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The Police Chief's Instant Family

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An unexpected homecoming
is what they need to heal.

Tumbleweed police chief Daniel Montgomery never understood why Emily Kent walked away from him back when they were high school sweethearts. But when tragedy makes them co-guardians of their siblings’ twin daughters, Emily and Daniel find themselves together again after years apart, facing the unexpected challenges of parenthood. As buried feelings rise to the surface, the spark between them becomes impossible to ignore. With old hurts and past secrets between them, will they ever get a chance at their long-awaited happily-ever-after?

Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.

Tumbleweed, Texas

 Book 1: The Coach's Secret Child by Lee Tobin McClain
Book 2: The Pastor's Easter Prayer by Tina Radcliffe
Book 3: The Police Chief's Instant Family by Mindy Obenhaus
Book 4: The Rancher's Unlikely Match by Jill Kemerer

208 pages, Mass Market Paperback

Published March 31, 2026

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About the author

Mindy Obenhaus

75 books403 followers
Best-selling author Mindy Obenhaus is passionate about touching readers with Biblical truths in an entertaining, and sometimes adventurous, manner. She lives on a ranch in Texas with her husband, two sassy pups, countless cattle, deer and the occasional coyote, mountain lion or snake. When she’s not writing, she enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, cooking and watching the Hallmark Channel. Learn more at www.MindyObenhaus.com

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5 stars
48 (76%)
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14 (22%)
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1 (1%)
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
Profile Image for Jo|Ruth Reads.
767 reviews92 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 25, 2026
I absolutely loved this and read it in one sitting. This is a true second chance romance with forced proximity, grief, and healing woven throughout. Emily and Daniel were high school sweethearts torn apart by a broken past, and now they’re brought back together as co-guardians to their twin nieces after the tragic loss of their siblings.

Emily never wanted to return to Tumbleweed, Texas, and Daniel definitely didn’t want to see the woman who broke his heart without explanation. She’s back temporarily, engaged, and fighting for custody of the twins, while Daniel is struggling to trust her again. If they want to honor their siblings’ wishes, they’ll have to put the past aside and raise the twins together, but that’s easier said than done!

The tension between these two is strong from the start, yet the feelings never feel gone. Watching them work through their pain was so worth it. Add in the sweet twins, a supportive community, and heartfelt/fun moments, and this was such a sweet read.

I gave this 4.5 stars, rounded up to 5.

I received a complimentary copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.
Profile Image for SARAH TAYLOR.
316 reviews67 followers
April 30, 2026
The Police Chief's Instant Family by Mindy was another great book with such amazing and wonderful characters with so much Inspiration to read and I couldn't put it down I highly recommend this book I was given a compilatory copy and this is my own honest opinion!
366 reviews20 followers
January 30, 2026
I have read several books by this author and she is a go-to author for me. In the beginning of this book, I really felt bad for Daniel because he was not aware of the reasons behind why Emily never came back from Washington. I also found myself really upset with Emily for not trying to work with Daniel in regard to the twins. However, I was rooting for them to come back together the whole time. This book drew me in so well I felt that I was right in the middle of it all. I found myself wanting to cry for Ava and Amelia especially when they were hoping that their parents were at the door because they did not understand they were not coming back. You will definitely need a box of tissues. Ava and Amelia made this book one of my favorites. Though they were going through a hard time, they had some really adorable moments and were both so good at bringing the wisdom to the adults as a lot of children can be. I highly recommend this book to everyone.

I received a complimentary copy from the author. The opinions in this review are my own.
Profile Image for Kay Garrett.
636 reviews98 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 20, 2026
THE POLICE CHIEF’S INSTANT FAMILY by Mindy Obenhaus is the sensational, heart-warming story of Daniel Montgomery, police chief of Tumbleweed, Texas, and Dr. Emily Kent Summer. While struggling with their past and finding out they are co-guardians to their twin nieces, they must figure out the best future for everyone involved.

Daniel has carried around a world of hurt since the summer after high school graduation. He’d thought they were going to spend the rest of their lives together. However, Emily went on vacation with her family and never came back. No explanation – nothing! Despite having his world turned upside down, he’s been very successful profession wise. Working hard and graduating at the top of his class, he worked himself up to the well-respected position of police chief in his hometown. Now Emily’s shown up saying “she” is the girl’s guardian. There’s no way she’s taking Ava & Amelia away from everyone that loves them and everything they’ve ever known. He won’t break a promise he made to his brother!

Emily thought she was doing the right thing. She didn’t want Daniel to give up all his dreams just for her. She also knew he wouldn’t agree to a breakup. Taking things into her own hands, when summer vacation was over, she stayed with her aunt and uncle and swore her family to secrecy. It was the hardest thing she’s ever done. She went on to college and became the doctor she’d dreamed of being. And now she’s working in a prestigious clinic alongside her fiancée. She’d promised her sister that if anything happened, she would care for the girls as her own. And that is exactly what she plans on doing – with Daniel’s blessing or a court order.

Can Daniel and Emily make peace with the past? How can Emily think about taking the girls away from Tumbleweed while juggling work, a personal life and providing the proper nurturing homelife for the girls? Will a change in Emily’s personal life change her prospective? Are old feelings dead or just buried deep waiting to be brought back to life? Will Daniel finally get the answer he’s sought? Is it true that forgiveness will set one free?

THE POLICE CHIEF’S INSTANT FAMILY is an exceptional, unputdownable book born out of grief, resilience and love. Mindy Obenhaus gives us a story about accepting history and moving forward, dealing with the death of a loved one, the strength of family, sweet undying love, forgiveness, community, unselfishly putting others wellbeing first and wraps it all in a wonderful thread of faith. THE POLICE CHIEF’S INSTANT FAMILY is a magnificent, FIVE STAR book that I highly recommend to everyone!

While THE POLICE CHIEF’S INSTANT FAMILY is the third book in the Tumbleweed, Texas series, it can most definitely be read as a standalone book.

I received an ARC of this book with no requirement or expectations of a review. All opinions are completely my own.
#ThePoliceChiefsInstantFamily #TumbleweedTx #MindyObenhaus
1,707 reviews33 followers
March 31, 2026
The Police Chief's Instant Family by Mindy Obenhaus
An Uplifting Inspirational Romance (Tumbleweed, Texas Book 3)


An unexpected homecoming
is what they need to heal.

Tumbleweed police chief Daniel Montgomery never understood why Emily Kent walked away from him back when they were high school sweethearts. But when tragedy makes them co-guardians of their siblings’ twin daughters, Emily and Daniel find themselves together again after years apart, facing the unexpected challenges of parenthood. As buried feelings rise to the surface, the spark between them becomes impossible to ignore. With old hurts and past secrets between them, will they ever get a chance at their long-awaited happily-ever-after?
My favorite quote is
“You won’t have to worry about them much longer.”

Daniel turned. “What is that supposed to mean?”

Emily grabbed a mug from the cupboard before reaching for the coffee pot. “I’ve decided to take an extended leave of absence that will allow me some time with the girls so we can get to know each other better before we return to Washington.”

He ground his teeth. “And who said you could make that decision?”

Cradling her cup in her hands, Emily cocked her head in a matter-of-fact manner. “Summer and Will.”

He scoffed. “Not according to the attorney.” There was no way he’d let her take Ava and Amelia without a fight.
I recommend this book.
The Police Chief's Instant Family by Mindy Obenhaus is a 5 -star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Mindy Obenhaus.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are my own.
From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.




Profile Image for June Jacobs.
Author 51 books154 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 9, 2026
Navigating an unspeakable tragedy brings Daniel Montgomery and Emily Kent back together after fourteen years of not seeing each other. How will they adjust to the changes in their lives as a result of the tragedy?

This book is a standalone novel in Harlequin's newest multi-author series—Tumbleweed, Texas.

Formerly high school sweethearts, Daniel and Emily shared a young romance which ended suddenly and badly leaving him with many unanswered questions and unsettled feelings. He's persevered and is now the town's Chief of Police.

Emily is now a physician practicing in Washington State. She has returned to Tumbleweed after learning of the death of her sister, Summer, and her husband, Will—who is Daniel's brother—in a car accident.

As the story deepens, Daniel and Emily learn that they will have a lot of decisions to make soon regarding the guardianship of Will and Summer's twin four-year-old daughters Ava and Amelia.

This story is very moving on many levels, and faith plays an important role in the lives of many of the characters in the story. The young twins are grieving, and I believe this aspect of the story was handled especially well by the author.

The story is completely clean in language and content. I received a copy of this book from the author as a member of her launch team. All of my thoughts and opinions shared here are solely my own.

#######################

Profile Image for The Page Ladies Book Club.
2,135 reviews129 followers
April 23, 2026
Wait, I thought I was just going to the hardware store, not signing up for diapers and high school heartbreak! 🍼👮‍♂️

The Police Chief’s Instant Family by Mindy Obenhaus has my heart in a puddle. If you’re a sucker for the second chance trope mixed with found family vibes, you need to add this to your TBR immediately.

❗️Why I Loved It:
▫️The Tension: Daniel Montgomery is the local police chief with a heart of gold, but he’s still nursing the wound Emily left when she disappeared years ago. The "why did she leave?" mystery kept me turning pages way past my bedtime.
▫️The Twins: Tragedy brings Daniel and Emily back together as co-guardians of their nieces, and watching these two navigate midnight feedings and toddler chaos while avoiding their own chemistry was pure gold.
▫️The Heart: This isn't just a romance; it’s a beautiful story about faith, forgiveness, and healing old wounds. It’s warm, cozy, and exactly what I needed this week.

It’s one of those stories that reminds you that sometimes, the life you never planned for is the one you actually needed. Mindy Obenhaus really knows how to pull at the heartstrings!

✨️Thank you, Harlequin Books, Harlequin Shameless Romantics, and Mindy Obenhaus, for sharing The Police Chief's Instant Family with me!
1,823 reviews35 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 20, 2026
I read this author any chance I can get! I love her books and this one is no different! The story line is an emotional one and you will probably need a box of Kleenex! The young twins, Ava and Amelia have suddenly lost their parents and are mired in grief. Their Aunt Emily and Uncle Daniel are named co-guardians now but that brings a huge complication in itself! They were teenage sweethearts until Emily left Tumbleweed, Texas after high school and never returned. Daniel has been angry ever since and very hurt. I totally felt his pain and could understand his feeling of unforgiveness. After all these years he just wants some answers! How are they ever going to co-parent when they live in different states? I liked Emily but couldn't understand why she had left Texas in the first place and especially, Daniel. It was great to see the reasons unfold and see how she & Daniel make peace. I especially enjoyed watching Daniel comes back to his faith.
The author did a good job of showing how difficult it can be to work through grief, at any age - even the grandparents! This is a wonderful story about second chances, grief and finding peace & forgiveness.
1,348 reviews9 followers
April 17, 2026
Sweet story with 2 adorable, yet realistic, toddler girls

Emily goes back to Tumbleweed, Texas to take guardianship of her 2 orphaned nieces Ava and Amelia. Daniel has been there all along and also plans on taking guardianship of the 2 little girls. His brother may have married her sister, but Daniel could not forgive his high school love Emily for never coming back after a graduation vacation to Washington state. Now they were to be co-guardians? And she plans to take the girls with her to Spokane? Not when all the rest of the girls' family is in Tumbleweed! As they work together, though, they both realize how much harder it would be if they were alone. But can Daniel ever forgive Emily for leaving him behind? What about her fiance in Spokane? Read this to find out!

The pace is fast and the tone is uncertain yet hopeful with a character centered storyline that has a few kisses only. The characters are vivid and engaging. The Christian ideals move the story forward and ate not just added in. Enjoy this sweet Christian romance with high school sweethearts reuniting to care for2 orphaned little girls.
Profile Image for Renee Simmons.
562 reviews62 followers
May 5, 2026
This is such an amazing reminder to turn to God in good times and in trying times. Police Chief Daniel Montgomery is trying hard to accept the tragedy that took the life of his brother, Will and Sister In Law, Summer, and keep his promise that if anything ever happened to them that he would raise their 4 year old twin daughters. He will do anything possible to give his little nieces the love that they need. But then Summer’s sister Emily arrives and swears that Summer asked her to raise the girls. And the will states, they are to co-parent. But Daniel is determined to keep them in Tumbleweed Texas, where they have lived their entire lives, while Emily wants to take them back to Washington with her. The disagreements don’t end there. Emily and Daniel dated 14 years before, but she broke his heart and he just can’t trust her with their nieces, or with anything she says. Trouble is brewing in Tumbleweed and it isn’t just the pop up storms. I loved these characters, the bantering between Daniel and Emily, and the sweet lil twins that stole my heart. And I loved that everyone has to realize that God answers prayers, in his time ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Profile Image for Betsy.
509 reviews20 followers
April 28, 2026
This was an emotionally moving story that tugged at my heartstrings. Two adorable children who tragically lost their parents became the wards of their parents’ siblings, Emily Kent and Daniel Montgomery, who had known each other since high school. I had trouble connecting with Emily in the beginning but my opinion of her changed as the story moved along. Daniel had to overcome his bitterness so he could move forward with his life. The storyline highlighted wonderful examples of prayer and forgiveness. Despite the emotional heaviness that caused the police chief to have an instant family, the story definitely had its light-hearted moments with twins Ava and Amelia and the antics they provided. It was fun to see the appearance of other characters from previous books in the series; however, this book can be read as a stand alone. Tumbleweed sounds like a delightful town I would like to visit!

I received a complimentary copy from the author as part of a giveaway. A positive review was not required and these are my own and honest opinions.

154 reviews7 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 14, 2026
This very engaging and emotional story had me hooked from the beginning. I experienced the full range of emotions. I was near tears in some parts and laughing out loud in others with various emotions in between. The author sensitively handled how the twin girls dealt with the loss of their parents, as well as the others dealing with grief. Former sweethearts had to work through past hurts and misunderstandings in order to make decisions as co-guardians of the twins. I was kept guessing the outcome of each conflict the main characters encountered. Would they do what they wanted or would they turn to God for direction? The twins are wonderful, adding so much since they are the reason the former high school sweethearts are reunited at all. Will they also give them a reason to make it permanent?

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and definitely recommend it. I received an advance copy to read. This is my honest opinion about the book.
Profile Image for Heather Pickett.
409 reviews27 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 26, 2026
I love Tumbleweed, Texas! In this installment, author Mindy Obenhaus brings us The Police Chief's Instant Family.
Chief Daniel Montgomery is heartbroken after his brother and sister in law die in a tragic accident. Dr. Emily Kent feels the same way (they were her sister and brother in law). Now Daniel and Emily are co-guardians of their young twin nieces.
This book has some of my favorite tropes: second chance romance, forced proximity, and twins! I loved how faith was integrated into the characters working through not only their own struggles, but also their emotions toward each other. Plus y'all know how enamored I am with an epilogue, and this one is fantastic. Saddle up for Tumbleweed. You'll love it there!
My thanks for the complimentary copy of this book. My opinions are entirely my own.
252 reviews11 followers
April 4, 2026
This was a second chance romance that starts on a very sad note. Police chief Daniel has just lost his brother and sister-in-law. Now he is their twin daughter's guardian , then his former girlfriend comes to town and says that she is their guardian. Emily has been gone from Tumbleweed for years and comes back when her sister passes away. Daniel and Emily soon finds out that they are co-guardians. Will they be able to agree on anything concerning their nieces? How will they get past their past and focus on what the twins need? I loved this story, it will tug at your heartstrings. This is the third in a series. I would suggest that you read them in order, that way you will be more familiar with some of the other characters.
Profile Image for Melissa.
363 reviews35 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 26, 2026
I loved being back in Tumbleweed, Texas. This is book #3 in the series. It’s totally a standalone novel, but sprinkled with a few familiar appearances from the previous 2 books. I was captured right away with this storyline. I love the trope of 2nd chance reunions. So I knew this was right up my alley. It was an emotional story so be prepared to experience all the feels. I loved watching Daniel & Emily getting to know each other again. Plus the two cute twins really were the heart of the story. I loved this book so much. I’m really looking forward to the next one. I always enjoy my short stays in Tumbleweed!
Profile Image for Vicky Sluiter.
Author 1 book102 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
March 27, 2026
(While this is book 3 in the series, each is a stand alone.)

Author Mindy Obenhaus takes us back to Tumbleweed, Texas where we meet Daniel and Emily along with twins Ava and Amelia. They are adorable!

A second chance romance (there is history between Daniel and Emily), it goes deeper as we “watch” the characters deal with loss and grief. It was so well written that although there was sadness it didn’t feel heavy.

Both adults are hurt and struggling while trying to help their nieces. And we see how it takes a community to help out in hard times.

If you enjoy Christian fiction with hope and healing, then I recommend this book!
Profile Image for Tara Robinson.
163 reviews19 followers
Read
March 7, 2026
I have read a lot of books by Ms Obenhaus and loved them. This one is no exception. This is a beautifully well written, emotional story of faith, love, forgiveness, second chances, grieving, hope, healing and losing your siblings. Daniel and Emily used to be teenage sweethearts. Now they have to figure out how to co guardian their nieces. Sometimes we don't understand why things happen in life, but God has a plan. We just have to trust him. If you love heartwarming Christian stories then I highly recommend reading this one. I was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Jean Volk.
172 reviews
April 2, 2026
Mindy Obenhaus has such a gift for writing stories that feel like home, and The Police Chief’s Instant Family is no exception. I loved the gentle way the characters grow together, the small‑town charm of Tumbleweed, and the emotional depth woven through every chapter. The romance is tender, the family moments are precious, and the message of hope shines beautifully throughout the story.

If you enjoy inspirational romance filled with warmth, community, and second chances, this book is a wonderful choice.

Profile Image for Cassandra Argo.
24 reviews
May 20, 2026
The writing for this story is excellent; however, I really disliked the main female character. She unilaterally makes decisions that negatively impact others with little to no thought for their feelings. Even in the ending, her inability to trust Daniel is only briefly touched upon before she's forgiven and the relationship begins again. It felt like the only person being held accountable for their feelings and actions was Daniel who apologized repeatedly even when he was the person who had been hurt the most.
8 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 6, 2026
This is the third book in a series written by four different authors about the small town of Tumbleweed, Texas.
Daniel & Emily are both healing from the loss of their siblings. They are thrown together, trying to figure out the custody of their nieces, while dealing with the shock of being together once more. This book is a sweet family inspired story that teaches the lesson of forgiveness, love, and that God will see us through the storms of life.

I highly recommend this book.
Profile Image for Melmo2610.
3,746 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 30, 2026
As a longtime fan of Mindy’s stories, I am always excited when she has a new one for me to read. This one was charming! I loved the second chance romance for Daniel and Emily, and their orphaned nieces were definite scene stealers. I also really loved the spiritual threads within the story. This was the sweetest story.

I received a copy of this book from the author and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
Profile Image for Laura Salas.
Author 3 books18 followers
May 14, 2026
Her Books Never Disappoint

Mindy Obenhaus’ books never disappoint. I am a fan of her novels because of their wholesome romance, deep spiritual threads and relatable characters. This one is just as good. Even better is that it’s part of the Tumbleweed series, which I’ve been enjoying since book 1.
173 reviews9 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 16, 2026
I had the honor of reviewing this book, which I highly recommend. Daniel and Emily find out they have been named co-guardians of their twin nieces. But Emily lives across the country. Can they agree on who will raise them?
Profile Image for Dana.
98 reviews12 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 18, 2026
A wonderful story of hope, faith and inspiration. I especially enjoyed the characters of both sets of grandparents. It does have a setting based on a tragic accident. I always enjoy this author's books!
491 reviews
April 18, 2026
The thing we can learn from a great book

The characters are so well written and I would love to live in this small town just to get to visit again will be great. I’m looking forward to the next story in this series. Happy reading
Profile Image for Nicola “Shortbookthyme”.
2,491 reviews135 followers
April 29, 2026
✅My thoughts:
Misunderstandings abound with Emily Kent and Daniel Montgomery. Can they find forgiveness with God’s help?
💛Faith
🧡Healing
🤎Loss
🩶Inspiration
🩵Hope
💚Forgiveness
I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
I always enjoy reading uplifting, inspirational, family inspired stories as they keep me grounded.
Profile Image for Susan Simpson.
Author 24 books97 followers
April 28, 2026
This is a wonderful story of faith forgiveness, and starting over. The characters are well-developed and relatable. The author has a knack for making the reader feel a part of the action. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys sweet romances and happy endings.
16 reviews3 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 6, 2026
This was a beautiful story!
Profile Image for Linda.
471 reviews26 followers
March 23, 2026
Misunderstandings and buried feelings complicate things when Tumbleweed’s police chief Daniel Montgomery and his former high school sweetheart Emily Kent are thrown back together after a tragedy makes them co-guardians of their siblings’ twins. Will long buried feelings rise to the surface and complicate an already stressful situation? Author Mindy Obenhaus’ stories are always uplifting and inspirational.
I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews