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The Darling's Daughter

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A woman chasing the truth. A man running from his past. And a secret that threatens the fragile trust between them.

Searching for answers about her mother's suspicious death, artist Angelica Woods takes a job painting backdrops at the Majestic Theater—the very place her famous actress mother warned her to avoid. When she discovers cryptic notes and bloody evidence of an old murder, Angie realizes her mother's warning may have been meant to protect her from a deadly secret.

Architect Trace Ackerman has worked hard to build a quiet, respectable life far removed from his former mistakes. Renovating the Majestic is meant to be a fresh start—until Angie awakens feelings he never planned to risk again. Drawn to her courage and vulnerability, Trace offers his protection as rumors swirl and danger edges closer. But the past he’s worked so hard to outrun threatens to surface, and Trace fears the truth could cost him Angie’s trust—and the future he longs to build.

With a killer determined to silence them both, Angie and Trace must decide if uncovering the truth about her mother's death is worth risking their own lives—and hearts. Set against the backdrop of a historic theater in 1912 Ohio, this romantic suspense weaves together murder, betrayal, and the redeeming power of faith and forgiveness.

293 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 1, 2026

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Sydney Schmied

5 books48 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
Profile Image for DevotedToHope.
782 reviews117 followers
August 4, 2026
The author and publisher provided me with copies of this book for review. All opinions are my own.

I kept looking for answers.

Then I realized I was hoping for healing even more.

The Darling’s Daughter drew me into the Majestic Theater through coded journals, hidden truths, and questions surrounding a mother whose life had never been fully known by her own daughter. I wanted every answer. Somewhere along the way, the mystery changed shape for me. I still cared about each clue. My heart had become far more concerned with the people living inside it.

I did not understand what this book had done to me until days after I walked out of the Majestic Theater and realized I was grieving years that did not belong to me.

My precious mother is one of God’s sweetest gifts to me. The distance between Angie and The Darling felt completely foreign to me, and I initially wondered whether that would keep me outside Angie’s experience.

Instead, it made me grieve for her.

I grieved for what she never fully had. Love and secrecy had become tangled together, and no discovery could return the years they had lost. Sydney Schmied allows that ache to remain. The healing unfolds slowly and honestly as Angie learns more about the woman behind The Darling. Her mother remains complicated, which gave her choices and sacrifices the emotional depth they needed.

Trace brought another deeply meaningful part of the story. He carries guilt and owns his sin. His journey toward receiving the grace Jesus purchased for him felt sincere and spiritually grounded. The story names Jesus plainly. Prayer belongs to ordinary life. The characters seek the Lord because dependence upon Him is already part of who they are.

Their faith feels as natural as breathing.

The historical setting gave the mystery a distinct atmosphere, and the Majestic Theater felt alive around the characters. I enjoyed the puzzle boxes and coded journals, along with the steady sense that each answer was drawing Angie closer to both danger and truth. The suspense intensified at exactly the right time, while the romance developed through trust, restraint, and shared faith.

I first considered four stars because I could not step into Angie’s shoes. Days later, I understood that the story had reached me from another direction. It made me grieve for her.

That is why this became a five-star read.

More than anything, it left me thinking about how Christ’s grace meets us in the sorrow of a past we cannot relive and leads us forward in hope.

Sydney Schmied has given us an extraordinary beginning to the Majestic Theater series.

The theater has gone dark for now, and I am already waiting for its lights to shine on another life changed by the grace of Christ.
Profile Image for Katja Labonté.
Author 34 books376 followers
August 5, 2026
4 stars. Having never heard of the Majestic Theater before, I was quite intrigued in this mystery set within its walls. This was my first read by Sydney Schmied, and while I struggled with the writing style, I did enjoy the suspense and the romance was cute. My favourite part, though, was the message, which was so deep and true, and very comforting!

Content: (minor spoiler) a side character is involved in an affair.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
Profile Image for Fiction with Phoebe.
109 reviews16 followers
August 12, 2026
3.5 stars

𝙰 𝚜𝚎𝚊𝚛𝚌𝚑 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚊𝚗𝚜𝚠𝚎𝚛𝚜. 𝙰 𝚜𝚎𝚌𝚛𝚎𝚝 𝚙𝚊𝚜𝚝. 𝚆𝚎𝚕𝚌𝚘𝚖𝚎 𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝙼𝚊𝚓𝚎𝚜𝚝𝚒𝚌 𝚃𝚑𝚎𝚊𝚝𝚎𝚛.

Angie Woods had a complicated relationship with her actress mother, the titular Darling. Although her mother cared about Angie in her own way, distance and secrets eventually drove a wedge between them.

Trace Ackerman understands complicated relationships all too well. He has one with his oldest sister Victoria.
Deep down they do still care about each other, and I was glad they were able to reconcile somewhat.

I was so relieved that Trace had the opportunity to tell Angie about his past, before she found out from someone else.

He had good intentions, (and while they didn’t always justify his actions) they did count for something.

Lots of little clues were hidden throughout the mansion and the theater, almost like a high stakes scavenger hunt. The mystery was a lot more layered than I initially thought.

I did find it a little strange that the culprit spilled their entire motivation for the murder to Angie.

Also Angie’s migraines aren’t really brought up again after the ball. Given how much her headaches were mentioned in the earlier chapters, I thought it would come up again.

Overall, I’m eager to return to the Majestic in Book 2.

Thank you to Sydney Schmied for the gifted ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All opinions expressed are my own.

Favorite Moments
🎭 tossing out the reporter
🎭 Vivienne Clemonte’s ball
🎭 after the shooting
🎭 nighttime baking
🎭 proposal

Content Notes:
death of a parent mentioned, mention of Freemasons, mentions of rug overdose, mention of suicide, guns and shooting, touching, kissing, use of “blast” and “blasted,” mention of cursing (not specified), mention of ghosts and the theater being haunted, blood, mention of affairs, some mild violence, some mild innuendo, description of a man dying (nothing overly graphic)
Profile Image for Melissa (christianbooksandcoffee).
950 reviews425 followers
August 1, 2026
This is a story full of romance, mystery and danger. This story is set in 1912, at the majestic theater. Angie is an artist and daughter of The Darling, an actress. She is trying to figure out what happened to her mom, she does not believe her death was suicide or an accidental overdose. I loved watching her hunt down the clues to solve the mystery. She doesn’t do it alone though she has Trace. Trace is an architect working on the theater. They have just met but instantly become close. He has some secrets. I loved watching them together. I loved how Trace always tried to make sure she was safe. It gets dangerous for them as they discover more clues. I didn’t see the ending coming! There is good Christian content as well. Overall, I really enjoyed this story and I recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Kayla E..
Author 19 books201 followers
June 30, 2026
Angelica Woods isn’t an actress like her late mother, the infamous Darling. Still, the artist finds herself in the role of a lifetime as an amateur sleuth investigating the Darling’s secretive past—and if Angie stumbles on the stage of high stakes, her very life will be forfeited.

Readers will be captivated not only by the twists and turns of the unfolding mystery but also by the beautifully interwoven themes of faith, redemption, grace, forgiveness, and love. Equal parts historical suspense and sweet romance (kisses only), this is a book fans of Hannah Linder, Caitlin M. Smith, and C.C. Urie are sure to love!
Profile Image for Brandi Davis.
204 reviews83 followers
August 20, 2026
Historical romantic suspense is easily one of my favorite genres, and Sydney’s debut reminded me exactly why. The Darling’s Daughter was compelling, endearing, and layered with so many of the elements I love about the genre.

Angie Woods recently lost her mother, famed actress Darlene “The Darling” Woods. Everyone seems to think it was an unintentional overdose that claimed her life, but Angie suspects foul play. Determined to find the truth, she takes a job at the very place her mother warned her to stay away from—the Majestic Theater, where she once performed.

With the help of Trace Ackerman, the architect in charge of renovations at the theater, Angie begins digging into her mother’s past. But someone is intent on keeping the real story behind The Darling’s death—and the skeletons buried along with her—from being unearthed. By any means necessary. Even murder.

I really enjoyed just how layered this story was. Beyond the suspense, it explored relationship dynamics, forgiveness and repentance, receiving God’s grace, and trust. Both Angie and Trace had past hurts that made it difficult for them to move toward one another, and I really enjoyed watching them work through those barriers. I also loved the strong faith thread woven throughout the story.

This was a strong debut and opener for the series, and I’m looking forward to book two’s release in 2027!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to leave a review, and this is my honest feedback.
1,101 reviews9 followers
August 5, 2026
The Darling’s Daughter by Sydney Schmied is the first book in the historical mystery romance series titled, The Majestic Theater. The Majestic Theater is a place of mystery and danger. Angelica Woods takes a job there to find out exactly what happened to her actress mother. This is a determined young woman, yet danger is stalking her. Architect Trace Ackerman and Angelica have n instant connection perhaps because they are both outsiders t =o the theater world. While he has secrets of his own, Trace is a good guy, who God has put in the right place to help Angelica. God’s protection, forgiveness and a search for the truth are all part of their story as love begins to grow between them. The Darling’s Daughter is an absorbing Christian historical fiction story.
Profile Image for Becky Lewis.
1,128 reviews69 followers
August 14, 2026
“Dear Daughter, now that I am gone, I cannot protect you from the ghosts of my past. Trust no one, and stay away from the Majestic.”

Have you been introduced to debut author Sydney Schmied? If not, I’d love to tell you why I picked up her inspirational historical romance novel, The Darling’s Daughter. This novel was like a big, warm hug to my reading soul! Two individuals who feel like they are either unworthy or longing for a love that they never received . They will either help each other towards healing, faith, and redemption, or their hopes and dreams will be forever buried with the secrets of the old Majestic Theater.

My interest was first piqued when I saw the setting is Chillicothe, OH. That got my attention as I have traveled through Chillicothe in years past and noted the heavy paper smell clogging the air. Little surprise to discover that newspapers are an important, albeit negative, part of this story.

I enjoyed learning about the Majestic Theater. I love books that impart history of little-known sites that were once well-known. The theater life and atmosphere spring to life between Angie’s backdrop paintings for performances, her search for her mother’s forbidden secrets, and Trace’s refurbishing of the old theater.

I loved the eeriness that stayed with me as I searched with (or at least, I felt like I was there with !)Angie, looking about in the old mansion, trying to remember why feelings were connected with some places. Then, there is the suspense of not knowing who is after Angie. Is it her mother’s enemy? An enemy of Trace’s? The tension is nearly unbearable, and I was so grateful that kind, thoughtful Trace is there for Angie. “Yes, he needed to protect her from outside threats, but the threat to his heart was growing by the minute.”

Unfortunately, Trace has his own skeletons hidden in the closet. Will they emerge just in time to spell death for Trace’s and Angie’s budding relationship?

I loved Mrs. Ackerman and her loving ways. She is so physically worn-down by the cares of life, but still exudes the kind of love that reaches out and envelops those around her- just like her bakery smells- whether they are worthy or not.

What made me stand up and outright applaud this book, though, was the twists! Wow, did they ever catch me off guard! I loved it!! Please, Miss Schmied, can I have your next book NOW?!!

I received a copy of the book from the author. I also took a chance and bought a paperback for the keeper shelf! I am so glad!! No positive opinion was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“What you have to say will not shock me. Or God. Jesus’s death paid for our sins. To hold onto a burden of sin is denying that Jesus’s blood is enough. Don’t hold onto what he has freed you from long ago.” -Mutti

“Love forgives.” - Mutti

“People do terrible things for those they love, especially when fear is involved,” -Trace
Profile Image for Melissa’s Bookshelf.
2,704 reviews195 followers
August 11, 2026
Absolutely loved this amazing new novel from Sydney Schmied! The Darling’s Daughter had everything I love in a historical mystery/romance: a compelling mystery, puzzle boxes & coded notes, gothic vibes, the theater, a friends-to-more romance, & light faith thread beautifully woven in! I devoured this story & loved seeing Angie find love, & grow in strength, confidence, & faith as she investigates her mother’s death. Set in 1912 Ohio, I enjoyed traveling back in time to the Majestic Theater & experiencing a different angle from backstage.

After losing her estranged, famous actress mother, Angelica Woods puts her artistic talents to work painting theater backdrops. Though her mother’s death was described as an overdose, Angie feels it’s suspicious & vows to investigate her last days at the theater. I absolutely loved her meet-cute with Trace Ackerman, the theater’s architect, & watching their friendship bloom as they work together. Angie discovers a puzzle box given to her years ago contains mysterious letters written in German. Luckily, Trace is of German descent & offers to translate them after winning her trust. As they dig deeper, Angie’s life is threatened, & it becomes a race against time to discover what really happened to her mother.

I loved reading from both Angie’s & Trace’s POVs. My heart ached for Angie as she grieves for her mother but is understandably angry at the distance she put between them. Her loneliness was palpable, & I loved seeing her find an ally & friend in Trace. His complicated past makes him feel he isn’t worthy of Angie’s love & I enjoyed his journey as he learns to forgive himself.

The mystery kept me eagerly turning the pages. As Angie & Trace unravel hidden clues in the theater & in her mother’s personal effects, the threats against them increase. Their nightly visits to the theater were filled with suspense as rumors of ghosts & murders fill their minds. I had my suspicions regarding the Darling’s death, but loved watching it all play out. The ending had me on the edge of my seat!

Highly recommend! Can’t wait for the next book. I received an advanced copy from the author & also read it in Kindle Unlimited. All opinions are my own & voluntarily provided.
Profile Image for Wendy.
751 reviews5 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 26, 2026
This is the first book in The Majestic Theater Series and it's a great start!

This story takes place in OH 1912 and follows Angie and Trace. Angie's mother, the Darling of the Majestic, has just died under what Angie thinks is questionable circumstances. Her mother left her a cryptic note and she is determined to figure it out.

Trace and Angie meet at work and quickly form a friendship - that of course will start to spark feelings. Angie decides to trust Trace with her suspicions and he wants to help her. Figuring out the mystery isn't easy and danger starts to follow them as someone tries to keep the secrets buried.

In this book we get a mystery, secrets, murder, twists and turns, longing, and a desire to be loved. The mystery in this story is a good one. While I figured out a small piece, I was surprised with all the aspects of it and the tangles of the secrets. Especially when you think the mystery has been solved and then we get hit with more.

I also enjoyed the relationship between Angie and Trace. I liked how he became protective of her. And she brought out the best in him. They did have some rocky parts, but I love that they quickly find their way back to each other.

At the end of the story, we get a sneak peek of the next book in the series and who it will focus on. I do wonder if we are going to get more of Marcus and Sarah because I am intrigued by them and would love to hear more of their story.

This is the first book I've read of Sydney Schmied's and I am looking forward to reading more.

I received an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Quotes:
"Sometimes it's enough to simply care. People can know hundreds of facts about a person and still not care."

"The world isn't kind sometimes."

"She hadn't realized how deeply she longed for someone in addition to her neighbor who cared simply for her, with no demands or expectations."

"I want to care for you."

"...trust was a fragile thing."

"Broken things heal."

"Love forgives."
Profile Image for Deana Dick.
3,206 reviews137 followers
August 22, 2026
I like how this story takes a look at what theater life was like during a time period that shaped many lives. With vivid descriptions readers are introduced to entertainment that many loved to go see. What would it be like to be a famous actress with adoring fans? Angie’s mother was that person who many flocked to go see on stage. As a mother-daughter relationship goes it was very strained. Angie’s mother had little time for her. As the years passed Angie was left longing for a mother who put her first.

What I was intrigued by was the deep desire that Angie wanted to prove that her mother’s death was not accidental. It was important for Angie to preserve her mother’s image and have her legacy be remembered in a loving way. I could relate to Angie yearning for a mother’s love and how painful it is when you never receive it. That emptiness in your heart causes you to be weary of relationships.

Trace was a breath of fresh air for Angie even though she had doubts about him at first. He is a very dedicated architect and loves to see his vision come to life. Remodeling The Majestic Theater brings Trace a sense of accomplishment. On the outside he gives this aura of confidence, however he has secrets he tries to hide.

The author delivers a great story with mystery that will find Angie and Trace in a battle to unearth truth while trying to stay one step ahead of danger. As they grow closer to each other, trust becomes a big stumbling block for them. Will Angie let go of the past and find a way to open her heart to allow someone to show her how valuable she is? What secrets will be discovered in the mansion filled with her mother’s memories?

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
Profile Image for D.M. Griffin.
Author 89 books189 followers
August 19, 2026
A debut novel by Sydney Schmied, The Darling’s Daughter proved to be an entertaining mix of historical romance and cozy mystery. Puzzles and intrigue abound as the main character, Angie, navigates the tumultuous circumstances of her mother’s mysterious death. Hidden clues, locked boxes, and wooden puzzles lead her on a chase for truth. Alongside her, the male main character, Trace, keeps secrets about his past that offer a compelling undercurrent to the main story. Many of the side characters were suspicious enough to warrant skepticism and had me scratching my head, wondering who the culprit was.
This book was so engaging because of the way it masterfully built towards an unexpected revelation. The writing is easy to follow, with well-organized chapters slowly unfolding the dramatic plot. Harrowing brushes with death and a who-dun-it style storyline turn this book into one that is hard to put down. I appreciated the early twentieth-century vibe with detailed descriptions sprinkled throughout the story. (There was even a ball, which I found charmingly romantic.)
The love story and mystery balance the plot well, neither dominating as they play off one another to reach the climactic ending. Spiritual elements include forgiveness, redemption, grace, and mercy, as well as the consequences of past sin. Fans of historical romance or mysteries will enjoy this novel.
I received a complimentary copy from the author but was not required to leave a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Aprilslibrary.
384 reviews13 followers
August 2, 2026
I enjoyed this story! The setting of the theatre was interesting and I loved Angie and Trace. I wanted a little more about Angie’s mom, but I get that comes with the storyline of her being standoffish from Angie, so she didn’t know much about her mother. The mystery was interesting and kept me wondering what was going to happen next. I felt like the romance needed a little more development. It went from the meeting, to them having feelings for each other really quickly without a lot of build up. I wanted to see those feelings grow a little more. I also feel like Trace’s backstory was a little dramatized. I do understand the feelings of guilt and that what he did in his past wasn’t something to be proud of, but I feel like it was built up and then when he revealed what his big past was, it wasn’t as dramatic as I was expecting.

I did enjoy how they cared for the other and the threads of forgiveness and acceptance that were woven through the story. I also liked that Trace’s sister found her forgiveness as well.

The ending was a twist! I did enjoy that I wasn’t expecting it, but it also felt a little TOO surprising. I would have liked a little suspicion to have been placed throughout the story.

Overall, I really enjoyed this one! The characters were well throughout and the storyline was unique. I loved the faith elements that were sprinkled in. I will definitely keep reading this series!

*I was sent a copy of this book by the author. All my opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for lindsey's_literary_likes.
119 reviews4 followers
August 4, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
An enjoyable easy read with a murder mystery and a little bit of romance.
Angelica Woods is the daughter of a famous actress but her life is cut short and Angie is determined to find out why. Dealing with feelings of abandonment she starts to ask questions to find the answers she's looking for but when she gets to close her life may end up just like her mother's.
Trace Ackerman is an architect working on the theater where Angie is hired to paint backdrops. As they strike up a friendship which starts to kindle the flames of love, they work together to solve the mystery of The Darling's death but Trace has his own secrets buried deep and he fears that if Angie finds out the truth of his past he'll lose the love that they share.

My thoughts:
I enjoyed reading this story and getting to know these characters. It was a clean read with a good story line. The plot twist was predictable but then there was a secondary twist I wasn't expecting at all. While it was enjoyable, it wasn't gripping for me personally until the end where it got more exciting. There was mystery woven throughout which I appreciated. There were faith themes about forgiveness, a characters inner struggle and torment about past sins and lessons on love.

Clean, no language
Sweet kisses only
Appropriate for YA as well as adult

* I received a copy of this book from the author & publisher in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts are my own.
Profile Image for Paula Shreckhise.
1,616 reviews149 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
August 3, 2026
If you are looking for a book that is historical, steeped in faith, and has an intriguing mystery, try this one.
Angie is painting backdrops in the The Majestic Theater where her late mother was a favorite actress. But her mother warned her to stay away from the historic building. It seems others do not want her delving into her mother’s death and she recieves threats.
Trace, who oversees the renovation of the theater, comes to her aid and together they try to puzzle out the mysteries surrounding the theater.
The author has taken a real place and similar events and fashioned an absorbing story that has a surprising ending. This has the theme of realizing that God forgives completely, if we repent, then we can rest in His finished work of salvation. “We must not simply repent enough to be forgiven, but surrender enough to be completely changed.” “No sin you commit is greater than God’s grace.”
I appreciate the honesty of this beautifully written book.
The author gave a sneak peek of the next book in the series which looks equally as entertaining.
*A complimentary copy of the book was provided by Wild Heart Books . I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
207 reviews4 followers
August 12, 2026
Trace and Angie’s story was a good read. The author wove the historical atmosphere with mystery, love and God's forgiving grace. When I started reading The Darling's Daughter I honestly didn't have a clue about the secret and who was the culprit at the beginning. Delving deeper into the story, Trace's secret was one that I thought would be the big reveal and the buildup was beautiful. Then the bigger secret unwound. The players both the innocent and guilty added suspense to the story. The guilty were so deceptively nice that it would hardly have crossed one's mind of their guilt.
I like the way the author interwove the theme of forgiveness and letting go of the past. That weight almost crushed Trace and it was an absolute relief when he let go of the chains of the past and fully accepted his past had no hold on him any longer.
Angie is one determined lady ... stepping right into the lions den to find the truth about her mother’s death. The way Trace supported and put his life on the line for her is a good picture love, support and friendship even as he went the extra mile to provide closure for her.
A beautiful story and that excerpt of book 2... that is another book to read.
I voluntarily read a copy of this book and the opinions are mine.
Profile Image for Heidireadsitall.
280 reviews16 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 13, 2026
Oh man… I just loved this book so much! From the very beginning, I was completely pulled into Angie’s search for the truth and the secrets hidden within the walls of the Majestic Theater. This story had everything I love: mystery, suspense, danger, romance, and a thread of faith woven beautifully throughout.

I absolutely devoured this one and found myself not wanting to put it down. Angie was such a strong, determined character, and I loved watching her and Trace navigate the secrets, fears, and past hurts standing between them. Their love story was filled with emotion, trust, and redemption, and I was completely invested in them.

The twists and turns kept me guessing, and that ending?! My jaw was on the floor. I truly did not see it coming! The atmosphere of 1912 Ohio and the historic theater setting made this story even more captivating.

A beautiful blend of romance, suspense, and forgiveness that kept me hooked until the very last page. A fantastic read that I highly recommend! ❤️

I received a copy from the author. These thoughts are my own.
Profile Image for Alyssa Amey Madjeski.
407 reviews30 followers
August 13, 2026
4.5⭐️
I really enjoyed this debut from Sydney Schmied. It had all of the things I love the most- history, romance, and suspense! The mystery was so intriguing- I couldn’t wait to find out who was truly behind everything. I loved how all the threads were woven together that made so much sense at the end. The final twist I didn’t see coming at all- which is fantastic.

This story is very layered, so it did take me a few chapters to get completely drawn in, but once I did, I couldn’t stop. There were definitely some times I wanted to shake Trace and give him a talking to about forgiving himself (I’m so glad his mother finally did it for me!) There are good lessons in this story about forgiveness and healing from the past. I really liked both Angie and Trace and it was easy to root for them. I also absolutely loved Trace’s detective friend Marcus.

Definitely recommend this story to anyone who loves history or suspense in their romance!

I received a complementary copy of this book from Wild Heart Books and Celebrate Lit. I was not required to leave a review. My opinions are my own.
Profile Image for M. K. Jacobs.
636 reviews8 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 27, 2026
4.5 stars: I really enjoyed this mystery and romance! The setting is the Majestic Theater in Ohio in 1912, and a famous actress has recently died under suspicious circumstances. Her daughter Angie, a mural and set painter at the theater, is determined to discover the truth ...with the help of Tracey, the foreman on the theater's construction, who vows to keep her safe. This was a sweet romance, and I liked how other characters were supportive but gave the couple space to get to know each other. Angie and Tracey were vulnerable and authentic with each other, which was fun to read about. The mystery was engaging; it was interesting to have so many layers, and I did not expect the role of the star! Allen's part felt more convenient to me. I would've loved a few more grounding historical and setting details. Still, I had a great time with this one!

Thank you to the author for the ARC; all opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Lexi.
334 reviews19 followers
August 11, 2026
This debut novel by Sydney Schmied was such a pleasant surprise. Set in a historic Ohio theater in 1912, the story follows Angie as she paints backdrops at the Majestic Theater where her late mother was once a beloved actress. When she starts digging into the mystery surrounding her mother's death, someone wants her silenced. Trace, the architect overseeing the theater's renovation, steps in to help her unravel the truth and the romance that develops between them is sweet and believable.

The historical setting is really well done and the mystery kept me engaged throughout. I enjoyed following along as Angie and Trace pieced things together, and the faith themes woven through the story felt genuine and meaningful. The ending surprised me in a good way.

This is a great start to what looks like a really promising series and I am looking forward to book two. If you enjoy historical romantic suspense with strong faith elements, this one is worth picking up.
Profile Image for Stephanie - Books Less Travelled.
233 reviews5 followers
August 20, 2026
I loved the mystery and writing tone in this one! The story carries a moody and slightly dramatic feel that's shrouded in mystery, and it works so well for the for this theater mystery tale. I also enjoyed the banter and teasing. Trace is a fun character, and I really enjoyed seeing his perspective here. Angie was also interesting, but a bit too indecisive. She would say no, then immediately try to take it back. I could understand a few times, but she seemed to do this for nearly every decision, no matter who she was talking to. Other than that, I really enjoyed this one! I wish we knew a little more about her and now just how she struggled with her mother's secrets. I felt like we knew more about the other people in their lives than the MCs themselves for the first-half of the book. Still, the mystery was a big part of the story, so I can understand keeping some of it secret. I would have appreciated knowing a bit about their likes/dislikes and hopes/dreams, though, as I think it would have made them stronger and more relatable in a way. The story gets better in the second half, as the reader finally starts getting some answers and things become clearer. Overall, it was an intriguing mystery, and I enjoyed seeing the clues come to light along the way.

*I read an ecopy from the author. This does not affect my review. This review is voluntary.*
Profile Image for Betti.
1,456 reviews36 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
July 8, 2026
Does she want to know the truth even if it is not the answer she wants? Should the past stay in the past?

Angie Woods is an artist brightening the world with paint. Her mother, the Darling, was an actress that died under suspicious circumstances. Left all alone, Angie begins painting backdrops at the Majestic, the theater that took so much of her mother’s life hoping this would give her more insight as to who her mother really was. It appears there is much that was hidden - will uncovering this mystery bring her grief or comfort?

This wonderful mystery comes with plenty of suspense, romance, learning what redemption really means and the knowledge that nothing is too much for God. An early copy of The Majestic Theater Book 1 was received through Wild Heart Books and BookFunnel. These thoughts are my own and were in no way solicited.


6,244 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
July 15, 2026
The Darling's Daughter is the first book I have read by the talented Sydney Schmied. It is, also, the start to their new series, The Majestic Theater. I thought this was a good story to dive into. I enjoyed travelling back in time and meeting Angie and Trace. I liked the mixture of romance, adventure, and suspense within the pages. It was a wonderful tale of faith and the power of forgiveness.




I am going to give The Darling's Daughter four and a half stars. I recommend it for readers who love to read clean Christian Historical Romance. I look forward to reading the installment from The Majestic Theater series to see what Sydney Schmied has in store for their fans next.





I received a digital copy of Sydney Schmied's The Darling's Daughter from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
52 reviews3 followers
August 21, 2026
This book was so good! The plot was so unique and I loved reading about all of the different clues Trace and Angie found. I loved the theme of God's redemptive grace throughout this book. Sydney Schmied truly wrote an amazing story while also weaving a message of God's love all throughout. The characters were really well written and I really enjoyed the twist at the end. While I did suspect the person, I couldn't have guessed how everything worked together. The romance in this was also really well written. I was swooning all the time, and I love how cautious Trace was with Angie's heart. It was really special to read how each of them surrendered the relationship to God, and in turn it all worked out. I am very excited to read the next book in the series and I highly recommend this book! Thank you to Sydney Schmied for this arc. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
1,878 reviews37 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
June 29, 2026
This was a terrific story! I loved the protective hero and the feisty heroine. Trace has a very sad past that he keeps very close to the vest as he's built a new life. I loved him from the start! Angie was pretty much unloved by her famous actress mother, and she yearns to find out the truth of her death months later. When Trace agrees to help her, danger lurks everywhere they turn and death is almost certain! However, this brings them closer and closer together. Will they find out the culprit before they are both killed?
The setting of the Majestic Theater in Ohio is perfect for this murder mystery! I loved the whole story with so many twists!
Profile Image for April Wilson.
478 reviews22 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
July 12, 2026
This is a new author to me, but her novel flowed well and kept me on my toes. There was danger, suspense, doubts, assumptions, bad guys, friendship, family, and trusting hearts all throughout the plot. There are some twists and turns that you might not see coming.

Angie’s mother’s life was shrouded in secrets, and Angie simply wants the truth, but at what price? Trace carries his own secrets but God has changed his life, but the doubts are still there. The truth will set them both free.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and these are my voluntary and honest opinions. I was not required to leave a positive review.
Profile Image for R.K. Scott.
Author 3 books19 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 28, 2026
If you are looking for a sweet historical fiction read that keeps you guessing, The Darling's Daughter by Sydney Schmied needs to go straight to the top of your TBR!

It was so fast-paced with just the right amount of twists and turns, and it completely hit the spot for the kind of cozy, heartwarming historical romance I love. Between the mystery and the wonderful themes of redemption and love, I couldn't put it down.
Profile Image for Shonda.
Author 10 books50 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
June 12, 2026
Great story! Riveting from start to finish with a sweet romance woven in. A fast-paced plot that keeps you guessing right up to the last page. Danger at every turn with secrets and clues that leave you wanting more. The characters' faith and dependence on God play a role in this story. Beautifully crafted to leave the reader breathless!
Profile Image for Terri.
951 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
July 11, 2026
This is a mystery that keeps you guessing until the end. I love a good “who done it” story and this is one of those. We have Angie who has recently lost her famous mother and there’s questions about how she died. We have a construction supervisor who has secrets he wants to keep buried but when his past comes back to haunt him it may cost him everything he wants.

I enjoyed the story.
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