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On the Fence About You: A small-town Christian Romance
If good fences make good neighbors, these former childhood sweethearts are doomed to stay enemies.
Combat veteran Hale Bastian and veterinarian Morgan Reynolds were best friends in childhood, but since a falling out twenty years ago, they’ve become strangers to each other. So much so that they don't realize Hale bought the house next door to Morgan upon his return to small-town Chimney Creek, Wisconsin. He recognizes his mistake—and her—as soon as his dog jumps her ridiculous little fence and absconds with her dinner. Morgan doesn't recognize him as anything but an inconvenience.
All but sworn enemies, they'd avoid each other if not for their devotion to the local animal shelter, where Morgan's animal-loving aunt used to take them as children. If they hope to raise enough funds to save the shelter, the animals in its care, and her aunt’s legacy, Morgan and Hale will need to work together, and that means confronting their painful past.
When their growing connection threatens the peace Hale’s fought so hard to find and Morgan’s carefully crafted plans, it seems they can’t have it all. But what if all they need is waiting just on the other side of the fence?
A warmhearted and faith-filled clean romance about surrendering your plans, finding peace, and, of course, loving your neighbor.
Combat veteran Hale Bastian and veterinarian Morgan Reynolds were best friends in childhood, but since a falling out twenty years ago, they’ve become strangers to each other. So much so that they don't realize Hale bought the house next door to Morgan upon his return to small-town Chimney Creek, Wisconsin. He recognizes his mistake—and her—as soon as his dog jumps her ridiculous little fence and absconds with her dinner. Morgan doesn't recognize him as anything but an inconvenience.
All but sworn enemies, they'd avoid each other if not for their devotion to the local animal shelter, where Morgan's animal-loving aunt used to take them as children. If they hope to raise enough funds to save the shelter, the animals in its care, and her aunt’s legacy, Morgan and Hale will need to work together, and that means confronting their painful past.
When their growing connection threatens the peace Hale’s fought so hard to find and Morgan’s carefully crafted plans, it seems they can’t have it all. But what if all they need is waiting just on the other side of the fence?
A warmhearted and faith-filled clean romance about surrendering your plans, finding peace, and, of course, loving your neighbor.
197 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 11, 2026
About the author
Emily Conrad
15 books478 followersEmily Conrad writes contemporary Christian romance that explores life’s relevant questions. Though she likes to think some of her characters are pretty great, the ultimate hero of her stories (including the one she’s living) is Jesus. She lives in Wisconsin with her husband and their energetic coonhound and two lop-eared bunny rescues. Learn more about her and her books at emilyconradauthor.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
June 3, 2026
What a lovely story! I just wanted to support this sweet author initially as I try to often but I did really enjoy it I must say. :)It had wonderful Christian/spiritual aspects throughout, themes of acting graciously as possible despite the wearisome people as they always exist of course. Some miscommunication/lack of it I suppose in a sense but there was marvelous resolution. The main FMC was a bit prickly at first but she came around thankfully. A Bible verse that stood out to me as being applicable to this book was Romans 8:28 with all things working together for the good , for those that love him. Even when circumstances appear to be horrible as we can't understand why a situation is occurring; the Lord can use it for a blessing and to our benefit regardless as it did here as well as in real life yes.
My first buy for this author but will gladly read more by her as it is certainly able to be recommended to anyone sure:) *The dog aspects and cute cover were bonuses too*
My first buy for this author but will gladly read more by her as it is certainly able to be recommended to anyone sure:) *The dog aspects and cute cover were bonuses too*
May 14, 2026
This was an enjoyable no spice Christian contemporary romance with a veteran hero and a veterinarian heroine. Set in a small town in Wisconsin, these childhood friends are now neighbors and the sparks are flying as they aren’t quite getting along. From Hale’s dog stealing Morgan’s dinner, to an animal shelter, fundraising, and more, these two are off kilter even after attempting to put the past to rest. I enjoyed this new small town and the time spent with the dogs, the efforts to raise money to save the shelter, and more. It was a lovely start to this series. The romance is just kisses, intimacy level 1.
TW: PTSD, Mentions of War, Past Death of Family
I received an ARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
TW: PTSD, Mentions of War, Past Death of Family
I received an ARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
May 16, 2026
On the Fence About You by Emily Conrad is a great start to her Chimney Creek Romance series. We are introduced to Hale and Morgan when Hale's dog invades Morgan's yard by jumping the fence and getting tangled up on her grill. Hale had just moved in to town and we discover that he is looking for a place to find peace. Yet from the get-go he gets antagonism. Not only is Morgan judgmental of his ability to care for his dog Dax, Hale realizes that she doesn't recognize him, even though he realizes that she is his childhood best friend.
I love that the book is centered around these two old friends who are now sort of enemies. I also love that they are both vets. Hale is a veteran and Morgan is a veterinarian. The main thing they have in common is that they both care about the future of the animal shelter. A future that is up in the air due to a lack of finances. Even though this is something that unites them, it also brings about more tension because Morgan doesn't like having her plans changed. Let me tell you, I could relate to Morgan in that. I loved seeing their relationship evolve as they worked together for a common goal. But they do have a lot they need to work through.
I love how the town rallies in the face of disaster. I'm a huge fan of small towns and how close-knit they can be. Though we do also see the downfalls of small towns when we see how easy it is for one person to turn so many against another person.
Faith is an important part of these characters' lives and we see them learn to rely on God and realize that their own understanding isn't something they should be leaning on. Psalm 23 plays an integral role as well.
I also have to say that I absolutely loved the animal characters in this book. There are some hijinks and some serious scenes and I loved seeing Hale work with a dog that appeared to have been abused.
I admit that there were a couple of things that I was hoping to see happen that didn't, but that didn't change how I feel about the book. And I have to say, that epilogue was perfection.
I can't wait for more of this series. And now I have a bunch of the author's previous books to go read, especially because I learned that their was a cameo by a character from an earlier book. So, I have to go see if I can figure out who it was and learn that person's story.
I highly recommend this book.
I received an e-copy of this book as a member of the launch team and was not required to write a favorable review. These are my own honest thoughts.
I love that the book is centered around these two old friends who are now sort of enemies. I also love that they are both vets. Hale is a veteran and Morgan is a veterinarian. The main thing they have in common is that they both care about the future of the animal shelter. A future that is up in the air due to a lack of finances. Even though this is something that unites them, it also brings about more tension because Morgan doesn't like having her plans changed. Let me tell you, I could relate to Morgan in that. I loved seeing their relationship evolve as they worked together for a common goal. But they do have a lot they need to work through.
I love how the town rallies in the face of disaster. I'm a huge fan of small towns and how close-knit they can be. Though we do also see the downfalls of small towns when we see how easy it is for one person to turn so many against another person.
Faith is an important part of these characters' lives and we see them learn to rely on God and realize that their own understanding isn't something they should be leaning on. Psalm 23 plays an integral role as well.
I also have to say that I absolutely loved the animal characters in this book. There are some hijinks and some serious scenes and I loved seeing Hale work with a dog that appeared to have been abused.
I admit that there were a couple of things that I was hoping to see happen that didn't, but that didn't change how I feel about the book. And I have to say, that epilogue was perfection.
I can't wait for more of this series. And now I have a bunch of the author's previous books to go read, especially because I learned that their was a cameo by a character from an earlier book. So, I have to go see if I can figure out who it was and learn that person's story.
I highly recommend this book.
I received an e-copy of this book as a member of the launch team and was not required to write a favorable review. These are my own honest thoughts.
May 11, 2026
Hale returned to his early childhood home of Chimney Creek hoping for the peace he used to find there. He never expected to find his childhood friend Morgan, as his next door neighbour. The end of their friendship was rocky, but he can't help wanting to start fresh - if only she'll let him. In fact, the more he sees of her, the more he'd like... more. But when his new start is bringing more conflict than peace, he begins to doubt the wisdom of his return. Can this pair face their fears, and in doing so, unlock a future bigger than either dreamed?
This book was a breath of fresh air, while still having plenty of depth and emotion. From the moment Hale's dog stole Morgan's dinner and she confronted him over the danger of dogs eating chicken bones, I was hooked - and it held my attention as I got to know both of them better and understood why Hale wasn't worried about his dog managing, and why Morgan was so eager to control things and solve problems before they could arise. Hale's problem client roused frustration, indignation and empathy (for him!), and the folk at the dog shelter were good supporting characters. Overall, the whole thing was a heartwarming, amusing and delightful read, including a helpful and inspiring faith thread. Recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This book was a breath of fresh air, while still having plenty of depth and emotion. From the moment Hale's dog stole Morgan's dinner and she confronted him over the danger of dogs eating chicken bones, I was hooked - and it held my attention as I got to know both of them better and understood why Hale wasn't worried about his dog managing, and why Morgan was so eager to control things and solve problems before they could arise. Hale's problem client roused frustration, indignation and empathy (for him!), and the folk at the dog shelter were good supporting characters. Overall, the whole thing was a heartwarming, amusing and delightful read, including a helpful and inspiring faith thread. Recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This review is based on a free advance copy I received from the author.
Emily Conrad never fails to disappoint. I always look forward to making new friends through her characters, while discovering new towns and all the special places within them. This story is an easy read, in that it does not take long to become invested in Hale and Morgan’s story. And it is incredibly hard to put down. But, it is nowhere near a superficial read. It delves into the parts of our lives that affect who we become, the pain we sometimes carry far too long, and the way we often fail to see our part in it all. And it asks questions about forgiveness and redemption we all need to face at some point. Emily allows her characters to have real life flaws, the kind we can easily see within ourselves. And she allows the tension and the struggle to be relatable, rather than unbelievable. This draws you in easily, especially as most of us will be able to relate to the life experiences and faith journeys shared in the story. And let’s not forget the supporting cast. They are quirky, fun, challenging, helpful, and include some precious pups with important lessons to teach, too. So, get off the fence and grab copy of On the Fence About You as soon as it’s available!
Emily Conrad never fails to disappoint. I always look forward to making new friends through her characters, while discovering new towns and all the special places within them. This story is an easy read, in that it does not take long to become invested in Hale and Morgan’s story. And it is incredibly hard to put down. But, it is nowhere near a superficial read. It delves into the parts of our lives that affect who we become, the pain we sometimes carry far too long, and the way we often fail to see our part in it all. And it asks questions about forgiveness and redemption we all need to face at some point. Emily allows her characters to have real life flaws, the kind we can easily see within ourselves. And she allows the tension and the struggle to be relatable, rather than unbelievable. This draws you in easily, especially as most of us will be able to relate to the life experiences and faith journeys shared in the story. And let’s not forget the supporting cast. They are quirky, fun, challenging, helpful, and include some precious pups with important lessons to teach, too. So, get off the fence and grab copy of On the Fence About You as soon as it’s available!
Review of advance copy received from Author
On the Fence About You is a gentle, emotionally resonant start to the Chimney Creek Romances series. It’s a story that leans heavily into the beauty of second chances and the complicated, often messy nature of human relationships, all while maintaining a strong, faith-based core.
Reagan, a woman who has built high walls around her heart to protect herself from past pain. When she finds herself living next door to Gavin, the man who represents the very things she’s been trying to avoid, the literal and metaphorical fences between them begin to crumble.
Gavin is a hero defined by his patience. He isn't looking to "fix" Reagan, but rather to show her that vulnerability isn't a weakness. Their chemistry is a classic slow-burn—built on shared coffee, neighborly favors, and the kind of deep conversations that only happen after the sun goes down.
On the Fence About You is a "hug in a book." It’s perfect for readers who enjoy clean, Christian romance with high emotional stakes. Emily Conrad has crafted a story that is as much about finding oneself as it is about finding love.
You may want to keep some tissues nearby—not because it's a tragedy, but because the moments of emotional breakthrough are genuinely touching.
Reagan, a woman who has built high walls around her heart to protect herself from past pain. When she finds herself living next door to Gavin, the man who represents the very things she’s been trying to avoid, the literal and metaphorical fences between them begin to crumble.
Gavin is a hero defined by his patience. He isn't looking to "fix" Reagan, but rather to show her that vulnerability isn't a weakness. Their chemistry is a classic slow-burn—built on shared coffee, neighborly favors, and the kind of deep conversations that only happen after the sun goes down.
On the Fence About You is a "hug in a book." It’s perfect for readers who enjoy clean, Christian romance with high emotional stakes. Emily Conrad has crafted a story that is as much about finding oneself as it is about finding love.
You may want to keep some tissues nearby—not because it's a tragedy, but because the moments of emotional breakthrough are genuinely touching.
May 11, 2026
Emily Conrad has outdone herself with On the Fence About You. This warmhearted, faith-filled romance explores what happens when we build our lives around protecting our hearts at all costs—and how God gently invites us into something deeper.
As a planner, I deeply related to Morgan’s belief that having a plan meant having protection. And as someone who naturally works hard to keep the peace (flawed mom over here 🙋♀️), I completely understood Hale’s desire to seek peace no matter where it takes him. Their struggles felt real, honest, and beautifully human.
I also loved the small-town charm, the “everyone knows everyone” dynamics, and the way the story ultimately points back to relying on God’s truth over personal experiences and self-protection. Add in the animal shelter storyline, childhood history, and enemies-to-more tension, and this one completely drew me in.
Highly recommend for readers who love clean romance with emotional depth, faith themes, and characters you can truly see yourself in.
{I received an advance reader copy of On the Fence About You, but these thoughts are completely my own.}
As a planner, I deeply related to Morgan’s belief that having a plan meant having protection. And as someone who naturally works hard to keep the peace (flawed mom over here 🙋♀️), I completely understood Hale’s desire to seek peace no matter where it takes him. Their struggles felt real, honest, and beautifully human.
I also loved the small-town charm, the “everyone knows everyone” dynamics, and the way the story ultimately points back to relying on God’s truth over personal experiences and self-protection. Add in the animal shelter storyline, childhood history, and enemies-to-more tension, and this one completely drew me in.
Highly recommend for readers who love clean romance with emotional depth, faith themes, and characters you can truly see yourself in.
{I received an advance reader copy of On the Fence About You, but these thoughts are completely my own.}
Review of advance copy received from Author
"If Mr. Bachelor bribed her dogs into jumping her fence, she could train Dax to . . .Freeze right there. What about this man brought out this side of her? She was not going to use a dog as a pawn in a neighborhood battle of wills. Okay. Maybe a little bit."
Meeting her new neighbor because his dog jumped her fence was not the best way to make a new friend. Morgan didn't recognize her junior high best friend was the new guy next door. Their friendship had ended abruptly when he moved. So that was not helping matters either. Can Morgan find common ground with Hale again? Or are they doomed to be frenemies forever?
This is a highly enjoyable small town fiction book with elements of faith and romance. Morgan is a vet who works for the animal shelter. Hale is a contractor who is trying to make a new life for himself after the military. I enjoyed seeing how the community worked together for the common good. I look forward to reading the next book in the Chimney Creek series!
I was provided with an early copy of this book. I wanted to read and review it. All opinions are my own.
Meeting her new neighbor because his dog jumped her fence was not the best way to make a new friend. Morgan didn't recognize her junior high best friend was the new guy next door. Their friendship had ended abruptly when he moved. So that was not helping matters either. Can Morgan find common ground with Hale again? Or are they doomed to be frenemies forever?
This is a highly enjoyable small town fiction book with elements of faith and romance. Morgan is a vet who works for the animal shelter. Hale is a contractor who is trying to make a new life for himself after the military. I enjoyed seeing how the community worked together for the common good. I look forward to reading the next book in the Chimney Creek series!
I was provided with an early copy of this book. I wanted to read and review it. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved Morgan and Hale's story!! Morgan and Hale were best friends, until his family moved away when they were thirteen. Now, Hale is back, and unknown to him, the house he bought is next door to Morgan. Neither of them are happy about it when they find out, especially since Hale's dog, Dax, jumps over the small fence Morgan has put up, and eats her dinner after stealing it from her charcoal grill. Except, the worst is that Morgan doesn't even recognize Hale. When Hale volunteers to help with the local animal shelter's big fundraiser, he has no idea that Morgan will be involved, and Morgan doesn't know that the new volunteer at the shelter that everyone is talking about is her neighbor. Morgan has to learn that she can't control everything, and that it doesn't hurt to let others in. Hale learns that the peace he's looking for is from God, and not from wherever he happens to live. Love how these two finally get together!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
May 11, 2026
On The Fence About You by Emily Conrad
Chimney Creek Romance Book One
Hale Bastian has finally returned to the one place he believed he’d find peace. Chimney Creek, Wisconsin. His family moved when he was thirteen. He had to leave his best friend, his first love. And worst of all, she’d ghosted him before he left. Now, he’s going to start over. Grow his business as a contractor, volunteer at the dog shelter, and who knows, he might even run into his once best friend.
Morgan Reynolds is the town veterinarian, just like Aunt Dorie had been before her. She loved this town. While she was there, it seems she was left behind as others left. But she had a plan and would stick with it. She does have a problem, though. Her new, very handsome neighbor. She met the lout when his dog jumped the fence and ate her dinner right off the hot grill.
Another great story, although I did shed a few tears, as usual with Emily Conrad’s stories. They always end with the happily-ever-after, though.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
Chimney Creek Romance Book One
Hale Bastian has finally returned to the one place he believed he’d find peace. Chimney Creek, Wisconsin. His family moved when he was thirteen. He had to leave his best friend, his first love. And worst of all, she’d ghosted him before he left. Now, he’s going to start over. Grow his business as a contractor, volunteer at the dog shelter, and who knows, he might even run into his once best friend.
Morgan Reynolds is the town veterinarian, just like Aunt Dorie had been before her. She loved this town. While she was there, it seems she was left behind as others left. But she had a plan and would stick with it. She does have a problem, though. Her new, very handsome neighbor. She met the lout when his dog jumped the fence and ate her dinner right off the hot grill.
Another great story, although I did shed a few tears, as usual with Emily Conrad’s stories. They always end with the happily-ever-after, though.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
May 18, 2026
This is the first book in Emily Conrad’s new series, The Chimney Creek Romances. I have loved all of Emily’s books, most of which take place in various small towns.
This story is also set in a small town, Chimney Creek, Wisconsin where Hale grew up. He is back now seeking peace. And that is his main goal in returning. I found this is a theme not often explored and enjoyed the journey the characters traveled to find peace.
His childhood friend Morgan turns out to not recognize him. And for most of the story she does not trust him, demonstrating that sometimes it is really hard to forgive and forget. And most of the story she was 'on the fence" about Hale.
I loved that dogs also became an integral part of the story. That Morgan was a veterinarian and the Hale had a rescue dog and was involved in helping rescued dogs find homes.
This is a sweet, slow burn romance. I’m certainly looking forward to the next in the series.
Thank you to the author for providing me with is book. The opinions are entirely my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely adored this sweet, heartfelt, and faith-filled romance. Emily Conrad has a way of pulling you into a story and making you feel right at home. And that’s exactly how I felt while reading this story.
Morgan and Hale had a complicated history. They were former best friends who hadn’t spoken or seen each other in 20 years. There was a lot of time to make up and hurts to heal. I really liked both of them and was rooting them on. I really loved all the dogs too.
I loved the charming small town of Chimney Creek and the residents who lived there. I loved seeing the community come together and pitch in when help was needed.
I loved this book so much and can’t recommend it highly enough. If you’re a fan of contemporary romance with a strong thread of faith, don’t hesitate to grab a copy. You’ll love it!
I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
Morgan and Hale had a complicated history. They were former best friends who hadn’t spoken or seen each other in 20 years. There was a lot of time to make up and hurts to heal. I really liked both of them and was rooting them on. I really loved all the dogs too.
I loved the charming small town of Chimney Creek and the residents who lived there. I loved seeing the community come together and pitch in when help was needed.
I loved this book so much and can’t recommend it highly enough. If you’re a fan of contemporary romance with a strong thread of faith, don’t hesitate to grab a copy. You’ll love it!
I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This sweet story of second chances was a reminder that rather than relying on our own plans or expecting things to happen in a certain way, we need to rely of God.
Hale and Morgan went from best friends as children to a painful break in that friendship when Hale’s family moved away. Both of these characters were greatly impacted by how things played out in the past and that impacted the way they reacted to each other upon meeting again.
It was hard to see both Hale and Morgan struggle in their own ways with their disappointments and expectations in how things were going in their lives. But I enjoyed seeing them begin to be drawn to each other and eventually learn to give things over to God. This sweet story is a nice introduction to a new series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
Hale and Morgan went from best friends as children to a painful break in that friendship when Hale’s family moved away. Both of these characters were greatly impacted by how things played out in the past and that impacted the way they reacted to each other upon meeting again.
It was hard to see both Hale and Morgan struggle in their own ways with their disappointments and expectations in how things were going in their lives. But I enjoyed seeing them begin to be drawn to each other and eventually learn to give things over to God. This sweet story is a nice introduction to a new series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
Review of advance copy received from Author
A delightful story about getting a second chance after heartbreak, hurt, and disappointment. Hale and Morgan are searching for really what was inside their heart the whole time; with Christ as their Saviour, all they needed was to surrender to Him. Hale found Him to be the peacemaker for his struggles, and Morgan discovered His plan was greater than any of hers.
Both characters were hurt, running, and afraid to let go of the past. They both find God sufficient for every care they could have. I liked their slowly developing second chance. I received a complementary copy from the author and these are my voluntary opinions. I was not required to leave a positive response.
Both characters were hurt, running, and afraid to let go of the past. They both find God sufficient for every care they could have. I liked their slowly developing second chance. I received a complementary copy from the author and these are my voluntary opinions. I was not required to leave a positive response.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A sweet contemporary romance. I really enjoyed this story. Once childhood friends, now strangers and new neighbors need to figure out where they stand with each other. I love that they both have things they are loving for and trying to force in their own lives but need to learn to look to Christ instead of themselves for the answer. The book was well-written and the characters well-developed. The story is a gentle reminder to trust God in all areas of life, even though He works things maybe a little differently than we would.
I received an ARC and my review is my own.
I received an ARC and my review is my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
On the Fence About You is an inspirational romance about forgiveness and waiting on God's plan. I always enjoy Ms. Conrad's book because of the realistic, God loving characters and the caring, charismatic townspeople. This book has the added bonus of the animal shelter and its inhabitants. I love how Chimney Creek came together to support the animal shelter. Hale had some good ideas to expand the fundraiser and Morgan had to learn to trust others and God rather than her plans. I loved watching this couple reconnect and get their HEA!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is such a cute story with a powerful message.
Small towns are hard, because everyone knows everyone's business. And you can't hide from the one who broke your heart so long ago. (Especially when they move in next door - UGH!)
But small towns are also wonderful, because the people band together. As a community, they can do the hard things.
Throw in an interfering best friend and a bunch of loveable dogs - perfect.
Along the way, maybe the characters can learn to let go of their own plans - as good as their plans seem. Maybe, just maybe, they can learn to trust that God has an even better plan for them. A plan of forgiveness, love, and trust.
It's a hard lesson, but this book is an encouragement to read because God's plans are always so much better than our own. Even if it doesn't always look like it.
(And did I mention the cute and fabulous doggies?!?)
This book is currently available for pre-order on Amazon, and I strongly suggest you go ahead and order it now.
** I received a copy of this book as part of an advanced reader team. I was not obligated to write a review, good or bad. The opinions are my own. **
Small towns are hard, because everyone knows everyone's business. And you can't hide from the one who broke your heart so long ago. (Especially when they move in next door - UGH!)
But small towns are also wonderful, because the people band together. As a community, they can do the hard things.
Throw in an interfering best friend and a bunch of loveable dogs - perfect.
Along the way, maybe the characters can learn to let go of their own plans - as good as their plans seem. Maybe, just maybe, they can learn to trust that God has an even better plan for them. A plan of forgiveness, love, and trust.
It's a hard lesson, but this book is an encouragement to read because God's plans are always so much better than our own. Even if it doesn't always look like it.
(And did I mention the cute and fabulous doggies?!?)
This book is currently available for pre-order on Amazon, and I strongly suggest you go ahead and order it now.
** I received a copy of this book as part of an advanced reader team. I was not obligated to write a review, good or bad. The opinions are my own. **
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is an easy read and simply a delightful and charming book. It was hard to put down. I loved the characters and having dogs as part of the main story made it even better. The faith elements was a huge bonus. A couple of unexpected events made it even more enthralling.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 11, 2026
This was such a beautiful, christian romance showing Morgan and her neighbor, Hale, God’s plan for them and that God was their peacemaker. I liked how Hale and Morgan had been best friends when they were thirteen, before Hale and his family moved away and now they were next door neighbors and had a second chance to be more. The pets, Dax, and Sampson and the Dog Days event added so much to the story. I received an advance copy of this book and I willingly chose to write an honest review.
May 22, 2026
Loved this story!!! I am a fan of Emily's books and this one was one of my new favorites as it had a military veteran, a veterinarian, animals and a sweet reunion of friends who end up letting the past go and falling in love. Emily's books are clean refreshing stories with redemption, forgive, etc, that I love sharing with my teen daughter without the worry of inappropriate scenes.
*I was given an arc copy.
*I was given an arc copy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This sweet second chance story has several different tropes to lure you in:
Second chance
Animal rescue
Veteran
Small town
Close proximity
I enjoyed the growth of the characters as they learn to become more vulnerable with each other. Both have issues from their past that have affected their present. Their HEA will make you smile.
Second chance
Animal rescue
Veteran
Small town
Close proximity
I enjoyed the growth of the characters as they learn to become more vulnerable with each other. Both have issues from their past that have affected their present. Their HEA will make you smile.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Sweet beginning of the new series, Chimney Creek, by Emily Conrad.
Two old friends who parted badly are now neighbors. Can the old hurts be healed or will they settle for just being neighbors?
This one touched my heart and made me appreciate my old friends.
*I received this as an ARC reader and am leaving my unbiased review.
Two old friends who parted badly are now neighbors. Can the old hurts be healed or will they settle for just being neighbors?
This one touched my heart and made me appreciate my old friends.
*I received this as an ARC reader and am leaving my unbiased review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This wonderful story was an absolute delight to read! It has amazing and heartwarming characters, charm, faith, a bit of conflict and dogs! I loved the small town feel of Chimney Creek. Just a well written book that gives you all the feels. It's an entertaining and story with sweet, down to earth characters you have no trouble relating to. Definitely worth the read! Enjoy!
May 18, 2026
A sweet small town story
A sweet story of childhood friends reacquainted, a mischievous dog and learning that God works best when we surrender our plans and trust that He knows better than us.
I received a free advanced copy of this book from the author, but this review is my own.
A sweet story of childhood friends reacquainted, a mischievous dog and learning that God works best when we surrender our plans and trust that He knows better than us.
I received a free advanced copy of this book from the author, but this review is my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is my voluntary review of a copy I was given.
I loved the characters. They seemed realistic in their action and reactions. They obviously had issues to work through but eventually got to their HEA.
I loved that frequent reminder that God is in control.
I loved the characters. They seemed realistic in their action and reactions. They obviously had issues to work through but eventually got to their HEA.
I loved that frequent reminder that God is in control.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I an ARC for this book, but this is my voluntary and honest opinion. Engaging book about a combat veteran contractor and his childhood friend now a Veterinarian and how they reconnect and what moving forward looks like. It features dogs, mistaken ideas about life, and trust.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 Stars
This book captured my attention from the first page but I wasn't always sure how I felt about Morgan and how quick she was to judge Hale who I loved. I was, however, rooting for both of them the whole time!
This book captured my attention from the first page but I wasn't always sure how I felt about Morgan and how quick she was to judge Hale who I loved. I was, however, rooting for both of them the whole time!
Read
May 4, 2026A book full of complications for these two. A past to overcome and a future that takes surrendering to God's will. Easy read that will make you root for these two.
A clean Christian romance. No bad language.
A clean Christian romance. No bad language.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Emily writes stories about everyday, relatable characters with a strong thread of faith.
On the fence about you is a heartwarming second chance story that you will be glad you picked up. I certainly enjoyed it.
On the fence about you is a heartwarming second chance story that you will be glad you picked up. I certainly enjoyed it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was blessed to receive this book in advance for an honest review. Peace is not a particular place or even a person, but in the Peacemaker Himself. Change is hard and we don't like it but when we take down the fence and let it happen, we experience a freedom unlike any other. Very well done!
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