Where Stillness Speaks: A Historical Christian Romance of Courage and Unexpected Love

by Chelsey Welwood

***NEW RELEASE***

An unwanted engagement. A new life where she struggles to belong. One lie that might save her–but binds her with the very man who wants her gone.

The last place Audra Bancroft wants to be is trapped in the glittering world of the elite—paraded as little more than a decoration on some gentleman’s arm. She longs to be truly known and understood, but as the niece of a wealthy businessman, she is anything but. When her uncle announces her betrothal to a man she despises—a man whose power could ensure she never escapes the gilded cage—she makes the only choice her heart can to disappear.

Hiding her true identity, Audra takes a position on a family-run farm in another state, where faith runs deeper than blood and work is done with calloused hands. Though unaccustomed to the honest toil of the laboring class, she is determined to prove herself. Winning over the sharp-eyed eldest son, Tobias Haystead, is another matter entirely. He finds her suspicious, far too outspoken—and a threat to his family’s carefully guarded secret.

When Audra’s past catches up to her, she tells a desperate lie to save herself—one that binds her fate to Tobias in a way neither of them saw coming.

A tale of courage, faith, found family, and unexpected love. WHERE STILLNESS SPEAKS is perfect for fans of wholesome clean historical Christian romance with depth and a slow-burn enemies-to-lovers journey.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian

351 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 29, 2025

About the author

Chelsey Welwood writes historical fiction from her country home in southern Alberta, where she lives with her husband and their four children. She treasures the simple joys of life—quiet mornings with a cup of tea, long walks beneath prairie skies, and time spent with those she loves most. When she's not writing, Chelsey enjoys painting or curling up with one of her cats and a good book. Her hope is that every story she writes will move hearts, breathe hope, and reflect the faithfulness of God.

Reviews

[DevotedToHope · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’d love to give more than five stars!

Full review will be posted soon, God willing. :)

[Jeanine Reed · Rating 5 out of 5]

One the best parts of this little corner of the internet is finding authors, especially new and/or independent, that I would never have discovered on my own. I saw this gorgeous cover and decided to give it a read.

Where Stillness Speaks is the debut novel from Chelsey Welwood. I love when a book is marketed as Christian fiction and we truly get good biblically sound Christian content. Stories that boldly speak Jesus’s name, His saving grace, and His blood that was shed on the cross for you and me. This book, my friends, does all of these things beautifully.

Audra was orphaned at a young age and sent to live with her uncle and his wife. A privileged life wasn’t one she was familiar with, as her family wanted more from life than just status and wealth. When she comes of age, an advantageous marriage is arranged to a man—whose reputation proceeds him—she deems is unworthy. So with a hope and a prayer, she steals away in the night for a better tomorrow.

Providence leads her to the Haystead family. With her true identity hidden, Audra begins to learn of life on the farm, while turning the heads of the two brothers. But soon she is discovered and when threats are made to the family she has grown to love she must choose between her happiness and the Haysteads’ livelihood.

I loved this story and the characters. The romance was a sweet slow burn. Our heroes were honorable and protective. Our heroines, strong and determined. The unexpected twist left me anxious for the next installment. Highly recommend this one!

I received a complimentary copy from Book Sirens. All opinions are my own.

#christianfiction #histroricalfiction

[T M. Robertson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where Stillness Speaks, Chelsey Welwood’s spellbinding debut, is a rare gem, 


Jumping straight into the thick of things, Welwood wastes no time drawing the reader into an unusual yet brilliantly crafted plot that blends the tension of an enemies-to-lovers arc with the intrigue of a fake marriage setup. And yet, it is so much more than that. While the romance is both tenderly written and emotionally satisfying, what elevates this story to greatness is the profound spiritual journey of its characters. Welwood masterfully weaves in moments of faith, reflection, and personal growth that linger long after the book is closed. 


The novel reminded me, in the most heartfelt way, that sometimes the most powerful action is to simply wait for God—and trust Him in all things. Watching the characters navigate hardship and uncertainty underscored just how difficult, yet how transformative, that kind of waiting can be. 


Welwood’s prose is evocative, her pacing impeccable, and her ability to marry romance with deeper spiritual truths nothing short of remarkable. 


Where Stillness Speaks is a beautiful, faith-centered love story that also invites the reader into a quiet, powerful contemplation of trust, surrender, and grace. 


This is a debut brimming with talent and heart, and I have no doubt Chelsey Welwood will quickly become a beloved voice in both romance and inspirational fiction. I eagerly anticipate her future books. 


I received a free copy of this book for review purposes; all opinions are entirely my own.

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can hardly believe this is a debut novel! Chelsey Welwood writes with such confidence and eloquence. Her protagonist, Audra, leaps off the page in even her quietest thoughts: “There was nothing left to say, and no one left to hear it.” How could this book possibly have a happy ending for a girl with no voice or freedom in her own family? Well, hang on tight, because there’s an inspirational story here that WILL be told in its own sweet time! I like the twists and hurdles in this gentle romance, and can’t wait for the sequel. I’m sure Evangeline’s story will keep me on the edge of my chair like this one did. I received an early copy from BookSirens and was not required to post a review.

[Amanda Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

I haven't read a historical fiction book that I have enjoyed lately, but this book was amazing. The emotions that each character experiences are so real. Audra runs away and is lead to the Haystead family. I loved the story about Audra and Tobias and Evangeline. Having a relationship with God and being lead by His hand are big points in this book, and I really enjoyed that.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I found this to be a great uplifting book, and I can't wait to read the next book in the series!! Great book and great author!

[Tracy · Rating 5 out of 5]

If there was 10 stars I would give it! Left wanting more! Very well written, a great story. When an author can bring you into a book where you feel transported into an era of a different time and can envision the scenes written; that is a great read! I found this book to be just that and more, I was drawn to read it nightly or as time allowed and get lost- that is what a great books does! Going to search out information for book 2 now!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.

[Sarah Willis · Rating 5 out of 5]

An incredibly well-written, wholesome, and inspiring read. I was hooked from the very first page and completely absorbed as the story unfolded beautifully. I absolutely loved every moment of it and can't wait for the second book!

[Becky Durstenfeld · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It is well written. I really liked the main characters. The plot had just the right amount of drama. I would love to read the next book.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jacob · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was so much more than a simple love story. This was a story of a woman fighting for what she wanted and believed in no matter what it took. There was mystery, wonder, hatred and if course love all interwoven perfectly throughout. I read this book fairly fast because I quickly got so absorbed in it i couldn't put it down.

[MICHAEL DOANE · Rating 5 out of 5]

“A tender, faith-filled romance that whispers of grace and courage amid the storms of the heart.”

Chelsey Welwood’s Where Stillness Speaks is an inspiring and emotionally resonant tale that captures the essence of redemption, found family, and the quiet power of faith. From the first page, readers are drawn into Audra Bancroft’s struggle between duty and desire, privilege and authenticity, a conflict rendered with sensitivity and depth.

Audra’s journey from the confines of high society to the humble fields of the Haystead farm is both humbling and empowering. Her evolving relationship with Tobias built on mistrust, honesty, and the slow awakening of affection unfolds with touching realism. Welwood’s prose carries a lyrical stillness, inviting reflection while maintaining the emotional pull of a romance rooted in truth and grace.

What makes Where Stillness Speaks unforgettable is its perfect balance of spiritual insight and human emotion. Every scene feels purposeful, every character crafted with empathy, and every challenge steeped in meaning.

A beautifully rendered historical romance that celebrates faith, redemption, and the quiet strength found in love and honesty.

[Patti Whitaker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such an awesome story! It is the first book in the series and I can't wait to read the next book. Audra's Uncle has arranged a marriage for her and she does not want to marry the man he has picked. She decides to run away and make a life for herself. She runs away and lands on a farm helping out a family that needs an extra hand. The family shows her what family and a life built on a foundation of faith should be. They are all accepting of her except for the oldest son, Tobias. He doesn't trust her and feels that she is running from something. Her past eventually catches up with her and she lies about being married and picks Tobias as her fake groom. This is only the beginning of an unexpected outcome that a fake marriage can lead too. I love the way this family supports one another and lends help to all in need and share their faith with all that will listen. It is a great story with exceptional characters that do not disappoint.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Lindsay · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not put it down. I was given an ARC of this wonderful book an am voluntarily leaving this review. It has been a while since I've rated a book 5 stars. This one definitely deserves each and every star. The flow of the writing smooth, the pace of the storyline was just right, the Christian messaging was beautiful, the development of the characters made me think that I personally had stepped into this story and they were my family. I got hooked right from the beginning. And I mean hooked. I felt almost personally invested in the story with characters and the emotions and had to force myself to take a break and get some sleep (2 am on a weeknight.. whoops). I kept thinking of the story all day at work the next day in excitement for getting home to finish it. I am very much looking forward to more by this author and am blown away that this is a debut novel. Read it. You wont regret it.

[Lia Lorimer · Rating 5 out of 5]

A highly recommended debut novel
Audra, raised in a wealthy and privileged home in Kentucky, is no meek heiress and will do anything to escape marriage to the notorious Damian Crockford…even to the extent of running away and assuming a fake identity to hide on a farm in Indiana, where she is accepted into a close-knit family without question: a family that depends on their Christian faith for every decision and every action they take.
Chelsey Welwood has created an easy to read, profoundly evocative novel, keeping readers fully engrossed in Audra’s story, and sharing the emotions and doubts of the characters. Evangeline, despite being cast in a secondary role, nevertheless has a pivotal influence on Audra.
This is an authentic account of the historical time period where slavery had become offensive to many Americans demanding action yet was still freely practised by entitled ‘owners’.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

'Where Stillness Speaks' is a fantastic debut! I’m amazed this is Chelsey Welwood’s first novel. Audra and Tobias are instantly compelling leads, and their slow-burn romance, filled with sincere and completely clean pining, is so easy to root for. I also loved how the story weaves faith in God throughout multiple character's journeys in a natural, meaningful way.

The plot has just the right touch of suspense, and the pacing and scope work beautifully for this first installment. I was enthralled with how Welwood chose to end this book. I’m already eager to see future books explore the other siblings’ love stories.

Special thanks to BookSirens for providing an advance review copy. I received this book for free and am leaving this review voluntarily. All opinions expressed are completely my own.

[Kathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this heart-felt Christian story. Audra was a girl who lost her loving parents when she was ten. She was sent to live with her wealthy uncle and aunt but she had a hard time fitting in with their values. This story takes places before the civil war but many see the evil in slavery.

When it got too much for her, she decided to leave and make her own way. Fortunately she found a new place with the Haystead family. Their strong values and rich faith filled a huge need in her but the path to full faith was not a smooth one for her.

Many decisions she made affected multiple people in the story as well as Audra herself. How her faith is strengthen and made personal is a very significant part of the tale.

I am looking forward to reading book 2.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[HAL · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a powerful story of loving someone for who they are. Audra knew all about control but love in a stranger’s family and an introduction to God’s love for her was a different experience. I cried reading about the care and generosity a woman and later her family could so easily extend to someone even after learning her dangerous secret - it really moved me to tears. The story doesn’t leave you sad but is rather inspiring and makes you want to be like the characters that reach out to help others. The ending is so satisfying.

I received this as an advance review copy for free, but I’m so glad I had the privilege to so and be introduced to a talented storyteller. This book is suitable for mid teens and adults. It is a clean read but contains a little mild violence.

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

While reading this book I was unaware it was this author's debut book. I had also not read the whereabouts all the upheaval would take place or the year. So, this was not my typical book I pick up to spend and an afternoon feeling like I watched a tennis match with all the to and fro. The more I read, the more I wanted to know how Audra and Tobias as well as his family would tackle each burr that clung and needed to be removed.
The writing flowed from page to page carrying me along as well as giving me plenty of opportunities to write down what God needed me to hear.
Chelsey Welwood is definitely an author to follow and I look forward to a lot more of her writing.
I received a copy from BookSirens and this is my honest and voluntary review.

[Steinbeck · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is set in a time when marriages were arranged and women were expected to do as they were told. Audra, a ward of her aunt and uncle, had a desire to speak her mind and make her own choices. When being forced into an unwanted marriage, she makes a bold move- and runs away.

She us befriended and nurtured by the Haystead family. Here, she forms friendships, strong bonds, and love, but most importantly, she develops a faith and a desire to know Jesus as her Savior. This new faith strengthens her through her struggles and trials.

I enjoyed this story. It was easy to follow and chronicles the growth of Audra's belief, faith, and acceptance of Christ in her life.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Gina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was drawn to this book by it's cover, but the story is just as good. Audra feels like she can never be good enough for her uncle. He forces her into an engagement with a man she doesn't like, which leads to her running away and meeting a new family and learning all kinds of new things. The characters grow in their faith and in family relationships. There are twists and turns and the past comes back to haunt her. They are required to trust in God and wait for Him to show them the way out of the predicament. The ending has me wanting to read the next book. I received a copy of this book from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Carolyn Jacobs · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm a sucker for romance, but I want my story to have substance, too, and this story didn't disappoint. Audra's struggle to end an unwanted engagement rang true, and her attempts to set her own course were admirable.
She finds refuge with the Haysteads - a family of integrity and a dangerous secret. That subplot and Audra's fear of discovery drew me in.
"Sometimes fear didn't scream; it just settled in deep and quiet."

Both main characters had a lovely faith arc, and I'm looking forward to Evangeline's book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Debra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent read that keeps the reader guessing as to what is going to happen next. The ending was not what I expected and wasn't really what I wanted to happen. I will be anxiously waiting for the next novel to find out what happens next for some of the characters and if certain relationships work out in the end or fall apart.

There were no dull moments in the novel and things happened that were very unexpected in the end.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Chelsea · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited to read this book, and it didn’t disappoint! I was thoroughly hooked from the beginning, and I couldn’t put it down because I needed to know what would happen next! It’s a clean and wholesome story with love, family, inspiration, twists and turns, and a healthy dose of Jesus! I shed tears as truth and inspiration struck me while reading it. It is a beautiful story, and a book I feel proud to have on my bookshelf that I will recommend to everyone!

[Ami Jacobs · Rating 4 out of 5]

This clean western historical had such a feeling of hope by the end! At first, the emotional conflict and tension in the story carried me along, but there were glimpses of light as the story progressed, and it ended with hope and peace. I Loved how the Christian elements were presented, and I also loved that it didn’t get too preachy! Even though this author is new to me, I would definitely read more books by her.

[Susan J · Rating 5 out of 5]

great new author for me

What a delightful story. I loved the spiritual side very much always in the appropriate places. I loved the honesty and especially the characters and the morals that define a family. Great, believable plot, wonderful twists and turns and happy resolution…going for book 2 now!!!

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a touching and wonderful Christian historical romance. It put my mind in a peaceful world. I loved it and highly recommend it.

[Lacy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book so much! Beautiful story, heart throbbing and spiritual. I’m not crying, you are!