

Book: Maggie's Journey
Series: McKenna's Daughters, Book 1
Author: Lena Nelson Dooley
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Release Date: 01.07.25
A secret adoption, a quest for identity, and a love that could change her life forever.
Margaret Lenora Caine has never fit the mold her mother set for her. When Maggie discovers proof she was adopted, the rift between them only tears deeper. Feeling the sting of betrayal, Maggie requests permission to visit her grandmother in Little Rock, Arkansas. There she’ll set her sights on her dream of becoming a successful dress designer and maybe find her true identity in the process. Her father’s one condition is that she must be travel with her young aunt and her father’s handsome business partner, Charles Stanton—the man who once held her affections.
Charles Stanton, a thriving businessman, has taken a calculated risk by joining forces with Maggie’s father in a joint venture. When asked to chaperone his new partner’s sister-in-law and daughter on a cross-country trip, Charles sees it as an opportunity to strengthen their business ties. Though he initially sets his sights on Maggie’s charming and composed aunt as a potential wife, Charles soon finds himself increasingly captivated by Maggie’s resilience and charm.
With each passing mile, the bond between Maggie and Charles deepens, challenging both Maggie’s plans and her heart. Will the love growing between them help her embrace her identity—or complicate her search for what truly matters in life?
Maggie’s Journey by Lena Nelson Dooley is a beautifully crafted narrative, much like finely tailored clothing—each thread woven with purpose and meaning. The story of Maggie’s search for truth and identity unfolds like the careful stitching of a designer's vision, revealing that even in the midst of confusion and loss, God’s hand is there, guiding us for our good and His glory.
The characters’ faith isn’t a forced afterthought; it’s as inherent to them as the clothes they wear, always present, always real. Maggie’s journey of self-discovery is about uncovering the deeper truth that she is known, loved, and perfectly designed by God, despite the doubts and lies she told herself
Charles' words to Maggie echo in my heart: “God can make all things work together for our good if we love Him. And He does, even if we make wrong choices from time to time.” This is one of many heartbeats of the story—even when we feel torn and unraveled, God can stitch our lives into something more beautiful than we can imagine.
This story is about more than just family secrets—it’s about how God’s truth can rework even the most broken parts of us. If you’ve ever felt like you didn’t fit, Maggie’s Journey will remind you that you are always a part of a greater design, stitched together with God’s love and purpose.
I highly recommend Maggie’s Journey for readers who enjoy heartfelt storytelling and faith-driven character arcs that make this book so special. If you love stories that blend historical depth with personal growth and faith, Maggie’s Journey is for you.
It’s the perfect read for anyone looking for a reminder that God’s plan for us is always unfolding with purpose and grace when we fully surrender to Him and His ways. Much like a raw fabric being transformed into a stunning garment, our lives—often marked by our own flaws—are carefully crafted, each trial revealing the beauty of God’s design for us.
I received a digital ARC of this book from Celebrate Lit Publicity Group. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing and story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.

Multi-published, award-winning author Lena Nelson Dooley has had more than 1,000,000 copies of her 50+ books sold. Her books have appeared on the CBA, Publisher’s Weekly, and ECPA bestseller lists, as well as Amazon bestseller lists. She is a member of American Christian Fiction and the local chapter, ACFW – DFW. She’s a member of Christian Authors’ Network. She likes to create characters and stories that grip her readers hearts.
“Mrs. Caine.” Angus McKenna came to an abrupt stop and cleared his throat before starting again. “I’ve come to ask you something that . . . I never dreamed I’d . . . ever ask anyone.” His voice rasped, and he stopped to take a gulp of air, staring off into the distance.
She couldn’t take her eyes from him, even when the baby in her arms squirmed. “How can we help you?”
New tears followed the trails down his cheeks and disappeared into his beard. He grabbed a bandanna from his back pocket and blew his nose with one hand. “I’ve just lost the most important thing in my life.” He paused and stared at the ground. “I don’t know how I can go on without her.” His voice cracked on the last word. Once again he paused, but much longer this time. His prominent Adam’s apple bobbed several times. “I’ve been crying out to God, but I don’t think He’s listening to me right now. If He were . . . ”
What a thing for a man to admit to them. Florence knew he must be near a breakdown. He did need help, but what could they do?
“I’ve decided . . . it would be best to find another family to raise one of my girls.” He stood straighter. “I’ve watched you with Margaret Lenora . . . ”
“Is that what you’ve named her?” Florence gazed at the sleeping baby, and her heart ached for the child. To grow up without a mother.
“Yes.” Angus looked straight at Joshua, and her husband gave a slow nod.
“Your husband has told me . . . how much you’ve wanted a child.”
For a moment, anger flared in her chest. Joshua shouldn’t share her secret with anyone. She took a deep breath to keep from saying something she’d regret. Even though she didn’t even look at her husband, she could feel his gaze deep inside. She was grateful he couldn’t see the ugly jealousy and covetousness that resided there.
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Holly’s Book Corner, February 4
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