The Swindler's Daughter

by Stephenia H. McGee

A surprise inheritance. A cache of family secrets. A choice that will change her life forever.

Lillian Doyle has lived her entire high-society life with her widowed mother, believing her father died long ago. But when news arrives that her estranged father only recently passed away--in jail--Lillian is startled to find that the man has left a business and all of his possessions to her, making her a rather unusual heiress.

When she goes to take possession of her father's house in a backwoods Georgia town, the dilapidated structure is already occupied by another woman who claims it was promised to her son, Jonah. In her attempts to untangle the mess, Lillian will discover not only a family she never knew she had but a family business that is more than meets the eye--and has put a target on her back.

To discover the truth and take hold of the independence she's always dreamed of, she'll have to make friends with adversaries and strangers--especially Jonah, the dusty and unrefined cowboy who has secret aspirations of his own.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Historical, Romance, Mystery, Fiction, Historical Romance

352 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2023

About the author

Stephenia H. McGee is a multi-published author of stories of faith, hope, and healing set in the Deep South. She lives in Mississippi, where she is a mom of two rambunctious boys, writer, dreamer, and husband spoiler. Her novel The Cedar Key was a 2021 Faith, Hope, and Love Readers’ Choice award winner. A member of the ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) and the DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution), she loves all things books and history. Stephenia also loves connecting with readers and can often be found having fun with her Faithful Readers Team on Facebook. For more on books and upcoming events and to connect with Stephenia, visit her at www.StepheniaMcGee.com.

Reviews

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 4 out of 5]

We tend to think of an inheritance as a gift of value, but for Lillian Doyle, it’s become a source of heartache. Rather than living as a widow’s daughter, she’s now forced to consider what it would be like living as a swindler’s heiress.

The moment high-society girl, Lillian, learns that she is an unusual heiress, is the moment her problems begin. She struggles to understand the deception of her father’s existence, the family secrets that have been unearthed, and acknowledge that she’s the recipient of a surprise inheritance.

I loved Lillian and Jonah’s story! I was instantly wrapped up in her willingness to befriend the unfriendly in an effort to get what she deserved. The faith messages were beautifully twinned with an inspirational story about the transformative power of love. Author Stephenia McGee shows readers what’s possible when we harness our human nature and allow our hearts to be softened by God’s hand.

The addition of a mystery kept the story fresh and Melanie’s pleas softened my heart. I loved my time spent with these wonderful characters in the Deep South!

“Temper is often what gets us into trouble, and pride is what keeps us there.”

This sweet story was a wonderful surprise and had me searching out the author’s backlist.

Congratulations on a fantastic cover!

I was gifted this copy by Revell and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.

[Lindsey (Books for Christian Girls) · Rating 3 out of 5]

About this book:

“A surprise inheritance. A cache of family secrets. A choice that will change her life forever.
Lillian Doyle has lived her entire high-society life with her widowed mother, believing her father died long ago. But when news arrives that her estranged father only recently passed away--in jail--Lillian is startled to find that the man has left a business and all of his possessions to her, making her a rather unusual heiress.
When she goes to take possession of her father's house in a backwoods Georgia town, the dilapidated structure is already occupied by another woman who claims it was promised to her son, Jonah. In her attempts to untangle the mess, Lillian will discover not only a family she never knew she had but a family business that is more than meets the eye--and has put a target on her back.
To discover the truth and take hold of the independence she's always dreamed of, she'll have to make friends with adversaries and strangers--especially Jonah, the dusty and unrefined cowboy who has secret aspirations of his own.”


Series: As of now, no, a stand-alone novel.


Spiritual Content- Psalm 32:8 at the beginning; A few Scriptures are remembered & quoted; Prayers & Thanking God (including one by a criminal); Talks about God, His will, & wondering why bad things happen; 'H's are not capital when referring to God; A couple characters (Jonah & his mother) ask God why nothing is easy for them (she takes it in stride, but he feels like a failure because of all of his plans not working out); Jonah feels like God thwarts him and his plans at every turn (he feels bitter for the majority of the book, *Spoiler* but after a discussion with his mother about there being opposition if we’re following God’s path and praying, he releases the bitterness and feels like a new man *End of Spoiler*); Lillian prays for guidance but doesn’t receive any & later asks why God is punishing her (*Spoiler* she later realizes that God has a plan for her that included those trials *End of Spoiler*); Jonah’s mother (Melanie) says people learn about God’s plans for them in three ways (they receive a vision or an angel comes to visit them, by a quite sense from the Holy Spirit usually while immersed in the Bible, and thirdly, someone else tells them; Jonah wonders how she really knows anything about God’s plans); Mentions of God, His will, following Him, & having faith; Mentions of prayers, praying, & blessings over food (including Lillian wondering why God would give the answer to her prayers to Melanie instead of her); Mentions of churches & church going; Mentions of blessings & being Blessed; A few mentions of those & events in the Bible; A few mentions of prophets; A mention of something feeling like a godsend; A mention of a miracle;
*Note: A mention of Jonah thinking he has rotten luck; A mention of alcohol being called the “devil’s brew”.


Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a form of ‘confounded’, a ‘stupid’, a ‘what in the dickens’, two unfinished ‘what in the—‘s, two ‘what in tarnation’, and three ‘shut up’s; Mentions of curses (said, not written); Fighting, being shot, being held at gunpoint, being attacked by an intruder, being tied-up, being locked up in jail, injuries, pain, & passing out (up to semi-detailed); Thinking that an officer might be dirty; A few lies (said by Lillian due to how her mother raised her with wanting society’s approval, though Lillian corrects a couple of them); Lillian and her mother have a strained relationship (her mother wants society’s approval and for Lillian to marry into a rich family; Lillian feels like her mother’s affection is always just out of reach and that if she receive it if she obeyed or accomplished something her mother wants (Lillian is glad for her independence while handling the inheritance); Lillian’s mother says “good riddance” to her father’s death; Many mentions of bootleggers, alcohol, & someone being drunk; Many mentions of intruders, a break-in, stolen items, stealing, & vandalism; Mentions of deaths, a possible murder, & possible poison; Mentions of fires, a family losing everything when their house burned down, & a criminal threatening to cause a fire; Mentions of criminals & crimes; Mentions of prisons/jails; Mentions of someone being shot, blood/bleeding, & gunshots (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of being attacked, being tied-up, screams, injuries, pain, & passing out (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of lies & lying; Mentions of tobacco; A few mentions of being threatened with harm & death; A couple mentions of threats; A couple mentions of a father drinking to soothe his aches and his family not liking how he was on those days; A couple mentions of rumors; A mention of murder; A mention of hatred;
*Note: Mentions of the deaths of infants (*Spoiler* a side couple has buried four babies and announces at the end that they are expecting *End of Spoiler*); A mention of some men thinking that women have no place in business.


Sexual Content- Staring at someone’s lips; An almost (semi-detailed) kiss, a forehead kiss, a barely-above-not-detailed kiss, two semi-detailed kisses, and a detailed kiss (mentioning his desire for her); Remembering kisses (up to semi-detailed); Wanting to kiss (up to semi-detailed); Touches, Embraces, Hand holding, Nearness, Electricity, & Smelling (up to semi-detailed); Wanting to touch & embrace (barely-above-not-detailed); Blushes & Winks; Noticing & Staring (including muscles, up to semi-detailed); Lillian was born out of wedlock (she has always been told her mother was a widow and her mother tells her that he couldn’t accept the responsibility of being a father *Spoiler* In a letter, her father tells her that their affair was short lived and her mother’s parents disowned her when finding out she was pregnant and Lillian is hurt by her grandparents not wanting her *End of Spoiler*); Mentions of Lillian being an illegitimate child (she is embarrassed by it, but thinks that it wasn’t her fault); Mentions of kisses, kissing, & a couple being caught kissing (or that they were “smushing lips” as said by a ten-year-old); A few mentions of an affair & mistress; Love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: A few mentions of “women’s troubles” (periods); A couple mentions of a woman’s figure (by Jonah).

-Lillian Doyle, age 23
-Jonah Peterson
P.O.V. switches between them
Set in 1912
352 pages

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Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Three Stars

I was super curious about this book based on the title and back-cover blurb alone—it felt like there might be a slight mystery!—but I was a little hesitant because I wasn’t a fan of the author’s prior book…mainly because of the main girl.

With this novel however, I did like Lillian. She’s a little bit of a snob, but it’s to be expected with how she grew up and it wasn’t overly annoying. She did make some choices I’ll honestly say I thought were dumb, but let’s call that character development and lesson learning.

Jonah has major trust issues and at the beginning was constantly having a bone to pick with Lillian. I wasn’t a big fan of him and his lack of communication and pity parties did annoy me at times. There wasn’t the miscommunication trope per say, it was more of a lack of communication between Lillian and Jonah that finally got resolved at the end. There was one kiss that was too much for my tastes and a bit more noticing of the other’s physical appearance that lowered the ratings.

Because of different elements, it kind of felt like historical HGTV, which was kind of fun, actually! I don’t think I’ve read a historical book that features so much renovation and creating a special place (being vague for spoilers), but I really liked that element. I do wish there had been more details on the colors and fabrics used, though, so I could have pictured it better while reading.

I will say that the title’s implication was different than I was expecting and hoping this book would be, but how it turned out wasn’t bad. I liked the ending and how it wrapped up well. While I can’t call this an excellent book, personally, it was a fun read that kept my attention and interest. I was really concerned before starting it, but it ended up a good book.


Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...



*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Revell) for this honest review.

[Milena Bookish❤️ · Rating 4 out of 5]

1912, Georgia. The plot's hook is an inheritance from an unknown father and becomes far more problematic than expected >well-written historical with a small rural setting. The story flowed well and kept my interest> If you want to read a Christian Fiction historical novel with strong messages of faith, intrigue, sweet romance, and an inspirational story with a little bit of mystery this is for you.

I received a complimentary copy, All opinions are my own.

[Kristina Hall · Rating 4 out of 5]

Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher/author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Jonah and Lillian were both well-developed characters who had to grow over the course of the story. I enjoyed how they relied on God (and learned to rely more on God). Jonah's mom, Melanie, and Lillian's aunt, Edith, added a fun touch.

The plot moved a little slowly for me, but it picked up towards the end in a suspenseful climax. I enjoyed the setting of early 1900s Georgia. That's not a setting I see a lot in historical fiction, so I found it intriguing to read about. I appreciated that Stephenia McGee kept both the romance and language clean, and I liked her clear writing style.

Overall, The Swindler's Daughter was an interesting read that I'd recommend to those who enjoy Christian fiction and historical romance.

[Jeneane Vanderhoof · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like most stories, The Swindler's Daughter begins long before the main character of Stephenia H. McGee’s new novel is born. Lillian Doyle, whom McGee creates, is a wonderful, Godly, inspired young woman, was raised to think her father and mother had been married, that he had passed before she was born. At least, until she finds out, when an inheritance comes to her, that her father has been alive the entire time and her mother, a tyrant of a woman, has created an entire world for her daughter that is not true. This world includes pretending to be of a higher class, in reality, that they never were, Lillian and her mother afforded this “lifestyle” because of the father she never was allowed to meet, his monthly payments providing for them. And, if Lillian is to stay her mothers course, fulfill all the dreams the “fraud Mrs. Doyle'' has planned for her, she will be married to a man she has no feelings for, the small ones she does, not good, just so that the mother/daughter pair can step up their social standing even higher.

But, because Mrs. Doyle does not want it found out, that she never, in fact, married Lillian's father or any man, and bore a child out of wedlock; she sends Lillian out, for the first time in her life, to collect the inheritance her father left for her. Of course, the poor, sheltered young woman is ill prepared to deal with all the trappings of the world on her own in the early 1900’s, southern United States. But, when she finds herself in the town where her father worked and lived, there are relatives of his nearby that, although not having known about her, gladly open their arms to accept her into the family, even though they had plans of their own on what they were going to do when they inherited their relatives estate. In fact, when Lillian goes to the home where her father lived all the years she and he were alive together (and thought him dead), she finds a widowed woman with her grown son and young daughters embedded in the home, putting up quite a fight with the young woman, despite her strong claim to the property.

Here is where Stephenia H. McGee’s writing and strong character development skills shone because, as the reader, I thoroughly disliked the mother Lillian finds in her fathers home, the Mrs. Peterson. For all Lillian's faults (and there are little as she is a young woman with a mother who has pushed her into everything, molding her to be who she wants rather than let the girl be who she wants to be), this is a young woman who has just traveled the countryside in the early 1900's to inherit property from a father who wanted her to have it, that she never got to meet in life. And, she has come on her own, having absolutely no one in the way of support.

Furthermore, the life Lillian's mother has contrived for the two could have fallen apart at any moment, especially if Lillian's father no longer sent them a means of support. Lillain's mother, without a man's money, would have completely been unraveled. And while readers understand that Mrs.Peterson has lost her own home to a fire, has a young but grown son she depends on for everything, the woman, despite wanting to open her own bakery in Lillian’s father’s home, is just as much, if not more of a tyrant than Lillian's own mother. At least, that is, before readers find that Mrs.Peterson and God have a plan for them all. After that, and the support she begins to give the young girl (even though the support aids what she wants too), she begins to become a little endearing to readers, especially the faith that she has in the Lord and that with it, confident all will work out for the best, for all those involved.

And while this is not just a coming of age story for Lillian and a story about Mrs. Peterson's faith in God, much of it is about Lillian and Mrs. Petersons son Jonah, who also narrates some of the book with Lillian. Poor Jonah, the widow’s grown son, is the one who, for the most part, carries the fate of what all these women want to do on his shoulders. Because, of course, if all these women's dreams are to come true, Jonah plays a big part in it. Especially since he has two adorable little sisters, their father having passed. Sadly, the fact Jonah had his own dreams once the women of his family were all situated, now that Lillian is in the picture and the house he planned on buying when her family inherited it (remember they didn't know about her), all of those dreams are laid aside. However, when he gets to know the real Lillian, when all her anxieties, insecurities and fears are lowered, when she gets to know her family and how they are intertwined with Jonah’s, everyone begins to see that maybe God does have a plan for them after all, no matter how different they imagined it to be, they are reminded about how happy they can be when following a Higher Power.

But first things first, Lillian must get to know what she can about her father. First, what little his brother, wife and children knew of him (although he had been very distant for a long time despite living close), and through those who worked with and for him. However, the best knowledge begins to come from the things that Lillian and the others find as they go through his belongings in the home she inherited. And, as God brings all of them closer, the house beginning to be forged for its future, the biggest mysteries begin to turn up along with her fathers business partner who offers her a large sum of money to buy the home she inherited and the portion of her fathers business they share. With the help of her new friends and family Lillian finds the strength to say no to this man, amidst feelings of her own that tell her that her fathers business partner never had anyone's good intentions at heart. Especially Lillian's.

But, when evidence of wrongdoing appears in the house, spirited (hint) away, Lillian's questions about her father mount even higher. With no one around to provide answers, even her own mother who, it sounds, pushed a young man into this hard life so that she could have the money she so desired in life, even though she wouldn't provide her hand in marriage to him, Lillian can only trust in the Lord and, with the help of Mrs.Peterson, her budding romance with Jonah and her new family, even if all is never revealed, the hope is that God will keep them safe from the dangerous business partner who won't go away.

Excitement, mystery, romance and Godly devoted characters await in The Swindler's Daughter, Stephenia H. McGee gives perfect balance to the elements of this tale for readers to love.

Happy Reading!

[Paula Shreckhise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lillian has her world upended when she inherits a house and half of a business from her father, who she was told was deceased. Her mother, who has plans for the money for herself , sends Lillian to the small town to settle the estate. However, Lillian meets relatives she grows fond of and decides to stay and open a business in the house. Surprises are in store during remodeling as well as an attraction to Jonah, a friend of her cousin Alma and family.
Crazy happenings, shady dealings and dangers abound. Both Lillian and Jonah rely on God to show them the solution to their problems. The characters are relatable, the story intriguing and the romance slow and steady. The question is: who can they trust to uncover the truth?
Comfort and wisdom come from Jonah’s mother Melanie: “God only gives us one step at a time, and all we can do is try to make that step with faith.”
Recommended for historical fiction fans who like a little suspense with their romance.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell on behalf of the author and Revell Reads review program. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*

[Carly · Rating 4 out of 5]

It took me a minute to get into the story and characters, but once I did I LOVED this story! Once the suspense and twists kicked in, the shock, outrage, and delight in justice I felt made for an extremely enjoyable read.
I loved the historical setting in prohibition era Georgia, and I was so proud of all of the characters' growth, especially Lillian's into a God-directed and independent woman. Jonah's Mother's faith-filled encouragement to see the silver lining in every circumstance, surrender to God's sovereignty, and firm belief in God's greater plan added such encouraging and top tier faith content as well. This, coupled with great side characters, mystery, reconciliation, and a beautiful picture of found family and teamwork; made for an exciting and dynamic time!

[Hannah Foster · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first time reading a book by McGee and I enjoyed her easy-to-read writing style.

The storyline was what pulled me in most to this book. I enjoyed Lillian especially as she became more relaxed. Jonah was annoying on and off, and at one moment near the end he failed altogether. But I appreciated his love for his family and his strong desire to protect and provide for them. Edith was one of my favorite characters with a straight-forward, but welcoming personality. Betsy was cute and sweet, and Rose at one point melted my heart. Melanie was also a lot of fun, but occasionally got on my nerves. While her faith could have been inspiring, it came across as manipulative instead, using it to get people to do what she wanted them to do by saying it was God’s will for their life.

I was frustrated with the sheriff of the town and how he handled things. It felt like he should have thought through certain things that should have made it clear that certain people weren’t a part of a certain thing.

I enjoyed the setting and the time period though at times there were moments that felt a little more modern or twenty -first century.

I was glad to see this was clearly a Christian novel. Though like I mentioned above I don’t believe it’s right to use your faith in God’s plan for your life to manipulate others to do what you want. Otherwise, I enjoyed the faith aspects of this story and the encouragement to trust God’s plan even when things seem to crumble.

Overall, this was an enjoyable historical novel with mostly loveable characters and an intriguing plot.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest opinions.

[Dana Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Swindler's Daughter was a sweet book that I really enjoyed. The main character, Lillian, was told her whole life, that her father was dead, and her mother was a widow. Come to find out, that was not true. Her father just recently passed away and left Lillian all of his earthly possessions. Along the way to claim what was hers, she meets danger and doesn't know who to trust. This book contains mystery, romance, and very likable characters. It was a very good read.
*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher, and this is my honest opinion.

[Sarita · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating 4.5

This was my second book by this author, and I enjoyed it very much. I found myself just reading and reading to see what was going on and what would happen. There was also a point where I was confused, just like the characters, with regards to who to trust and who is not trustworthy.

There was sweet character development, new beginnings, trust in God’s plans, characters finding their own voice to stand up for what they want, and danger and suspense.

I recommend this story to fans of historical romance with a dash of danger and mystery.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

I love Stephenia H. McGee’s books so I already knew I wanted to read her latest, The Swindler’s Daughter. The fact that it’s set in a Georgia mountain town brimming with intriguing Progressive-era (and early hints of Prohibition) history – and located only about an hour from me – is icing on the cake.

Lillian Doyle, our story’s protagonist, had me on her side from the very beginning. In the first few pages, everything she thought she knew was turned upside down and proven to be a lie. Her mother? Not a widow. Her father? Not dead. Well… he is now, but she had believed him dead her whole life only to discover his death was much more recent and comes with a sizable inheritance in her name. Not her high-society mother’s. In fact, despite being raised with a high priority on keeping up appearances, mingling in high-class circles, and marrying advantageously, Lillian herself turned out to be a very kind and genuine person who loved God and sought His direction. I thought her character was very brave and easy to like, and I cheered her on in her quest for independence and the truth.

A quest which leads her from Atlanta to rural north Georgia and a house in need of many repairs, a family she never knew, buried secrets, long-held dreams, and a blossoming romance (complete with some great ‘smushing faces’ scenes). The supporting cast, including our dashing hero Jonah, is full of layered backstories and vibrant personalities and, while some are easy to trust right away, readers get to join Lillian in trying to discern which of the others are who they claim to be. Jonah’s mother Melanie and his sisters were personal favorites of mine, and I’d love to see future stories about Rose and Betsy after they’ve grown up. Jonah is as vividly drawn and compelling as Lillian is, and I very much enjoyed watching them fall in love.

Bottom Line: The Swindler’s Daughter by Stephenia H. McGee grabbed my interest from the first sentence and held me immersed in its pages until the last word. I easily embraced Lillian and Jonah and their Dawsonville families, and I was caught up in the mystery and danger surrounding her father and his house. I also loved that, while I had one idea about how the title would play out, McGee took it even beyond those expectations and made it all the more compelling. I must admit that Georgia during the Progressive & Prohibition eras hasn’t been on my radar until picking up The Swindler’s Daughter but now I find myself wanting to know lots more about it. Romance, intrigue, history, great characters and family secrets – this book has it all!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower

[Connie Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Swindler's Daughter is written by Stephenia H. McGee. This might be my favorite book by this author yet. This book is set in 1912 in Georgia. Lillian Doyle thought her dad died a long time ago. She has lived a high society life with her mother. She suddenly finds out that her father died in prison and has left her an inheritance. Lillian thought she was the daughter of a widow, and now finds out that she is a swindler's heiress.

Normally inheritances are good things. It helps secure your future. In Lillian's situation, it does nothing but cause problems. Lillian travels to her father's house and meets Jonah. Jonah and his family have been living in the home and were planning on buying it. Jonah's mother, Melanie and Lillian start to work together to build a business. While working on the home they find something hidden in the walls. I liked the mystery aspect written into the story - trying to unravel what Lillian's father was really involved in.

This book will grab your attention within the first few pages. It was one that I did not want to put down. It's beautifully written with a great message of faith. The characters are well written and the story line is original.

Thank you to the author and publisher for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own.

[Erin Cataldi · Rating 4 out of 5]

A society woman's world falls apart when she discovers that her mother kept a HUGE secret from her. Her father had been alive her whole life and had only recently passed away, living her his entire estate. Her mother refuses to answer her questions and forces Lillian to go to his hometown, settle the estate, and bring back the money. When Lillian arrives she discovers that her father's house has already been spoken for by her relative's friends and that her father's business partner seems less than scrupulous. While trying to get to the bottom of everything she starts to get a pang in her heart and wanting to stay. She has new found family, she is loving the independence she has without her overbearing mother, and there is a certain handsome man that has entered the picture. A slow burn historical romance with intrigue. A wholesome inspirational read that will enchant readers and open hearts.

[Aerykah · Rating 3 out of 5]

I finished it, but I honestly never felt very invested in any of the characters. I didn't hate it, but I certainly didn't love it, either.

[Jessica Baker (A Baker's Perspective) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I know that if I ever want to visit historic Georgia, I just need to dive into a book by Stephenia McGee. She never fails to disappoint, and her southern flare and hospitality is all over the pages in her books. The Swindler’s Daughter is a story of faith, growth, a little mystery, and so much more.

First of all I have to say that I just adored Melanie. Her confident faith was just what I needed to hear right now. At first, I will admit I thought maybe she was a little crazy – I mean she kind of seemed that way lol. But as I continued to read and learn more about her – I knew it was just her trust in the Lord. If the Lord told her something, then by golly it was going to happen. Why can’t we have that kind of strong faith in our lives today? Although she was a secondary character, I have to say that she spoke to my heart the most.

I also loved Lillian’s journey. Her mother, well, you’ll have to read for yourself. Lillian had just always just done whatever was asked of her, and it was so nice to see her not only travel on her own, but start living a life that the Lord had for her, without her mother looking over every little thing. With Jonah, his family and others in town, she was able to spread her wings a bit and I think find that she was stronger then maybe she gave herself credit for. Plus the plot itself was just intriguing – and the last third of the book was fantastic! Well it all was, but it really started moving then.

While there is a slow burn type romance here, it was (in my opinion) the highlight of the story. For me, it was more about Lillian’s journey. Other readers may have a different idea of course. No matter the opinion, this story will not only take readers back in time, but it will take them to a welcoming town with friendly residents that will make them feel as if they have always belonged. I highly recommend this new release from McGee!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Faith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lillian Doyle is shocked to find that what believed her entire life about her father is a carefully constructed falsehood. Upon her father's death she travels to claim her inheritance, and discovers a side of her family that she never knew, as well as chance to find love on her own terms.

I liked how Lillian get's a chance to be out on her own, outside of her mother's plans, making new friends. She is smart and has business sense thriving in the new town and newfound freedom. I liked Jonah's mother and her words of faith and friendship towards Lillian.

A little bit slower to start out, but it grew on me and I liked the gradual character development, strong faith, and dash of mystery along the way.

Overall, an enjoyable read, well written, in an early 1900's setting.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Cover Lover Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gorgeous cover art. The Swindler’s Daughter shares a story just as beautiful.

I love stories that reveal secrets, as well as the misfortune that follows. It is effortless to connect with Lilian. I put myself in her place and wondered how I would’ve reacted, would’ve felt about being lied to. But in great troubles, even greater transformations and blessings are possible.

There are so many wonderful elements to this story. Mystery, romance, danger, and inheritance. There are tender moments, and well as humor, and overall inspiring. A particular quote from the book that spoke to me and will stay with me for some time: “Temper is often what gets us into trouble, and pride is what keeps us there.”

A faith filled, inspiring, and wonderfully entertaining read!

First Line (Prologue): I’d nearly been caught today, picking the pocket of a man at the festival.
Series: Tales of Winberg book 3
Genre: Medieval Historical Romance
Author: Stephenia H. McGee
Page Count: 286

#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my favorite read by this author!
So very good! I couldn't putvit away for one 2nd!
The many messages of faith, a strong believer in Christ, what more could one want!?
The strong believer is my favorite character. I love her determination to believe no matter the situation she found herself in.
I really enjoyed watching Lillian grow into the character she was meant to be.
I think my favorite thing was the transformation of the house. All the love that was freely given was amazing. I wish it were that easy in real life.
The mystery was wonderful! Not too heavy just enough to keep reading til the end.
McGee has done a wonderful job with all of it and I give this book 5 stars. Wish I could give it more! I enjoyed this story so much! I even snickered in some places.
You'll most especially love Rose and Betsy! In my opinion they stole the show!
I highly recommend it!
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[Cheri Swalwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great book. I have started to really appreciate historical fiction again, maybe because I wish for simpler times than what we’re living in now, and this book was great. I quickly grew to like Lillian, she wasn’t the spoiled woman that I assumed she would be. The storyline was great and I absolutely LOVED Alma and Lewis’ relationship. Her mother and Melanie grew on me too. Jonah, I wasn’t sure what to think of him and while it took me a while to warm up to him and find his intentions noble, he was a great character for being opposite Lillian. I would definitely read more from this amazing writer. I love her writing style and her storylines kept me turning the pages. Definitely a book I will recommend to many.

I was given this book as a complimentary copy but was not required to write a review.

[Dana Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Swindler's Daughter was a sweet book that I really enjoyed. The main character, Lillian was told her whole life, that her father was dead and her mother a widow. Come to find out, that was not true. Her father just recently passed away and left Lillian all of his earthly possessions. Along the way to claim what was hers, she meets danger and doesn't know who to trust. This book contains mystery, romance and very likeable characters. It was a very good read.
*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher and this is my honest opinion.

[Robin Reynolds · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve previously read one book from this author, THE SECRETS OF EMBERWILD, which I absolutely loved, so I was excited to get this book. This one started off a bit slow for me and took a little longer to get into, but once it picked up I was all in.

Lillian grew up with a very strict mother and believing her father was dead. As the story opens, she’s just learned that her mother lied to her and her father has actually been alive all these years, only recently passing away in a jail cell, and that he named her as his heir. When her mother sends her off to the small Georgia town where he lived, alone, to deal with his estate, she is angry and upset, and nervous, and scared, but also a little exhilarated. She’s never been away from home, from her mother, and thinking about selling off her father’s home and having money of her own reawakens dreams for the future.

But Lillian’s arrival in town dashes Jonah’s dreams for the future. His friend and boss has promised to sell the house to him, for they all believed his wife and her mother, the cousin and aunt Lillian never knew she had, would inherit. Jonah’s mother and younger sisters are already living in the house, and his mother planned to start her own bakery, which would hopefully provide enough support for her and the girls that Jonah could do something for himself now.

I grew to like Lillian more and more as she began to open herself to the possibilities of a future out from under her mother’s thumb, and discover the joy of having some personal freedom. While she’s not about to put Jonah’s family out on the streets, she’s also not prepared to just accept the plans already made for the house, and finds herself torn between selling it or keeping it for herself. I loved how her newfound family quickly accepted her, with her cousin Alma being thrilled to meet her and bring her into the bosom of the family. She loves her mother of course, and knows her mother loves her (while I quite frankly disliked her mother very much), but now she begins to see what a real family should be made of. It becomes a place where she feels welcome and valued for herself, not for what she can bring to the table.

I loved Jonah from the start. He feels animosity toward Lillian in the beginning. He dreamed of going to college to be an electrician, and then helping to bring electricity to his small town. But he’s also drawn to Lillian, and as secrets about her father come out and she becomes the victim of someone who does not wish her well, he can’t help but appoint himself to protect her.

This is an historical romance, but there are also suspense elements, and at one point in the back half things got pretty tense. It actually started to look like there would no happy ending for Lillian, as she finds herself suddenly the one being accused of committing crimes as the actions her father set into motion invade her life.

For a book that started out slow, it became quite fast paced, and thankfully ended with a perfect resolution.

*received via the publisher and voluntarily reviewed*

[Chris Jager · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sweet story of a young lady learning to stand on her own. McGee does the historical research necessary to paint a backdrop that makes the story all the richer for it. Toss in some fun characters along with a wolf in sheep’s clothing and you have a delightful read.

[Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

BOOK REVIEW - The Swindler's Daughter - Stephenia H. McGee - 5/5 Stars

THE STORY
Everybody needs a little sweetness in there life and this story has the perfect amount. When you think of a sweet romance this story should come up under the definition, it has everything you need: small town vibes, quirky family and friends, shy heroine from the city that grows into herself, slightly gruff country hero that's secretly a softie, a bit of mystery and a slowish adorable romance! I also loved the twist towards the end, very unexpected and a nice addition to the overall enjoyment of this book.

THE ROMANCE
Lillian and Jonah (great name btw!) are just so awwww and sigh-worthy. They're both so nice you just know they have to be together! I love how uncomplicated their romance is, no third act break ups or anything, just two people that like then love each other!

THE TRUTHS
Like Jonah and Lillian, one of the hardest things for us to accept as adults, and Christians, is that life doesn't always (well most of the time actually) turn out how we plan. We build all these plans and set all these goals of what we're going to do by what age but they don't always come to pass. I turn 30 this year and my life looks absolutely nothing like teenaged me planned! While part of me is disappointed I haven't met 18 year old me's goals, I'm learning that God has other plans and they are good too. The future is still a big unknown to me but learning to put my trust in God and the plans He has in store and working on staying hopeful, especially when current circumstances are hard or disappointing. Keep trusting God because the good and the better are coming!

[Melissa (christianbooksandcoffee) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Set in 1912, Lillian Doyle has thought her mother was a widow her entire life. Turns out her father was alive the whole time until recently. Now he really is deceased and has named her in his will to inherit his house and business. She travels to his house and meets a cousin she never knew she had and a woman named Melanie and her two daughters and her son Jonah. Jonah is upset by Lillian’s arrival because his mother, Melanie, was going to buy Lillian’s Father’s house, the house they are currently living in. Now this messes up the plans. As they learn more about each other, Melanie and Lillian decide to use the house to got into business together. Jonah is still suspicious of Lillian but they work together on the house and discover something hidden in the walls. Just what was her father involved in?

This story had a little bit of a mystery in it, which I always find fun. It just helps hold your interest until the end. I liked Lillian and Jonah together, very cute! Also I liked Melanie’s character a lot. She kept reminding the others to have faith in God. I liked how Jonah wanted to make sure his family was taken care of and the same goes for Lillian and her mom. Overall a good story and I recommend!

4.25 Stars!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author and netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Debra Slonek · Rating 4 out of 5]

Through wonderful storytelling, I was drawn into 1912 Georgia. I quickly became attached to many of the characters. They faced obstacles, learned many life’s lessons, and experienced dreams coming true and prayers being answered. They were also given many opportunities to receive and extend grace and mercy.

As Lillian suddenly had to adjust to a reality that she had no idea even existed, things began changing rather rapidly. The ground beneath her feet seemed to be shifting. She had new people to meet, property to be in charge of and many decisions to make. Might all of these changes lead to new opportunities and dreams being fulfilled? Possibly, but first many problems must be solved and there was ample chaos to be managed.

Everyone needs a long lost cousin like Alma in their life. Alma’s joy was infectious and her welcoming presence and personality were refreshing to Lillian.

I loved Melanie! Her strong faith truly guided every aspect of her life. Her inner strength was channeled into leading her family well and it shined in her work ethic.

Oh how I love when reading a novel helps to build up my vocabulary. I discovered a new word…termagant. I’ll be on the lookout for opportunities to use this new to me word.

I really enjoyed this satisfying and well written story.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Publishers. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

[BrendaLee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another wonderful book from this author. I was intrigued from the first page and I also loved Lillian from the very beginning. I loved her personality but her mother not so much. All she cared about was what “society” people thought. Well I loved that Lillian went by herself to the lawyer when she found out she inherited her father’s belongings. She meets family and other people and sees the house her father left her. What she finds out when she gets there is unexpected.
I enjoyed Lillian meeting Jonah and the way he finally loosened up around her. I’m so happy that Lillian wanted independence and didn’t want to rely on anyone.
A little family history, a little mystery, a little romance, inspirational and intriguing. How can you get a better story than that? If you’ve never read a book by this author you don’t know what you are missing. Try this one I think you will love it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and author but was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own

[Vesna Dan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you so much to Revell Books for my gifted copy of The Swindler's Daughter by Stephenia H. McGee, which is a new to me author. This story is set in 1912, Georgia, and our protagonist Lillian Doyle has just learned she is to inherit her late Father's fortune. Secrets have been kept from Lillian all her life, and her journey to the town where her Father has left his home and business proves to be life changing for Lillian. A family living in her house, a shady business with an even shadier partner, and a stranger that bumps into her upon her arrival in town becomes a man she grows to admire, and with his help, opens her heart. Fiercely independent, and craving a chance to make a dream of hers come true we follow Lillian as she uncovers lies, secrets, a family she comes to love and embrace, and a cowboy who steals her heart. Enjoyable quick read for those that like southern fiction, clean romance, faith, family, and mystery. #TheSwindlersDaughter #RevellBooks #RevellReads #historicalromance #family #courage #love #independentwoman #secretsuncovered #hea

[Kelly-Ann ~ Sassy Bookish Mama · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my second book by Stephenia and I really enjoyed it. The Swindler's Daughter definitely had me captivated and I wanted to know more about Lillian and the predicament she finds herself in. We immediately meet her and her mother as she is being read the will from her estranged father. As soon as you meet the mother you will dislike her. She is something else! Goodness I was so glad when Lillian left to find what her father had left her. She definitely needed that time to "grow" up into her own person.

All the characters in this story were entertaining but Jonah's mother was definitely the glue that held the storyline together. Despite her getting on my nerves at times I truly enjoyed her. The love interest Jonah was great but beware this romance is a slow burn. The story truly is about Lillian finding out who she is and what she wants to be.

There is mystery and action throughout the story which keeps you turning those pages! If you enjoy Christian Historical fiction set in Georgia then you will definitely enjoy this one.

I received a copy of this book through the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Hannah Elisabeth]

DNF on page 129

I was super excited for this book because I absolutely loved The Secrets of Emberwild by this author last year. However, I’m super bored with this one. I don’t like the characters. Jonah is…I don’t like how he’s so set against Lillian and has been since before he met her. I also just don’t really care for Lillian. The plot is also not interesting to me. I get there’s supposed to be secrets about her dad and his business at some point, but there’s not been a whiff of that yet. I’m just tired of it and ready to move on. I will try the other authors books because I do like her writing.

[Life of Literature · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novel took many unexpected twists and turns that it easily held my attention from beginning to end! The mystery surrounding Lillian’s father was not predictable. Both main characters were great too, so it was no hardship to root for Lillian and Jonah. I thought their romance was well written. I also liked the history of 1912 sprinkled in among the plot. And the spiritual truth of redemption was great; I especially liked the change and growth in Jonah. I enjoyed this novel and recommend it to those who liked historical fiction with a twist of mystery.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.