What do you think?
Rate this book
Molly Chase #3
Keeper of Keys
Best to leave the ghosts alone.
Boston, 1793—Federal spies Molly and Josiah Robb have returned to Molly’s childhood home—not to brood on her father’s suicide, but with a mission: woo Boston’s elite and find the traitors infiltrating American intelligence operations. Dinners, parties, church committees, business dealings—the Robbs must throw wide their doors if they are to hear society’s tittle-tattle. Only one door remains locked. No one goes in Papa’s study.
Spinster Anne Lawrence will do anything to placate her wealthy uncle if it means her brother Peter will inherit his fortune. So when Uncle Lawrence asks her to befriend the detestable Molly Robb and hunt down a document hidden in Molly’s house, Anne agrees. Little does she know that she’s being watched in turn.
When Molly tells Josiah that they’re expecting a baby, Josiah is caught between joy and panic—Molly’s late mother lost several children at birth. When Molly’s pregnancy doesn’t go as planned, he wonders if they are reliving her parents’ story.
In this poignant conclusion to the Molly Chase series, Keeper of Keys explores the joys and sorrows of marriage, the weight of sin, the power of mercy, and the true meaning of homecoming.
Boston, 1793—Federal spies Molly and Josiah Robb have returned to Molly’s childhood home—not to brood on her father’s suicide, but with a mission: woo Boston’s elite and find the traitors infiltrating American intelligence operations. Dinners, parties, church committees, business dealings—the Robbs must throw wide their doors if they are to hear society’s tittle-tattle. Only one door remains locked. No one goes in Papa’s study.
Spinster Anne Lawrence will do anything to placate her wealthy uncle if it means her brother Peter will inherit his fortune. So when Uncle Lawrence asks her to befriend the detestable Molly Robb and hunt down a document hidden in Molly’s house, Anne agrees. Little does she know that she’s being watched in turn.
When Molly tells Josiah that they’re expecting a baby, Josiah is caught between joy and panic—Molly’s late mother lost several children at birth. When Molly’s pregnancy doesn’t go as planned, he wonders if they are reliving her parents’ story.
In this poignant conclusion to the Molly Chase series, Keeper of Keys explores the joys and sorrows of marriage, the weight of sin, the power of mercy, and the true meaning of homecoming.
348 pages, Paperback
Published April 9, 2026
About the author
Rhonda Ortiz
5 books87 followersAward-winning novelist and mother of many. // rhondaortiz.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
April 9, 2026
Rhonda Ortiz is a masterful storyteller, and the Molly Chase series is the proof. This stunning conclusion to a trilogy packed with friendship, faith, romance, and espionage in postrevolutionary Boston wrecked me, because the characters are so real, they practically jumped off the page. Note to readers: enjoy the full series in order for the best experience. I can't recommend this book, and this series, enough. It deserves more than 5 stars!
May 10, 2026
The third installment of Rhonda Ortiz’s Molly Chase series outdoes itself in a heart-wrenching conclusion that will linger with you a long time after reading! The work is both a fantastic novel, and a real work of faith – a dual triumph that is difficult to find in the world of fiction!
Though this work was the longest of the series, it certainly did not feel so when reading! The story, as with its predecessors, flew by in the rush of mysterious cliffhangers, both in the social and political realms of the tale.
Anne Lawrence’s introduction as a new point of view character lends yet another aspect to the multi-layered and heavily intertwined stories of characters in in Molly’s Boston society. I appreciated the new point of view since it showed the minds of those who are bent against Molly and Josiah. Anne’s storyline is one several well-crafted and compelling plotlines – each character which Mrs. Ortiz has so masterfully designed has his or her unique qualities and struggles. I might place the Molly Chase series, and Keeper of Keys in particular, among sweeping masterpieces such as Charles Dickens or Victor Hugo might produce. With such a cast of characters, whose stories are all brought to delightful conclusion in Keeper of Keys, Ortiz has produced a work that can stand up among the greats as a work that well represents human life.
In short: Keeper of Keys is a satisfying conclusion to Molly’s story in every way. The political plotline is suitably sorted, marriages take place, family drama is brought to light and resolved in a sweet blend of tragedy and joy.
Though this work was the longest of the series, it certainly did not feel so when reading! The story, as with its predecessors, flew by in the rush of mysterious cliffhangers, both in the social and political realms of the tale.
Anne Lawrence’s introduction as a new point of view character lends yet another aspect to the multi-layered and heavily intertwined stories of characters in in Molly’s Boston society. I appreciated the new point of view since it showed the minds of those who are bent against Molly and Josiah. Anne’s storyline is one several well-crafted and compelling plotlines – each character which Mrs. Ortiz has so masterfully designed has his or her unique qualities and struggles. I might place the Molly Chase series, and Keeper of Keys in particular, among sweeping masterpieces such as Charles Dickens or Victor Hugo might produce. With such a cast of characters, whose stories are all brought to delightful conclusion in Keeper of Keys, Ortiz has produced a work that can stand up among the greats as a work that well represents human life.
In short: Keeper of Keys is a satisfying conclusion to Molly’s story in every way. The political plotline is suitably sorted, marriages take place, family drama is brought to light and resolved in a sweet blend of tragedy and joy.
May 8, 2026
Wonderful conclusion to the Molly Chase series. Ortiz has captured the journey of faith for the main characters with an inspired flair. The twists and turns lead the reader on a informed journey placed in an interesting period of history. Definitely a must read for lovers of historical fiction and spiritual journeys.
Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are mine.
Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are mine.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am speechless over the conclusion of the Molly Chase series. I finished this story through my ARC a few weeks ago as part of Rhonda's launch team, and I have been ruminating on it since. Rhonda proves herself an extraordinary storyteller with character development that truly pulls at your heart strings. The facet of Rhonda's writing that impresses me most is that she weaves in lessons that make a reader self-reflect. It's not what she "says" (though her prose is some of the best I have ever had the enjoyment of reading), but how she displays her characters' navigation of hard life lessons, struggles, teachings, and wrestlings. Common themes in this final novel are family, duty, love, faith, and what it means to be whole.
The Molly Chase series is one that I will return to again and again and again. Keeper of Keys is a beautiful culmination of adventure, heartache, wit, and family life that will delight any reader who enjoys thoughtful writing and strongly researched historical fiction.
*** This review is completely honest. I was a member of the launch team, and read an advanced reader copy, but was not compensated for my review, and all thoughts are my own.
The Molly Chase series is one that I will return to again and again and again. Keeper of Keys is a beautiful culmination of adventure, heartache, wit, and family life that will delight any reader who enjoys thoughtful writing and strongly researched historical fiction.
*** This review is completely honest. I was a member of the launch team, and read an advanced reader copy, but was not compensated for my review, and all thoughts are my own.
May 11, 2026
As the third and final book in the Molly Chase series, Keeper of Keys was both a wonderful read and a bittersweet goodbye. Ortiz has become one of my favorite Christian novelists, and this book reminded me why. She knows how to tell a story that keeps the reader engaged, with twists, turns, and surprises that never feel contrived. Her research is impeccable—especially the historical details and nautical terminology—which adds such richness and authenticity to the story.
But what I appreciate most is her willingness to tackle difficult subjects that are too often avoided in Christian fiction. Life is complicated, and faith journeys are rarely tidy. Ortiz understands that. She also has a gift for weaving in pearls of wisdom without ever sounding preachy.
Her command of language is excellent, but beyond that, she creates characters who feel real enough that you rejoice with them, grieve with them, and become invested in their journeys. To me, that is the mark of a gifted novelist.
It was hard to say goodbye to Molly and Josiah, which may be the highest compliment I can give. I am already looking forward to whatever Ortiz writes next.
But what I appreciate most is her willingness to tackle difficult subjects that are too often avoided in Christian fiction. Life is complicated, and faith journeys are rarely tidy. Ortiz understands that. She also has a gift for weaving in pearls of wisdom without ever sounding preachy.
Her command of language is excellent, but beyond that, she creates characters who feel real enough that you rejoice with them, grieve with them, and become invested in their journeys. To me, that is the mark of a gifted novelist.
It was hard to say goodbye to Molly and Josiah, which may be the highest compliment I can give. I am already looking forward to whatever Ortiz writes next.
Review of advance copy
Wow! Rhonda Ortiz has done it again with Keeper of Keys, her conclusion of the Molly Chase series. Readers are in for an unforgettable ride. I loved In Pieces and Adrift, but Keeper of Keys is nothing short of masterful! Ortiz’s writing made my heart pound and my soul stir. I laughed, cried, worried, and cheered. I could feel and picture it all. Her research is impeccable, the dialogue is clever, and her writing is everything readers of historical fiction could hope for. Ortiz’s further revelations of her intriguing characters and exciting plot deserve all the awards the Keeper of Keys is sure to win. For Molly Chase fans, a film or mini-series would truly be the icing on the cake. Dare we hope? Thank you, Rhonda, for a thoroughly enjoyable and emotional literary adventure.
-Mary Jo Thayer, award-winning author of Close to the Soul.
-Mary Jo Thayer, award-winning author of Close to the Soul.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rhonda Ortiz has done it again. Keeper of Keys is full of intrigue, love, redemption, heartbreak and hope. The trials that are faced are real and beautifully depicted, and the Lord in His goodness is there through it all. You will laugh and you will cry and you may even need to stop to catch your breath. The characters that you have come to love through the first two books in the Molly Chase series will continue to work their way into your heart and if you are like me, you will be sad that it is all coming to an end but oh so happy that you were able to go along for the journey. What an awesome job Rhonda has done providing us with this beautiful story.
Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Author. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Author. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have been waiting for this book for 2 years and am NOT disappointed by the story that Rhonda has given us. In this final book of the Molly Chase series, we are met with love, redemption, suffering, forgiveness, loss and the triumph of the Cross that can only come through a relationship with our Lord. This book is not for the faint of heart and I would be remiss if I did not say I had to stop reading at times to catch my breath or find a tissue to wipe away the tears, but the beauty that shone through this book was incredible.
As this book brings the story of Molly and Josiah to a close, I was grateful for this last adventure with these dear friends. I am sadden to see them go, but I grateful for everything that this book gave me in the meantime. For all those Historical Fiction lovers out there, this is definitely one that you are going to want to read!!
As this book brings the story of Molly and Josiah to a close, I was grateful for this last adventure with these dear friends. I am sadden to see them go, but I grateful for everything that this book gave me in the meantime. For all those Historical Fiction lovers out there, this is definitely one that you are going to want to read!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I cannot recommend this book highly enough. It will make you cry and then some more. Its wit, historical accuracy, and rich characterization will make you wish that you lived in 1790’s Boston—except for all of the sad parts about living in 1790’s Boston, those will make you stare out your window and marvel at how much time has passed. The moral of the story is: stop everything you’re doing and read this book right now!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is the final book in the Molly Chase series, and I'm truly sad to see it come to an end. The author absolutely goes out with a bang. This story left me shocked, emotional, and completely invested until the very last page. The historical setting in Boston in the 1790's is beautifully written and richly detailed, bringing the story to life. I highly recommend this book and the entire series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh, I am so sad. Sad that the series is over, sad over the loss of characters that have become beloved friends over the past year. Was I just now crying while washing soup pots and thinking of Molly and Josiah? Maybe, yes. My heart has been through a lot just now.
KoK is a beautiful and tender conclusion to the Molly Chase series. Woven with espionage and intrigue, it is also an intimate window into marriage and loss, redemption and death. Few authors handle the complexity of conversion and the path of faith as well as Ms. Ortiz.
Despite my heartache right now, I am so happy that I had the privilege of reading an advance copy from the author. I am now going to pre-order a physical copy so hard, and get my copy of Adrift back from my mom. I need to start the series over again; I miss Molly Chase already.
KoK is a beautiful and tender conclusion to the Molly Chase series. Woven with espionage and intrigue, it is also an intimate window into marriage and loss, redemption and death. Few authors handle the complexity of conversion and the path of faith as well as Ms. Ortiz.
Despite my heartache right now, I am so happy that I had the privilege of reading an advance copy from the author. I am now going to pre-order a physical copy so hard, and get my copy of Adrift back from my mom. I need to start the series over again; I miss Molly Chase already.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
WOW! I'm shocked. I'm wrecked. I'm cautiously joyous. I'm (almost) speechless.
Masterful writing, powerful message, compelling story!
I need a tissue.
I need a moment.
I need to process...
And I loved it!
But...
WOW!!!
Masterful writing, powerful message, compelling story!
I need a tissue.
I need a moment.
I need to process...
And I loved it!
But...
WOW!!!
May 7, 2026
This story is well-written and pulls you in to where you feel like you’re there with the characters. You feel their feelings, rejoice with them and grieve with them. The writing is impeccable. That being said, the last half of the book is one of the most depressing I’ve ever read. Maybe because I invested so much time and energy into this series to be completely devastated by the ending. It’s like the author decided to unleash Hell on our beloved characters and rip out our hearts in the process. I just wasn’t expecting that level of devastation and I’m a very sensitive person. There should have been some trigger warnings accompanying this book.
May 28, 2026
An unexpected story. This is not a light read for someone who wants a quick romance. It's a deep and beautiful exploration of what marriage is and what it's for. I laughed. I cried. And I set it down after finishing it feeling content.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
One of my most anticipated reads for this year publishes today. Without a doubt it is a top book of 2026 for me. Happy Release Day to Keeper of Keys!
What a beautiful and profound look at not only suffering, but the sacraments of the Catholic Faith. Living out the faith among difficulty and striving for heaven each day.
A reminder of the beauty and also cross of being Catholic and living the faith. Hard? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely yes until the end of my days. Just one of the many things explored so well in this book.
Friendship, family, mystery, intrigue, history.
I'm in awe, shocked, amazed, reminded of the beauty of my Faith, and so sad to be done with this phenomenal series.
I could go on and on about this book and this series. My words will never do it justice. In short, read it!
I will be rereading this entire series. I want to relive this incredible journey and see what things I pick up on the second time through. I highly recommend this book and the entire Molly Chase series.
Thank you, Rhonda for sharing these stories with us. They have been timely and truly life changing for me in my own Catholic faith.
I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions are my own.
What a beautiful and profound look at not only suffering, but the sacraments of the Catholic Faith. Living out the faith among difficulty and striving for heaven each day.
A reminder of the beauty and also cross of being Catholic and living the faith. Hard? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely yes until the end of my days. Just one of the many things explored so well in this book.
Friendship, family, mystery, intrigue, history.
I'm in awe, shocked, amazed, reminded of the beauty of my Faith, and so sad to be done with this phenomenal series.
I could go on and on about this book and this series. My words will never do it justice. In short, read it!
I will be rereading this entire series. I want to relive this incredible journey and see what things I pick up on the second time through. I highly recommend this book and the entire Molly Chase series.
Thank you, Rhonda for sharing these stories with us. They have been timely and truly life changing for me in my own Catholic faith.
I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions are my own.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews