued to the pages.
Two writers, sixty years apart. In the 1940s timeline, Olivia Ashe – whose pen name is Via Belle – is quickly running out of time to meet her publisher’s deadline for her next sweet inspirational romance. But story ideas seem to have died along with her husband… at least until an unlikely friendship with a young professor breathes new life into both Olivia’s dormant muse and her own heart. This timeline is full of scandal and drama and even a little danger but also lots of heart, and I could not tear myself away from any of it. Especially when… well, I won’t give anything away.
In 2006, we meet aspiring screenwriter Harper Rayne just as her life takes an unexpected turn that sends her to her mother’s hometown in Pennsylvania for a fresh start. Harper’s not there long before her curiosity about the town’s most famous resident – author Via Belle – and her mysterious disappearance six decades earlier sends Harper down a compelling rabbit hole that had me completely invested right along with her. It also didn’t hurt my feelings any that Harper’s questions about Via Belle put her in the crosshairs of the grumpy (and swoony) estate caretaker Finn who’s very protective of the enigmatic author and her legacy. And can we just take a moment to appreciate how this novel contains so many things that draw me to a book in the first place? A connected historical & contemporary timeline… a book on books… the 60-year-unsolved disappearance of an author… delicious twists… and a swoony lumberjack-type hero. Yes please, to all of it!
Bottom Line: Melanie Dobson’s talent for storyweaving is on full display in The Lost Story of Via Belle! Mystery, romance, and books form a richly-layered plot that had me devouring this novel as quickly as possible while Dobson’s warm writing voice also had me wanting to stop and savor every word. Both timelines and their shared threads unfold at the perfect pace, and I turned the final page immensely satisfied with how everything ended up. I loved getting to know both Olivia and Harper, as well as the people who were pivotal in their stories (except for a couple of notable exceptions who made those respective journeys more painful). I will be thinking about The Lost Story of Via Belle for a long time, and it’s a great next read for fans of Jaime Jo Wright, Michelle Shocklee, Joanna Davidson Politano… and, of course, Grace Livingston Hill.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
Y’all. The Lost Story of Via Belle held me captive from beginning to end. I would have been clamoring to read it anyway – after all, Melanie Dobson wrote it and she’s long been one of my fave dual timeline authors – but learning that it was inspired by the life of Grace Livingston Hill elevated it above ‘must read’ status for me to… well… to whatever is a few levels above ‘must read’ haha. I gobbled up Grace Livingston Hill books when I was a tween and teen, and though it’s been many years since I’ve read one I still have a soft spot in my heart for these sweet stories. I knew absolutely zero about Hill’s life though, and after devouring The Lost Story of Via Belle, I researched her history and found it to be more bittersweet than I realized. A word that could be used for Via Belle’s personal life too, though there are several key differences that made fiction stranger than the truth in this case and kept me glued to the pages.
Two writers, sixty years apart. In the 1940s timeline, Olivia Ashe – whose pen name is Via Belle – is quickly running out of time to meet her publisher’s deadline for her next sweet inspirational romance. But story ideas seem to have died along with her husband… at least until an unlikely friendship with a young professor breathes new life into both Olivia’s dormant muse and her own heart. This timeline is full of scandal and drama and even a little danger but also lots of heart, and I could not tear myself away from any of it. Especially when… well, I won’t give anything away.
In 2006, we meet aspiring screenwriter Harper Rayne just as her life takes an unexpected turn that sends her to her mother’s hometown in Pennsylvania for a fresh start. Harper’s not there long before her curiosity about the town’s most famous resident – author Via Belle – and her mysterious disappearance six decades earlier sends Harper down a compelling rabbit hole that had me completely invested right along with her. It also didn’t hurt my feelings any that Harper’s questions about Via Belle put her in the crosshairs of the grumpy (and swoony) estate caretaker Finn who’s very protective of the enigmatic author and her legacy. And can we just take a moment to appreciate how this novel contains so many things that draw me to a book in the first place? A connected historical & contemporary timeline… a book on books… the 60-year-unsolved disappearance of an author… delicious twists… and a swoony lumberjack-type hero. Yes please, to all of it!
Bottom Line: Melanie Dobson’s talent for storyweaving is on full display in The Lost Story of Via Belle! Mystery, romance, and books form a richly-layered plot that had me devouring this novel as quickly as possible while Dobson’s warm writing voice also had me wanting to stop and savor every word. Both timelines and their shared threads unfold at the perfect pace, and I turned the final page immensely satisfied with how everything ended up. I loved getting to know both Olivia and Harper, as well as the people who were pivotal in their stories (except for a couple of notable exceptions who made those respective journeys more painful). I will be thinking about The Lost Story of Via Belle for a long time, and it’s a great next read for fans of Jaime Jo Wright, Michelle Shocklee, Joanna Davidson Politano… and, of course, Grace Livingston Hill.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
July 13, 2026
Honestly, I was a little disappointed. I was all excited for a Grace Livingston Hill-inspired book and what I got was... a pretty modern book of deception, intrigue, and lots of characters who make huge moral failings.
If you have read much about Grace Livingston Hill's life, this novel has very little of her reflected in it (other than the type of books Via Belle writes). While it carried the taste of some of it, it failed to capture any of the joy and amazing good works along with it.
If you read her novels, this book has very little of the goodness and beauty of those stories.
I really didn't see how this book was supposed to be a tribute to her. Maybe tacking a tribute onto a story was a way to sell more novels? Or maybe I was just expecting something different. I was expecting some of the beauty in the ashes that made GLH who she was, and her stories, the ones I come back to.
The story itself was well told and interesting. I was a little worried at one point about how things would turn out, but it was pretty good. Dobson does know how to do dual-timeline novels well, and I appreciated her skill in that area, weaving the stories together so they felt cohesive.
Not horrible, just not my favorite. Oh, and not surprising since it's from Tyndale, but no real faith message was involved either (another huge miss in the GLH department)
Content notes (full of spoilers):
If you have read much about Grace Livingston Hill's life, this novel has very little of her reflected in it (other than the type of books Via Belle writes). While it carried the taste of some of it, it failed to capture any of the joy and amazing good works along with it.
If you read her novels, this book has very little of the goodness and beauty of those stories.
I really didn't see how this book was supposed to be a tribute to her. Maybe tacking a tribute onto a story was a way to sell more novels? Or maybe I was just expecting something different. I was expecting some of the beauty in the ashes that made GLH who she was, and her stories, the ones I come back to.
The story itself was well told and interesting. I was a little worried at one point about how things would turn out, but it was pretty good. Dobson does know how to do dual-timeline novels well, and I appreciated her skill in that area, weaving the stories together so they felt cohesive.
Not horrible, just not my favorite. Oh, and not surprising since it's from Tyndale, but no real faith message was involved either (another huge miss in the GLH department)
Content notes (full of spoilers):
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I liked the dual timeline at the beginning. Midway through, as the character of Simon became clear, I was less enthused. I’m not a big fan of suspense. Olivia is a sympathetic character, losing her husband and the resultant writer’s block. I liked the ending for Harper. Everyone needs a friend like her friend Kelsey.
October 9, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ — But honestly, five stars isn’t enough!
Oh my gosh. I just finished The Lost Story of Via Belle, and I’m still trying to find the words. I listened on Hoopla, and I could not stop listening. Now I need to buy the actual book because this is one I have to own.
I loved the dual timelines, the connections that kept unfolding, and how all these pieces came together. Such a beautiful, captivating story. I didn’t take notes this time because I was too much caught up in it!!
But what really got my heart was the women. Without giving too much away, watching what they did with the hurt and deception they experienced was so powerful. They could have turned against each other. Instead, they became a force for good.
Sometimes the other person isn’t your enemy. Sometimes you have to step back far enough to see that they’ve been hurt too. This story brought that to life in a way that will stay with me. 😘
And the redemption. The friendship. Finding a way to build a beautiful life after someone has caused so much damage. Whew. My heart. 😭
I read an article where they interviewed the author of this book and she has based on a true story well, some of it's true. The person it was based on passed away before her book was finished and saw her daughter had finished it, and I love how that analogy was brought up in this book as well.
I wanted to see how this book was gonna end but at the same time I didn't want it to end that's how captivating it was!
This is my first book by this author definitely gonna have to check into her other books.
I’m so glad I experienced this on audio, but I want these words on my bookshelf too. One of my favorite books of the year. Beyond five stars. ❤️
Oh my gosh. I just finished The Lost Story of Via Belle, and I’m still trying to find the words. I listened on Hoopla, and I could not stop listening. Now I need to buy the actual book because this is one I have to own.
I loved the dual timelines, the connections that kept unfolding, and how all these pieces came together. Such a beautiful, captivating story. I didn’t take notes this time because I was too much caught up in it!!
But what really got my heart was the women. Without giving too much away, watching what they did with the hurt and deception they experienced was so powerful. They could have turned against each other. Instead, they became a force for good.
Sometimes the other person isn’t your enemy. Sometimes you have to step back far enough to see that they’ve been hurt too. This story brought that to life in a way that will stay with me. 😘
And the redemption. The friendship. Finding a way to build a beautiful life after someone has caused so much damage. Whew. My heart. 😭
I read an article where they interviewed the author of this book and she has based on a true story well, some of it's true. The person it was based on passed away before her book was finished and saw her daughter had finished it, and I love how that analogy was brought up in this book as well.
I wanted to see how this book was gonna end but at the same time I didn't want it to end that's how captivating it was!
This is my first book by this author definitely gonna have to check into her other books.
I’m so glad I experienced this on audio, but I want these words on my bookshelf too. One of my favorite books of the year. Beyond five stars. ❤️
April 14, 2026
Solid 4 stars.
I enjoyed reading this story from start to finish. I felt the first half was slightly slow but it kept enough of my interest to keep me going. At halfway, that's when it starts to get incredibly interesting.
There are faith themes but I wouldn't really say they're overly strong or excessive which personally I wouldn't have liked to see more of.
Olivia "Via" Belle, an author who always wrote about happy endings, was a strong character who suffered the loss of her husband and only child. As a result of this loss, Via struggled to write her next feel good novel. I appreciated the heartache she went through and the determination to keep writing and be independent through it all and even after her circumstances changed she still had resolve to remain self sufficient and had the wisdom to protect what was hers.
My heart broke for the character of Izzy. So young and deceived by someone she loved and trusted. She too, though young and naive, showed great determination and wisdom in her situation and I was rooting for her the whole time.
If you like mystery, historical fiction, Cleveland mafia thugs, love gone wrong but good overcomes evil in the end, then this book is for you.
I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
No spice and closed door however there is a baby out of wedlock situation.
No language.
I enjoyed reading this story from start to finish. I felt the first half was slightly slow but it kept enough of my interest to keep me going. At halfway, that's when it starts to get incredibly interesting.
There are faith themes but I wouldn't really say they're overly strong or excessive which personally I wouldn't have liked to see more of.
Olivia "Via" Belle, an author who always wrote about happy endings, was a strong character who suffered the loss of her husband and only child. As a result of this loss, Via struggled to write her next feel good novel. I appreciated the heartache she went through and the determination to keep writing and be independent through it all and even after her circumstances changed she still had resolve to remain self sufficient and had the wisdom to protect what was hers.
My heart broke for the character of Izzy. So young and deceived by someone she loved and trusted. She too, though young and naive, showed great determination and wisdom in her situation and I was rooting for her the whole time.
If you like mystery, historical fiction, Cleveland mafia thugs, love gone wrong but good overcomes evil in the end, then this book is for you.
I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
No spice and closed door however there is a baby out of wedlock situation.
No language.
April 28, 2026
Spectacular book by Melanie Dobson! It's a Christian historical fiction with a bit of a mystery thrown in.
Our FMC, Via Belle, lives in Pennsylvania. She is an author, and she's invited to speak at this Author panel where she meets this Professor named Simon Farrow. Mr Farrow and her hit it off, she's shocked that he's paying any attention to her at all. She had lost her husband and since that time had pretty much become a recluse. As Simon pursues her even more intentionally, her aunt who lives with her is very put off by his personality and isn't a fan of this relationship at all. As time goes on they do marry, but the marriage is based on secrets and lies unbeknownst to Via. Via eventually disappears leaving an unfinished manuscript, and noone knows where to find her. This takes place in the 1940's. The second POV is early 2000's in California and Harper, who is a conspiring screen writer. As she's looking for inspiration, she finds some Via Belle books in her mother's collection. She decides to take a trip to Pennsylvania to see if she can find out more about Via Belle and her disappearance. Harper is determined to get to the bottom of the mystery and this leads her into a deep dive of the secrets and lies that surround Simon Farrow.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tyndale Fiction for this e-arc. This review is my opinion only.
Our FMC, Via Belle, lives in Pennsylvania. She is an author, and she's invited to speak at this Author panel where she meets this Professor named Simon Farrow. Mr Farrow and her hit it off, she's shocked that he's paying any attention to her at all. She had lost her husband and since that time had pretty much become a recluse. As Simon pursues her even more intentionally, her aunt who lives with her is very put off by his personality and isn't a fan of this relationship at all. As time goes on they do marry, but the marriage is based on secrets and lies unbeknownst to Via. Via eventually disappears leaving an unfinished manuscript, and noone knows where to find her. This takes place in the 1940's. The second POV is early 2000's in California and Harper, who is a conspiring screen writer. As she's looking for inspiration, she finds some Via Belle books in her mother's collection. She decides to take a trip to Pennsylvania to see if she can find out more about Via Belle and her disappearance. Harper is determined to get to the bottom of the mystery and this leads her into a deep dive of the secrets and lies that surround Simon Farrow.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tyndale Fiction for this e-arc. This review is my opinion only.
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