by admin | May 31, 2018 | American Revolution, Books, Contemporary Fiction, Historical
MY REVIEW:
I’ll admit that I was a tad disappointed to find that The Love Letter is yet another book that switches back and forth between the past and present. The split-time format seems to be a very popular one these days and I have encountered quite a few of the books among my review novels. Nevertheless, who better than Rachel Hauck to take both stories and pull them together in a way that God’s hand is evident throughout – and she manages to throw in a holy surprise or two along the way. Even when it seems that a monkey wrench has been thrown in to mess everything up, the plans the Lord has in store are fulfilled.
I enjoyed reading this story of Chloe Daschle, and actress and Jesse Gates, the scriptwriter for the film i which Chloe is to star. With the screenplay loosely based on a letter written by one of Jesse’s ancestors, the story switches back and forth between Chloe and Jesse’s experiences to the story of Hamilton Lightfoot and Esther Longfellow during the American Revolution. Each story could easily stand on its own but the author has woven them together into a romantic tale that reaches across history.
Lovers of historical fiction should love this book for the personal look at life during the Revolutionary War and any fan of Rachel Hauck will definitely appreciate her unique approach to writing that has endeared her to me for a number of years and books.
I voluntarily reviewed copies of this book provided by Amazon Vine and the author. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
From the New York Times bestselling author of The Wedding Dress comes a story of long-lost love and its redemption in future generations.
Romance has never been actress Chloe Daschle’s forte—in life or on screen. But everyone knows who to call for a convincing death scene . . . and it might be killing her career.
When Chloe is given a peek at the script for an epic love story, she decides to take her destiny into her own hands and request an audition for the lead female role, Esther Kingsley. The compelling tale, inspired by family lore and a one-page letter from the colonial ancestor of scriptwriter Jesse Gates, just might break her out of this career-crippling rut. Jesse would rather write about romance than live through it after his past relationship ended in disaster. But once on-set together, the chemistry between Jesse and his leading lady is hard to deny.
Centuries earlier, in the heart of the Revolutionary War, Hamilton Lightfoot and Esther Longfellow wrote their saga off the silver screen. Esther’s Loyalist father opposes any relationship with Hamilton, but Esther must face her beloved father’s disapproval and the dangers of war in order to convince Hamilton of their future together. Hamilton has loved Esther for years, and on the eve of battle pens the love letter she’s always wanted—something straight from the heart.
Set in stunning upcountry South Carolina, The Love Letter is a beautifully-crafted story of the courage it takes to face down fear and chase after love, even in the darkest of times. And just maybe, all these generations later, love can come home in a way not even Hollywood could imagine.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Rachel Hauck is the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA TODAY bestselling author of The Wedding Dress, which was also named Inspirational Novel of the Year by Romantic Times and was a RITA finalist. Rachel lives in central Florida with her husband and pet and writes from her ivory tower. Visit her online at RachelHauck.com; Facebook: RachelHauck; Twitter: @RachelHauck; Instagram: @rachelhauck.
by admin | Mar 9, 2018 | American Revolution, Books, Colonial Williamsburg, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
Lark Benton had always loved Emerson Fielding but she was beginning to wonder why he ever asked her to marry him two long years ago. Since then it seemed as if he almost didn’t know she existed except for those rare family occasions when they must see each other. Nevertheless, Lark behaved as she believed Emerson expected of her, all the while wishing he really knew the real Lark. An inappropriate flirtation is the last straw and with the help of her brother Wiley, Lark disappeared to the home of a dear friend of Wiley’s in Annapolis, intending to spend the winter and hopefully miss her own wedding.
It was much too easy to get lost in the pages of “A Heart’s Revolution”. I loved the characters, especially Lark and Emerson and enjoyed seeing how when they finally discovered themselves, they were able to find true love. Other characters played significant roles in the story and at least one other romance played out by its end. At times humorous and often dramatic, the narrative was also filled with post Revolutionary War facts that this history lover enjoyed. I was particularly impressed by one character who repeatedly turned to God despite all the negative circumstances that came against him and whose faith made a lasting impression on both Lark and Emerson.
“A Heart’s Revolution” is another fine novel from one of my favorite authors. If you love historical romance, do yourself a big favor and check out the books of Roseanna M. White.
I voluntarily reviewed a digital copy of this book provided by the author. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
In 1783 peace has been declared, but war still rages in the heart of Lark Benton.
Never did Lark think she’d want to escape Emerson Fielding, the man she’s loved all her life. But when he betrays her, she flees Williamsburg for Annapolis, taking refuge in the nation’s temporary capital. There lark throws herself into a new circle of friends who force her to examine all she believes.
Emerson follows, determined to reclaim his betrothed. Surprised when she refuses to return with him, he realizes that in this new nation he has come to call his own, duty is no longer enough. He must learn to open his heart and soul to something greater—before he loses all he should have been fighting to hold.
Previously published as Love Finds You in Annapolis, Maryland
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Roseanna M. White is a bestselling, Christy Award nominated author who has long claimed that words are the air she breathes. When not writing fiction, she’s homeschooling her two kids, editing, designing book covers, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of a slew of historical novels that span several continents and thousands of years. Spies and war and mayhem always seem to find their way into her books…to offset her real life, which is blessedly ordinary. You can learn more about her and her stories at www.RoseannaMWhite.com.
by admin | Jan 12, 2018 | American Revolution, Books, Colonial Williamsburg, Historical, Romance
The Lacemaker by Laura
MY REVIEW:
I have long been a lover of historical fiction, particularly that with details about the early days of our nation. Laura Frantz is at the top of my list when it comes to colonial history and she may have topped my previous favorites with “The Lacemaker”, a story of colonial Williamsburg, Virginia.
Noble and “Liberty” are names that perfectly describe the primary characters in this tale that details the volatile atmosphere in Williamsburg as conflict between revolutionaries and the British escalated. Frantz provides enough facts to give the reader an understanding of life during that era but the focus is largely on how Noble and Elisabeth (Liberty) were affected by the events surrounding them.
“The Lacemaker” is a story of loyalty, love, and sacrifice that is filled with action and danger. I loved visiting Noble’s plantation with Elisabeth and learning a bit about Welsh customs and food. It was encouraging to watch these characters grow and walk out their faith as they faced extenuating circumstances. I would recommend “The Lacemaker” to all who enjoy historical fiction. Those who usually steer clear of this genre might just find that they like it too.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
It is the eve of a new age of freedom in the colonies.
But can a proper English lady dare hope for her own independence?
Lady Elisabeth “Liberty” Lawson has nearly everything a lady of her position could want. Daughter of the British lieutenant governor of the Virginia Colony and a darling of fine society in a rugged land, she is anticipating an advantageous marriage. That her betrothed is a rake and love is lacking is of little consequence–or so she tells herself.
Though her own life seems in order, colonial Williamsburg is a powder keg on the verge of exploding, and her fiancé’s cousin Noble Rynallt carries the flame of revolution in his heart. Those with connections to the British nobility are suspected as spies, and Liberty soon finds herself left with a terrible choice. Will she stay true to her English roots? Or side with Noble and the radical revolutionaries?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Laura Frantz is a Christy Award finalist and the ECPA bestselling author of several books, including The Frontiersman’s Daughter, Courting Morrow Little, The Colonel’s Lady, The Mistress of Tall Acre, A Moonbow Night, and The Ballantyne Legacy series. She lives and writes in a log cabin in the heart of Kentucky. Learn more at www.laurafrantz.net.
by admin | May 20, 2016 | American Revolution, Books, Colonial America, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
Oh my, what a book! There is no way I can do justice in describing the absolute genius of Lori Benton. The way she gets right to the heart of her characters makes me feel like I know them. She is not afraid to tackle difficult situations but does it with such finesse and grace. I was blown away by the opening words of her very first book, “Burning Sky” but “A Flight of Arrows” dug deep into my soul and brought forth emotions I was mostly unaware existed. I am one who does not cry easily these days but this book brought me to tears.
“A Flight of Arrows” continues the story that began in “The Woods Edge” but those who have read Lori’s books from the very beginning might find some other familiar faces here. Just keep your eyes open for them. Anna and Two Hawks’ story is continued as he, Stone Thrower, and Reginald Aubrey attempt to locate William in the midst of heated battles with the British and their Indian war parties.
This book is so filled with quotable lines that it would be difficult for me to choose one to share. It is a story of triumph and tragedy, forgiveness and sacrifice, joy and grief. But most of all it is a glorious picture of the grace of God and how he works in hearts that are open to Him and how redemption can come through tragic circumstances.
I cannot say more for fear of spoilers. Just read this book! You will not regret it.
A copy of this book was provided for review by Blogging For Books.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Hearts are Divided
Loyalties Will Be Tested
The Fates of Two Families Hang in the Balance
Twenty years past, in 1757, a young Redcoat, Reginald Aubrey stole a newborn boy—the lighter-skinned of Oneida twins— during the devastating fall of Fort William Henry and raised him as his own.
No one connected to Reginald escaped unscathed from this crime. Not his adopted daughter Anna. Not Stone Thrower, the Native American father determined to get his son back. Not Two Hawks, William’s twin brother separated since birth, living in the shadow of his absence and hoping to build a future with Anna. Nor Lydia, who longs for Reginald to be free from his self-imposed emotional prison and embrace God’s forgiveness— and her love.
Now William, whose identity has been shattered after discovering the truth of his birth, hides in the ranks of an increasingly aggressive British army. The Redcoats prepare to attack frontier New York and the Continentals, aided by Oneida warriors including Two Hawks, rally to defend it. As the Revolutionary War penetrates the Mohawk Valley, two families separated by culture, united by love and faith, must find a way to reclaim the son marching toward them in the ranks of their enemies.
Book 2 in the Pathfinder Series
Click here to download Chapter 1 of A Flight of Arrows
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Lori Benton was raised east of the Appalachian Mountains, surrounded by early American history going back three hundred years. Her novels transport readers to the eighteenth century, where she brings to life the Colonial and early Federal periods of American history. When she isn’t writing, reading, or researching, Lori enjoys exploring the Oregon wilderness with her husband. She is the author of Burning Sky, recipient of three Christy Awards, and The Pursuit of Tamsen Littlejohn.
by admin | Apr 12, 2015 | American Revolution, Books, Historical, Romance, Southern
MY REVIEW:
It has been many years since I was a student. One of my high school majors was history, I was an honor student, and I have always loved historical fiction. But I cannot remember even one thing about Gulf Coast involvement in the Revolutionary War. In my recollections of my classes, all I remember about that war took place in the vicinity of what we call New England. So – I was quite happy to add more facts to my woefully deficient knowledge of that portion of our early history.
“The Creole Princess” is the kind of book I love. It is populated with well-rounded and interesting characters who made the story come alive. Lyse was delightfully spunky, smart, and brave and Rafael was both outrageous and canny and not at all who he seemed to be. Of course a romance was in the works between the two of them but its progression is just a part of what made this novel so good. The pages are filled with action, danger, humor, drama, suspense, and romance that combine to make this book a real page-turner.
I love being able to see history through the eyes of those who could have been there. It appears that Beth White has performed her research well and has blended true historical facts and even characters into a novel that will open the reader’s eyes to events from the Revolutionary War that like me, they might not have known. I highly recommend “The Creole Princess” as well as White’s previous novel, “The Pelican Bride”. Lovers of historical fiction should not miss either of them.
This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Torn between loyalties to family and flag, one young woman is about to discover that her most important allegiance is to her heart.
It is 1776, and all along the eastern seaboard the American struggle for independence rages. But in the British-held southern port of Mobile, Alabama, the conflict brewing is much quieter–though no less deadly.
Lyse Lanier may be largely French in heritage, but she spends most of her time in the company of the ebullient daughter of the British commander of Mobile. When a charming young Spanish merchant docks in town, Lyse is immediately struck by his easy wit and flair for the dramatic. But is he truly who he makes himself out to be? Spies abound, and Spain has yet to choose a side in the American conflict. Is Lyse simply an easy mark for Rafael Gonzalez to exploit? Or are his overtures of love as genuine as Spanish gold?
With spectacular detail that brings the cultural gumbo of the Colonial Gulf Coast alive, Beth White invites you to step into a world of intrigue and espionage from a little-known slice of the American Revolutionary War.
What critics are saying about the Gulf Coast Chronicles
“Duplicity, danger, political intrigue, and adventure.”–Booklist on The Pelican Bride
“New France comes alive thanks to intricate detail.”–Publishers Weekly review of The Pelican Bride
“The brutal New World [is] captured with distinct detail in this fast-paced romantic adventure.”–RT Book Reviews on The Pelican Bride
Read an excerpt from “The Creole Princess” HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Beth White‘s day job is teaching music at an inner-city high school in historic Mobile, Alabama. A native Mississippian, she is a pastor’s wife, mother of two, and grandmother of one–so far. Her hobbies include playing flute and pennywhistle and painting, but her real passion is writing historical romance with a Southern drawl. Her novels have won the American Christian Fiction Writers Carol Award, the RT Book Club Reviewers Choice Award, and the Inspirational Reader’s Choice Award. Visit www.bethwhite.net for more information.
by admin | Oct 1, 2013 | American Revolution, Books, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
I have always enjoyed historical fiction, particularly that pertaining to my own country’s early history. Melanie Dobson’s “The Courier of Caswell Hall” presented me with an entirely different look at the Revolutionary War than I have experienced in other novels. In it I found a more personal look at life in Virginia during that crucial period for our nation . It was a time when friends and neighbors and even family members disagreed on where to place their loyalties knowing their decisions could separate them from those closest to them. It was a time when their loyalty could cost them everything they owned or even their lives. And sometimes that loyalty was not rewarded as expected but taken for granted or even misused.
Many novels about this era focus on the battles won or lost but “The Courier of Caswell Hall” takes the reader behind the scenes into the lives of those who risked their lives to pass along vital messages to the Patriots. Lydia was one such young woman who found herself participating as a courier despite her family’s loyalist stand. Other family members and friends also played critical roles in Virginia’s struggle for independence.
I thoroughly enjoyed “The Courier of Caswell Hall”. The characters were exceptional and the plot was perfectly orchestrated. The author succeeded in presenting each character’s viewpoint and illustrated clearly how the war affected the people of the area. I was also made aware of historical facts that my high school classes did not cover. A couple of romances added a nice touch but were not the primary emphasis of the book. I enthusiastically recommend this book, especially those who enjoy early American historical fiction.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
An unlikely spy discovers freedom and love in the midst of the American Revolution.
As the British and Continental armies wage war in 1781, the daughter of a wealthy Virginia plantation owner feels conflict raging in her own heart. Lydia Caswell comes from a family of staunch Loyalists, but she cares only about peace. Her friend Sarah Hammond, however, longs to join the fight. Both women’s families have already been divided by a costly war that sets father against son and neighbor against neighbor; a war that makes it impossible to guess who can be trusted.
One snowy night Lydia discovers a wounded man on the riverbank near Caswell Hall, and her decision to save him will change her life. Nathan introduces her to a secret network of spies, couriers, disguises, and coded messages—a network that may be the Patriots’ only hope for winning the war. When British officers take over Caswell Hall and wreak havoc on neighboring plantations, Lydia will have to choose between loyalty and freedom; between her family’s protection and her own heart’s desires.
As both armies gather near Williamsburg for a pivotal battle, both Lydia and Sarah must decide how high a price they are willing to pay to help the men they love.
Part of the American Tapestries™ series: Each standalone novel in this line sets a heart-stirring love story against the backdrop of an epic moment in American history. This is the fifth book in the series.
Purchase a copy here.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Melanie Dobson is the author of twelve novels; her writing has received numerous accolades including two Carol Awards. Melanie worked in public relations for fifteen years before she began writing fiction full-time. Born and raised in the Midwest, she now resides with her husband and two daughters in Oregon.
Find out more about Melanie at http://www.melaniedobson.com.
Welcome to the blog tour for Melanie Dobson‘s latest release, The Courier of Caswell Hall. An unlikely spy discovers freedom and love in the midst of the American Revolution in the newest book in the American Tapestries™ series.
Enter to win 1 of 5 copies of the book!
Five winners will receive:
- The Courier of Caswell Hall by Melanie Dobson
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on October 5th. All winners will be announced October 7th at the Litfuse blog.
Don’t miss a moment of the fun; enter today and be sure to visit the Litfuse blog on the 7th to see if you won one of the books!
