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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
17 books494 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 47 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.
June 7, 2026
Great Read
Love Emily so much. She is a great author. Like most of her books I couldn't put it down read it in one weekend.
Love Emily so much. She is a great author. Like most of her books I couldn't put it down read it in one weekend.
August 7, 2026
⭐️5.5⭐️ (At least!) I want to give this a 6 star rating..but I don't know what a 6 star is...but it's probably THIS! 😂
•If you want to know about the language and things like that, there will be a section at the bottom marked by these (🤐🥰) emojis.
It was clean and just so cute! I really related to the main female character. She has some abandonment issues and hates change.... Samesies! 😂 But I love that she deals with these things and God is brought into that process of excepting change and not being as scared about the unpredictable future. I felt so many emotions through this book. It was just such a good time! 😊
‼️SPOILERS AHEAD‼️
💭 Some of my thoughts throughout the book:
Ooh..she didn't even recognize him...or did she?? 🤔 Anyway...new fear unlocked. 😂
📖 he shouldn’t have been able to accidentally end up next to his former friend. He stilled. Unless, of course, God wanted it this way.
I'm liking where this is heading. 👀😂
📖 But for what purpose? To convey that Hale had misunderstood and shouldn’t have come?
Okay..dude...you almost had it. 🙄😂
📖 He snorted at the memory of Morgan as a girl, retreating onto a bench in the yard each time the dogs bounded out to them. He used to stand in front of her, greeting the animals and distracting them from her until they’d calmed down. He’d been happy to be her protector, and she’d been happy for his help—until the time he teased her for her fear in front of their classmates. She’d stopped talking to him for two days. He apologized in the most dramatic fashion his ten-year-old brain could muster—taping a sign that said I’m sorry to her bedroom window.
Aww! That's so sweet though. A ten year old apologizing to his friend like that? 🥹
Samson is breaking my heart! This poor baby! 🥺 And Hale wanting to help him because he "struggled to reintegrate into normal life too"....I'm sad for both of them.
The PTSD dreams are making me sad. ☹️
📖 Her vision stopped on the top line, where Mr. Bachelor had written his name. Hale Bastian?
Ooh. I wondered how she would find out she knew him and if it would drag on or not. I'm glad she's finding out pretty soon into the book. 😁
💬 "You left without even saying goodbye. You ghosted me.”
💬 "Not until after you did.”
He didn't even say goodbye?!? He just kissed her and left??? 🫢 Also, that response...I feel some miscommunication coming on. 😂
💬 "You were my best friend.”
You don't know the context, but let me just say...wow, that hurt my soul. 🙃
Stop kicking me while I'm down. 😂
💬 “I saw the writing on the wall.”
💬 "Which was what?”
💬 "That you didn’t care as much as I did.” She tilted her head, her eyes tired and sad. 💬 “I cared so much."
If they would've just talked it out!! I can't say too much though, because I'm also not one to lay all of my thoughts bare and risk someone telling me the hard truth. 😅
Okay. It was funny before. Actually stop. 😂
📖 She’d taken a step back. He’d stopped responding.
She pulled away and stopped talking to him because she was hurt and he took that as her not wanting to ever talk again....are you kidding?! I'm stressed. 😂
💬 “You were married?”
💬 "Engaged.”
*Le gasp....Le....GASP!* 🫢
📖 He knew that feeling well. It had prevented him from answering her messages after he’d moved away. What would the point have been? Their lives were headed in different directions.
This is painful. 🫠
STAWWWP!
📖 Instead of looking to him for help or comfort as she once might have, she stared toward the front walk.
That is truly such a heart wrenching pain, no longer getting comfort from that person you always went to for it. 🥺
📖 Morgan compensated for her hyperawareness of Hale at the fundraising committee meeting by ignoring him.
I hate how much I relate to this. 😂
📖 Hale’s suggestions would dash her carefully laid plans, changing something that had once been dear to her and her aunt into an event that was both unrecognizable and impossible for her to contribute to in any significant way.
I don't like change either, but changing THIS part to NOT have to deal with the change of LOSING the WHOLE place, feels like a good compromise to make.
📖 They may not be buddies anymore, but maybe he wished they were. Because he wanted to comfort her, make her smile, carry her burdens.
Then teeeellllllllll her thaaaaaattt! I wouldn't but YOU should! 😂
📖 Some part of her was apparently hoping he’d morph back into her best friend.
These lines are getting too relatable for me. 😅
💬 "Come with us?” Now he really had her heartstrings in the palm of his hand.
Something is wrong with Dax and he wants Morgan to come with them to the emergency clinic! 🥺 They still need each other!
💬 “Lord, help him. Please.” He exhaled the prayer as he stepped back and shut the door, quietly enough that she doubted he meant for her to hear, let alone to respond.
So...I'm able to cry. 🥺😅
💬 “How do you think two people get to know each other again after so long? It’s strange, knowing someone so well once and now, not.”
🥺 This is too painful and relatable. 😅
📖 He might as well put his cards on the table, if she cared to look at them.
I like this line.
How many times can she say a "hero with a soft spot for dogs"? It's cracking me up. 😂
💬 "We believe God is bigger than we are.” He paused, as if seeking agreement.
💬 "Of course.”
💬 "If He’s bigger, then His plans are too.
Man I feel targeted. I am a lot like this girl. I worry about things that probably won't happen, and I know that, but I still worry. I don't like change. Sometimes God changes our plans...I feel like God wanted me to read this book.
📖 He’d get nowhere denying the truth. He was falling for her.
It's haaaappeninggggggggggg! 😁
📖 Actually, not dating her was supposed to keep them both from hurting each other any more than they already had.
But you're hurting each other by withholding the love you still obviously have for each other! Come on, dude!
📖 She was beginning to suspect he was avoiding her on purpose. So much for being friends.
Felt that. 🫤
💬 “I’ve been thinking. If I have to go, there’s something I think I need to do first.” She knew these words. This was exactly what he’d said to her the day he’d asked— “Can I kiss you?”
AHHHHHH!!
📖 If even Aunt Dorie hadn’t attempted to balance romance with her responsibilities, who was Morgan to think she could manage it?
Morgan...come here so I can slap you. 😂
📖 him being home for her to accidentally-on-purpose encounter him.
😂😂 stalking
💬 “And you haven’t mentioned the neighbor because . . .?” Brady’s footsteps thumped along behind him across the porch. When he didn’t fill in the blank, Brady took the liberty. “Because you know once I heard, I’d remind you of what happened last time you fell for a beautiful woman.”
Okay, butt out! He didn't come across this annoying on the phone call earlier. 😂
💬 “You got your eye on someone else?" -Brady
💬 "I don’t have my eye on anyone.” -Hale
💬 "So you won’t mind if I ask her out.”
💬 “You’re just visiting.”
💬 "So you do mind.”
The way I jerked back when I read that. 😂 How dare you even suggest such a thing, BA-RADY! 😂
📖 He piled his other hand on, sandwiching hers in a more personal way than she’d anticipated. 💬 "Sorry about the scare.”
I'm grossed out already. 😂 This is Brady..not Hale by the way.
📖 He couldn’t bring himself to lump her with his problems when, near her, he felt more at peace than he had in ages.
So then why are we considering leaving?? 😂 You say you want peace....she makes you feel at peace!!
📖 Morgan shook her head. 💬 “Jesus said He already gave us peace. If you don’t sense it, maybe the problem is that you’re trying to fight your own battles instead of trusting God.” His laugh soured in his throat. 💬 “You’re one to talk. Seems to me you trust your plans a lot more than God with the way you run around trying to control everything."
Man, I feel called out. I do trust God, but I have a hard time not spiraling when my plans change. 🫤
📖 Brady smirked. “Remember the day I met Tanya?” “You asked her out right in front of me.” “And you . . .” “Laughed. She was engaged to me. I don’t know what you expected to happen.” “I expected rejection a lot quicker than I got it. And when she didn’t shut me down, I expected you to tell me off.” “So I’m not the jealous type.” “That was a good working theory until last night.”
Oop. He called him out. Also..really, Tanya??
A tornado?? 😱
Someone came and got Samson!! Yay..but also.... 🥺
📖 He wanted peace. Samson being ripped away from him would feel like the opposite. How could she tell him the dog he’d trained daily for months, the one he’d built a relationship with to adopt, was gone?
So..I'm about to cry
📖 Maybe that was one benefit to continuously finding herself in situations so far beyond herself—they forced her to turn again and again to God.
Yes! Had a time like this that I was so lost and so sad that I ran to God. I'm so happy He allowed me to go through that hard time to grow closer to Him.
💬 "Promise me this time you’ll say goodbye. That I won’t just go over one day and find your place empty.”
💬 "I promise.”
My heart hurts. 🥺
Kerry...well, well, well, look who has come crawling back! 😂 This is why you let God fight your battles, people! 😂
💬 “Yeah. Except he’s leaving like people are prone to do.” The words cut like thorns pulled from deep in her flesh, a wound she didn’t usually let herself think about too much.
Hmmmm. 🤔 She thinks like me. Fear of abandonment issues here! 🙋🏻♀️😂
💬 “You have to tell him. If you want to truly connect with anyone, you have to be real. Risk being vulnerable.”
I'm literally about to cry at this point. That last line. God, did You want me to read this? 😅 I feel like You're trying to tell me something.
📖 Going and giving her heart to a man with an exit strategy already in motion would be asking to obliterate the remains of her already broken heart.
That makes me have a knot in my stomach just thinking about it. 😅
📖 He had to try laying it all out for her. “I like you, Morgan. I’d like to pursue this. See what the future holds.”
Where are the men who say stuff like this?!? He just TOLD her how he was feeling..that shouldn't be crazy. 😂 If Morgan messes this up I will be so upset.
Aaaand she went home. 🙃 but he understands because he wanted to run away too..so he's trusting God to lead her on what to do about them! Ahhh! 😆
📖Hale rolled lengths of orange safety fencing to encircle the agility course, and when their eyes met, he smiled as though he hadn’t offered his heart only for her to walk away.
Are you kidding!? He's just going to smile?? He's not mad, he's giving her time! Oh my word!
I'm going to cry! Dorie DID want a family!!
💬 "I think she was least likely to mention wanting a family to you because, in you, she felt like she had a daughter. I was jealous of your connection with her from time to time, especially when you asked to stay with her instead of moving with us. I refused at first, remember? But your father and I talked at length, and it was what you really wanted. In a way, maybe that prayer of hers was answered after all.”
Stoppp! 🥹
💬 “Except you’re not staying.” So, yes, she’d stooped to baiting him. She wanted him to stay. She suspected he planned to. And yet, instead of just asking, she went and said something like that.
I don't think I was supposed to laugh at that...but that is SUCH a thing I would do. 😅😂
Samson reunion!!!
💬 "I can’t tell you how grateful we are that he found his way to someone who looked out for him the way you did.”
I'm going to cry! 🥹
The proposal!! Are you kidding me?!? I'm so happy! 😂
I can't begin to tell you how much I LOVED this book! 💕😁🐾
•
•
•
•
•
🤐 Absolutely none!
🥰 A few kisses. 3, if I remember correctly. They aren't really described at all. Just sweet. One was spent thinking about what it could mean rather than actually describing the kiss.
•Side notes:
Morgan talks about how his muscles look in his shirt....it wasn't to too much. But it was there. 😂 Several times, not in great detail though. 😅
•If you want to know about the language and things like that, there will be a section at the bottom marked by these (🤐🥰) emojis.
It was clean and just so cute! I really related to the main female character. She has some abandonment issues and hates change.... Samesies! 😂 But I love that she deals with these things and God is brought into that process of excepting change and not being as scared about the unpredictable future. I felt so many emotions through this book. It was just such a good time! 😊
‼️SPOILERS AHEAD‼️
💭 Some of my thoughts throughout the book:
Ooh..she didn't even recognize him...or did she?? 🤔 Anyway...new fear unlocked. 😂
📖 he shouldn’t have been able to accidentally end up next to his former friend. He stilled. Unless, of course, God wanted it this way.
I'm liking where this is heading. 👀😂
📖 But for what purpose? To convey that Hale had misunderstood and shouldn’t have come?
Okay..dude...you almost had it. 🙄😂
📖 He snorted at the memory of Morgan as a girl, retreating onto a bench in the yard each time the dogs bounded out to them. He used to stand in front of her, greeting the animals and distracting them from her until they’d calmed down. He’d been happy to be her protector, and she’d been happy for his help—until the time he teased her for her fear in front of their classmates. She’d stopped talking to him for two days. He apologized in the most dramatic fashion his ten-year-old brain could muster—taping a sign that said I’m sorry to her bedroom window.
Aww! That's so sweet though. A ten year old apologizing to his friend like that? 🥹
Samson is breaking my heart! This poor baby! 🥺 And Hale wanting to help him because he "struggled to reintegrate into normal life too"....I'm sad for both of them.
The PTSD dreams are making me sad. ☹️
📖 Her vision stopped on the top line, where Mr. Bachelor had written his name. Hale Bastian?
Ooh. I wondered how she would find out she knew him and if it would drag on or not. I'm glad she's finding out pretty soon into the book. 😁
💬 "You left without even saying goodbye. You ghosted me.”
💬 "Not until after you did.”
He didn't even say goodbye?!? He just kissed her and left??? 🫢 Also, that response...I feel some miscommunication coming on. 😂
💬 "You were my best friend.”
You don't know the context, but let me just say...wow, that hurt my soul. 🙃
Stop kicking me while I'm down. 😂
💬 “I saw the writing on the wall.”
💬 "Which was what?”
💬 "That you didn’t care as much as I did.” She tilted her head, her eyes tired and sad. 💬 “I cared so much."
If they would've just talked it out!! I can't say too much though, because I'm also not one to lay all of my thoughts bare and risk someone telling me the hard truth. 😅
Okay. It was funny before. Actually stop. 😂
📖 She’d taken a step back. He’d stopped responding.
She pulled away and stopped talking to him because she was hurt and he took that as her not wanting to ever talk again....are you kidding?! I'm stressed. 😂
💬 “You were married?”
💬 "Engaged.”
*Le gasp....Le....GASP!* 🫢
📖 He knew that feeling well. It had prevented him from answering her messages after he’d moved away. What would the point have been? Their lives were headed in different directions.
This is painful. 🫠
STAWWWP!
📖 Instead of looking to him for help or comfort as she once might have, she stared toward the front walk.
That is truly such a heart wrenching pain, no longer getting comfort from that person you always went to for it. 🥺
📖 Morgan compensated for her hyperawareness of Hale at the fundraising committee meeting by ignoring him.
I hate how much I relate to this. 😂
📖 Hale’s suggestions would dash her carefully laid plans, changing something that had once been dear to her and her aunt into an event that was both unrecognizable and impossible for her to contribute to in any significant way.
I don't like change either, but changing THIS part to NOT have to deal with the change of LOSING the WHOLE place, feels like a good compromise to make.
📖 They may not be buddies anymore, but maybe he wished they were. Because he wanted to comfort her, make her smile, carry her burdens.
Then teeeellllllllll her thaaaaaattt! I wouldn't but YOU should! 😂
📖 Some part of her was apparently hoping he’d morph back into her best friend.
These lines are getting too relatable for me. 😅
💬 "Come with us?” Now he really had her heartstrings in the palm of his hand.
Something is wrong with Dax and he wants Morgan to come with them to the emergency clinic! 🥺 They still need each other!
💬 “Lord, help him. Please.” He exhaled the prayer as he stepped back and shut the door, quietly enough that she doubted he meant for her to hear, let alone to respond.
So...I'm able to cry. 🥺😅
💬 “How do you think two people get to know each other again after so long? It’s strange, knowing someone so well once and now, not.”
🥺 This is too painful and relatable. 😅
📖 He might as well put his cards on the table, if she cared to look at them.
I like this line.
How many times can she say a "hero with a soft spot for dogs"? It's cracking me up. 😂
💬 "We believe God is bigger than we are.” He paused, as if seeking agreement.
💬 "Of course.”
💬 "If He’s bigger, then His plans are too.
Man I feel targeted. I am a lot like this girl. I worry about things that probably won't happen, and I know that, but I still worry. I don't like change. Sometimes God changes our plans...I feel like God wanted me to read this book.
📖 He’d get nowhere denying the truth. He was falling for her.
It's haaaappeninggggggggggg! 😁
📖 Actually, not dating her was supposed to keep them both from hurting each other any more than they already had.
But you're hurting each other by withholding the love you still obviously have for each other! Come on, dude!
📖 She was beginning to suspect he was avoiding her on purpose. So much for being friends.
Felt that. 🫤
💬 “I’ve been thinking. If I have to go, there’s something I think I need to do first.” She knew these words. This was exactly what he’d said to her the day he’d asked— “Can I kiss you?”
AHHHHHH!!
📖 If even Aunt Dorie hadn’t attempted to balance romance with her responsibilities, who was Morgan to think she could manage it?
Morgan...come here so I can slap you. 😂
📖 him being home for her to accidentally-on-purpose encounter him.
😂😂 stalking
💬 “And you haven’t mentioned the neighbor because . . .?” Brady’s footsteps thumped along behind him across the porch. When he didn’t fill in the blank, Brady took the liberty. “Because you know once I heard, I’d remind you of what happened last time you fell for a beautiful woman.”
Okay, butt out! He didn't come across this annoying on the phone call earlier. 😂
💬 “You got your eye on someone else?" -Brady
💬 "I don’t have my eye on anyone.” -Hale
💬 "So you won’t mind if I ask her out.”
💬 “You’re just visiting.”
💬 "So you do mind.”
The way I jerked back when I read that. 😂 How dare you even suggest such a thing, BA-RADY! 😂
📖 He piled his other hand on, sandwiching hers in a more personal way than she’d anticipated. 💬 "Sorry about the scare.”
I'm grossed out already. 😂 This is Brady..not Hale by the way.
📖 He couldn’t bring himself to lump her with his problems when, near her, he felt more at peace than he had in ages.
So then why are we considering leaving?? 😂 You say you want peace....she makes you feel at peace!!
📖 Morgan shook her head. 💬 “Jesus said He already gave us peace. If you don’t sense it, maybe the problem is that you’re trying to fight your own battles instead of trusting God.” His laugh soured in his throat. 💬 “You’re one to talk. Seems to me you trust your plans a lot more than God with the way you run around trying to control everything."
Man, I feel called out. I do trust God, but I have a hard time not spiraling when my plans change. 🫤
📖 Brady smirked. “Remember the day I met Tanya?” “You asked her out right in front of me.” “And you . . .” “Laughed. She was engaged to me. I don’t know what you expected to happen.” “I expected rejection a lot quicker than I got it. And when she didn’t shut me down, I expected you to tell me off.” “So I’m not the jealous type.” “That was a good working theory until last night.”
Oop. He called him out. Also..really, Tanya??
A tornado?? 😱
Someone came and got Samson!! Yay..but also.... 🥺
📖 He wanted peace. Samson being ripped away from him would feel like the opposite. How could she tell him the dog he’d trained daily for months, the one he’d built a relationship with to adopt, was gone?
So..I'm about to cry
📖 Maybe that was one benefit to continuously finding herself in situations so far beyond herself—they forced her to turn again and again to God.
Yes! Had a time like this that I was so lost and so sad that I ran to God. I'm so happy He allowed me to go through that hard time to grow closer to Him.
💬 "Promise me this time you’ll say goodbye. That I won’t just go over one day and find your place empty.”
💬 "I promise.”
My heart hurts. 🥺
Kerry...well, well, well, look who has come crawling back! 😂 This is why you let God fight your battles, people! 😂
💬 “Yeah. Except he’s leaving like people are prone to do.” The words cut like thorns pulled from deep in her flesh, a wound she didn’t usually let herself think about too much.
Hmmmm. 🤔 She thinks like me. Fear of abandonment issues here! 🙋🏻♀️😂
💬 “You have to tell him. If you want to truly connect with anyone, you have to be real. Risk being vulnerable.”
I'm literally about to cry at this point. That last line. God, did You want me to read this? 😅 I feel like You're trying to tell me something.
📖 Going and giving her heart to a man with an exit strategy already in motion would be asking to obliterate the remains of her already broken heart.
That makes me have a knot in my stomach just thinking about it. 😅
📖 He had to try laying it all out for her. “I like you, Morgan. I’d like to pursue this. See what the future holds.”
Where are the men who say stuff like this?!? He just TOLD her how he was feeling..that shouldn't be crazy. 😂 If Morgan messes this up I will be so upset.
Aaaand she went home. 🙃 but he understands because he wanted to run away too..so he's trusting God to lead her on what to do about them! Ahhh! 😆
📖Hale rolled lengths of orange safety fencing to encircle the agility course, and when their eyes met, he smiled as though he hadn’t offered his heart only for her to walk away.
Are you kidding!? He's just going to smile?? He's not mad, he's giving her time! Oh my word!
I'm going to cry! Dorie DID want a family!!
💬 "I think she was least likely to mention wanting a family to you because, in you, she felt like she had a daughter. I was jealous of your connection with her from time to time, especially when you asked to stay with her instead of moving with us. I refused at first, remember? But your father and I talked at length, and it was what you really wanted. In a way, maybe that prayer of hers was answered after all.”
Stoppp! 🥹
💬 “Except you’re not staying.” So, yes, she’d stooped to baiting him. She wanted him to stay. She suspected he planned to. And yet, instead of just asking, she went and said something like that.
I don't think I was supposed to laugh at that...but that is SUCH a thing I would do. 😅😂
Samson reunion!!!
💬 "I can’t tell you how grateful we are that he found his way to someone who looked out for him the way you did.”
I'm going to cry! 🥹
The proposal!! Are you kidding me?!? I'm so happy! 😂
I can't begin to tell you how much I LOVED this book! 💕😁🐾
•
•
•
•
•
🤐 Absolutely none!
🥰 A few kisses. 3, if I remember correctly. They aren't really described at all. Just sweet. One was spent thinking about what it could mean rather than actually describing the kiss.
•Side notes:
Morgan talks about how his muscles look in his shirt....it wasn't to too much. But it was there. 😂 Several times, not in great detail though. 😅
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...
August 6, 2026
ARC REVIEW:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Returning to Chimney Creek (Wisconsin), Hale Bastian is looking for a fresh start. As a former combat veteran, the quiet, small-town appears to be the ideal location for solace. After all, it was the last place he truly felt happy.
To Hale’s utter shock, Chimney Creek is exactly as he left it, including his next-door neighbor (Morgan Reynolds). Unfortunately, Hale and Morgan didn’t leave off on good terms. However, when the local animal shelter faces shutdown, the pair put aside their differences.
Will Hale and Morgan find a way to save the shelter, or will be forced to admit defeat?
On the Fence About You served as my introduction to Emily Conrad. I am so happy to have found Conrad’s writing as she penned a beautiful contemporary Christian romance. I appreciated that this book wasn’t afraid to tackle difficult subject matter while ultimately reminding readers that hope is never lost.
On The Fence About You features:
- MMC combat veteran
-FMC veterinarian
-second chance romance
-childhood crushes
-enemies to more
-forced proximity
-small town setting
-lovable animals
*Trigger Warning: this book does discuss the aftermath of a loved one’s passing as well as war. Both topics are handled with care and necessary for the plot/ character arcs.
One the Fence About You serves as the series starter for Conrad’s Chimney Creek Romance Series. I look forward to staying in the world of Chimney Creek and reading more of Conrad’s work.
I received a complementary copy (electronic) courtesy of Hope Anchor LLC and Emily Conrad. This is an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Returning to Chimney Creek (Wisconsin), Hale Bastian is looking for a fresh start. As a former combat veteran, the quiet, small-town appears to be the ideal location for solace. After all, it was the last place he truly felt happy.
To Hale’s utter shock, Chimney Creek is exactly as he left it, including his next-door neighbor (Morgan Reynolds). Unfortunately, Hale and Morgan didn’t leave off on good terms. However, when the local animal shelter faces shutdown, the pair put aside their differences.
Will Hale and Morgan find a way to save the shelter, or will be forced to admit defeat?
On the Fence About You served as my introduction to Emily Conrad. I am so happy to have found Conrad’s writing as she penned a beautiful contemporary Christian romance. I appreciated that this book wasn’t afraid to tackle difficult subject matter while ultimately reminding readers that hope is never lost.
On The Fence About You features:
- MMC combat veteran
-FMC veterinarian
-second chance romance
-childhood crushes
-enemies to more
-forced proximity
-small town setting
-lovable animals
*Trigger Warning: this book does discuss the aftermath of a loved one’s passing as well as war. Both topics are handled with care and necessary for the plot/ character arcs.
One the Fence About You serves as the series starter for Conrad’s Chimney Creek Romance Series. I look forward to staying in the world of Chimney Creek and reading more of Conrad’s work.
I received a complementary copy (electronic) courtesy of Hope Anchor LLC and Emily Conrad. This is an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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!
July 17, 2026
4.5 stars!
I just love Emily Conrad's writing. I can always expect a swoony romance, lovely faith thread, and a lot of smiles on my face while I'm reading. That's all true of One the Fence About You. It's a sweet romance that will have readers smiling big! Tucked in between the pages is a sweet lesson - one you'll have to read to find out what it is ;)
If you're looking for a quick read, sweet romance, and swoony hero - look no further. It's right here in Conrad's book!
I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a favorable review.
I just love Emily Conrad's writing. I can always expect a swoony romance, lovely faith thread, and a lot of smiles on my face while I'm reading. That's all true of One the Fence About You. It's a sweet romance that will have readers smiling big! Tucked in between the pages is a sweet lesson - one you'll have to read to find out what it is ;)
If you're looking for a quick read, sweet romance, and swoony hero - look no further. It's right here in Conrad's book!
I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a favorable review.
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.
June 6, 2026
Another delightful novel from Emily Conrad! I greatly enjoyed reading Morgan & Hale’s story. The characters are very realistic & relatable. Watching how they were able to work through their past traumas, find a focus on faith, and become better for it, made for a great storyline. And it was a delight to see the brief cameo from a character from the Rhythms of Redemption series. Looking forward to the next book!
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.
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