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A Chance for Kallie Mae
Kallie Mae Bertram has harbored two dreams since childhood: to learn to read and to one day marry Quinn Spencer. But her first dream slipped away when her little sister died of a fever and her mother passed in childbirth. Kallie promised to care for the baby and her younger brother, which meant putting aside her own desires in order to keep her family together. But then a moonlight school for adults offers Kallie hope of finally fulfilling that dream.
After Kallie's father forbids her from seeing Quinn, her second dream seems impossible until her frantic search through the woods for her missing sister leads to an unexpected encounter with Quinn--their first meeting in six years. The love they shared as children burns stronger than ever, awakening hopes Kallie thought were forever buried. But with their families locked in a bitter feud, following her heart could cost Kallie everything she's worked to protect.
Bestselling author Ann H. Gabhart brings history and romance from the Appalachian Mountains to life in her newest Southern fiction novel.
After Kallie's father forbids her from seeing Quinn, her second dream seems impossible until her frantic search through the woods for her missing sister leads to an unexpected encounter with Quinn--their first meeting in six years. The love they shared as children burns stronger than ever, awakening hopes Kallie thought were forever buried. But with their families locked in a bitter feud, following her heart could cost Kallie everything she's worked to protect.
Bestselling author Ann H. Gabhart brings history and romance from the Appalachian Mountains to life in her newest Southern fiction novel.
352 pages, Paperback
Published May 19, 2026
About the author
Ann H. Gabhart
49 books1,107 followersAnn H. Gabhart grew up on a farm in Kentucky. At the age of ten, she started dreaming of being a writer. That dream has come true as she's published over forty novels. She and her husband have three children married to three beautiful in-law children who have gifted her nine grandchildren. She still lives on a farm not far from where she grew up. She loves visiting with family, walking her dog, reading, and, of course, writing.
She has a variety of historical fiction from stories about the Shakers that once had villages in Kentucky to stories inspired by her small town and her mother's memories to those set in the Appalachian region of Kentucky. She enjoys sharing the lovely areas and history of her home state of Kentucky. And if you like mysteries, you can try her Hidden Springs Mysteries published under the author name, A.H. Gabhart. Visit Ann's website http://annhgabhart.com to find out more. There you can follow her blog, One Writer's Journal and/or sign up for her newsletter where she often does giveaways.
She has a variety of historical fiction from stories about the Shakers that once had villages in Kentucky to stories inspired by her small town and her mother's memories to those set in the Appalachian region of Kentucky. She enjoys sharing the lovely areas and history of her home state of Kentucky. And if you like mysteries, you can try her Hidden Springs Mysteries published under the author name, A.H. Gabhart. Visit Ann's website http://annhgabhart.com to find out more. There you can follow her blog, One Writer's Journal and/or sign up for her newsletter where she often does giveaways.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
April 15, 2026
An absolutely heart-tugging story set in the hills of Kentucky in 1911. A longtime feud between neighbors complicates a renewed friendship between two young adults with family obligations.
In the vein of Romeo and Juliet, the author sets the stage for a budding romance that seems to be doomed but adds a perspective of faith and moments of prayer to bring hope. Loved how the author showed the different viewpoints of characters and their dilemmas, especially sweet little Emmie Lou. The history of the Moonlight Schools was interesting, reaching out to so many adults who'd missed out on a chance to learn to read. Adding in a cameo of their founder, Cora Wilson Stewart, was a nice touch.
The descriptive writing using the local vernacular brought the mountain setting and its people to life. I loved Aunt Sudie and her wisdom, and the way she encouraged Emmie, Kallie and Quinn without being too interfering. She reminded me of my own Southern born grandma.
"Aunt Sudie believed the Lord would always give a person direction if only they would ask."
A remarkable tale that had me on the edge of my seat towards the end. Highly recommend for readers who like a well-told story with faith, tender romance and some real history. 5 stars!
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
In the vein of Romeo and Juliet, the author sets the stage for a budding romance that seems to be doomed but adds a perspective of faith and moments of prayer to bring hope. Loved how the author showed the different viewpoints of characters and their dilemmas, especially sweet little Emmie Lou. The history of the Moonlight Schools was interesting, reaching out to so many adults who'd missed out on a chance to learn to read. Adding in a cameo of their founder, Cora Wilson Stewart, was a nice touch.
The descriptive writing using the local vernacular brought the mountain setting and its people to life. I loved Aunt Sudie and her wisdom, and the way she encouraged Emmie, Kallie and Quinn without being too interfering. She reminded me of my own Southern born grandma.
"Aunt Sudie believed the Lord would always give a person direction if only they would ask."
A remarkable tale that had me on the edge of my seat towards the end. Highly recommend for readers who like a well-told story with faith, tender romance and some real history. 5 stars!
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
May 23, 2026
In the Appalachian hill country there are bound to be feuding families with long-held grudges. But that makes no sense to Kallie Bertram and Quinn Spencer. But their budding romance brings hostility to their clans. In spite of the animosity, this is a heartwarming, touching story. The author uses the Appalachian dialogue to give a cozy, down-home feel to the characters. She showed that even though some folks were unschooled, they had the desire to be more educated. The history of the Moonlight Schools was fascinating.
Ms. Gabhart made me care about Kallie Mae with her strength and resilience since she took on the role of mother to her baby sister after their mother died. She and Quinn looked to God and Aunt Sudie for guidance and did want to respect thir parents. But they were growing up and knew they needed to strike out on their own.
This story hit all the feels for me. I love the faith that the author infuses into her stories, which touched on forgiveness and reconciliation. And the setting is magical.
*A complimentary copy of the book was provided by Revell on behalf of the author and via NetGalley I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
Ms. Gabhart made me care about Kallie Mae with her strength and resilience since she took on the role of mother to her baby sister after their mother died. She and Quinn looked to God and Aunt Sudie for guidance and did want to respect thir parents. But they were growing up and knew they needed to strike out on their own.
This story hit all the feels for me. I love the faith that the author infuses into her stories, which touched on forgiveness and reconciliation. And the setting is magical.
*A complimentary copy of the book was provided by Revell on behalf of the author and via NetGalley I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
April 5, 2026
For me, this book was like coming home. I’m a Kentuckian myself and even attended Morehead State University, that began as Morehead Normal School. But, the “home feeling” I’m referring to is more than a location, it’s carried within me.
Ann Gabhart perfected the mountain talk throughout the story and created characters I would love to bring home with me, and some I would love to give a piece of my mind. This book is rich in tradition (some good, some bad), friendship, and love. I will treasure this book. I will bring it out again and again when I need a comfort read, for it will, no doubt, soothe my soul.
#achanceforkalliemae #annhgabhart #christianhistoricalfiction #1911
Ann Gabhart perfected the mountain talk throughout the story and created characters I would love to bring home with me, and some I would love to give a piece of my mind. This book is rich in tradition (some good, some bad), friendship, and love. I will treasure this book. I will bring it out again and again when I need a comfort read, for it will, no doubt, soothe my soul.
#achanceforkalliemae #annhgabhart #christianhistoricalfiction #1911
July 7, 2026
Read to 49%. Perfectly sweet novel. Clean fiction. Setting shows up through characters (internal and external) language/vernacular. Only quitting it because historical romance isn’t my preferred genre. Definitely recommend it if you like clean historical romance from a sweet angle for our young leading lady and man.
July 7, 2026
July 7, 2026
June 15, 2026
I have been really enjoying Ann H. Gabhart's southern stories lately and this book was no exception. I absolutely loved this story of Kallie Mae and her siblings. Getting the perspective of both her and her sister was such a treat and made the story work even more.
I also loved the bringing to light of illiteracy during that time and how others viewed their learning at any age.
*Thank you to the publisher for a complimentary book, all thoughts are always my own.
I also loved the bringing to light of illiteracy during that time and how others viewed their learning at any age.
*Thank you to the publisher for a complimentary book, all thoughts are always my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Kallie Mae Bertram fell in love with neighbouring Quinn Spencer when they were both children who became friends despite their families hostile feud. As youngsters they both had hopes and dreams which for Kallie included learning to read. But then her little sister Laurel died of a fever and her mother dies giving birth to Kallie's youngest sister Emmie. Kallie's father forbids her from seeing Quinn, and she must suddenly step into the role of mother to Emmie, and pretty much to her younger brother Whitt too. Her dreams are shattered.
Six years later, searching for Emmie in the local woods, she meets Quinn again, and all those childhood feelings reawaken and intensify. And then, the new local schoolteacher announces that she is starting a 'moonlight school' for adults, held at night. Kallie can learn to read after all! Perhaps her other dreams can come to fruition too, she hopes, until her father announces he'd rather see her dead than married to a Spencer.
I enjoyed this mountain story from Ann H. Gabhart very much. The setting of the Appalachian Mountains is immersively described, as are the people who live there. Kallie and Quinn's love story is beautifully developed and believably written, and little Emmie is a wonderful character full of energy and joy. Both of which are challenged by the birthmark she carries on her face and the family feud which impacts her friendships. We are reminded to be careful about what we say when Emmie overhears careless comments about her birth causing her mother's death. Comments which she takes to heart, believing it was her fault her mother died.
Of all the characters in the story, I think I love Emmie the most. She deals with her own hopes, fears and disappointments in a way (mostly) mature for her years, and stands up for her sister and brother as well as she is able. She loves simply and transparently. At the other end of the age spectrum is the equally wonderful Aunt Sudie. Single and strongly independent, she yet provides an almost mother-figure to Kallie and her wisdom is respected. The ebbs and flow of this story are engaging, and the resolution(s!) is dramatic and absolutely feels true.
Another excellent, sensitive, and inspiring novel from an author who maintains her place on my 'must-read authors' list.
I read a pre-publication version supplied by the publisher. No review was required. All comments and opinions above are entirely my own.
Six years later, searching for Emmie in the local woods, she meets Quinn again, and all those childhood feelings reawaken and intensify. And then, the new local schoolteacher announces that she is starting a 'moonlight school' for adults, held at night. Kallie can learn to read after all! Perhaps her other dreams can come to fruition too, she hopes, until her father announces he'd rather see her dead than married to a Spencer.
I enjoyed this mountain story from Ann H. Gabhart very much. The setting of the Appalachian Mountains is immersively described, as are the people who live there. Kallie and Quinn's love story is beautifully developed and believably written, and little Emmie is a wonderful character full of energy and joy. Both of which are challenged by the birthmark she carries on her face and the family feud which impacts her friendships. We are reminded to be careful about what we say when Emmie overhears careless comments about her birth causing her mother's death. Comments which she takes to heart, believing it was her fault her mother died.
Of all the characters in the story, I think I love Emmie the most. She deals with her own hopes, fears and disappointments in a way (mostly) mature for her years, and stands up for her sister and brother as well as she is able. She loves simply and transparently. At the other end of the age spectrum is the equally wonderful Aunt Sudie. Single and strongly independent, she yet provides an almost mother-figure to Kallie and her wisdom is respected. The ebbs and flow of this story are engaging, and the resolution(s!) is dramatic and absolutely feels true.
Another excellent, sensitive, and inspiring novel from an author who maintains her place on my 'must-read authors' list.
I read a pre-publication version supplied by the publisher. No review was required. All comments and opinions above are entirely my own.
May 12, 2026
“I’ll take your silence as yes and see you on Sunday.” “I can’t,” she started. “Shh.” He put his fingers over her lips. “The girl I used to know never said ‘can’t.’ “ “That girl is gone.” “I will never believe that. Don’t make me wrong.”
This is a fantastic second chance at love story with wonderful characters and an absolutely fantastic setting. There is faith, family, friendship, heartache, and romance. When I read a book by Ms. Gabhart I always feel like I have actually been dropped down in the Appalachian Mountains, the sights, the smells, the sounds; it all comes alive.
Kallie is caring, hard-working, and devoted to her siblings. I loved her friendship with Aunt Sudie and the deep connections she shared with Emmie and Whitt. I loved her strength and determination. Seeing her desire to learn to read and write realized was the icing on the cake. Quinn is sunny, caring, and completely in love with Kallie. His yearning for her and devotion to finding a way for them to be together was incredible. I loved how hard he worked to help his mother and the care and direction he gave Orly, Dora and Dicey. I loved his excitement to attend the Moonlight school. I loved the sweet moments and honest conversations Kallie and Quinn shared. I loved that even though they could see no possible way for them to have a life together they were still willing to dream. I loved that they committed to praying for God to provide them with a miracle. Their happily ever after didn’t come easily but God was faithful and gave them the miracle they prayed for.
A few more quotes:
“I couldn’t have done it without Aunt Sudie. She always brought light when things were the darkest. She would know what I needed even when I didn’t know. Sometimes she talked about you. What you were doing. I needed that too. To know you were all right.”
“Go find her.” “When I do, I’m never giving her up again.” “I don’t reckon I’m gonna like it, but if’n that’s what she wants, I won’t stand in the way.” “And you will be happy for her?” “Can’t promise that, but she’ll still be welcome at my table.” “Thank you.”
✍🏽 Time. I thank the Lord for the time he’s given me. Time with Emmie and Whitt. Time with Quinn. The Lord has done good for me.
This book was provided by the author, @greatreadsbookpromo and the publisher @revellfiction. I was not required to give a positive review, rating and opinions are my own.
This is a fantastic second chance at love story with wonderful characters and an absolutely fantastic setting. There is faith, family, friendship, heartache, and romance. When I read a book by Ms. Gabhart I always feel like I have actually been dropped down in the Appalachian Mountains, the sights, the smells, the sounds; it all comes alive.
Kallie is caring, hard-working, and devoted to her siblings. I loved her friendship with Aunt Sudie and the deep connections she shared with Emmie and Whitt. I loved her strength and determination. Seeing her desire to learn to read and write realized was the icing on the cake. Quinn is sunny, caring, and completely in love with Kallie. His yearning for her and devotion to finding a way for them to be together was incredible. I loved how hard he worked to help his mother and the care and direction he gave Orly, Dora and Dicey. I loved his excitement to attend the Moonlight school. I loved the sweet moments and honest conversations Kallie and Quinn shared. I loved that even though they could see no possible way for them to have a life together they were still willing to dream. I loved that they committed to praying for God to provide them with a miracle. Their happily ever after didn’t come easily but God was faithful and gave them the miracle they prayed for.
A few more quotes:
“I couldn’t have done it without Aunt Sudie. She always brought light when things were the darkest. She would know what I needed even when I didn’t know. Sometimes she talked about you. What you were doing. I needed that too. To know you were all right.”
“Go find her.” “When I do, I’m never giving her up again.” “I don’t reckon I’m gonna like it, but if’n that’s what she wants, I won’t stand in the way.” “And you will be happy for her?” “Can’t promise that, but she’ll still be welcome at my table.” “Thank you.”
✍🏽 Time. I thank the Lord for the time he’s given me. Time with Emmie and Whitt. Time with Quinn. The Lord has done good for me.
This book was provided by the author, @greatreadsbookpromo and the publisher @revellfiction. I was not required to give a positive review, rating and opinions are my own.
May 13, 2026
Ann has given us another heartwarming & heart wrenching historical saga. This inspiring novel is set in 1911-12 in the Appalachian Mountains of Kentucky. Starting as childhood friends & blossoming into young love, Kallie's and Quinn's reunion is thwarted by a vicious family feud of a previous generation that still burns with hatred between their families. Adding to the challenge is that Kallie promised her mom, who died at the childbirth of her sister, to care for her sister as her mom & also raise her younger brother. Kallie's mentor & friend Aunt Sudie is unflappable with her prayers and wisdom, holding the whole community together. Growing up without school has always been a great disappointment for Kallie and Quinn. An answered prayer is the Moonlight School that is started for illiterate adults. Intrigue, inspiration, friendship & love are interlaced throughout the book with a riveting and gripping conclusion. I received an advance copy of this book from the author. The review is my honest opinion and I was under no obligation to give a positive review.
May 23, 2026
4 stars
Completed: May 22/26
Format: audiobook
Narrator: Susan Bennett — one of the best!
Challenge Prompt: EOW’s ANYTIME option for “a book with farming, gardening, or the setting involves a farm” — has all of these components
Book #49 of 2026: It was easy to choose what format I wanted as soon as I saw Susan Bennett’s name as narrator. She’s excellent every single time. She does a stellar job with this novel and the Appalachian way of speaking.
This is a sweet story of a young woman in the Appalachians who is raising her sister after their mom died in childbirth. Kallie Mae’s dream of going to school died with that responsibility but she deeply cares for her little sister first and foremost. Her dream of building a life with her childhood friend and love, Quinn, also went by the wayside for a couple of reasons: her mom’s death and her new role and the feud between their fathers.
When Kallie and Quinn meet by chance with their respective sisters, the connection and feelings are still there. The family feud remains along with Kallie’s responsibilities.
My favourite characters are Kallie Mae, little Emmy, and Aunt Sudie (wise, wonderful woman). I do feel like some of Emmy’s thoughts and actions are beyond her years and were a bit of a stretch.
As another reviewer said, this book is highly character-driven. That is great as far as character development but I would have preferred a stronger plot. I found my thoughts wandering in the middle and I felt that it could have wrapped up sooner.
It’s an enjoyable novel that would appeal to many people. It has a great ending and speaks to hope when things look bleak. There is a growth arc in the faith area which I appreciated.
Completed: May 22/26
Format: audiobook
Narrator: Susan Bennett — one of the best!
Challenge Prompt: EOW’s ANYTIME option for “a book with farming, gardening, or the setting involves a farm” — has all of these components
Book #49 of 2026: It was easy to choose what format I wanted as soon as I saw Susan Bennett’s name as narrator. She’s excellent every single time. She does a stellar job with this novel and the Appalachian way of speaking.
This is a sweet story of a young woman in the Appalachians who is raising her sister after their mom died in childbirth. Kallie Mae’s dream of going to school died with that responsibility but she deeply cares for her little sister first and foremost. Her dream of building a life with her childhood friend and love, Quinn, also went by the wayside for a couple of reasons: her mom’s death and her new role and the feud between their fathers.
When Kallie and Quinn meet by chance with their respective sisters, the connection and feelings are still there. The family feud remains along with Kallie’s responsibilities.
My favourite characters are Kallie Mae, little Emmy, and Aunt Sudie (wise, wonderful woman). I do feel like some of Emmy’s thoughts and actions are beyond her years and were a bit of a stretch.
As another reviewer said, this book is highly character-driven. That is great as far as character development but I would have preferred a stronger plot. I found my thoughts wandering in the middle and I felt that it could have wrapped up sooner.
It’s an enjoyable novel that would appeal to many people. It has a great ending and speaks to hope when things look bleak. There is a growth arc in the faith area which I appreciated.
May 27, 2026
A heartfelt thank you to @annhgabhart, @revellfiction, and @greatreadsbookpromo for this wonderful #gifted book!
Set in the picturesque Appalachian Mountains in 1911, this novel is another gem by Ann.
Kallie has loved Quinn since childhood, but a family feud kept them apart. After her mother's death, Kallie took on the responsibilities of caring for her father, brothers, and baby sister, sacrificing her education and her love for Quinn. Years later, their paths cross again, and they discover that their love has endured.
Kallie is a resilient and strong character. Her bond with her sister, Emmie, is touching. She becomes both mother and sister, and their mutual protection is beautifully portrayed. Her relationship with Quinn is filled with tender, sweet moments.
The writing is masterfully descriptive, vividly capturing the era and the local dialect that brings the mountain setting and its people to life.
I was especially fascinated by the story of the Moonlight Schools in Kentucky, founded by Cora Wilson Stewart to provide adult education. Her determination opened night schools, fulfilling Kallie’s dream to learn to read and write.
If you love romance, history, and heartfelt endings, this book is a perfect pick. It’s available now and sure to warm your heart!
Set in the picturesque Appalachian Mountains in 1911, this novel is another gem by Ann.
Kallie has loved Quinn since childhood, but a family feud kept them apart. After her mother's death, Kallie took on the responsibilities of caring for her father, brothers, and baby sister, sacrificing her education and her love for Quinn. Years later, their paths cross again, and they discover that their love has endured.
Kallie is a resilient and strong character. Her bond with her sister, Emmie, is touching. She becomes both mother and sister, and their mutual protection is beautifully portrayed. Her relationship with Quinn is filled with tender, sweet moments.
The writing is masterfully descriptive, vividly capturing the era and the local dialect that brings the mountain setting and its people to life.
I was especially fascinated by the story of the Moonlight Schools in Kentucky, founded by Cora Wilson Stewart to provide adult education. Her determination opened night schools, fulfilling Kallie’s dream to learn to read and write.
If you love romance, history, and heartfelt endings, this book is a perfect pick. It’s available now and sure to warm your heart!
May 19, 2026
Set in the early 1900’s in the hills of Kentucky, Author Ann Gabhart has once again captured the authentic personalities of the mountain people. The characters were wonderful except a couple of them really ruffled my feathers. I could not imagine how Kallie Mae Bertram and Quinn Spencer would ever be able to move past their family feud. My favorite characters were dear old Aunt Sudie and sweet, courageous Emmie Lou. I was also introduced to the Moonlight School for Adults. To say I was mesmerized by this book is spot on. Needs to be added to your TBR pile for sure.
June 9, 2026
More than 5 stars for this book! The story not only touched my heart, but my soul. This is a book that I will read again and again.
The characters are written brilliantly! Each one touched my heart in some way. Kallie Mae is extraordinary! She has experienced many losses throughout her young life; family members and a chance for love. Her loyalty to her family is admirable because it comes with a cost. Quinn is 😍! He's an all around decent guy. He's a good son, a good brother and a good friend. His loyalty to his family comes at a great cost too. Emmie is the one who touched my heart the most. She's overheard people saying that she's got the devil's mark and that her birthing killed her mother. A huge blessing in her life is having Kallie Mae as a sister/mother. Aunt Sudie is a favorite! She always shows up at just the right time, she's always willing to lend a hand and she always talks about God and faith. "Aunt Sudie always said the best prayers. Prayers a person knew the Lord would pay mind to."
I rejoiced when Emmie was able to go to school! She was able to learn her letters and even memorize Scripture. Even better was when the school teacher Ms Carson shared news that a woman named Cora Wilson Stewart wanted to offer moonlight schools for adults who wanted to learn. Being able to go to school changed Kallie Mae and Quinn's life! Make sure to read the author's note!
I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from Revell Books via NetGalley through Interviews and Reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The characters are written brilliantly! Each one touched my heart in some way. Kallie Mae is extraordinary! She has experienced many losses throughout her young life; family members and a chance for love. Her loyalty to her family is admirable because it comes with a cost. Quinn is 😍! He's an all around decent guy. He's a good son, a good brother and a good friend. His loyalty to his family comes at a great cost too. Emmie is the one who touched my heart the most. She's overheard people saying that she's got the devil's mark and that her birthing killed her mother. A huge blessing in her life is having Kallie Mae as a sister/mother. Aunt Sudie is a favorite! She always shows up at just the right time, she's always willing to lend a hand and she always talks about God and faith. "Aunt Sudie always said the best prayers. Prayers a person knew the Lord would pay mind to."
I rejoiced when Emmie was able to go to school! She was able to learn her letters and even memorize Scripture. Even better was when the school teacher Ms Carson shared news that a woman named Cora Wilson Stewart wanted to offer moonlight schools for adults who wanted to learn. Being able to go to school changed Kallie Mae and Quinn's life! Make sure to read the author's note!
I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from Revell Books via NetGalley through Interviews and Reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 2, 2026
Another well written story by Ann Gabhart and she is such a gifted writer. I always look forward to when she has a new book to be released. Set in the Appalachian mountains of Kentucky, my home state, her book makes you realize how we often take for granted things like being able to read, write and do basic math. Imagine being able to have to take peoples word that what they say is true if you can’t read the Bible or important documents-to be able to know if you are getting the right amount of money back when you make a purchase. Ann does an amazing job with the characters and the hardships they face, while still continuing to have faith. I cannot wait for the next book to come out to see what she has in store for us.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley and the author. All words are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley and the author. All words are my own.
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April 13, 2026Author Ann Gabhart is a talented storyteller. Readers will get wrapped up in her Southern tales and feel like they are living in the story right there with the characters. Her latest A Chance for Kallie Mae is a fabulous Christian historical romance. From the very beginning, I was invested in the story and its unique characters.
This award worthy novel is the story of Kallie Mae Bertram and Quinn Spencer. It is set in the rolling hills of Rowan County, Kentucky in 1910 during a bitter feud between two families. The grievance went back a couple of generations and is still going strong.
Author Gabhart knows the land and language of Kentucky’s hill country. I have family and in-laws from there and the characters sound just like they do. I couldn’t help but to smile as I read things that sounded familiar. All of the characters were meticulously crafted right down to their names. Not everyone was lovable. There were a few bad apples to dislike. I adored the pair of sweethearts. Their chemistry is undeniable. I found so many lessons of faith, love, family, and prayer in this beautiful tale.
I loved it and stayed up all night reading it. It has stuck with me, and I ruminate over so many dilemmas the characters had. The author did a perfect job telling this story. The writing is exceptional. The pace is steady, and there are a few twists and turns for those that enjoy a surprise.
I highly recommend this outstanding book. It receives a glowing 5 star rating from me. A complimentary copy was provided by NetGalley, but these are my honest thoughts.
This award worthy novel is the story of Kallie Mae Bertram and Quinn Spencer. It is set in the rolling hills of Rowan County, Kentucky in 1910 during a bitter feud between two families. The grievance went back a couple of generations and is still going strong.
Author Gabhart knows the land and language of Kentucky’s hill country. I have family and in-laws from there and the characters sound just like they do. I couldn’t help but to smile as I read things that sounded familiar. All of the characters were meticulously crafted right down to their names. Not everyone was lovable. There were a few bad apples to dislike. I adored the pair of sweethearts. Their chemistry is undeniable. I found so many lessons of faith, love, family, and prayer in this beautiful tale.
I loved it and stayed up all night reading it. It has stuck with me, and I ruminate over so many dilemmas the characters had. The author did a perfect job telling this story. The writing is exceptional. The pace is steady, and there are a few twists and turns for those that enjoy a surprise.
I highly recommend this outstanding book. It receives a glowing 5 star rating from me. A complimentary copy was provided by NetGalley, but these are my honest thoughts.
June 28, 2026
Feud and forbidden love in the Appalachian mountains of Kentucky-
Once again, Ann H Gabhart writes a compelling story with historical depth, complex characters, and hope.
I was transported to the mountains as I am-
-introduced to a little fireball named Emmie, who cannot understand why bad things happen because of her. Is she marked by the devil like people say?
-fighting for the love between two who are separated by a passed-down feud that may not have even happened
-rooting for the moonlight school that would give older students a second chance to learn how to read
-seeking the wisdom of Aunt Sudie, a sixty, or maybe even seventy year old woman, who cares for this community with her remedies for the soul, heart and what’s ailin’ you.
I believe that this will remain a favorite Ann H Gabhart story.
Susan Bennett delivers another authentic narration of the Appalachian people in a most engaging audiobook. She remains a favorite narrator of this southern girl.
This book is suitable for teens and older with no inappropriate intimate scenes and no bad language. I received this book from the author/publisher free of charge, with no expectation of a positive review. I also purchased the audiobook.
Once again, Ann H Gabhart writes a compelling story with historical depth, complex characters, and hope.
I was transported to the mountains as I am-
-introduced to a little fireball named Emmie, who cannot understand why bad things happen because of her. Is she marked by the devil like people say?
-fighting for the love between two who are separated by a passed-down feud that may not have even happened
-rooting for the moonlight school that would give older students a second chance to learn how to read
-seeking the wisdom of Aunt Sudie, a sixty, or maybe even seventy year old woman, who cares for this community with her remedies for the soul, heart and what’s ailin’ you.
I believe that this will remain a favorite Ann H Gabhart story.
Susan Bennett delivers another authentic narration of the Appalachian people in a most engaging audiobook. She remains a favorite narrator of this southern girl.
This book is suitable for teens and older with no inappropriate intimate scenes and no bad language. I received this book from the author/publisher free of charge, with no expectation of a positive review. I also purchased the audiobook.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.5 stars
“We don’t have to follow a track neither of us made.”
If you should happen to talk with me at some point over the next few days, don’t be surprised to hear me lapse into sayings like “you’re a mite late” or “if’n you don’t mind” or “I reckon”. That’s because, in A Chance for Kallie Mae, Ann Gabhart so beautifully captured the cadence in which ‘mountain folks’ talk that my own Appalachian roots started converting my thoughts to match. This way of speaking carries on through some of the narrative as well (particularly endearing Emmie’s POV), not just dialogue, and lets readers feel completely immersed in the hills and hollers of eastern Kentucky. The wry, homespun humor that’s such a natural part of Appalachian culture shines in this book as well, and toward the end of the story it comes from such an unexpected source that I was giggling out loud (with Emma’s adorable consternation as a bonus).
The plot of A Chance for Kallie Mae is layered with emotionally-complex situations that kept me invested in these vibrant characters and the outcomes. Kallie Mae Bertram and Quinn Spencer have loved each other since childhood, but the bitter feud between their families makes any future between them seem nigh unto impossible. They’d managed to sneak away to meet each other in the woods between their properties until Kallie’s ma died in childbirth, leaving thirteen-year-old Kallie to care for her newborn sister Emma with no spare time for friends (or more) like Quinn or her other dream of attending school so she could learn to read. And now, seven years later, they’re reunited and those feelings are acting like no time has passed at all. Ohhhhhhhhhhhh y’all, the chemistry between Quinn and Kallie is so swoony, the air charged with sparks and feelings every time they share a scene. And with Cora Wilson Stewart’s new Moonlight School initiative, Kallie may just get that schoolin’ she’s been dreaming about too. Leastwise, so long as it doesn’t get back to Pa that she’s been kissing Quinn…
My heart ached for Kallie and all the sacrifices she made to raise precious Emma and help with her brother Whitt, getting no emotional support from her grieving pa and having to give up Quinn too. Thank goodness she had Aunt Sudie – an absolutely delightful character who made me smile every time she appeared on the page. Part healer, part sage, part ‘everyone’s Granny’, Aunt Sudie has an easy humor, a nurturing heart, and a deep faith. She gives great advice and always seems to show up when she’s needed. And I wanted to hug her the whole time. I also loved the focus on the Moonlight Schools and Cora Wilson Stewart’s groundbreaking work in adult literacy education. So grateful to her – and the teachers who voluntarily taught adults at night after educating children all day – for seeing a need and caring enough to do something about it. Reminds me to be grateful for all the things I take for granted – like being able to read the Bible for myself or write my name.
Bottom Line: A Chance for Kallie Mae by Ann H. Gabhart brims with Appalachian charm, heartfelt emotion, and characters who feel wonderfully alive and easily beloved. I love how she captured the vernacular, the culture, the beauty and the hardships of mountain life with both authenticity and affection, creating a community I wasn’t quite ready to leave behind when I turned the last page (even though the epilogue is exactly what I needed it to be). Getting Kallie Mae, Quinn, and Emma’s points of view made the story deeper and more delightful – just like Aunt Sudie’s character did. I was rooting for Kallie and Quinn’s tender romance from the very beginning, and I found the history of the Moonlight Schools so inspiring. Gabhart weaves several touching lessons into the framework of the story and does so in a natural way that never felt forced. A Chance for Kallie Mae would be a great next read for fans of Christy, Pepper Basham, and Cindy K. Sproles!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at my link text
“We don’t have to follow a track neither of us made.”
If you should happen to talk with me at some point over the next few days, don’t be surprised to hear me lapse into sayings like “you’re a mite late” or “if’n you don’t mind” or “I reckon”. That’s because, in A Chance for Kallie Mae, Ann Gabhart so beautifully captured the cadence in which ‘mountain folks’ talk that my own Appalachian roots started converting my thoughts to match. This way of speaking carries on through some of the narrative as well (particularly endearing Emmie’s POV), not just dialogue, and lets readers feel completely immersed in the hills and hollers of eastern Kentucky. The wry, homespun humor that’s such a natural part of Appalachian culture shines in this book as well, and toward the end of the story it comes from such an unexpected source that I was giggling out loud (with Emma’s adorable consternation as a bonus).
The plot of A Chance for Kallie Mae is layered with emotionally-complex situations that kept me invested in these vibrant characters and the outcomes. Kallie Mae Bertram and Quinn Spencer have loved each other since childhood, but the bitter feud between their families makes any future between them seem nigh unto impossible. They’d managed to sneak away to meet each other in the woods between their properties until Kallie’s ma died in childbirth, leaving thirteen-year-old Kallie to care for her newborn sister Emma with no spare time for friends (or more) like Quinn or her other dream of attending school so she could learn to read. And now, seven years later, they’re reunited and those feelings are acting like no time has passed at all. Ohhhhhhhhhhhh y’all, the chemistry between Quinn and Kallie is so swoony, the air charged with sparks and feelings every time they share a scene. And with Cora Wilson Stewart’s new Moonlight School initiative, Kallie may just get that schoolin’ she’s been dreaming about too. Leastwise, so long as it doesn’t get back to Pa that she’s been kissing Quinn…
My heart ached for Kallie and all the sacrifices she made to raise precious Emma and help with her brother Whitt, getting no emotional support from her grieving pa and having to give up Quinn too. Thank goodness she had Aunt Sudie – an absolutely delightful character who made me smile every time she appeared on the page. Part healer, part sage, part ‘everyone’s Granny’, Aunt Sudie has an easy humor, a nurturing heart, and a deep faith. She gives great advice and always seems to show up when she’s needed. And I wanted to hug her the whole time. I also loved the focus on the Moonlight Schools and Cora Wilson Stewart’s groundbreaking work in adult literacy education. So grateful to her – and the teachers who voluntarily taught adults at night after educating children all day – for seeing a need and caring enough to do something about it. Reminds me to be grateful for all the things I take for granted – like being able to read the Bible for myself or write my name.
Bottom Line: A Chance for Kallie Mae by Ann H. Gabhart brims with Appalachian charm, heartfelt emotion, and characters who feel wonderfully alive and easily beloved. I love how she captured the vernacular, the culture, the beauty and the hardships of mountain life with both authenticity and affection, creating a community I wasn’t quite ready to leave behind when I turned the last page (even though the epilogue is exactly what I needed it to be). Getting Kallie Mae, Quinn, and Emma’s points of view made the story deeper and more delightful – just like Aunt Sudie’s character did. I was rooting for Kallie and Quinn’s tender romance from the very beginning, and I found the history of the Moonlight Schools so inspiring. Gabhart weaves several touching lessons into the framework of the story and does so in a natural way that never felt forced. A Chance for Kallie Mae would be a great next read for fans of Christy, Pepper Basham, and Cindy K. Sproles!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at my link text
June 13, 2026
A Chance for Kallie Mae is a lovely romantic Christian historical fiction novel with a thrilling conclusion. It's the story of Kallie, a young woman who had a lot of responsibility thrust upon her at an early age. Now, she's 19 and has two dreams in life: to marry the boy she loves and to learn to read and write. This is the story of how she tried to make those dreams come true.
It's hard not to love Kallie immediately. She's a selfless young woman, a good "mother" to her two younger siblings, and an obedient daughter, even when her father can be a bit unreasonable. The Romeo and Juliet-style romance (two feuding families, one forbidden love) was well written and believable. Kallie and Quinn were (secret) childhood friends. A chance encounter years later leads to an instant reconnection. I thought I'd have trouble buying into this true love story in which the romantic leads hadn't seen each other in years. I was SO wrong. The author writes the couple's interactions in such a realistic way that I was 100% onboard with the relationship. She shores this up with the private thoughts of each about the relationship. I was impressed with how quickly I stated to root for the couple and how invested I was in what happened to them.
Family relationships also play a big part in the story. At 19, Kallie has a parent/child relationship with her siblings (Wyatt, 11 and Emmie, 6). She's raised both of them since Emmie's birth. (Yes...that made her only 13 when she took on this responsibility.) She is particularly close to Emmie, and their relationship is beautiful to witness.
Her relationship with her father is also interesting. He's so invested in the long-time feud with Quinn's family that he won't listen to Kallie on the subject and bans her from seeing him (much less marrying him). I truly felt Kallie's frustration and sorrow as she tries to reconcile being an obedient daughter with finding adult happiness of her own.
The role of prayer plays a dominant part in the story. Even without access to a regular church to learn about God Kallie (and others) are devoted Christians. Multiple characters pray often for help and guidance. It was nice to see faith and a desire to be close to God play such a big role, especially given the characters' lack of access to religious teaching.
As for the historical context, the author gives plenty of details about everyday life in rural Kentucky in 1911. Kallie's life was HARD. Her ability to maintain a positive outlook and keep moving forward was inspirational and reminded me to stop and be thankful for how much easier my own life is.
The story ends with an exciting, potentially dangerous series of events. I suspected what the catalyst would be based on hints dropped earlier in the book but was surprised by the way everything drew together in the end. Thrills, happy tears, and a sense of resolution were all part of my experience.
Definitely 5 stars!
Read this for:
1. Learning about 1911 Kentucky mountain life and the Moonlight Schools.
2. Inspiration for finding the sunny side of life during the hardest times.
3. A beautiful romance.
4. An exciting ending.
5. A reminder that God DOES have a plan, and it's better than anything you could come up with on your own.
There are hints near the end about what Emmie's future may hold. I don't get the sense that the author planned for this to be a series, but I'd love to see a holiday story about Emmie set a few years in the future.
Thank you to the author and Revell for providing a free copy of the book in the hope that I would review it. All thoughts contained in this review are my own honest opinion.
#RevellFiction
It's hard not to love Kallie immediately. She's a selfless young woman, a good "mother" to her two younger siblings, and an obedient daughter, even when her father can be a bit unreasonable. The Romeo and Juliet-style romance (two feuding families, one forbidden love) was well written and believable. Kallie and Quinn were (secret) childhood friends. A chance encounter years later leads to an instant reconnection. I thought I'd have trouble buying into this true love story in which the romantic leads hadn't seen each other in years. I was SO wrong. The author writes the couple's interactions in such a realistic way that I was 100% onboard with the relationship. She shores this up with the private thoughts of each about the relationship. I was impressed with how quickly I stated to root for the couple and how invested I was in what happened to them.
Family relationships also play a big part in the story. At 19, Kallie has a parent/child relationship with her siblings (Wyatt, 11 and Emmie, 6). She's raised both of them since Emmie's birth. (Yes...that made her only 13 when she took on this responsibility.) She is particularly close to Emmie, and their relationship is beautiful to witness.
Her relationship with her father is also interesting. He's so invested in the long-time feud with Quinn's family that he won't listen to Kallie on the subject and bans her from seeing him (much less marrying him). I truly felt Kallie's frustration and sorrow as she tries to reconcile being an obedient daughter with finding adult happiness of her own.
The role of prayer plays a dominant part in the story. Even without access to a regular church to learn about God Kallie (and others) are devoted Christians. Multiple characters pray often for help and guidance. It was nice to see faith and a desire to be close to God play such a big role, especially given the characters' lack of access to religious teaching.
As for the historical context, the author gives plenty of details about everyday life in rural Kentucky in 1911. Kallie's life was HARD. Her ability to maintain a positive outlook and keep moving forward was inspirational and reminded me to stop and be thankful for how much easier my own life is.
The story ends with an exciting, potentially dangerous series of events. I suspected what the catalyst would be based on hints dropped earlier in the book but was surprised by the way everything drew together in the end. Thrills, happy tears, and a sense of resolution were all part of my experience.
Definitely 5 stars!
Read this for:
1. Learning about 1911 Kentucky mountain life and the Moonlight Schools.
2. Inspiration for finding the sunny side of life during the hardest times.
3. A beautiful romance.
4. An exciting ending.
5. A reminder that God DOES have a plan, and it's better than anything you could come up with on your own.
There are hints near the end about what Emmie's future may hold. I don't get the sense that the author planned for this to be a series, but I'd love to see a holiday story about Emmie set a few years in the future.
Thank you to the author and Revell for providing a free copy of the book in the hope that I would review it. All thoughts contained in this review are my own honest opinion.
#RevellFiction
May 20, 2026
It's been a little while since I've read a story based in an Appalachian setting, but every time I read one I remember how much I love them. A Chance for Kallie Mae is no exception and the way Gabhart takes your hand and slowly walks you through the house, the sass patch out back filled with goodies, and into the lingering woods behind the house, will have you settling into the same feeling. A book where the setting is as much the story as the characters are, transported me into my very own holler and set the stage for what I knew would be a beautiful story about perseverance.
Kallie Mae has had a difficult hand dealt her in life, but she's weathered the storms proudly and boldly. Her mother passed away giving birth to Emmie who is now around seven and asked Kallie to take care of her. Her father, distraught in his own loss, essentially left Kallie to be the mother of the house and care for this new baby and raise her younger brother as well. That meant putting aside her own desires and wants, including the boy across the woods, Quinn. She's convinced herself that he's moved on and it's for the better anyways considering the feud between their families. Spencers and Bertrams are only allowed to hate one another.
But a chance encounter brings Kallie and Quinn back together amidst the trees they spent their youth in and rekindles a love so deep neither of them can ignore it any longer. But their surrounded by danger because of this family feud and they have to figure out how to be together without ripping their families and themselves apart.
Quinn's character is full of hope and optimism. He's the rays of sunshine during the warm afternoons and Kallie's constant concerns are always soothed in his presence. They really do complete one another and I loved how their affections were emotional and long lasting.
Kallie loves deeply, but she's afraid to let her feelings for Quinn lose because she'll never be able to bottle them back up. Plus, she's got her little sister to raise and Emmie means the world to her. This little girl is amazing and my heart was broken into so many pieces for the pain she suffers in this story. She's born with a large birthmark on her face and a lot of the townspeople whisper about her having the mark of the devil. This drives so many emotions for little Emmie and ultimately gets the best of her.
This book also features an amazing element related to education. In these parts, during this time, there was very little education for most people. The kids in the story only recently had a school house open up and are learning their letters and numbers. A wonderful woman overseeing the education system in the area makes it a point to start a school for all the adults to learn as well. This is a central piece of Kallie and Quinn's story as well because they had always prayed about being able to go to school one day. Gabhart incorporates this element of hope into the story and reminds us that it's never too late to do something we've always wanted to do.
A story filled with hope, perseverance, and a little prayer brings a town in feuding shambles to a place of revelation. It's not an easy journey and there is danger, but there's also a light at the end of that hard road if your heart can just hold on. I loved this story and can't wait to read more from this author because of how much it stuck with me. I'm still mentally sitting down by the creek watching the crows bathe in the water.
Kallie Mae has had a difficult hand dealt her in life, but she's weathered the storms proudly and boldly. Her mother passed away giving birth to Emmie who is now around seven and asked Kallie to take care of her. Her father, distraught in his own loss, essentially left Kallie to be the mother of the house and care for this new baby and raise her younger brother as well. That meant putting aside her own desires and wants, including the boy across the woods, Quinn. She's convinced herself that he's moved on and it's for the better anyways considering the feud between their families. Spencers and Bertrams are only allowed to hate one another.
But a chance encounter brings Kallie and Quinn back together amidst the trees they spent their youth in and rekindles a love so deep neither of them can ignore it any longer. But their surrounded by danger because of this family feud and they have to figure out how to be together without ripping their families and themselves apart.
Quinn's character is full of hope and optimism. He's the rays of sunshine during the warm afternoons and Kallie's constant concerns are always soothed in his presence. They really do complete one another and I loved how their affections were emotional and long lasting.
Kallie loves deeply, but she's afraid to let her feelings for Quinn lose because she'll never be able to bottle them back up. Plus, she's got her little sister to raise and Emmie means the world to her. This little girl is amazing and my heart was broken into so many pieces for the pain she suffers in this story. She's born with a large birthmark on her face and a lot of the townspeople whisper about her having the mark of the devil. This drives so many emotions for little Emmie and ultimately gets the best of her.
This book also features an amazing element related to education. In these parts, during this time, there was very little education for most people. The kids in the story only recently had a school house open up and are learning their letters and numbers. A wonderful woman overseeing the education system in the area makes it a point to start a school for all the adults to learn as well. This is a central piece of Kallie and Quinn's story as well because they had always prayed about being able to go to school one day. Gabhart incorporates this element of hope into the story and reminds us that it's never too late to do something we've always wanted to do.
A story filled with hope, perseverance, and a little prayer brings a town in feuding shambles to a place of revelation. It's not an easy journey and there is danger, but there's also a light at the end of that hard road if your heart can just hold on. I loved this story and can't wait to read more from this author because of how much it stuck with me. I'm still mentally sitting down by the creek watching the crows bathe in the water.
May 25, 2026
A Chance for Kallie Mae completely tugged on my heartstrings and did not let go! Ann H. Gabhart brilliantly brings early 20th century Appalachia to life in this beautiful forbidden romance with a Romeo & Juliet feel. A daughter forced to become a mother, a sister determined to learn to read & write against all odds, a dutiful son who’s loved the wrong girl for years, and a decades-old family feud. Can they find happiness & peace, or will years of hatred tear them apart?
Kallie Mae was such an admirable character. I loved how, at just 13 years old, she stepped in after her mother’s & sister’s tragic deaths to help raise her siblings. Her sweet little sister Emmie, born with a birthmark on her face, is determined to attend school despite everyone’s misgivings & reawakens one of Kallie’s greatest dreams, to learn to read & write the stories swirling in her head. Her other dream, to marry her childhood friend Quinn Spencer, ended years ago when her father discovered her relationship with the son of their family’s greatest enemy. But a chance meeting with Quinn & his little sisters, along with the opening of a new Moonlight School for adults, gives Kallie hope that her dreams might finally come true.
I loved this story! The author did a wonderful job bringing 1911 Appalachia to life in vivid detail. I could easily picture the beautiful setting and harsh living conditions. The mutual pining was achingly lovely, and I wanted so badly for Quinn & Kallie to find a way to be together. I loved their secret meetings, shared dreams, and determination to improve their lives. Neither had the chance to learn to read or write growing up, and I loved how eagerly they embraced the opportunity to learn. I also adored Kallie’s family, especially Aunt Sudie with all her wise advice, Emmie with her wit & determination to succeed, & Whitt, who’s a bit of a scamp.
The feud creates so many obstacles for Kallie & Quinn, especially with Kallie’s father determined for her to marry another man. I was on tenterhooks trying to figure out how everything might be resolved. Loved the ending & truly hope this isn’t the last we see of this family. I’d love for their stories to continue. Highly recommend to historical fiction fans!
I received an advanced copy with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions are completely my own & provided voluntarily. 4.5–5 stars!
Kallie Mae was such an admirable character. I loved how, at just 13 years old, she stepped in after her mother’s & sister’s tragic deaths to help raise her siblings. Her sweet little sister Emmie, born with a birthmark on her face, is determined to attend school despite everyone’s misgivings & reawakens one of Kallie’s greatest dreams, to learn to read & write the stories swirling in her head. Her other dream, to marry her childhood friend Quinn Spencer, ended years ago when her father discovered her relationship with the son of their family’s greatest enemy. But a chance meeting with Quinn & his little sisters, along with the opening of a new Moonlight School for adults, gives Kallie hope that her dreams might finally come true.
I loved this story! The author did a wonderful job bringing 1911 Appalachia to life in vivid detail. I could easily picture the beautiful setting and harsh living conditions. The mutual pining was achingly lovely, and I wanted so badly for Quinn & Kallie to find a way to be together. I loved their secret meetings, shared dreams, and determination to improve their lives. Neither had the chance to learn to read or write growing up, and I loved how eagerly they embraced the opportunity to learn. I also adored Kallie’s family, especially Aunt Sudie with all her wise advice, Emmie with her wit & determination to succeed, & Whitt, who’s a bit of a scamp.
The feud creates so many obstacles for Kallie & Quinn, especially with Kallie’s father determined for her to marry another man. I was on tenterhooks trying to figure out how everything might be resolved. Loved the ending & truly hope this isn’t the last we see of this family. I’d love for their stories to continue. Highly recommend to historical fiction fans!
I received an advanced copy with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions are completely my own & provided voluntarily. 4.5–5 stars!
May 19, 2026
PLEASE READ THIS REVIEW ON MY BLOG: https://bookreadingtic.com/2026/05/19... AND PLEASE FOLLOW ME, THANK YOU!
Reaching for the Impossible
Set in the Appalachian Mountains in 1911, this book tells the story of Kallie Mae Bertram, a girl who has spent her whole life dreaming of two things: getting an education and being with Quinn Spencer.
But there isn't a school near her, and the Bertrams and Spencers have been at each other's throats feuding for years. Their families' hatred is deep, and it seems like there is no way for them to ever be together without causing more chaos.
Everything changes the day her mother died giving birth to Emmie. Her last words to Kallie Mae, still a child herself, was to take care of the baby.
The years since have been long and hard. Kallie Mae had to grow up instantly. She suddenly had to take care of a new baby, a toddler and all the cleaning and cooking. Kallie Mae could no longer get away for secret rendezvous with Quinn.
Then one day, everything changed again when, accidently, Quinn and Kallie Mae run across each other, and they talk for the first time in years. Young adults now, with feelings even stronger for each other, there seems to be no hope for them. Their family's hatred of each other has continued to grow.
But there may be hope for Kallie Mae to go to school. A Moonlight School is starting locally, a school that teaches adults at nighttime. While Kallie Mae is thrilled to finally go to school, her heart breaks daily for want of Quinn.
There are many things happening--love, death, broken hearts and much more. They all come together in such a beautiful way, it made me want to cry.
You will cheer for Kallie Mae, but just like her, you will not see any way for things to work out. However, this five-star story will have some surprises for you. I appreciated that the character's faith is included. If you like well-written stories about overcoming hardships and secret romances, you need to read this amazing tale.
Thanks to the author for providing Tickmenot with a book to review. Opinions are my own.
Reaching for the Impossible
Set in the Appalachian Mountains in 1911, this book tells the story of Kallie Mae Bertram, a girl who has spent her whole life dreaming of two things: getting an education and being with Quinn Spencer.
But there isn't a school near her, and the Bertrams and Spencers have been at each other's throats feuding for years. Their families' hatred is deep, and it seems like there is no way for them to ever be together without causing more chaos.
Everything changes the day her mother died giving birth to Emmie. Her last words to Kallie Mae, still a child herself, was to take care of the baby.
The years since have been long and hard. Kallie Mae had to grow up instantly. She suddenly had to take care of a new baby, a toddler and all the cleaning and cooking. Kallie Mae could no longer get away for secret rendezvous with Quinn.
Then one day, everything changed again when, accidently, Quinn and Kallie Mae run across each other, and they talk for the first time in years. Young adults now, with feelings even stronger for each other, there seems to be no hope for them. Their family's hatred of each other has continued to grow.
But there may be hope for Kallie Mae to go to school. A Moonlight School is starting locally, a school that teaches adults at nighttime. While Kallie Mae is thrilled to finally go to school, her heart breaks daily for want of Quinn.
There are many things happening--love, death, broken hearts and much more. They all come together in such a beautiful way, it made me want to cry.
You will cheer for Kallie Mae, but just like her, you will not see any way for things to work out. However, this five-star story will have some surprises for you. I appreciated that the character's faith is included. If you like well-written stories about overcoming hardships and secret romances, you need to read this amazing tale.
Thanks to the author for providing Tickmenot with a book to review. Opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
The realistic Appalachian setting in this novel and the fact that Kallie Mae really wanted to be literate touched my heart from the beginning. She had given up her chance at an education when her baby sister Emmie was born and her mom died after her birth. Kallie Mae was a child herself, raising another child as per her mom’s dying wish. Her father is a hard man who is bitter against life and who does not make it easy for his children to get an education. Kallie Mae is determined that little Emmie will learn her letters and numbers so sends her to the local country school. The theme of bullying and lack of acceptance was prevalent for both of Kallie Mae’s siblings. There was also a theme of a love story that never got to take root because the boy she loved with all her heart was from a neighborhood family against whom her father had a grudge. So in spite of the fact that Kallie Mae is a grown young woman and Quinn is more than ready to court her and marry her, her dad, Lije Bertram, presents one obstacle after another, blackmailing Kallie Mae into giving up her love for Quinn. The theme of the importance of family and an education are also important parts of the story. The tale of the Moonlight Schools where Kallie Mae and Quinn could go to learn was well researched and a riveting part of the story. I enjoyed the well-crafted and complex plot, with a lot of characters playing important roles in Kallie Mae’s choices. All of the characters were well-developed, and I felt as though I got to know Kallie Mae and sympathized with her yearning to have a family of her own as well as an education. I especially liked how the author presented the feud between the families and used it as a springboard to teach a lesson about forgiveness. This book and the characters are memorable and would lend itself to a great book club discussion.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I also preordered my own copy since the author is a favorite of mine and always presents stories that are thought-provoking and compassionate. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I also preordered my own copy since the author is a favorite of mine and always presents stories that are thought-provoking and compassionate. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love Ann H. Gabhart’s books, and part of that love comes from trust. My heart feels safe opening one of her stories because she handles ordinary lives with such tenderness and care. Again and again, her tender, patient storytelling has shown me that deep spiritual weight can live inside the day-by-day reality of ordinary lives, where faith is prayed through, carried in tired hands, steadied by Scripture, and lived before the Lord.
A Chance for Kallie Mae gave me all of that, and then it gave me something even more precious. It gave me the beauty of Scripture being learned, memorized, understood, and treasured.
That is where this story became deeply personal for me.
Kallie Mae’s longing to read touched something tender in my heart, because Ann H. Gabhart never treats words as a small thing. Reading means dignity. Reading means hope. Reading means opening a door that life had nearly shut. And in these pages, reading also means drawing nearer to the living Word of God with understanding, hunger, and reverence.
Watching Emmie learn Scripture, hold Scripture, and begin to understand the riches inside those verses was one of the sweetest gifts in the whole book. I loved the way faith lived inside ordinary moments. Prayers were whispered. Bible verses mattered. The Lord was sought for direction. Hope had roots because hope was anchored in Him.
There is a moment when Kallie prays for help finding Emmie, and old Goldy comes through the trees. Kallie wonders, “Maybe Goldy was the answer to her prayer.” I loved that so much. It felt true to the Lord’s tender care in ordinary life: mercifully near, beautifully practical, and sometimes arriving with paws and a wagging tail.
And when Kallie says, “Our prayers got answered,” about the chance for a school, I felt the weight of that too. A school was hope. A school was mercy. A school was a door opening where life had long felt closed. It reminded me that the Lord cares about the hidden places where people are tired, ashamed, longing, waiting, and still trying to believe He sees them.
Kallie Mae is the kind of heroine my heart recognizes, because her strength has been formed in hidden places: beside sorrow, beneath responsibility, through love that costs something, and through hope that waits on the Lord and trusts Him completely. She carries tenderness and guarded hope. Her love for Emmie and Whitt has weight. Her own dreams have had to wait. And yet the Lord’s kindness keeps meeting her in ways both practical and beautiful.
Quinn’s part of the story carries its own ache and tenderness, and my heart keeps returning to the sacred thread running through these pages: Scripture treasured, prayers whispered, children loved, dreams awakened, and hope rising by the mercy of the Lord.
This is Christian historical fiction with deep roots. The faith has breath in it. The mountain setting feels alive. The characters feel lovingly known. And the story honors something I treasure deeply: the immeasurable mercy of being able to read God’s Word for yourself.
For readers who are seeking God, this story carries a gentle invitation to notice His nearness. For readers who already know and love the Lord, it offers the sweetness of seeing His care woven through ordinary life. For the weary and tired who are clinging tightly to Him, it offers a tender reminder that the Lord is still faithful in the waiting, still kind in the hidden places, and still able to open doors that once seemed closed.
Ann H. Gabhart wrote these pages full of warmth, dignity, and spiritual richness. Revell gave readers something beautiful here: a story where literacy becomes mercy, Scripture becomes treasure, and a long-delayed chance becomes a reminder that the Lord sees hidden hopes.
Five+ stars with my whole heart.
This is the kind of Christian fiction I treasure most: gentle, rich, deeply rooted, and shining with the goodness of God.
I received a copy of A Chance for Kallie Mae from the author. I also purchased the audiobook. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
A Chance for Kallie Mae gave me all of that, and then it gave me something even more precious. It gave me the beauty of Scripture being learned, memorized, understood, and treasured.
That is where this story became deeply personal for me.
Kallie Mae’s longing to read touched something tender in my heart, because Ann H. Gabhart never treats words as a small thing. Reading means dignity. Reading means hope. Reading means opening a door that life had nearly shut. And in these pages, reading also means drawing nearer to the living Word of God with understanding, hunger, and reverence.
Watching Emmie learn Scripture, hold Scripture, and begin to understand the riches inside those verses was one of the sweetest gifts in the whole book. I loved the way faith lived inside ordinary moments. Prayers were whispered. Bible verses mattered. The Lord was sought for direction. Hope had roots because hope was anchored in Him.
There is a moment when Kallie prays for help finding Emmie, and old Goldy comes through the trees. Kallie wonders, “Maybe Goldy was the answer to her prayer.” I loved that so much. It felt true to the Lord’s tender care in ordinary life: mercifully near, beautifully practical, and sometimes arriving with paws and a wagging tail.
And when Kallie says, “Our prayers got answered,” about the chance for a school, I felt the weight of that too. A school was hope. A school was mercy. A school was a door opening where life had long felt closed. It reminded me that the Lord cares about the hidden places where people are tired, ashamed, longing, waiting, and still trying to believe He sees them.
Kallie Mae is the kind of heroine my heart recognizes, because her strength has been formed in hidden places: beside sorrow, beneath responsibility, through love that costs something, and through hope that waits on the Lord and trusts Him completely. She carries tenderness and guarded hope. Her love for Emmie and Whitt has weight. Her own dreams have had to wait. And yet the Lord’s kindness keeps meeting her in ways both practical and beautiful.
Quinn’s part of the story carries its own ache and tenderness, and my heart keeps returning to the sacred thread running through these pages: Scripture treasured, prayers whispered, children loved, dreams awakened, and hope rising by the mercy of the Lord.
This is Christian historical fiction with deep roots. The faith has breath in it. The mountain setting feels alive. The characters feel lovingly known. And the story honors something I treasure deeply: the immeasurable mercy of being able to read God’s Word for yourself.
For readers who are seeking God, this story carries a gentle invitation to notice His nearness. For readers who already know and love the Lord, it offers the sweetness of seeing His care woven through ordinary life. For the weary and tired who are clinging tightly to Him, it offers a tender reminder that the Lord is still faithful in the waiting, still kind in the hidden places, and still able to open doors that once seemed closed.
Ann H. Gabhart wrote these pages full of warmth, dignity, and spiritual richness. Revell gave readers something beautiful here: a story where literacy becomes mercy, Scripture becomes treasure, and a long-delayed chance becomes a reminder that the Lord sees hidden hopes.
Five+ stars with my whole heart.
This is the kind of Christian fiction I treasure most: gentle, rich, deeply rooted, and shining with the goodness of God.
I received a copy of A Chance for Kallie Mae from the author. I also purchased the audiobook. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
May 21, 2026
This is another wonderful Appalachian story from a favorite Kentucky author. Take a walk through the woods, gazing out over the misty hills. Listen to the bird song, the squirrels chattering and the wind in the treetops. Feel the sunbeams and the warmth of a smooth stone, the coolness of a sparkling mountain stream. You'll be there experiencing it all in this book. Ann Gabhart grabs her readers and places them smack dab in the middle of her words. You'll feel, hear and taste everything these characters experience. It's a story about lost and found.... a young girl lost in the woods, but found through faith and prayers... a young woman's love lost through bitter feuds and tragedy, but found again by chance... a dream lost due to circumstances, but alight again with new hope and faith... a family's unity lost but found with new love. Through it all is faith and the utmost trust in God's timing. Join Kallie and her family as they navigate life in the beautiful hills of Kentucky. Laugh, cry, gasp and sing along with them through a season of faith, hope and perseverance. Rejoice with Kallie and Quinn when their childhood prayers are finally answered for the opportunity for them to learn. As an added bonus, learn more about the Midnight Schools with historical facts about adult learning.
I highly recommend this book to everyone who loves historical fiction. And if it's not your favorite genre, give it a read anyway.... I promise you'll enjoy it!
Ann H GabhartAnn H Gabhart
I highly recommend this book to everyone who loves historical fiction. And if it's not your favorite genre, give it a read anyway.... I promise you'll enjoy it!
Ann H GabhartAnn H Gabhart
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
"A Chance for Kallie Mae" is a Christian romance set in 1911 in the Appalachian Mountains in Kentucky. The main characters were interesting, well-developed, and complex. I cared about what happened to them. Things started slow with each point-of-view character thinking about the past and how things got to this point, but then the characters had more interactions and things started moving forward.
Kallie and Quinn lived on land right next to each other, yet their fathers each held a deep grudge against the other's family. A brother of each couldn't go to school without finding a reason to fight, but their sisters liked playing together. Kallie and Quinn admired each other and want to marry, but they'd be disowned at best, forbidden to see family again. Each family depended on their labor to function. On the other hand, Kallie's father was pushing her to marry a crude, disrespectful man and her father was courting a widow, so things were going to change.
Kallie and Quinn prayed for a school when young, but it came too late for them. Now they finally had a chance to go to school when the Moonlight School for adults was offered by the new teacher. They saw each other at school and sneaked off to see each other at home, but neither was sure how to create a future together. An older neighbor lady encouraged them to seek God's help. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this nice historical romance.
I received a free ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
Kallie and Quinn lived on land right next to each other, yet their fathers each held a deep grudge against the other's family. A brother of each couldn't go to school without finding a reason to fight, but their sisters liked playing together. Kallie and Quinn admired each other and want to marry, but they'd be disowned at best, forbidden to see family again. Each family depended on their labor to function. On the other hand, Kallie's father was pushing her to marry a crude, disrespectful man and her father was courting a widow, so things were going to change.
Kallie and Quinn prayed for a school when young, but it came too late for them. Now they finally had a chance to go to school when the Moonlight School for adults was offered by the new teacher. They saw each other at school and sneaked off to see each other at home, but neither was sure how to create a future together. An older neighbor lady encouraged them to seek God's help. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this nice historical romance.
I received a free ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was another sweet historical novel by Ann Gabhart! Taking place in the Appalachian mountains in the early 1900s, this book highlights the beginnings of the literacy movement, the long-standing feuds of the mountain folk, and the hardships posed by living in the hills in those days. This story follows Kallie Mae, whose family has had a long-standing feud with the Spencer family, who happens to be the family of the boy her heart belongs to. And this book is about her life in the mountains and her impossible love. This tale had a solid faith thread and the importance of prayer was demonstrated throughout. I enjoyed Kallie's outlook on life and her sweet disposition and how she fiercely loved her sister the way a mother would. This book was predominantly character-driven. Though that is typically what Ms. Gabhart writes, there is generally enough mystery and plot for this plot-driven reader to forget that the story is more character-driven. This one, however, did not have much plot happening till the end of the story. While I still enjoyed the solid character development, I would have enjoyed more of a plot-line than what was there. This is a wonderful read for fans of character-driven stories, forbidden romance tropes, literacy themes and mountain stories. Special thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance e-copy of this book. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.
May 24, 2026
I really enjoyed Kallie Mae's story that was wound with true historical events that happened. Having raised her two younger siblings after the passing of their mother, Kallie hasn't been able to go to school or really think about her own future. After Emmie takes off in the woods and Kallie heads after her, she runs into Quinn and his twin sisters. Emmie is beyond excited to meet two girls who want to play with her and Quinn is bringing back all sorts of childhood memories from before Kallie Mae's mother passed away. Never having married himself, Kallie always wondered why, he is such a catch for someone and her aunt was always mention different women he was seen courting. When Quinn makes her promise to meet him again like old times, she can hardly believe she's agreed. A new teacher has also started what is called a Moonlight School for adults and she might just finally be able to learn to read and write herself. How much has changed in just this short time, but when her father finds out about her sneaking to see Quinn and a fire threatens the land, the Spencer's and Bertram's might just have to put history aside to save what matters the most to them. I really loved this story, the characters and the history of the Moonlight Schools that was prominent in Kentucky and how much it did really change and benefit those who previously had no schooling. Thank you to the author and publisher for the complementary novel. This review is of my own opinion and accord.
June 22, 2026
I love Christian fiction set in Appalachia. Especially historical fiction. This is set in 1911 told in three voices, Kallie Mae Bertram, Emmie Lou Bertram (Kallie's 6-yr-old sister) and Quinn Spencer (Kallie's love interest since they were young teens)
Part of my interesting in this book was the feud between the Bertrams and the Spencers. It had been ongoing for generations, since before Kallie's grandmother was supposedly pushed off a mountain by Quinn's grandfather. I used to live in Tennessee's Appalachia, not far from the county where the Hatfields and McCoys had their terrible feud. I do know it goes on still.
Because of this book's feud, Kallie had to stay away from Quinn for the past 6 years while she raised her baby sister after her mother died in childbirth. However, an accidental meeting while Kallie was searching for her little sister brought all their feelings back.
I honestly thought I knew a great deal about the Appalachian culture, but one thing that I learned was when people went out on the mountains "singing", it didn’t mean literal singing. When Kallie's father would go walking in the mountains and Kallie said it wasn’t singing season, I was confused. It was well into the book before I figured out they called their search for gensing “singing". They sold it for money, often the only income families had, such as widows or families with and injured father. Fascinating.
The theme of illiteracy in the book was a good one.
Fun and realistic story.
Part of my interesting in this book was the feud between the Bertrams and the Spencers. It had been ongoing for generations, since before Kallie's grandmother was supposedly pushed off a mountain by Quinn's grandfather. I used to live in Tennessee's Appalachia, not far from the county where the Hatfields and McCoys had their terrible feud. I do know it goes on still.
Because of this book's feud, Kallie had to stay away from Quinn for the past 6 years while she raised her baby sister after her mother died in childbirth. However, an accidental meeting while Kallie was searching for her little sister brought all their feelings back.
I honestly thought I knew a great deal about the Appalachian culture, but one thing that I learned was when people went out on the mountains "singing", it didn’t mean literal singing. When Kallie's father would go walking in the mountains and Kallie said it wasn’t singing season, I was confused. It was well into the book before I figured out they called their search for gensing “singing". They sold it for money, often the only income families had, such as widows or families with and injured father. Fascinating.
The theme of illiteracy in the book was a good one.
Fun and realistic story.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I love the story of Kallie Mae suddenly stumbling on her friend from childhood at the big rock, the very place where they used to meet as young kids and enjoyed spending time together talking, wading in the creek, and just being together whenever they could meet there. That was before her baby sister Emmie was born and turned Kallie’s life upside down. Without Kallie, Emmie would not have lived since their mother died giving birth to her. Kallie gave up a lot for Emmie, but Emmie just may have opened some doors for Kallie that would have never opened otherwise. As the story unfolds, the author does a great job developing the characters, describing the setting, and taking the reader on a believable journey back into Appalachian history. I am certainly glad that I was born where I was rather than in the hills and hollers of Appalachia, but there were some really great folks back then who could take next to nothing and turn it into a decent livelihood. I have great admiration for people like Kallie, Aunt Sudie, Quinn, Rhea Carson, and even little Emmie. But a good story needs a villain. Jake Deaton heads up that list. Kallie’s pa and Quinn’s pa came close to making the list as well with their bull-headed determination to keep the feud going between the Bertrams and the Spencers. Each of them had their own version of what started the feud, and neither would back down. Somehow, feuds seem to take on a life of their own, usually resulting in more damage, anguish, and suffering than the original event. You need to read this story to see the huge impact that their meeting place had on several lives. I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher. This is my honest review. All opinions are strictly my own. #RevellFiction
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May 14, 2026A Chance for Kallie Mae by Ann Gabhart is a Christian romance set in the Appalachian Mountains. Living in the mountains in 1911 many adults never learned to read or write. Families held grudges as bitter feuds fueled enemies. This story was a breath of fresh air.
Kallie Mae Bertram was left to care for her baby sister Emmie, and her brother Whitt when their mother died in childbirth. Kallie has been in love with Quinn Spencer since they were children. But his family was the other part of the grudge. Even though their families were enemies, their feelings for each other only grew. Aunt Sudie was a wonderful character and added so much to the mountain life.
Ann Gabhart is truly a gifted writer. Her descriptions were well executed and the thoughts of the characters left you feeling like you knew them personally. This is a lovely story, centered around hope, forgiveness, a blooming romance and faith. Faithfully caring for family and sometimes heart breaking sacrifice. The story is inspired by Cora Wilson Stewart, the woman who founded the adult literacy education program. She started the Moonlight Schools, where illiterate adults were taught to read and write. Definitely a must read.
I received a complimentary copy from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Kallie Mae Bertram was left to care for her baby sister Emmie, and her brother Whitt when their mother died in childbirth. Kallie has been in love with Quinn Spencer since they were children. But his family was the other part of the grudge. Even though their families were enemies, their feelings for each other only grew. Aunt Sudie was a wonderful character and added so much to the mountain life.
Ann Gabhart is truly a gifted writer. Her descriptions were well executed and the thoughts of the characters left you feeling like you knew them personally. This is a lovely story, centered around hope, forgiveness, a blooming romance and faith. Faithfully caring for family and sometimes heart breaking sacrifice. The story is inspired by Cora Wilson Stewart, the woman who founded the adult literacy education program. She started the Moonlight Schools, where illiterate adults were taught to read and write. Definitely a must read.
I received a complimentary copy from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review.
Ann Gabhart’s love shows through for the Kentucky mountains and its people as she writes the tale of a story between two feuding mountain families in the early 1900s. Not all the family members agreed on the feud. Kallie Mae from the Bertram family and Quinn Spencer from the other family did not. In fact they had gradually fallen in love with each other over their growing up years and talked about how they each would have loved to go to school and learn to read and write if they had a school close enough to go to. When a school did come to the community they were both over school age and still could not attend, however, their smaller brothers and sisters were allowed to go. Eventually an adult night school was started and they both attended.
Kallie and Spencer would have loved to get married, but both their Pa’s were fully against it. As the story progresses events happen that puts the community and it’s people in extreme danger. Can the families put old grudges behind them to work together to help each other, or will they continue the fighting and will the love wither between the young couple?
Read “ A Chance For Kallie Mae” to enjoy this exciting story, I know I did.
Ann Gabhart’s love shows through for the Kentucky mountains and its people as she writes the tale of a story between two feuding mountain families in the early 1900s. Not all the family members agreed on the feud. Kallie Mae from the Bertram family and Quinn Spencer from the other family did not. In fact they had gradually fallen in love with each other over their growing up years and talked about how they each would have loved to go to school and learn to read and write if they had a school close enough to go to. When a school did come to the community they were both over school age and still could not attend, however, their smaller brothers and sisters were allowed to go. Eventually an adult night school was started and they both attended.
Kallie and Spencer would have loved to get married, but both their Pa’s were fully against it. As the story progresses events happen that puts the community and it’s people in extreme danger. Can the families put old grudges behind them to work together to help each other, or will they continue the fighting and will the love wither between the young couple?
Read “ A Chance For Kallie Mae” to enjoy this exciting story, I know I did.
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