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Sparks of Hope
A woman rebuilding after tragedy and a grieving father searching for hope discover that the past isn't finished with them.
After the Peshtigo Fire reduces her teaching dreams to ash, Willow Deeran refuses to let the flames win. She pours her last hope into an audacious opening an orphanage for the children left homeless by Wisconsin's deadliest wildfire. All she needs is funding—and a partner she's never met.
Violin maker Valentine Ashardt has spent the year since the fire hiding behind his grief, haunted by the daughter he lost in the blaze. Helping Willow build the orphanage offers more than purpose. As silent co-owner, he'll have access to every child who comes through its doors. Surely, one of them will be his Mary.
As anonymous threats mount, old accusations resurface, and a mysterious little girl with no memory arrives on their doorstep, Willow and Valentine must decide if their dreams might not look different than they'd once hoped. Because sometimes God's plan looks nothing like what we imagined. And sometimes the family we've been desperately searching for has been standing beside us all along.
For fans of Joanna Davidson Politano and Jody Hedlund—a tender story of faith renewed, purpose rediscovered, and love rising from the most unexpected ruins.
After the Peshtigo Fire reduces her teaching dreams to ash, Willow Deeran refuses to let the flames win. She pours her last hope into an audacious opening an orphanage for the children left homeless by Wisconsin's deadliest wildfire. All she needs is funding—and a partner she's never met.
Violin maker Valentine Ashardt has spent the year since the fire hiding behind his grief, haunted by the daughter he lost in the blaze. Helping Willow build the orphanage offers more than purpose. As silent co-owner, he'll have access to every child who comes through its doors. Surely, one of them will be his Mary.
As anonymous threats mount, old accusations resurface, and a mysterious little girl with no memory arrives on their doorstep, Willow and Valentine must decide if their dreams might not look different than they'd once hoped. Because sometimes God's plan looks nothing like what we imagined. And sometimes the family we've been desperately searching for has been standing beside us all along.
For fans of Joanna Davidson Politano and Jody Hedlund—a tender story of faith renewed, purpose rediscovered, and love rising from the most unexpected ruins.
- GenresInspirationalRomance
326 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
September 23, 2026
Sparks of Hope was such an enjoyable read. Avrie Swan’s writing made it very easy for me to keep reaching for one more chapter, and I genuinely cared about what was happening. There was a warmth to it that I enjoyed.
I admired Willow’s strength so much. She was so brave, kept caring, kept doing what needed done, and I felt that in every part of her story. There were moments I wanted to reach in and help her carry some of it. Valentine’s grief felt close to the surface, and I could feel how guarded he had become because of it. Mary tugged at me from the start. I wanted those children to have safety and belonging so badly, and watching that little group slowly begin to feel like a family was one of the parts that meant the most to me.
Where I struggled was with the faith content. There are references to God and His plan, but I kept hoping to see the characters actually seek Him, ask for His guidance, pray, and depend on Him as they moved through the difficult things in their lives. Those are the moments I long for in Christian fiction, and here they remained much lighter than I expected. I wanted Jesus and faith to have a more meaningful place in the story.
I appreciated Avrie Swan’s writing and stayed with the story all the way through. I just wish the faith had carried the same depth as the rest of the book.
I received a complimentary copy through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
I admired Willow’s strength so much. She was so brave, kept caring, kept doing what needed done, and I felt that in every part of her story. There were moments I wanted to reach in and help her carry some of it. Valentine’s grief felt close to the surface, and I could feel how guarded he had become because of it. Mary tugged at me from the start. I wanted those children to have safety and belonging so badly, and watching that little group slowly begin to feel like a family was one of the parts that meant the most to me.
Where I struggled was with the faith content. There are references to God and His plan, but I kept hoping to see the characters actually seek Him, ask for His guidance, pray, and depend on Him as they moved through the difficult things in their lives. Those are the moments I long for in Christian fiction, and here they remained much lighter than I expected. I wanted Jesus and faith to have a more meaningful place in the story.
I appreciated Avrie Swan’s writing and stayed with the story all the way through. I just wish the faith had carried the same depth as the rest of the book.
I received a complimentary copy through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
September 18, 2026
This is book three in the Peshtigo Fire Chronicles and it was a stunning conclusion. Willow redirects her dreams of becoming a teacher to help the orphans she has met on the streets after the fire has robbed them of home and parents. It broke my heart to think of them on the streets so I could identify with her compassionate heart. Valentine is a loner trying to heal from heartbreaking loss and hope that he will find Mary eventually. In contrast you have spiteful self centered people who want to stop the orphanage and the friendship that has developed which makes for action that has you quickly turning pages. Well written and I loved that characters from previous books finally have complete endings and all is tied up with a bow and gifted to you like a present. I was deeply involved and engaged with each book in this series and learning the history of this fire. I recommend reading this complete series as I guarantee you won’t want to miss out.
I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
October 5, 2026
Sparks of Hope is a wonderful historical fiction novel that will suck you in and not let you go. Plus it’s part of a series! You don’t have to read the series in order, but trust me when I say, of course you’re going to want to! Why read one book when you can read multiples! I’m a super fan of reading, as you might have noticed!
I loved this novel! The main character, our heroine, is Willow. She suffers a concussion when she’s running from the fire and doesn’t remember it all. She struggles with this because she doesn’t know what happened to her best friend. Her family lost their home and farm to the fire but managed to save two cows and all of their lives. Most other families weren’t that lucky and lost family members.
Her family moves to town while they save money to rebuild.
Enter our male main character, Valentine. Val to his close friends. He also lost a lot in the fire. The most important thing that Val lost wasn’t his old home, but his daughter, Mary. She was staying with others while he was off for work. He came home as soon as he could, but no one knew where she was or if she survived.
Willow makes it her mission to start an orphanage for all the displaced children who either couldn’t find their families or had lost them. Val becomes her silent partner, helping to finance it in hopes of finding his missing daughter.
Along the way, they become good friends. Children come into their lives. But so does danger and vandalism. It moves quickly, and the plot rolls along, giving you starts and stops as you try to find out who the guilty ones are and how they’re going to stop them!
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
I loved this novel! The main character, our heroine, is Willow. She suffers a concussion when she’s running from the fire and doesn’t remember it all. She struggles with this because she doesn’t know what happened to her best friend. Her family lost their home and farm to the fire but managed to save two cows and all of their lives. Most other families weren’t that lucky and lost family members.
Her family moves to town while they save money to rebuild.
Enter our male main character, Valentine. Val to his close friends. He also lost a lot in the fire. The most important thing that Val lost wasn’t his old home, but his daughter, Mary. She was staying with others while he was off for work. He came home as soon as he could, but no one knew where she was or if she survived.
Willow makes it her mission to start an orphanage for all the displaced children who either couldn’t find their families or had lost them. Val becomes her silent partner, helping to finance it in hopes of finding his missing daughter.
Along the way, they become good friends. Children come into their lives. But so does danger and vandalism. It moves quickly, and the plot rolls along, giving you starts and stops as you try to find out who the guilty ones are and how they’re going to stop them!
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
September 29, 2026
Give me a historical fiction book that sends me down a rabbit hole wanting to learn more, and I’m happy! That was one of the things I really enjoyed about Sparks of Hope by Avrie Swan. I love when I can enjoy a good story and walk away having learned something along the way. Swan captures the historical setting beautifully, and the writing made it easy to picture the time, place, and circumstances surrounding the characters.
I also really enjoyed getting to know the characters. There’s plenty of hardship in their stories, but there’s also that thread of hope running through everything, which made me want to keep reading and see where their journeys would take them. I found myself becoming more invested in them the further I got into the book.
Overall, this was a beautifully written historical read that gave me more than just a good story. I love books that entertain me while also introducing me to pieces of history that make me curious enough to go learn more on my own. Avrie Swan did a wonderful job blending the history, characters, and emotion together in Sparks of Hope, and I’m glad I had the chance to read it.
I also really enjoyed getting to know the characters. There’s plenty of hardship in their stories, but there’s also that thread of hope running through everything, which made me want to keep reading and see where their journeys would take them. I found myself becoming more invested in them the further I got into the book.
Overall, this was a beautifully written historical read that gave me more than just a good story. I love books that entertain me while also introducing me to pieces of history that make me curious enough to go learn more on my own. Avrie Swan did a wonderful job blending the history, characters, and emotion together in Sparks of Hope, and I’m glad I had the chance to read it.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
The Peshtigo Fire took so much from some - family, home and even the future. With no memories of the disaster, finding family was impossible. Livelihoods lost led to depression and poverty. Willow and her family were fortunate to find a small place which barely was enough room for them all. Jobs were hard to find, but they did what they could.
The need for an orphanage was very great, a mission that Willow hopes she can help meet. Receiving the support of Valentine Ashardt, a luthier, she sets out to find a suitable place to call home. Unfortunately, there are those that find her working liaison with him a problem and set out to do what they can to interfere with the plan. Holding on to the promise that God has the plan, vandalism and more do not stop the mission of a safe, warm place before winter. A Pinkerton detective, searching for missing people from the fire, helps with catching the perpetrators. Will Willow find her best friend in all of this? Time will tell.
An early copy of this last book in the Peshtigo Fire Chronicles was received through Wild Heart Books and BookFunnel. These thoughts are my own and were in no way solicited.
The need for an orphanage was very great, a mission that Willow hopes she can help meet. Receiving the support of Valentine Ashardt, a luthier, she sets out to find a suitable place to call home. Unfortunately, there are those that find her working liaison with him a problem and set out to do what they can to interfere with the plan. Holding on to the promise that God has the plan, vandalism and more do not stop the mission of a safe, warm place before winter. A Pinkerton detective, searching for missing people from the fire, helps with catching the perpetrators. Will Willow find her best friend in all of this? Time will tell.
An early copy of this last book in the Peshtigo Fire Chronicles was received through Wild Heart Books and BookFunnel. These thoughts are my own and were in no way solicited.
September 12, 2026
“purpose is a strange thing. It doesn’t always align with what we expect, nor does it follow our rules. And things don’t always turn out exactly the way we think they will.”
When the raging inferno of the October 8, 1871, Peshtigo, WI, devours the town and destroys more lives than the great, well-known Chicago fire of the same day, how can any hope of recovery rise from the ashes of utter devastation? Avrie Swan’s main characters, Willow Deeran and Valentine (Val) Ashardt of her third book in The Peshtigo Fire series, will have to dig deep within themselves, their relationships and their faith to find Sparks of Hope.
Willow’s life-long dream is to start a school for the children of Peshtigo. A big dream for a young woman whose family’s poverty precludes even enough education for her to be able to read and write. Then the fire. Her body survives, but partial amnesia and a loss of everything they own destroys that dream. What would change if she could just recall events surrounding the fire? Could it help with the new purpose that God has seemingly placed in her lap, as soon as she prays? (Isn’t this just like God to answer a prayer before the words are hardly out of our mouths?)
But this new purpose creates great problems. Financial. Safety. Familial discord. ( Can I say I was so disappointed that Ma isn’t very supportive of this new dream, while Da is just the opposite personality, warm, loving, and affirming at every possible turn? )
And the financial help for her new orphanage idea comes from the most unexpected source. Val’s best friend Quincy, a newspaper reporter, is actually who Willow approaches for help. Val who is a talented stringed instrument carver and a social recluse is visiting his friend at the office. Overhearing the need, Val offers to be a silent partner. Quincy objects! “You don’t even know this woman.” “No, I don’t. But I respect a good deed when I see one.”
And so an unlikely, socially inappropriate relationship between two single, different classes (yes, America had them and still manages to have them!) begins! And so does the tongue wagging! Some of it is busybody stuff, some is reactionary and funny(!), and some is conniving and terribly damaging.
The antagonists in this novel are beautifully drawn. Not beautiful, mind you, just well fleshed out, needy, selfish, and can’t see beyond their own needs to understand the hurt in others’ lives.
Fave characters? I have several. Mary. So sweet, so adorable, so cracks open more than one hard heart! Da, for his genuine love and unconditional love and support of his daughter. ( Unfortunately, perhaps some of that is missing in his relationship with his son, though it would be much more difficult?) And a “bad guy.” I actually loved Hattie. Not what she does, but she is rather hilarious in her overbearing, obtuse ways and is the pefect catalyst. Well done!
Trigger warnings for those who want them: fire scenes, grave mental health issues.
I received a copy of the book from the author and publisher through CelebrateLit via BookFunnel. I also bought my own copy. No positive review is required, and all opinions are my own.
Notable Quotables:
“God has a plan for us all, Willow. He has known what we will do in life since the very beginning. But that plan isn’t always what you expect.”
“There was no saving what had been lost. Not then, and not now.”
“The best way to handle rumors is to let them run their course. People will eventually find something else to focus on.”
“Nothing in life is predictable, Willow. There are risks at every turn.“ … “What’s important is facing the risks and continuing.To give up now, when you’ve come this far, would defeat everything you’re trying to accomplish.”
“…if he remained trapped in the past for much longer, he wasn’t sure he’d ever be able to truly live in the present.”
When the raging inferno of the October 8, 1871, Peshtigo, WI, devours the town and destroys more lives than the great, well-known Chicago fire of the same day, how can any hope of recovery rise from the ashes of utter devastation? Avrie Swan’s main characters, Willow Deeran and Valentine (Val) Ashardt of her third book in The Peshtigo Fire series, will have to dig deep within themselves, their relationships and their faith to find Sparks of Hope.
Willow’s life-long dream is to start a school for the children of Peshtigo. A big dream for a young woman whose family’s poverty precludes even enough education for her to be able to read and write. Then the fire. Her body survives, but partial amnesia and a loss of everything they own destroys that dream. What would change if she could just recall events surrounding the fire? Could it help with the new purpose that God has seemingly placed in her lap, as soon as she prays? (Isn’t this just like God to answer a prayer before the words are hardly out of our mouths?)
But this new purpose creates great problems. Financial. Safety. Familial discord. ( Can I say I was so disappointed that Ma isn’t very supportive of this new dream, while Da is just the opposite personality, warm, loving, and affirming at every possible turn? )
And the financial help for her new orphanage idea comes from the most unexpected source. Val’s best friend Quincy, a newspaper reporter, is actually who Willow approaches for help. Val who is a talented stringed instrument carver and a social recluse is visiting his friend at the office. Overhearing the need, Val offers to be a silent partner. Quincy objects! “You don’t even know this woman.” “No, I don’t. But I respect a good deed when I see one.”
And so an unlikely, socially inappropriate relationship between two single, different classes (yes, America had them and still manages to have them!) begins! And so does the tongue wagging! Some of it is busybody stuff, some is reactionary and funny(!), and some is conniving and terribly damaging.
The antagonists in this novel are beautifully drawn. Not beautiful, mind you, just well fleshed out, needy, selfish, and can’t see beyond their own needs to understand the hurt in others’ lives.
Fave characters? I have several. Mary. So sweet, so adorable, so cracks open more than one hard heart! Da, for his genuine love and unconditional love and support of his daughter. ( Unfortunately, perhaps some of that is missing in his relationship with his son, though it would be much more difficult?) And a “bad guy.” I actually loved Hattie. Not what she does, but she is rather hilarious in her overbearing, obtuse ways and is the pefect catalyst. Well done!
Trigger warnings for those who want them: fire scenes, grave mental health issues.
I received a copy of the book from the author and publisher through CelebrateLit via BookFunnel. I also bought my own copy. No positive review is required, and all opinions are my own.
Notable Quotables:
“God has a plan for us all, Willow. He has known what we will do in life since the very beginning. But that plan isn’t always what you expect.”
“There was no saving what had been lost. Not then, and not now.”
“The best way to handle rumors is to let them run their course. People will eventually find something else to focus on.”
“Nothing in life is predictable, Willow. There are risks at every turn.“ … “What’s important is facing the risks and continuing.To give up now, when you’ve come this far, would defeat everything you’re trying to accomplish.”
“…if he remained trapped in the past for much longer, he wasn’t sure he’d ever be able to truly live in the present.”
September 30, 2026
If you enjoy Christian Historical Romances, you should check out Sparks of Hope by Avrie Swan. There are some books I enjoy while I’m reading them, and others that make me stop and think about them after I’ve finished. This was one of those books for me. It pulled me into a story of grief, hope, unexpected family, and learning to trust God when life looks nothing like we thought it would.
Willow Deeran has already lost so much. After the Peshtigo Fire destroys her dreams of becoming a teacher, she could easily give up. Instead, she takes what little hope she has left and pours it into a new dream—opening an orphanage for the children who were left homeless by the devastating fire.
I really liked Willow. She isn’t some character who moves past her tragedy and suddenly has everything figured out. She’s hurting, she’s disappointed, and she’s trying to figure out what comes next. But she keeps going. There was something about that determination that really resonated with me.
Valentine Ashardt is carrying his own heartbreaking loss. He lost his daughter, Mary, in the fire, and he’s spent the past year trying to live with that grief. When he becomes involved with Willow’s orphanage, he sees an opportunity to help—and to find out whether his daughter might have survived.
I felt for Valentine. His grief and desperate hope made his choices understandable, even when they weren’t always the best choices. I couldn’t help but wonder what I would do if I were holding onto that tiny possibility that someone I loved might still be alive.
Then a little girl arrives at the orphanage with no memory of who she is.
Of course, that immediately had my attention!
As threats begin to emerge and old accusations resurface, the story takes on a layer of mystery and suspense. I found myself wanting to know how everything connected and, especially, what would happen with the little girl.
So if you enjoy Christian Historical Romances, I definitely recommend checking out Sparks of Hope by Avrie Swan. I definitely enjoyed it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
Willow Deeran has already lost so much. After the Peshtigo Fire destroys her dreams of becoming a teacher, she could easily give up. Instead, she takes what little hope she has left and pours it into a new dream—opening an orphanage for the children who were left homeless by the devastating fire.
I really liked Willow. She isn’t some character who moves past her tragedy and suddenly has everything figured out. She’s hurting, she’s disappointed, and she’s trying to figure out what comes next. But she keeps going. There was something about that determination that really resonated with me.
Valentine Ashardt is carrying his own heartbreaking loss. He lost his daughter, Mary, in the fire, and he’s spent the past year trying to live with that grief. When he becomes involved with Willow’s orphanage, he sees an opportunity to help—and to find out whether his daughter might have survived.
I felt for Valentine. His grief and desperate hope made his choices understandable, even when they weren’t always the best choices. I couldn’t help but wonder what I would do if I were holding onto that tiny possibility that someone I loved might still be alive.
Then a little girl arrives at the orphanage with no memory of who she is.
Of course, that immediately had my attention!
As threats begin to emerge and old accusations resurface, the story takes on a layer of mystery and suspense. I found myself wanting to know how everything connected and, especially, what would happen with the little girl.
So if you enjoy Christian Historical Romances, I definitely recommend checking out Sparks of Hope by Avrie Swan. I definitely enjoyed it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
September 18, 2026
A beautiful story that illustrates how jealousy can cause someone to do harsh things to others. I wasn’t expecting the emotional journey this story provided. Oh the idea of young children wandering the streets breaks my heart. Who knew that a tragic fire would bring two unlikely people together.
Willow has such a big heart and wants to help others who have been affected by a tragedy. Her family likes her near them but she has this dream to build an orphanage. She knows she can’t do it alone and finds someone who is willing to help her. I was a bit surprised by this person because he is a recluse.
Valentine has lived a life lately where he keeps to himself. He lost a great deal in the fire but still hopes that a miracle will happen. He thinks of his child and wife everyday hoping they somehow survived. When he decides to help Willow with the orphanage, I think it gave him purpose.
That’s really the meat of this story. Do you know your purpose? We may have ideas but to know the purpose that God has for us is fulfilling. I love how these two work together while they each try to move past the fire that took so much from the town.
When unexplained accidents start happening to cause Willow and Valentine to question if they are safe, a new mystery begins for them. Who wants to sabotage the orphanage? Is someone trying to harm Willow or Valentine? I did suspect one person, but the other one involved made me feel a bit sad. Grab a copy to find out who is behind the sabotage and how jealousy can lead to becoming bitter and making poor choices.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
Willow has such a big heart and wants to help others who have been affected by a tragedy. Her family likes her near them but she has this dream to build an orphanage. She knows she can’t do it alone and finds someone who is willing to help her. I was a bit surprised by this person because he is a recluse.
Valentine has lived a life lately where he keeps to himself. He lost a great deal in the fire but still hopes that a miracle will happen. He thinks of his child and wife everyday hoping they somehow survived. When he decides to help Willow with the orphanage, I think it gave him purpose.
That’s really the meat of this story. Do you know your purpose? We may have ideas but to know the purpose that God has for us is fulfilling. I love how these two work together while they each try to move past the fire that took so much from the town.
When unexplained accidents start happening to cause Willow and Valentine to question if they are safe, a new mystery begins for them. Who wants to sabotage the orphanage? Is someone trying to harm Willow or Valentine? I did suspect one person, but the other one involved made me feel a bit sad. Grab a copy to find out who is behind the sabotage and how jealousy can lead to becoming bitter and making poor choices.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
September 20, 2026
Christian Historical Fiction is a genre that I LOVE to read. Sparks of Hope by Avrie Swan is Book 3 in the Peshtigo Fire Chronicles series. I have read the other books in this series and was excited to read this book also.
I began reading and could not put the book down. The storyline is very intriguing from the start. The main characters in this book are Willow Deeran and Valentine Ashardt. Willow had dreams of being a Teacher, yet when the Fire destroyed the City, she felt her dreams were gone. Willow discovers she has an opportunity to help when she begins to notice all the homeless children. Willow decides to open an orphanage to house the Children. Valentine is still grieving as he lost his daughter in the Fire, yet he is also hopeful. Valentine joins Willow in opening the Orphanage as an Investor Partner. Willow and Valentine are on track to get the Orphanage open and then attacks begin coming at them. I really LOVE that they rely on their Faith in God to get them through the Mysterious attacks. I also LOVE that they have a growing relationship and find comfort in one another throughout the trials of opening the Orphanage. Valentine and Willow realize that their hopes and dreams sometimes don't align, yet God's plan is always greater then their own. The book has a strong Faith aspect, also Historical and Mystery. I HIGHLY recommend this book and series to anyone who enjoys Christian Historical Fiction. AMAZING BOOK!
I began reading and could not put the book down. The storyline is very intriguing from the start. The main characters in this book are Willow Deeran and Valentine Ashardt. Willow had dreams of being a Teacher, yet when the Fire destroyed the City, she felt her dreams were gone. Willow discovers she has an opportunity to help when she begins to notice all the homeless children. Willow decides to open an orphanage to house the Children. Valentine is still grieving as he lost his daughter in the Fire, yet he is also hopeful. Valentine joins Willow in opening the Orphanage as an Investor Partner. Willow and Valentine are on track to get the Orphanage open and then attacks begin coming at them. I really LOVE that they rely on their Faith in God to get them through the Mysterious attacks. I also LOVE that they have a growing relationship and find comfort in one another throughout the trials of opening the Orphanage. Valentine and Willow realize that their hopes and dreams sometimes don't align, yet God's plan is always greater then their own. The book has a strong Faith aspect, also Historical and Mystery. I HIGHLY recommend this book and series to anyone who enjoys Christian Historical Fiction. AMAZING BOOK!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Good from the darkest of days
This conclusion to the Peshtigo Fire Chronicles series brings all the previous stories together, showing the good that came from those dark days.
In this novel, we meet Willow, an impulsive, feisty young woman searching for her place and purpose since the fire. Her heart yearns to help those in need and that desire leads her to dream of an orphanage for orphaned children who survived the fire. But she needs help….enter Valentine, a reclusive violin maker with a tender heart.
Valentine intrigued me because he was not the usual fearless hero of the story; he disliked confrontation and shied away from others. He has been hurt deeply by rumors but decided to help Willow and her children. Together they face danger, mystery, heartbreak, and betrayal. But along the way, their friendship grows into love softly and quietly and, in the end, they are both willing to sacrifice for the other, which makes this a great story. The closing chapters bring closure to the entire series that was nicely done by the Author.
I enjoyed this novel and the series and was sad to leave them behind. I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and these are my voluntary and honest opinions. I was not required to leave a positive review.
This conclusion to the Peshtigo Fire Chronicles series brings all the previous stories together, showing the good that came from those dark days.
In this novel, we meet Willow, an impulsive, feisty young woman searching for her place and purpose since the fire. Her heart yearns to help those in need and that desire leads her to dream of an orphanage for orphaned children who survived the fire. But she needs help….enter Valentine, a reclusive violin maker with a tender heart.
Valentine intrigued me because he was not the usual fearless hero of the story; he disliked confrontation and shied away from others. He has been hurt deeply by rumors but decided to help Willow and her children. Together they face danger, mystery, heartbreak, and betrayal. But along the way, their friendship grows into love softly and quietly and, in the end, they are both willing to sacrifice for the other, which makes this a great story. The closing chapters bring closure to the entire series that was nicely done by the Author.
I enjoyed this novel and the series and was sad to leave them behind. I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and these are my voluntary and honest opinions. I was not required to leave a positive review.
September 23, 2026
This is the third in the Peshtigo Fire Chronicles and this is Willow Deeren's story. Having lost her home and part of her memory, Willow still has her family. Even though her dreams of becoming a teacher have gone up in smoke with the rest of the town, she does open an orphanage to help those children who are displaced or truly orphaned. She has the help of Valentine Ashardt, who is a violin maker, who is also nursing a broken heart over his missing daughter Mary since the fire. These two find shared goals and companionship with one another. However, both are keeping secrets from one another as well.
They also have attracted danger. Yes, even though this is an orphanage and doing good, someone doesn't want them to succeed. Throw in a bit of mystery while these two and their entire town try to uncover themselves from the ashes and to rebuild and you have a genuine, good read. I enjoyed getting to visit with previous characters and their stories come full circle.
I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
They also have attracted danger. Yes, even though this is an orphanage and doing good, someone doesn't want them to succeed. Throw in a bit of mystery while these two and their entire town try to uncover themselves from the ashes and to rebuild and you have a genuine, good read. I enjoyed getting to visit with previous characters and their stories come full circle.
I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I enjoyed this story of how Peshtigo fire survivor Willow Deeran strove to find purpose in her life by starting an orphanage for the many homeless children displaced by the fire and without their families. Valentine Ashardt, a local violin maker, had his own reason for offering to be a silent partner in the orphanage. As threats against Willow surfaced while they began fixing up the building, their relationship took a different turn. While it was pretty obvious who was behind the threats, the increased drama made for an interesting read. The real scene stealers were the children of the orphanage. Mary, in particular, brought joy and healing to Willow and especially to Valentine. I would have liked to know more about his backstory and why accusations came to be made against him. I did not read the first book, but enjoyed books two and three. So nice that this last book in the series reconnected the three friends from each book. I look forward to reading more from this author.
I received an advanced reader copy from the publisher. A positive review was not required and these are my own and honest opinions.
I received an advanced reader copy from the publisher. A positive review was not required and these are my own and honest opinions.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I have enjoyed this series. The author did a great job of highlighting the challenges of the aftermath of the Peshtigo Fire which was devastating. It was so fast-moving and widespread that people didn't have much time to get away and so many people died or were displaced. This is the 3rd and last book.
Willow Deeran has had no education but longs to work with children. After deciding to open an orphanage for those children who were displaced by the fire, she comes across Valentine Ashardt who will help her with funding. He's supposed to be a silent partner (he has his reasons!) but it doesn't turn out that way!
Danger hounds them as they put an old building to rights for the orphanage and threats continue. They must band together to discover who is threatening them! I wish there had been more of a backstory for Valentine because I loved his character! He was so kind and helpful. When a sweet orphan shows up named Mary, she stole the show! Everyone falls in love with her! Can everyone make it out of this experience without harm? I recommend this whole series!
Willow Deeran has had no education but longs to work with children. After deciding to open an orphanage for those children who were displaced by the fire, she comes across Valentine Ashardt who will help her with funding. He's supposed to be a silent partner (he has his reasons!) but it doesn't turn out that way!
Danger hounds them as they put an old building to rights for the orphanage and threats continue. They must band together to discover who is threatening them! I wish there had been more of a backstory for Valentine because I loved his character! He was so kind and helpful. When a sweet orphan shows up named Mary, she stole the show! Everyone falls in love with her! Can everyone make it out of this experience without harm? I recommend this whole series!
September 13, 2026
Sparks of Hope is book three in The Peshtigo Fire Chronicles series by Avrie Swan. This is a nicely written inspirational story that is easy to follow and enjoy. While being part of a series, which I haven't read, this book is a nice stand alone story. Willow is desperate to be independent and wants to start an orphanage for the children left alone following the Peshtigo fire. Not having all the funds to do so, Valentine offers to help her. The building they buy is in need of repairs and she turns to him to help her. However, someone does not want her to succeed and targets the home they are working on.
This is a nice story that has mystery, suspense and romance all in one. I enjoyed how determined Willow is to follow her dream and how helpful Valentine is. This is a heartwarming story that tugged me in right from the beginning. I enjoyed how the little girl they take in is so helpful with finding other children in need.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.
This is a nice story that has mystery, suspense and romance all in one. I enjoyed how determined Willow is to follow her dream and how helpful Valentine is. This is a heartwarming story that tugged me in right from the beginning. I enjoyed how the little girl they take in is so helpful with finding other children in need.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.
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September 20, 2026#CoverLoverBookReview received a review copy of this book. My honest opinions and thoughts—not influenced by anyone.
I’ve now read all three books in the series and enjoyed each one! I’ve learned so much about the Peshtigo fires, and enjoyed the mix of mystery, romance, hope, healing, and holding onto faith.
The title of this story is clever—and spot on, and the first line captured me instantly! Willow’s desire to open an orphanage for the children left homeless after the life-shattering fire deeply touched my heart. Valentine’s journey of hope after his own devastating loss was just as moving (if not more so!) I especially love how these very different people were brought together and how they leaned on their faith. And, as usual, just when it seems like everything is starting to work out, opposition shows up and the mystery and suspense kick in.
This is a warm, inspiring story about finding purpose, starting over, and trusting in God’s plan. It’s the kind of story that stays with you in the sweetest way.
I’ve now read all three books in the series and enjoyed each one! I’ve learned so much about the Peshtigo fires, and enjoyed the mix of mystery, romance, hope, healing, and holding onto faith.
The title of this story is clever—and spot on, and the first line captured me instantly! Willow’s desire to open an orphanage for the children left homeless after the life-shattering fire deeply touched my heart. Valentine’s journey of hope after his own devastating loss was just as moving (if not more so!) I especially love how these very different people were brought together and how they leaned on their faith. And, as usual, just when it seems like everything is starting to work out, opposition shows up and the mystery and suspense kick in.
This is a warm, inspiring story about finding purpose, starting over, and trusting in God’s plan. It’s the kind of story that stays with you in the sweetest way.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This is the conclusion to the Peshtigo Fire Chronicles with new characters. Willow dream had been banished with the fire in Peshtigo, but she still desired to help orphan children in the area. Finding an old building she partnered with recluse violin maker Valentine. Valentine was only a silent partner, but he was there to enable Willow to follow her dream. A young girl who didn’t know where or what her name was played an important part in this tale.
There were plenty of twists and turns with mysterious and threatening events to deter Willow from opening the orphanage. The characters were dimensional with some having strong attributes and a few very flawed ones. The author brought this series to a nice close with incorporating the main characters from the first two books into the final pages. This was definitely a nice historical series to read.
I received an early copy of this book from the publisher for a book tour. I have expressed my own honest thoughts.
There were plenty of twists and turns with mysterious and threatening events to deter Willow from opening the orphanage. The characters were dimensional with some having strong attributes and a few very flawed ones. The author brought this series to a nice close with incorporating the main characters from the first two books into the final pages. This was definitely a nice historical series to read.
I received an early copy of this book from the publisher for a book tour. I have expressed my own honest thoughts.
September 28, 2026
It’s always uplifting to read a story where good people can create help and build hope from a tragedy, and that’s the underlying principle of this book. Even though this is the third book of “The Peshtigo Fire Chronicles”, I had no trouble following the events of the storyline and becoming involved in the characters’ lives. When Willow realizes the need for an orphanage to take care of the needs of some of the children affected by the fire, she has no idea of how the course of her life is a just to change.
There’s some heart-touching moments with one of the orphans, Mary, and she is one of the sweetest reasons to read this book. There’s also a couple of plot twists that surprised me and held my interest throughout the book.
This is the first book I’ve read from this author. She did a great job with this book, and I’m looking forward to reading more from her.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
There’s some heart-touching moments with one of the orphans, Mary, and she is one of the sweetest reasons to read this book. There’s also a couple of plot twists that surprised me and held my interest throughout the book.
This is the first book I’ve read from this author. She did a great job with this book, and I’m looking forward to reading more from her.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
September 1, 2026
Sparks of Hope (The Peshtigo Fire Chronicles, Book 3) by Avrie Swan begins with the firs but quickly moves to the next year. Families are still struggling, children without homes and Willow’s family staying in a cramped space. After meeting a homeless child Willow decides to open an orphanage. She is full of spunk, energy and enthusiasm. It is not the usual hero type of male character hat decides to help Willow. I think that I liked Valentine Ashardt all the more for his reclusive shy manner. He is searching for someone missing from the fire, so his help is twofold. What a clear story of resilience, and faith in God. While their relationship builds and grows, I found the children to be the most interesting characters. Sparks of Hope is a heartwarming, uplifting story of overcoming obstacles, perseverance, and love. 4.5 Stars
September 23, 2026
Sparks of Hope is the third and final book of "The Peshtigo Fire Chronicles" series. This series has a special place in my heart because it takes place in Wisconsin. My parents were raised in Wisconsin, so that state is dear to my heart.
I enjoyed getting acquainted with both Willow and Valentine. Willow has such a big, impulsive heart. While Valentine is a bit reserved and a bit of a recluse, he also does care deeply. I enjoyed watching their friendship grow as they worked together to restore the inn so they could open an orphanage for the children who lost homes and parents in the fire.
Little Mary certainly captured my heart as she helped open Valentine's heart again.
If you enjoy Christian historical fiction, which is based on a tragic true event, I highly recommend this captivating story.
I received a complimentary copy. These opinions are my own.
I enjoyed getting acquainted with both Willow and Valentine. Willow has such a big, impulsive heart. While Valentine is a bit reserved and a bit of a recluse, he also does care deeply. I enjoyed watching their friendship grow as they worked together to restore the inn so they could open an orphanage for the children who lost homes and parents in the fire.
Little Mary certainly captured my heart as she helped open Valentine's heart again.
If you enjoy Christian historical fiction, which is based on a tragic true event, I highly recommend this captivating story.
I received a complimentary copy. These opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This is the third and final book in Swan’s The Peshtigo Fire Chronicles. If you have read the first two books in the series and are eager to see the main characters in those books get together again, you will have to be patient. They don’t show up until almost the last chapter! Most of this book has brand new main characters to get to know!
I enjoyed the first book in the series the most. I had a hard time relating to the main characters in this book. The issues they need to work through are not ones that I’ve wrestled with, and I tended to get impatient when it took them so long to mature and change.
"I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."
I enjoyed the first book in the series the most. I had a hard time relating to the main characters in this book. The issues they need to work through are not ones that I’ve wrestled with, and I tended to get impatient when it took them so long to mature and change.
"I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."
September 28, 2026
"Sparks of Hope'' by Avrie Swan is the third book of the series. I was kept turning the pages because I had to know how things turned out for the characters. This book has issues that aren't fun to read about and can cause triggers to those that had have deaths from fires and mental health issues. I wish I could meet the characters in all of the books in this series. If you like mystery and suspense and romance and inspiration in one novel, then look no farther. And to make this book even better is it fiction but based on real history the Peshtigo Fire of 1894. And again, You don't have to read the series to enjoy this book but again I have to ask why wouldn't you want to read them all.
I was given a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
I was given a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
September 29, 2026
This is the third book in the Peshtigo Fire Chronicles series, but each can be read as a standalone. The main female characters from all three books have ties to each other, but they have their own complete story in their respective books. I didn't read the second book and didn't feel like I was missing things. This last book in the series, brings them all back together and lets the other characters know what happened to them during the time after the fire destroyed everything. I like books that deal with historical events like this and learning a little more about it. I will look into reading more books by Avrie Swan.
I got a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received for my review.
I got a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received for my review.
September 18, 2026
I have enjoyed this series. It has been interesting to learn about the Peshtigo fire and the aftermath. I liked how in this series we got to see from three different perspectives and got to see how each person moved forward. I liked how Willow and Valentine worked together to provide a home for so many children. I also liked how they grew closer as they spent time together and tried to do the right things by the children even when it was hard. I liked seeing that good can come from tragedy.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
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