Ivy Hart and The BankerFellow author Ivy Hart is also writing in the Men of the West series with me. I am pleased to have her guest-blogging here today. Every book in the multiple-author project is worth checking out, and we hope you'll read them all. I'll let her tell you about herself and her new book in her own words:
Hello, fellow lovers of Christian Historical Romance! I'm Ivy Hart, and it's a joy to share my passion for stories that weave together faith, love, and the rich tapestry of the American past. While I live in Australia, my own great-grandmother was a prairie homesteader (from Norway), and her incredible strength, courage, and unwavering faith in God are a constant source of inspiration for the tales of resilience and hope I strive to bring to life. There's something about the challenges faced by those who carved out lives on the frontier – their reliance on God and each other – that speaks deeply to my heart, and I hope to yours as well.
I'm so excited to introduce you to my newest novel, The Banker, which released on June 5th, 2025! This story is part of the Men of the West multi-author series, and it plunges us into the heart of Liberty Ridge, a Kansas town carved from the rugged landscape in 1890. It’s a place where dreams are forged in the fires of ambition, but also where the earth yields both riches and heartbreak. When a devastating mine explosion rips through the community, it unearths not just raw seams of earth but also the simmering tensions and deep-seated prejudices dividing the settlers and Irish immigrants. Amidst this wreckage and despair, Caleb, our banker who is wrestling with his own doubts, finds himself drawn to Charity, a photographer of unwavering strength and resilience. Their shared grief and commitment to rebuilding their shattered town ignite a spark of hope and a burgeoning love that defies the odds. But as they search for answers and strive to heal their community, they uncover a web of deceit threatening to consume them both. Will their love bridge the divide and bring justice to light, or will the secrets they uncover shatter the fragile peace forever?

Writing The Banker was a journey into the heart of a community grappling with prejudice, loss, and the search for redemption. I was particularly drawn to exploring how faith can sustain individuals and a town through immense trials, and how true healing often begins with small acts of courage and compassion. Charity's profession as a photographer using the dry plate methods of the 1890s was fascinating to research, imagining her capturing the fleeting moments and resilient spirits of Liberty Ridge. Having arrived in town on a desperate search for her missing brother, Samuel, Charity finds her life taking unexpected turns. The story delves into the difficult path of mending old wounds, as settlers and Irish immigrants must find common ground, and how one man, Caleb, seeks to rebuild not just a bank, but trust and unity through faith in action. As Caleb and Charity navigate the aftermath of the town's trauma, their connection deepens, leading to moments where the future hangs in the balance: They walked on, the path narrowing slightly, forcing them closer together. This closeness feels right. Natural. Like coming home, Caleb thought. Their conversation turned again, circling back to their hopes for the future... Listening to her, seeing the passion light up her face, Caleb felt a growing sense of dread mix with his admiration. Her roots here felt so new, so fragile compared to the pull of her past.
"Are you… are you planning to stay, Charity," he asked, the question hanging heavy in the crisp air. He tried to keep his voice even, banker-neutral, but failed. It came out hesitant, laced with an anxiety he couldn't hide. Now that Samuel is safe and recovering… now that Thorne is dealt with… what happens next for you?"
Charity stopped walking, turning to face him fully. The sunlight caught the auburn highlights in her hair. Her expression was open, searching, her eyes filled with a complex mix of warmth and sincerity that made his heart hammer against his ribs. "I don't know, Caleb," she admitted, her voice soft but clear, achingly honest. "I truly don't."
She looked around at the creek, the trees, the vast blue sky overhead. "I've grown so fond of Liberty Ridge," she continued, her gaze returning to his. "More than I ever expected. I feel a connection here… to the people, their resilience, their kindness… to this land, its rugged beauty…" Her voice dropped slightly. "And… to you." A faint blush rose on her cheeks, but she held his gaze. "There's a purpose here I never felt back home."
He took a step closer… "Charity," he began, his voice barely above a whisper, rough with emotion… "I… I don't want you to leave."
I pray that The Banker touches your heart and offers a story of hope and enduring faith. Look for it now!
Blessings,
Ivy Hart
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Ivy-Hart/author/B0DBJ2HTWR
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558923212484
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