Category: DianaLand

10 Cozy Christian Romances Perfect for Fall Reading

Posted on by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer

When the air gets crisp and pumpkin spice starts showing up everywhere, I always find myself reaching for cozy reads. For me, fall and fiction go hand in hand—there’s just something about autumn romance that reminds us of change, second chances, and God’s grace during every season.

If you’re like me and you want your autumn TBR pile to be filled with heartwarming, faith-driven romance, you’re in the right place. Below, I’ve gathered a list of 10 Christian romance novels set in the fall (and yes, a few of my own are making an appearance too). These stories will give you all the cozy feels while also pointing you back to the One who authors the greatest love story of all.

Small-Town Contemporary Romance

These stories give you golden leaves, cozy hometowns, and plenty of small-town charm.

  • Autumn Skies by Denise Hunter — A mountain inn, a growing attraction, and the healing kind of love only God can orchestrate.

  • Fall Flip by Denise Weimer — If you love fall festivals and fresh starts, this contemporary romance is for you.

Seasonal Wedding & Novella Collections

If you like shorter reads that you can cozy up with in one sitting, these fall wedding romances are the perfect escape.

victorian woman on top, railroad tracks on the bottom

Historical Romances

Looking for something with a historical twist (but still clean and faith-friendly)? These will sweep you back in time while still keeping that autumnal warmth.

woman looking at man in field

A Bride’s Dilemma in Friendship, Tennessee by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer— When a spirited woman and a determined man find themselves caught between duty and desire, will God’s plan for their lives be bigger than the secrets they’re hiding?

book cover woman looking away from the reader at an old town

A Promise in Haste in Knob Creek by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer — Rushed vows made in uncertain times spark a marriage of convenience—will hurried promises deepen into a lasting love built on trust and God’s grace?

woman holding a valise stepping out of a stagecoach

A Promise Given in Knob Creek by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer— In a town where everyone knows your name, one promise could change the course of two lives forever—if they have the courage to follow God’s leading.

  • An Autumn Kiss by Laura Rollins, Annette Lyon, and Sarah M. Eden — Three cozy Regency-era romances filled with autumn settings and sweet love stories.

Devotional + Fiction Inspo

For when you want your reading time to be refreshing for the heart and soul.

Contemporary Christian Romance with Autumn Vibes

Sometimes the season is more subtle—but the cozy themes and faith-centered love stories will still give you all the fall feels.

A Final Thought

Whether you’re curling up under a blanket with hot cider, or sneaking in a few chapters while waiting at soccer practice, these Christian romance novels set in fall are sure to bless your reading season. They’re warm, cozy, faith-filled, and perfect for reminding us that even in seasons of change, God is always faithful.

And don’t forget—alongside these amazing authors, I’ve be shared a few of my own fall-themed Christian romances in this list too. I can’t wait for you to meet my characters, fall in love with their journeys, and see how God weaves hope and redemption into their stories.

So grab your blanket, your favorite warm drink, and let’s make this fall our coziest, most faith-filled reading season yet!

Where Charles Dickens Stayed

Posted on by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer

Welcome to Lebanon, Illinois, founded in 1814, and then became a city in 1874. If you want to sound like a native use ‘none’ instead of ‘non’ at the end of the city’s name. A lot happened in that time. It was a brewing, manufacturing, and milling town, with flour mills, distilleries, five hotels, nine saloons and saw mills.

I have a great fondness for the paver street because my husband and another worker laid all of those pavers (by hand!) on Main Street. At the end of the street, there are bricks with my children’s names printed underneath. It was a big day for them. We took them out of school for the laying of the last row and the newspaper took their photo!

two story buildings brick street small town
Do you see the ‘fake’ trolley tracks? Lebonon had a trolley.

Charles Dickens made his way to America in 1842, traveling as far west as St. Louis—a big adventure for the time. Later that year, he published his book American Notes, about his experiences during the trip. On April 12, 1842, Dickens and his 13 companions stayed at the historic Mermaid House Inn before heading out the next morning. During his visit, he explored the town and wrote about his “Jaunt to the Looking Glass Prairie and Back,” capturing the charm of the area in his notes.

Just a year later, in 1843, Dickens penned what would become his most beloved work, A Christmas Carol. Some believe his visit to Lebanon sparked inspiration for the story—a fun piece of local lore that adds to the magic of his time here. A Christmas Carol is performed every holiday season at Lebanon’s own Looking Glass Playhouse, keeping the connection alive and well.

I wonder if Dickens went through this door. I find the architecture of the town fascinating.

Wooden door
Is DNA from Charles Dickens on this door?
finial on building post
You can’t see this detail without a telephoto lens.
Upper view of a building with supports
Looking up in towns like this often holds a surprise.

three story brick housse
Someday I hope to go inside this place!

Lebanon is also home to Illinois’ oldest college and Methodist-affiliated university in the United States, McKendree University.

sign for McKendree University by tall trees
It’s a pretty campus.

If you’re ever driving on I-64 in Illinois, this is a fun town to explore. It’s rather fun to think you’re walking the same streets as Charles Dickens. *It’s not far from Scott Airfield Base.

collage of photos above to pin on pinterest
PIN THIS!

So how does this town play into what I’ve written? So glad you asked! The Small Town Series have novellas related to a town not far from here. Trenton, Illinois.

old train in the background, book covers
Check them out here!
ebook on lake background, click to read for free All in Good time
https://dl.bookfunnel.com/axeondy2km

Surviving Husband’s Hip Surgery: Entertainment, Tech Upgrades, and Desk Decluttering!

Posted on by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer

If you’re a newsletter subscriber, you already know my husband recently underwent hip surgery. This isn’t a man accustomed to desk work; he’s constantly active, juggling multiple projects. Just before surgery, he was jackhammering and installing flooring! So, the question became: how does a wife keep a highly active husband entertained and prevent boredom during recovery?

Week 1: Entertainment to the Rescue

The first week was all about finding engaging distractions. Here’s what kept us (him!) entertained:

Week 2: Upgrading Tech and Decluttering the Office

By the second week, he was feeling more mobile and ventured into our shared office space. This led to a much-needed tech upgrade!

  • New Laptop Time: His ancient laptop, long overdue for replacement, finally got an upgrade. (This might not be a typical post-surgery activity, but it was necessary!)
  • Desk Decluttering: The new laptop project spurred him to clean out his desk drawers and cabinets. I’m slightly ashamed to admit his side of the office is now tidier than mine!

Improved Comfort and Productivity

The new, more compact laptop inspired some purchases to enhance comfort and productivity:

  • Laptop Stand: We invested in a laptop stand to improve ergonomics.
WALI Computer Monitor Stand for Desk, Adjustable Laptop Riser, Desk Monitor Stand Underneath Storage for Office, Home, School Supplies (STT003), 1 Pack, Black
https://amzn.to/4o5dv0u
  • Portable Laptop Desk: A portable laptop desk allows him to comfortably use his computer while watching TV.
AboveTEK Portable Laptop Lap Desk w/ Retractable Left/Right Mouse Pad Tray, Non-Slip Heat Shield Tablet Notebook Computer Stand Table w/ Sturdy Stable Work Surface for Bed Sofa Couch or Travel
https://amzn.to

We’re going into week three, and he is doing so well that I won’t have to find things for him to do. He’ll be sorting tools, I’m sure, and dreaming of the day he can get back to work. I wonder if I can get him to go through his closet before then?

https://dl.bookfunnel.com/axeondy2km

Connecting Family History

Posted on by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer

Making History Feel Real: Writing Relatable Historical Fiction

Writing historical fiction is fun, but it has to connect with readers living in today’s world. The magic happens when the past meets the present through emotions, challenges, and relationships that feel timeless.

When I sit down to write, I often pull details from memories, family stories, and even the histories of friends (so if you know me, your ancestors might sneak into a book someday!). Real stories spark the imagination and help bring authenticity to historical tales.

Connecting 1800s Life to Today’s Reader

It’s the small details that make a historical story come alive. Readers might not be defending their family farms from marauders like Heaven does in A Bride’s Dilemma in Friendship, Tennessee, but they can relate to fear, courage, and protecting those they love.

Today, we rely on security cameras, alarms, or loyal dogs. Back then, strength and faith were the only defenses many families had. That parallel—between past and present—keeps readers emotionally grounded, even in a completely different century.

The Story Behind the Green Beans

Every historical detail matters. In Heaven’s story, even something as simple as a pot of green beans carries meaning. Curious why?

I explained the history and inspiration behind those green beans in my interview with Genealogy Publishing Coach . If you’ve read A Bride’shttps://dianabrandmeyer.com/books/a-brides-dilemma-in-friendship-tennesse/ Dilemma in Friendship, Tennessee, you already know that those beans symbolize more than just a meal—they represent resilience, tradition, and connection to home.

(And please, no spoilers in the comments! But you can absolutely say, “Now I get it!” 😉)

Bridging Yesterday and Today

Historical fiction isn’t only about costumes and old houses—it’s about the heart of humanity. Whether your story unfolds on the frontier or in a modern‑day small town, readers still crave the same things: hope, strength, and faith through challenges.

That’s what turns history into something that matters today.

author Diana Lesire Brandmeyer
5 book covers for the Frontier Legacy Brides

Check out the Frontier Legacy Series!

Discovering Harney & Sons Tea

Posted on by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer

If you’ve followed me or read my newsletter, you’ll know how much I dislike coffee. Tea? That’s another story. I love tea!

I was hanging out online with some fellow writers, and one of them mentioned Hot Cinnamon Spice tea from Harney & Sons tea.

It didn’t take long for me to hop over to their site and order my own cup of happiness.

Forget pumpkin spice at the fancy coffee shop. Hot Cinnamon Spice tea is the best fall drink yet, and of course, there’s Chia—always my #1 choice.

If you love tea, be prepared to face a decision dilemma. I’m wanting to try two more of their teas, Paris, and Jasmine. But first I must write at least another chapter—okay maybe just a scene.

harney & sons tea box 2 tea bags a book A bride's dilemma in Friendship, Tennessee and scio plates
Need a book to go with your tea? Books!

Since I’ve given up drinking diet Dr Pepper–it’s true! I have given it up for real! Now I’m drinking more tea while I write. It’s getting colder here too so tea is my preferred winter drink. I might as well make it special.

Are you a tea or coffee person? Don’t hate on me because I dislike the taste of the coffee. I love the way it smells, but I can’t get past the bitter taste.

Time for me to make another cup. I wish you could smell the cinnamon!

Love of Reading

Posted on by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer

Who taught you to read?

When did you get excited about connecting letters to make words?

My love of reading came from my mom. She spent hours reading to me. I have several favorite memories of reading time.

Mom took me to the library as often as she could. Sometimes we had to walk because there wasn’t a second car.

One book became my favorite, and I can’t remember the name. Instead of illustrations, it had photos of actual children. That amazed me— people could be in books! I wanted to be in books.

That may be when I segued into becoming the character I read about, and now it is the way I write.

She helped me learn to read through Rubic books. If you aren’t familiar with those, they put small pictures in place of words like house, dog, bike, and before you know it you’ve learned to read the small words because you’ve practiced them and those big words don’t scare you. At least, that’s how I remember it.

Mom read tough books to us, big thick ones like The Yearling, that took all summer because she read to my brother and me while we rested in the hot (unairconditioned) house with the fan blasting on us.

We read side by side on the porch swing.

We read before bed.

We read on the couch, on the floor, and soon I was reading alone. But I was never alone because if I looked I could find Mom reading too!

She gave me a gift that has let me travel, laugh, cry and learn.

So that’s my story. What’s your reading story?

Happy Birthday, Mom!

5 book covers for the Frontier Legacy Brides

Cozy Reading in the Shorter Days

Posted on by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer

When the days grow shorter and the chill creeps into the air, I notice something stirring in me — maybe you feel it, too. That tug toward a blanket, a warm corner, and a story to get lost in.

For me, the hard part isn’t finding the desire to read — it’s keeping track of all the books. Can you relate? One pile by the bed, a few on the coffee table, and then the e‑books scattered between the Kindle, the iPad, and the phone app. Somehow every story has its own spot, but when I curl up by the woodstove, I often ask myself: where did I put that book?

Lately, my Kindle has been holding all the fiction my heart longs for, while the Kindle Fire keeps my work and research tucked in neatly. Still, it’s not perfect. Sometimes I just wish every book I love could follow me wherever I am without hunting it down.

This season, my chair by the stove is calling. It’s the coziest seat in the house — close enough to the fire to stay warm but (hopefully) not close enough to ignite. Right now I’m working through Seeking St. Louis, a research book so full of stories and details that I can only take it in small doses. I know I’ll draw on it for a book someday. For now, it’s quietly preparing me.

Chair next to woodstove, throw over the back with a book resting on the seat

🔖 Looking for your next cozy read?
My book Hearts on the Road is a story of faith, love, and second chances — perfect for chilly evenings when you’re reaching for the blanket and a cup of tea. Click here to find it →

And maybe you’re feeling the same ache I do when your current stack is dwindling. Running out of books might be one of the worst feelings in winter, don’t you think? If you’re looking for something new, I’d love for you to discover Hearts on the Road, one of my own stories written to warm the heart on a chilly day.

Tell me — where’s your favorite place to read when the weather turns? And how many blankets do you pile on? (For me, if there’s no fire to sit beside, I need at least two!)

Where do you like to read in the colder months? And how many blankets do you need? If I don’t have a fire, I need at least two!

book cover, man and woman on street in western town

*Update! I did get to use some of what I learned about St. Louis in A Bride’s Choice in Central City.

Saying Goodbye

Posted on by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer

Two years ago I started a new job somewhat reluctantly. Going to work meant I had to leave my writing behind, and I’d have to interact with people I didn’t know. GASP! I would have to smile and be present.

Writers are often off in their own worlds thinking about their book even if they are standing right next to you. We forget to smile, instead, we make strange thinking faces. Or so I’ve been told by my husband.

After a few weeks of settling in, I loved my position at PYC-programs for young children. Smiling faces of little ones brightened my day. Laughter and silly actions lifted my heart. Watching them discover the amazing in the ordinary helped me see it too. Helping with zippers, mittens, and coats could have frustrated me but instead reminded me how fragile childhood can be.

Turning in my key

While I started this position thinking I would be able to serve well with my social media skills it didn’t take long to realize there was so much more.

I met incredible patient women who taught there. I learned to sing everything because preschoolers listen when you sing instructions. I didn’t hesitate to hop into a substitute position when needed because joy is a child who paints and tells you a story.

Then Covid-19 became a reality.

The preschool had to change a lot of things to be able to open. I was one of the changes, wanted but no longer needed at this time. It breaks my heart to step away but I understand. I will miss the women I worked with, the children, and their families.

I am walking away with good memories and new people skills because God sent me here–not so much so I could help at PYC, but that He could help me.

I am a better person for working at PYC and hope to be a better writer, because without people skills how can one write about people?

Facebook Party Time

Posted on by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer


Come hang out with me and my friends! We really are friends in real life so it might get crazy!

July 20th at 4:00 p.m. (Pacific Time) my good friend and fellow author, Jennifer Lynn Cary (will be throwing a Facebook Live party with a few of our author friends while we share about our latest books.

Here’s who is coming!

Jennifer Lynn Cary—author of The Crockett Chronicles and Relentless Heart, our hostess for the evening.

Kristin Billerbeck—author of The Ashley Stockingdale Series, The Spa Girls Series and SO many other wonderful books. She’s just released Room at the Top (on my TBR pile!).

Jennifer Crosswhite–author of The Route Home Series, her latest release is Finally Home, the final book of The Route Home series.

Liz Tolsma—author of Melody of the Soul, The Refrain Within, Snow on the Tulips, The Pink Bonnet (part of the True Crimes Series). She’s releasing The Green Dress, next in the True Crimes Series.

These are wonderful women and friends and authors! I’d love for you to meet my friends. I hope you will join us on Jenny’s author Facebook page for our party. There will be fun and laughter and behind the scenes info. You’ll be able to ask questions, AND there will be giveaways from all of us! Yes! I am so excited!

Facebook Live Party Link: https://www.facebook.com/authorjenniferlynncary Monday, July 20 at 4 pm PDT, 5 MDT, 6 CDT, 7 EDT

D is for Done

Posted on by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer

For now, that is. It’s been a crazy ride since I started A Bride’s Journey to the Colorado Territory at the end of December.

Being stuck at home in mid-March thought I’d write every day and have it finished by the mid-April.

My brain said not so fast, you need to process a few medical issues you have and then there’s this virus issue that is going to plague your mind way more than you expected.

I’m not going to lie and say I miss leaving my house and seeing people. I’m not built that way. I love being home and can find lots of things to do or watch–I’ve attended way too many webinars since being home.

The thing is, I eventually settled down by doing research. Since A Bride’s Journey to the Colorado Territory happens in 1865 and my characters Cornelia and Jake are traveling the Oregon Trail I had to figure out what it would be like.

I do know–sort of. We had an RV for a while and loaded up the kids and took the trail. It was easy except for the “stop touching me” and “he did it, Mom” coming from the back. I suspected it was similar to traveling with a wagon full of kids but there had to be so much more. I mean there weren’t rest stops and pizza places, right?

I discovered quite a bit of information and while it won’t all go into the book, there was enough for me to realize how parallel what the women were going through was to what we are going through now. The separation from family, the concerns about how to cook a meal, and how to live with less.

Once I got into that mindset the book started to write itself…sort of. My fingers are aching from days of 3,000 words. 🙂 I’m not complaining I’m rejoicing to find a satisfying end to this book.

Next? Glad you asked, I’ll be editing, writing the back cover copy, waiting for my editor to send me suggestions. I’m great at murdering commas. Look for this book around mid-August or early September.

Do I have a cover?

Yes, and it’s beautiful.

Can you see it?

Nope. 🙂 You have to wait.

Meanwhile, I need to do what a lot of people have already done during the shelter-in-place order. Clean my house, empty a few closets, and goodness, go through that spice cabinet! I tried to use cream of tarter this week and it had an expiration date of 2014. How many more of those lurk in there? I’m about to find out next week.

While you’re here check out this promotion full of KindleUnlimited books and fill up your reader!

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