by admin | Aug 18, 2016 | Books, Historical, Post Civil War, Romance, Texas
MY REVIEW:
Once again Shelley Shepard Gray has proven her versatility in writing different genres. I first got to know her work through Amish fiction but have since read a number of her novels outside that genre and have been so impressed with her talent.
“The Loyal Heart” is the first book in a new series that promises to be everything I look for in my reading choices. As far as I’m concerned, it was just perfect! I loved the strong characters, especially Robert and Miranda. I also appreciated the basic premise of the story in which several Confederate officers who were prisoners of war made a pact with each other to always be there for each other and their families. In this volume, Robert is called upon to make sure fellow officer Phillip Markham’s widow Miranda is okay. Naturally he finds himself falling in love with her despite how often he tells himself how inappropriate that would be.
I really liked how I was able to see both sides of the story from Robert and Miranda’s viewpoints. The suspense and drama was woven into the plot seamlessly with a few surprises along the way. Faith was also an important factor but it was never intrusive. “The Loyal Heart” held my interest until the very end. I can’t wait for the next installment of this series.
A copy of this book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Robert came to Galveston to fulfill his promise to a dying man and look after his widow. He didn’t expect to find love in the unlikeliest of places.
Robert Truax, former Second Lieutenant and Confederate officer in the Civil War, made a promise to his comrade Phillip Markham. If anything happened to Phillip, Robert would look after his beloved wife, Miranda. She was his life, his world, his everything.
After the war, Robert is left to pick up the pieces and fulfill his pact. When he arrives at Miranda’s home in Galveston, Texas, things are worse than he imagined. Phillip’s name has been dragged through the mud, everyone in town believes him to be a traitor, and his widow is treated as an outcast. Even more disturbing is her emotional well-being. Miranda seems hopeless, lost, and so very alone.
Robert had thought his duty would be simple. He would help Miranda as quickly as possible in order to honor a promise. But the moment Robert laid eyes on her, his plans changed. He’s mesmerized by her beauty and yearns to help her in any way he can.
He makes it his duty to protect Miranda, turn her reputation around, and to find some way to help her smile again. But it doesn’t prove to be an easy task—Robert knows something about Phillip that could shake Miranda to the core and alter her view of the man she thought she knew so well.
Learn more and purchase a copy.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Shelley Shepard Gray is a “New York Times” and “USA Today” bestselling author, a finalist for the American Christian Fiction Writers prestigious Carol Award, and a two-time HOLT Medallion winner. She lives in southern Ohio, where she writes full-time, bakes too much, and can often be found walking her dachshunds on her town’s bike trail.
Find out more about Shelley at http://www.shelleyshepardgray.com.
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by admin | Oct 27, 2015 | Books, Historical, Post Civil War, Romance, Southern, Suspense
MY REVIEW:
I always enjoy historical romance novels, particularly when they have a Southern setting. It is even better if they have at least a touch of suspense. Dorothy Love’s “A Respectable Actress” meets all the requirements.
Philip Sinclair is hired to defend famous actress India Hartley when she is accused of a murder – one of which she is innocent. To protect her from the public until the trial, he takes her to his home on St. Simons Island. As one might expect, Philip and India discover a mutual attraction but it is not the primary focus of the novel. While the pair works to prove her innocence, India discovers clues to an earlier disappearance and death that took place at Indigo Point.
Philip and India are strong characters, especially India. Despite her fame, India has a caring and giving personality. I loved the twists and surprises throughout the plot. Just when I thought the story had reached its climax (and wondered why there were still so many pages left to read), even more surprising events took place. The author did a wonderful job of taking what seemed to be totally unrelated events and tied them all together for an exciting conclusion.
Dorothy Love’s books have never failed to hold my interest. I highly recommend “A Respectable Actress” as well as any of her other novels.
I received copies of this book from both the author and
The Fiction Guild in exchange for my honest review.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
When India Hartley is accused of murder, she has to uncover the deceptions of others to save herself.
India Hartley, the famous and beautiful actress, is now alone after her father s death and embarks upon a tour of theaters across the South. Her first stop is Savannah s Southern Palace. On the eve of the second night s performance, something goes horribly wrong. Her co-star, Arthur Sterling, is shot dead on stage in front of a packed house, and India is arrested and accused of the crime.
A benefactor hires Philip Sinclair, the best and handsomest lawyer in Savannah to defend India. A widower, Philip is struggling to reinvent his worn-out plantation on St. Simons Island. He needs to increase his income from his law practice in order to restore Indigo Point, and hardly anything will bring him more new clients than successfully defending a famous actress on a murder charge.
Because India can t go anywhere in town without being mobbed, Philip persuades the judge handling her case to let him take her to Indigo Point until her trial date. India is charmed by the beauty of the Georgia low country and is increasingly drawn to Philip. But a locked room that appears to be a shrine to Philip s dead wife and the unsolved disappearance of a former slave girl raise troubling questions. Piecing together clues in an abandoned boat and a burned-out chapel, India discovers a trail of dark secrets that lead back to Philip, secrets that ultimately may hold the key to her freedom. If only he will believe her.”
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
A former journalist, free-lance writer and college professor, Dorothy Love explores the intersection of history and human relationships to create novels that speak to the hearts of women everywhere. She is the author of the acclaimed Hickory Ridge novels set in her native state of Tennessee. After earning a masters degree and Ph.D, she authored dozens of magazine articles before breaking into book publishing with a number of award-winning novels for preteens and young adults. The Hickory Ridge series marked her adult fiction debut. Currently she is working on several stand-alone historical novels set in the South.
When she isn’t busy writing or researching her next book, Love enjoys hiking, traveling, and hanging out with her husband Ron and their rambunctious golden retriever. The Loves make their home in the Texas hill country.
Find out more about Dorothy at her website.
by admin | Aug 5, 2015 | Books, Novella, Post Civil War, Romance, Southern
MY REVIEW:
The first thing that attracted me to “Among the Fair Magnolias” was its gorgeous cover that hinted at the possible delights inside. Secondly, the fact that several of the novellas were written by favorite authors was indication that I would most likely have a few enjoyable hours while reading it. I was not disappointed.
As a true Southerner, I always relish reading stories about my part of the nation. In these four novellas, I had the pleasure of visiting four distinct locations within the South. Each tale took place shortly after the Civil War and each one highlighted the difficulties as the defeated Southerners attempted to rebuild their lives. Each story is as unique as its location and each features a matchless romance that endures despite challenging circumstances. I enjoyed each of the stories although I will admit that I did have my favorites. As a Tennessean, I definitely leaned toward the one with that setting.
For those who enjoy historical Southern romance, “Among the Fair Magnolias” would be an excellent choice. Each individual story would be perfect for an evening’s leisure time or for a weekend afternoon.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
In the most turbulent decade of our nation’s history, four Southern women—destinies forged by birth, hearts steeled by war—face near impossible choices on their journeys in life . . . and in love.
To Mend a Dream by Tamera Alexander
Savannah Darby would do almost anything to revisit her family home. So when new owner, Aidan Bedford, a Boston attorney and former Union soldier, seeks to redecorate the house for his fiancée, Savannah jumps at the opportunity. But the clock is ticking. Can she find the box her father supposedly hid there during the war before her assignment is completed? And before she sees yet another battle lost on the home front. This time, one of the heart.
An Outlaw’s Heart by Shelley Gray
When Russell Stark returns to Fort Worth, he’s determined to begin a new life. But when he arrives at his mother’s homestead, he discovers she’s very ill, and the woman he loved is still as beautiful and sweet as he remembered. With time running out, Russell must come to terms with both his future and his past.
A Heart So True by Dorothy Love
Abigail knows all too well what is expected of her: to marry her distant cousin Charles and take her place in society. But her heart belongs to another. A terrible incident forces Abby to choose between love and duty.
Love Beyond Limits by Elizabeth Musser
Emily has a secret: She’s in love with one of the freedmen on her family’s plantation. Meanwhile, another man declares his love for her. Emily realizes some things are not as they seem and secrets must be kept in order to keep those she loves safe.
Learn more and purchase a copy.
ABOUT THE AUTHORS:
Tamera Alexander is the best-selling author of numerous books including “A Lasting Impression” and “The Inheritance.” Tamera is a two-time Christy Award winner, two-time RITA winner, and a recipient of the prestigious Library Journal Award.
A native of west Tennessee, Dorothy Love makes her home in the Texas hill country with her husband and their golden retriever. An award-winning author of numerous young adult novels, Dorothy made her adult debut with the Hickory Ridge novels.
Shelley Gray is the author of The Heart of a Hero series. Her Amish novel (written as Shelley Shepard Gray), “The Protector,” recently made the New York Times best seller list.
Elizabeth Musser, a native of Atlanta, Georgia now living in France, is a novelist who writes what she calls ‘entertainment with a soul.’ For over 25 years, Elizabeth and her husband, Paul, have been involved in mission work with International Teams.
Find out more about Alexander, Gray, Love, Musser at http://www.thomasnelson.com/among-the-fair-magnolias.
by admin | Jun 11, 2015 | Books, Great Lakes, Historical, Lighthouse, Michigan, Post Civil War, Romance
MY REVIEW:
“Hearts Made Whole” is the second book in Hedund’s Beacons of Hope historical romance series about lighthouse keepers in Michigan. Featuring Ryan Chambers who had a small role in “Love Unexpected” and Caroline Taylor who has almost single-handedly run the Windmill Point Lighthouse for some time. After her father’s death, Caroline and her siblings are notified that they must leave their home because only a man is allowed to be a lighthouse keeper and Ryan just happens to be her replacement. Could anyone less qualified have been hired?
Returning from the war, Ryan is a broken man – dirty, smelly, hairy, and addicted to the alcohol and opium he uses to escape the physical pain and the guilt. This man is the most unlikely hero for a love story that I have run across and I really did not like him for awhile. But somehow, even with all her problems and responsibilities, Caroline was able to see the gentle, kind-hearted man of integrity hidden beneath his visible appearance.
“Hearts Made Whole” is sometimes just a little gritty due to the author’s courageous decision to deal with some difficult issues. I have read enough book reviews to realize that some readers will be offended by certain scenes but the author handled everything so well that there is really nothing inappropriate for Christian readers. After all, none of us have led perfect lives.
Strong characters are painted with a bold and realistic brush. The plot moves along at a good pace with plenty of action, drama, danger, and mystery to keep it interesting. Family dynamics are not all sweetness and light but exhibit some tension, conflict, and even betrayal. There are moments when all hope seems to be lost but both Caroline and Ryan are able to grow in their faith and realize that God has everything in His hands.
Each book in the Beacons of Hope series can stand on its own but I would recommend reading both of them just because they are so good.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Can she forgive the hurting man who costs her the role she loves?
After her father’s death, Caroline Taylor has grown confident running the Windmill Point Lighthouse. But in 1865 Michigan, women aren’t supposed to have such roles, so it’s only a matter of time before the lighthouse inspector appoints a new keeper–even though Caroline has nowhere else to go and no other job available to her.
Ryan Chambers is a Civil War veteran still haunted by the horrors of battle. He’s secured the position of lighthouse keeper mostly for the isolation–the chance to hide from his past is appealing. He’s not expecting the current keeper to be a feisty and beautiful woman who’s angry with him for taking her job and for his inability to properly run the light. When his failings endanger others, he and Caroline realize he’s in no shape to run the lighthouse, but he’s unwilling to let anyone close enough to help. Caroline feels drawn to this wounded soul, but with both of them relying on that single position, can they look past their loss to a future filled with hope…and possibly love?
Learn more and purchase a copy.
Read an excerpt from “Hearts Made Whole” Here.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Jody Hedlund is the bestselling author of nine novels, including “Captured By Love,” “Rebellious Heart,” and “A Noble Groom,” winner of the 2014 Carol Award and INSPYs Award. She received a bachelor’s from Taylor University and a master’s from University of Wisconsin, both in social work. Currently she makes her home in Midland, Michigan, with her husband and five busy children.
Find out more about Jody at http://jodyhedlund.com/.
Jody Hedlund’s ‘Hearts Made Whole’ Prize Pack Giveaway and Facebook Party
Don’t miss Jody Hedlund’s new book, Hearts Made Whole, a story of loss, forgiveness, hope, and true love set in 1865 Michigan. When Ryan’s failings endanger others, he and Caroline realize he’s in no shape to run the lighthouse, but he’s unwilling to let anyone close enough to help. Can Caroline forgive the hurting man who costs her the role she loves?
Celebrate the release of Hearts Made Whole by entering to win an Afternoon at the Beach prize pack and RSVPing to Jody’s June 23rd author chat party!
One grand prize winner will receive:
One second-place winner will receive:
One third-place winner will receive:
Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on June 23rd.Winner will be announced June 23rd at Jody’s Facebook party. RSVP here!
by admin | Mar 12, 2015 | Books, Historical, Post Civil War
MY REVIEW:
As a long-time fan of Colleen Coble’s books, I was thrilled to be included in the blog tour for her six-book series, Journey of the Heart. The first book of the series, “A Heart’s Disguise” is just the beginning of Sarah and Rand’s story and it left me wanting more. I anxiously await the next installment so I can learn what happens next.
A letter from the author informs her readers that these books were her very first and have been re-released after being out for print for quite a few years. Although Colleen has written many books since this series, her talent was so evident even in her earliest efforts and are more confirmation of why I love her books.
Mourning the death of her fiance to the Civil War, Sarah Montgomery lives with her quickly failing father and an over-bearing brother. Because of their encouragement and hoping to please them, Sarah agrees to marry Ben Croftner even though she does not love him. Shortly after their engagement, Sarah’s fiance Rand returns home very much alive. Lies and deception are exposed and things turn just a little ugly.
As the first book of most good series do, “A Heart’s Disguise” ended with more questions than answers. What happens next for Sarah and Rand? Will Rand ever trust her again? Will Sarah leave her family to follow Rand? What about Ben – will he give up on Sarah easily? I guess I will have to wait for “A Heart’s Obsession” to find out.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
In the aftermath of the Civil War, a young woman searches for her lost love at the edge of the West.
The Civil War has destroyed Sarah Montgomery’s marriage before it’s even begun.
After Sarah receives word that her fiancé, Rand Campbell, has been killed fighting for the Union, her brothers and ailing father persuade her to pledge herself to Ben Croftner—despite her strong misgivings. But when Sarah finds out that Rand is in fact alive—and that Ben Croftner knew it—she indignantly breaks off the engagement and goes in search of Rand.
But Ben Croftner does not take rejection lightly—and a single woman with a sick father makes an easy target. When Sarah is abducted by her treacherous fiancé, Rand finally comes to her aid . . . only to reveal that he has been posted at Fort Laramie, Wyoming, and intends to take her there as his wife.
But could Sarah leave her dying father’s side for the love of her life? And what plans are forming in the jealous heart of Ben Croftner?
Learn more and purchase a copy at the Thomas Nelson website.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Colleen Coble has sold over 2 million novels worldwide. “Seagrass Pier,” the third installment in her acclaimed Hope Beach series, marks a new highpoint for emotion and complexity in Coble’s addictive brand of romantic suspense.
Find out more about Colleen at http://www.colleencoble.com/.
In the midst of end-of-war celebrations, Sarah discovers her betrothed was keeping a devastating secret in Colleen Coble’s A Heart’s Disguise. Will Sarah leave her dying father’s side for the only man she’s ever loved? And what plans are forming in the jealous heart of Ben Croftner?
Celebrate book one in Colleen’s A Journey of the Heart series by entering to win a Kindle Fire and RSVPing to her May 5th author chat party!
One grand prize winner will receive:
- A Kindle Fire
- A copy of A Heart’s Disguise
- A copy of A Heart’s Obsession (blog tour coming in April)
- A copy of The Inn at Ocean’s Edge (blog tour coming in April)
Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on May 7th. Winner will be announced May 8th on Colleen’s website. Plus be sure to clear your calendar on the evening of May 5th because Colleen is hosting an author chat party on Facebook to celebrate her A Journey of the Heart series and the release of The Inn at Ocean’s Edge! RSVP here!
RSVP today and spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on May 5th!
by admin | Dec 18, 2014 | Books, Historical, Post Civil War, Romance
MY REVIEW:
Regina Jennings has a decided talent for taking the most serious situations, adding her unique style of humor, and ending up with a natural and believable story. She definitely helps me to remember that unless we can laugh at some of what life throws at us, our lives could be dull and boring or perhaps even a tragedy.
In the aftermath of the Civil War, Abigail Stuart travels to the home of the wounded soldier she married on his death bed in order to fulfill her promise to care for his mother and sister. Warmly welcomed by his mother, Abigail finds it more difficult to earn the trust of Jeremiah’s sister. Just as she has settled in well, who should arrive but the real Jeremiah Calhoun – injured but very much alive and absolutely not the man she married! He was also not at all happy to find her with his family and known by the entire community as his widow. After all he still had a fiance he planned to marry as soon as possible. It doesn’t take very long before Jeremiah realized he very much needed Abigail’s help on the farm and agreed to allow her to stay until he was able to take care of things himself.
Okay, that is as much as I can say about the story without totally giving it away. At times it was a comedy of errors and at other times it tugged at my heartstrings. I loved the characters and especially enjoyed seeing the effect that Abigail’s caring spirit had on Jeremiah, his sister, and even his fiance. This is one book that should not be missed!
This book was provided for review by the Book Club Network.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Abigail Stuart Thought She was Jeremiah Calhoun’s Widow. But Jeremiah Calhoun Is Very Handsome, Very Alive, and Very Perplexed. Most Inconvenient Indeed.
With few options of her own, nurse Abigail Stuart agrees to marry her patient, a gravely wounded soldier calling himself Jeremiah Calhoun. They arrange a quick ceremony before he dies, giving Abigail the rights to his Ozark farm and giving Jeremiah the peace of knowing someone will care for his ailing sister after he’s gone–a practical solution for both of them.
After the war, Abigail fulfills her side of the bargain–until the real Jeremiah Calhoun shows up, injured but definitely alive, and wastes no time in challenging Abigail’s story. Abigail is flummoxed. After months of claiming to be his widow, how could she explain that she’s never seen this Jeremiah Calhoun before? How can she convince him that she isn’t trying to steal his farm? And will she find a way to stay, even though this practical arrangement has turned into a most inconvenient marriage?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Regina Jennings is a graduate of Oklahoma Baptist University with a degree in English and a history minor. She has worked at The Mustang News and First Baptist Church of Mustang, along with time at the Oklahoma National Stockyards and various livestock shows. She now lives outside Oklahoma City with her ornery husband and four dangerously charming children.
Visit Regina’s website at www.reginajennings.com.
