Hi, Heidi Gray McGill here. As Julie Andrews once sang, the beginning is a very good place to start. I agree, though you’ll find less Do-Re-Mi in my books and more yee-haw. Although characters occasionally break out in song, it’s usually a classic hymn you’ll recognize.
My Discerning God’s Best series takes you into the enchanting world of Shumard Oak Bend in 1868, Missouri. Come romp over mountain fields with me (Bring your own fabric curtain outfit) as I unveil the captivating tale of “Desire Of My Heart,” the first book in my Christian Historical novel series.
Within the pages of this heartwarming story, I invite you to journey alongside characters whose lives are intertwined with faith, love, and the divine hand of God. As we explore the depths of their experiences, we’ll uncover the beauty of trusting God’s perfect plan, even when it requires patience in the waiting.
Remember in The Sound of Music where Maria and the children eagerly await Captain von Trapp’s return home after the Salzburg Folk Festival performance? They are uncertain of his reaction, which builds anticipation and tension. Well, you’ll have many gripping moments in Desire of My Heart. Have tissues handy.
Through the trials and triumphs of Rachel, a young orphan girl, and her brother Charlie, you’ll witness firsthand the power of prayer and the reassurance that God hears the whispers of our hearts, even amidst moments of silence. Their journey serves as a poignant reminder of the profound truth that God is always at work, even when His presence seems veiled.

In The Sound of Music, Maria prays for guidance and strength from God before meeting the von Trapp family for the first time, reflecting her faith and inner turmoil as she begins her role as their governess. Rachel, the main character in my book, has about as much patience as Maria (played by Julie Andrews) and takes matters into her own hands, not waiting for God to answer,
As we delve into the narrative, we’ll encounter themes of community and compassion and the significance of extending kindness, empathy, and support to those in society who are often overlooked, disadvantaged, or discriminated against. Each character you meet will exude warmth and authenticity, leaving an indelible mark on your soul with their genuine hospitality and unwavering love, much like the von Trapp children left an indelible mark on Maria.
“Desire of My Heart” is not merely a story—it’s an invitation to embark on a soul-stirring adventure, where every chapter unfolds with profound biblical lessons and timeless truths. Allow yourself to be swept away by the magic of Shumard Oak Bend as we discover together the depth of God’s boundless love.
Join me as we dive into this captivating journey that promises to inspire, uplift, and leave you yearning for more. Let the pages of “Desire of My Heart” guide you into the heart of God’s unfailing grace.
Enter to win a PAPERBACK copy today and embark on an unforgettable voyage of faith and discovery by leaving a comment below about a time when you had to cling to faith and trust that things would work out.
To learn more about my books, visit my website at HeidiGrayMcGill.com. On my website, you’ll find my statement of faith, have an opportunity to sign up for the free eBook prequel to my Discerning God’s Best series, see a tab that will take you to a FREE audiobook on YouTube, and be able to read my statement of faith.
Connecting with readers is important to me. Enter the contest to win a paperback copy of “Desire of My Heart,” and connect with me through my website and social media, and I’ll happily return the kindness.
Experience a journey of faith and healing in the award-winning Christian fiction works of author Heidi Gray McGill. Everything Heidi writes is purposeful. Heidi brings readers into an awareness of who God is to them and how He interacts with them through masterfully crafted characters so relatable you feel part of who they are. Heidi’s books take readers on an exploration of healing through God’s Word. Follow the inspiring journeys of Heidi’s characters as she infuses her faith into her works, making her stories come alive with powerful emotion.
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No matter how dark her night became, she knew God promised joy in the morning.
In the heart of 1858 Missouri, Rachel’s world is a whirlwind of uncertainty. But amidst the darkness of her circumstances, she clings to the promise of joy that God whispers to her soul.
Facing the grim reality of being sold off into marriage as she ages out of the orphanage, Rachel refuses to accept her fate. With determination blazing in her heart, she hatches a daring plan with her beloved brother to escape the cruel grip of destiny.
Enter Melvin, a widower burdened with raising two young children alone. Desperate for help, he sees a glimmer of hope in Rachel—a chance for a new beginning through a marriage of convenience.
As God intertwines their lives, the five of them embark on a journey that transcends the bounds of blood, forming an unlikely family bound by love, resilience, and unwavering faith. Through trials and triumphs, they forge a home where hope blooms even in the harshest of circumstances.
But just when they think they’ve found their slice of heaven on Earth, tragedy strikes, threatening to shatter their newfound happiness. Yet, guided by the light of God’s love and surrounded by a steadfast community, they rise from the ashes stronger than ever before.
Rachel’s adventure unfolds against the backdrop of a tumultuous era, where every twist and turn brings her closer to her heart’s desire. Yet, in her quest for love, purpose, and security, she discovers that God’s plans far surpass her wildest dreams.
Join Rachel on her breathtaking journey through the untamed landscapes of the past, where love, faith, and the promise of a brighter tomorrow illuminate even the darkest of nights.
In this powerful Christian historical fiction, award-winning author Heidi Gray McGill weaves an enthralling tale of resilience, redemption, and the enduring power of God’s grace. Purchase your copy today.
For Misty M. Beller, Lacy Williams, and Linda Ford fans, this standalone novel in the Discerning God’s Best series will capture your heart and leave you breathless. You’ll love this book if you enjoy gripping historical drama and compelling characters. Binge-read the entire series on Kindle Unlimited.
- Full-length Christian historical fiction
- A standalone novel in the Discerning God’s Best series
- Includes discussion questions for book clubs
- Timeline: 1858 – 1857
- For fans of Misty M. Beller, Lacy Williams, and Linda Ford

Discerning God’s Best Historical Romance Series
Book One: Desire of My Heart
Book Two: With All My Heart
Book Three: Matters of the Heart
Book Four: Healing of the Heart
Prequel: Deep in My Heart – available for free with newsletter signup: https://heidigraymcgill.com/free_book/