by admin | Apr 30, 2020 | Books, Historical, Regency, Romance
MY REVIEW:
Erica Vetsch has done it again! The Lost Lieutenant was a perfectly delightful Regency era novel with a hero and heroine I adored. It was such a joy to observe as this totally mismatched couple navigated the course of an unplanned and unexpected marriage against overwhelming odds.
Both Evan and his new wife Catherine hid personal secrets from each other. Neither knew enough about the other to be comfortable in trusting them. Each was surprised that the other did not fit their preconceived expectations and were pleasantly surprised at what they found. Ample action and suspenseful moments kept the plot moving along at a steady pace. Vivid descriptions of the setting added to my reading pleasure. I loved how the Prince Regent seemed to show up at just the right moment to turn every potential disaster to their favor. It also didn’t hurt a thing that the villains got what they deserved.
One sentence was repeated several times throughout the story that almost seemed to be a punchline – “No one says no to the Prince Regent.” I could almost hear it being said in unison and kept expecting it to pop up again and again. I loved it!
The Lost Lieutenant was a wonderful tale that illustrated the Lord’s hand in the lives of His people as well as the importance of truth, faith, and trust. I highly recommend this book and any other by this author. The teaser at the end for The Gentleman Spy has me anxiously awaiting his story.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Audra Jennings Publicity. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
He’s doing what he can to save the Prince Regent’s life . . . but can he save his new marriage as well?
Evan Eldridge never meant to be a war hero–he just wanted to fight Napoleon for the future of his country. And he certainly didn’t think that saving the life of a peer would mean being made the Earl of Whitelock. But when the life you save is dear to the Prince Regent, things can change in a hurry.
Now Evan has a new title, a manor house in shambles, and a stranger for a bride, all thrust upon him by a grateful ruler. What he doesn’t have are all his memories. Traumatized as a result of his wounds and bravery on the battlefield, Evan knows there’s something he can’t quite remember. It’s important, dangerous–and if he doesn’t recall it in time, will jeopardize not only his marriage but someone’s very life.
Readers who enjoy Julie Klassen, Carolyn Miller, and Kristi Ann Hunter will love diving into this brand-new Regency series filled with suspense, aristocratic struggles, and a firm foundation of faith.
Read an excerpt from Kregel by clicking here!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Erica Vetsch is a New York Times best-selling and ACFW Carol Award–winning author. She is a transplanted Kansan now living in Minnesota with her husband, who she claims is both her total opposite and soul mate. Vetsch loves Jesus, history, romance, and sports. When she’s not writing fiction, she’s planning her next trip to a history museum and cheering on her Kansas Jayhawks and New Zealand All Blacks. A self-described history geek, she has been planning her first research trip to England.
Learn more about Erica Vetsch and her books at www.ericavetsch.com. She can also be found on Facebook (@EricaVetschAuthor), Twitter (@EricaVetsch), Instagram (@EricaVetsch) and Pinterest (Erica Vetsch).
GIVEAWAY:
by admin | Apr 30, 2020 | Books, Historical, Historical Mystery/Suspense, Regency, Romance
MY REVIEW:
The House at the End of the Moor was another enjoyable tale from Michelle Griep who has quickly become one of my must read authors. Her characters are so well defined and natural. The “good” characters are less than perfect with enough baggage to keep them interesting. The “bad” characters are quite easy to hate, especially Barrows and Groat but readers may even find a redeemable quality or two in them.
The story includes a young woman hiding in an isolated cottage on the moor and a young man who has escaped from prison, falsely accused of a crime he did not commit and determined to prove his innocence. Naturally the two find themselves on an adventure together to find the truth and expose the true criminal. Although it is obvious early on that Maggie and Oliver will eventually end up together, they must both learn to trust each other and most of all the Lord.
I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of this beautifully written story and was quite pleased with how everything was resolved at the end. The author has a wonderful way with words that makes reading her books such a pleasure. I look forward to her future novels.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Celebrate Lit. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
| Book: House at the End of the Moor
Author: Michelle Griep
Genre: Christian Historical
Release Date: April 2020
Click here for your copy! |
 |
An Opulent London Opera Star Escapes to the Rugged Landscape of the English Moors
Opera star Maggie Lee escapes her opulent lifestyle when threatened by a powerful politician who aims to ruin her life. She runs off to the wilds of the moors to live in anonymity. All that changes the day she discovers a half-dead man near her house. Escaped convict Oliver Ward is on the run to prove his innocence, until he gets hurt and is taken in by Maggie. He discovers some jewels in her possession—the very same jewels that got him convicted. Together they hatch a plan to return the jewels, clearing Oliver’s name and hopefully maintaining Maggie’s anonymity.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Michelle Griep’s been writing since she first discovered blank wall space and Crayolas. She is the Christy Award-winning author of historical romances: A Tale of Two Hearts, The Captured Bride, The Innkeeper’s Daughter, 12 Days at Bleakly Manor, The Captive Heart, Brentwood’s Ward, A Heart Deceived, and Gallimore, but also leaped the historical fence into the realm of contemporary with the zany romantic mystery Out of the Frying Pan. If you’d like to keep up with her escapades, find her at www.michellegriep.com or stalk her on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.
MORE FROM MICHELLE:
What comes to mind when you hear the word moor? For some, images of Jane Eyre spring to life. For others, The Hound of the Baskervilles starts barking. But for most, it’s a big fat goose egg. The fact is that most Americans don’t have a clue what a moor is, but never fear, my friend…after you read the next few paragraphs, you’ll never again go blank-minded when you hear the word moor.
Last summer I skipped across the pond and tromped around Dartmoor with my daughter and husband. What an awesome experience. I learned first-hand just how windy this vast stretch of land can be, for that’s really what a moor is at heart: a vast stretch of land. Webster’s defines it as an expanse of open rolling infertile land. Sounds rather desolate, eh? Yeah. Kind of. But it’s oh so much more.
In spring and summer, green does abound. Gorse bushes. Scrubby grasses. Lambs and sheep and goats. All these animals roam free so there are trails worn into the dirt that you can hike along. But I hear you…where could you possibly go if there’s nothing besides some farm animals roaming around the place?
You could hike to a tor, which is a “high, craggy hill.” Some of them can be a little treacherous to climb, but sweet mercy, what a view! The earth stretches out like a green and brown quilt. As I hiked that day last spring, whispers in the wind inspired me to wonder a lot of what-ifs, and those what-ifs came together in a story of intrigue and betrayal.
What would you do if you found a half-dead man bleeding in the middle of nowhere? Find out what heroine Maggie Lee does in The House at the End of the Moor.
BLOG STOPS:
| Batya’s Bits, April 18
The Avid Reader, April 18
Life of Literature, April 18
The Power of Words, April 18
For Him and My Family, April 19
Texas Book-aholic, April 19
The Meanderings of a Bookworm, April 19
Among the Reads, April 20
My Devotional Thoughts, April 20
As He Leads is Joy, April 20
Library Lady’s Kid Lit, April 20
Just the Write Escape, April 21
Reflections From My Bookshelves, April 21
D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, April 21
Where Faith and Books Meet, April 22
deb’s Book Review, April 22
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 22
Inklings and notions, April 22
Remembrancy, April 23
Hookmeinabook, April 23
Christian Bookaholic, April 23
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 23
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 24
Britt Reads Fiction, April 24
Emily Yager, April 24
Betti Mace, April 25
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Stories By Gina, April 25
Adventures of a Traveling Wife, April 25
Blossoms and Blessings, April 25
Splashes of Joy, April 26
Simple Harvest Reads, April 26 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)
Vicky Sluiter, April 26
Locks, Hooks and Books, April 26
Blessed & Bookish, April 27
Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, April 27
Pause for Tales, April 27
Through the Fire Blogs, April 28
Hallie Reads, April 28
Faery Tales Are Real, April 28
To Everything There Is A Season, April 28
Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, April 29
Bigreadersite, April 29
Older & Smarter?, April 29
Tell Tale Book Reviews, April 29
Genesis 5020, April 30
Read Review Rejoice, April 30
By The Book, April 30
For the Love of Literature, April 30
All-of-a-kind Mom, May 1
Bookishly Beverly, May 1
Daysong Reflections, May 1
Artistic Nobody, May 1 (Guest Review from Donna Cline) |
GIVEAWAY:
To celebrate her tour, Michelle is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and a free copy of the book!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
https://promosimple.com/ps/f8e2/the-house-at-the-end-of-the-moor-celebration-tour-giveaway
by admin | Apr 29, 2020 | Books, Historical, Historical Mystery/Suspense, Romance, Texas, Texas Rangers
MY REVIEW:
Although I was not familiar with its author, Ranger to the Rescue seemed to be the type of book I would enjoy so I took a chance and agreed to review it. It did not take very long after I began reading to decide that I had indeed made a good choice. A historical western romance, the characters and plot were perfect and I enjoyed my reading experience.
Heroine Amelia was smart, brave, and determined to make her way in a man’s world of journalism. Always eager to get a scoop, she was not always as careful as she should have been and frequently found herself in a bit of trouble. Attorney Evan was quite happy to settle into his new office, especially after barely escaping a noose due to mistaken identity in the previous novel of the Texas Ranger series. He and Amelia had settled into a routine friendship but it didn’t take long before they realized that there might just be more to the friendship than they first thought. However, circumstances arose that put their relationship to the test and their lives at risk.
The plot of Ranger to the Rescue moved along at a steady pace and was filled with ample danger, action, suspense, and romance to keep most readers happily turning the pages. A great story of second chances and dependence on the Lord, this book more than met my expectations. I hope to find time to read the first book of this series so I can learn more about Evan, his sister, and her husband.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Celebrate Lit. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
| Book: Ranger to the Rescue
Author: Renae Brumbaugh Green
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Release Date: April 14, 2020
Click here for your copy! |
 |
Amelia Cooper has sworn off lawmen for good.
Now any man who wants to claim the hand of the intrepid reporter had better have a safe job. Like attorney Evan Covington. Amelia is thrilled when the handsome lawyer comes courting. But when the town enlists him as a Texas Ranger, Amelia isn’t sure she can handle losing another man to the perils of keeping the peace.
Evan never expected his temporary appointment to sink his relationship with Amelia. Or to instantly plunge them headlong into danger. But when Amelia and his sister are both kidnapped, the newly minted lawman must rescue them—if he’s to have any chance at love.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Renae Brumbaugh Green is a city-girl-turned-country-diva. She’s married to a handsome country boy named Rick, and she’s mom to four nearly-perfect, nearly-grown children, two rowdy dogs, and some ducks. They live in rural Texas where Renae wears overalls, western boots, and bubblegum pink nail polish. She’s a bestselling author of over 30 books, an award-winning humor columnist, and an online English teacher. In her free time, she can be found leaping tall buildings and rescuing kittens from trees. Or, she’d like to do those things, if she had free time.
MORE FROM RENAE:
Every once in a while, when writing a character, I become vaguely aware that in many respects, I am that character. In those moments, I also become aware that God is the author, and he’s teaching me something through this particular character’s journey. After all, it’s a lot easier to learn through someone else’s mistakes than to recognize our own mistakes – especially if that someone else is a fictional character.
Amelia’s journey is one of fear and anxiety, which is something I’ve dealt with a lot. Like Amelia, I appear composed and confident on the surface. Like Amelia, I’m often a mess on the inside, scared to death of what will come, scared to death of how it will all turn out.
While writing this story, while dealing with Amelia’s anxiety, I (all-knowing author that I am) wrote that fear is the opposite of hope. Fear is the belief that something bad will happen, while hope is the belief that something good will happen. The Bible tells us that ours is a God of hope (Romans 15:13). When we truly trust Him, we can let go of fear, knowing He has good things in store for us.
At one point in the book, Amelia has this revelation:
“And suddenly, it was as if a haze lifted and she saw herself clearly for the first time. She’d let herself be ruled by fear, and in so doing had confined herself and clipped her own wings.”
Those words, disguised on the page as Amelia’s thoughts, were actually my thoughts. I hope you enjoy Amelia’s journey. And as you read, I hope you’ll remember these words from Isaiah 41:10: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
God bless, and happy reading!
—Renae Brumbaugh Green
BLOG STOPS:
| Genesis 5020, April 16
Inklings and notions, April 16
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 17
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 18
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 18
Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, April 19
Texas Book-aholic, April 20
deb’s Book Review, April 20
Betti Mace, April 21
Books, Life, and Christ, April 21
For Him and My Family, April 22
Reading Is My SuperPower, April 23 |
Becka Jiménez’s FB, April 23
Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, April 24
janicesbookreviews, April 24
Blossoms and Blessings, April 25
Vicky Sluiter, April 25
Bigreadersite, April 26
Hallie Reads, April 26
Pause for Tales, April 27
Splashes of Joy, April 27
For the Love of Literature, April 28
Daysong Reflections, April 29
Artistic Nobody, April 29 (Guest Review from Donna Cline) |
GIVEAWAY:
To celebrate her tour, Renae is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
https://promosimple.com/ps/f8e1/ranger-to-the-rescue-celebration-tour-giveaway
by admin | Apr 22, 2020 | Books, Historical, Oregon, Romance
MY REVIEW:
One Hundred Valleys was an enjoyable read from beginning to end. I am partial to historical fiction and this book made the early days of Oregon come alive for me. I was particularly interested in the location because when my daughter and her husband moved from Tennessee to Oregon several years ago their first assignment was in Grants Pass along the Rogue River, the general area of the book.
After her mother’s death and another disappointment, Emmalin Hammond travels to Oregon to find the father she has never known and believed to be dead. After yet another tragedy, Emmalin decides to continue the journey to Deer Creek with Jacob Landon as her guide. Various hardships and encounters with Indians along the way strengthened a friendship between Emmalin and Jacob but they were both aware that they were totally unsuitable for each other. In many ways, despite their obvious differences, Jacob and Emmalin were much alike. Although Emmalin had been raised with abundance, circumstances of her life had left her not knowing exactly where she fit in. Jacob’s loss of family at an early age and life among the Indians had also left him feeling out of place.
Both Emmalin and Jacob were strong characters. Jacob was caring and protective despite his rough upbringing. Emmalin was stronger than she could have ever imagined as a pampered society girl. It was fun observing the growth of their relationship as well as Emmalin’s connection to her father. A steady plot filled with both disaster and blessings and a cautious romance, it also illustrated a believable path back to trust in God.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Celebrate Lit.. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
| Book: One Hundred Valleys
Author: Bonnie Leon
Genre: Historical Romance
Release Date: March 15, 2020
Click here to get your copy! |
 |
After the death of her mother, Emmalin Hammond discovers she is not the heiress she’d always assumed she’d be. The revelation exposes her fiancé true intentions when he withdraws his marriage proposal, leaving Emmalin heartbroken and humiliated. When she discovers the father she believed to be dead is still alive and living in the Oregon Territory she decides it is time to meet the man who has been hidden from her all of her life.
Accompanied by her Uncle Jonathon she sets out for the Oregon Territory in search of answers and hoping for a renewed relationship with her father. When tragedy strikes, she confronts the terrifying challenge of completing her quest alone. Faced with few options, she entrusts her life to a mountain man named Jacob Landon who agrees to transport her to a small settlement in Southern Oregon called Deer Creek, a place also known as the Land of One Hundred Valleys.
Emmalin is not prepared for the hardships of life in the Oregon wilderness. Each day presents a new challenge. Newfound friends, including the reserved Jacob Landon, come alongside to help her adapt and she gradually finds her way. Yet, she feels out of place. Should she brave the arduous journey back to Philadelphia and the life she once knew or remain and hope for something better in the Oregon wilderness?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Bonnie Leon is the author of twenty-two novels, including the recently released Return to the Misty Shore, the popular Alaskan Skies and bestselling The Journey of Eleven Moons. Bonnie’s books are being read internationally and she hears from readers in Australia, Europe, Poland, and even Africa. She enjoys speaking for women’s groups and mentoring up and coming authors.
Bonnie and her husband, Greg, live in Southern Oregon. They have three grown children and seven grandchildren.
MORE FROM BONNIE:
Why this story?
In the spring of 1980 my husband and I, our two-year-old son, and our infant daughter left city life in Washington state and moved to Southern Oregon. We gave up our community of friends and family along with my husband’s reliable and well-paying job. Our friends thought we were crazy, but we were determined that Oregon was where we belonged. We were scared but not deterred.
I think the change in my own life as a young woman had a lot to do with why I wrote this story of Emmalin Hammond. To be sure, Emmalin’s level of difficulty and danger is distinctly different than mine, but there are similarities. We both experienced adventures, joy, and, yes, even danger.
Oregon has been my home for forty years now, and I am glad my husband and I made the decision to move here. We’ve had a good life in this wild and beautiful country. Sometimes I wonder about the women who made that choice during the nineteenth century. Emmalin set out on her harrowing journey to Oregon in the spring of 1855. Many who began that journey did not make it across the plains and desserts of America.
When I put down roots in Douglas County, Oregon I was thrilled to be here, but the changes weren’t all easy. The old farmhouse we lived in had more broken windows than intact ones. It was mouse infested. The plumbing needed major repair. And yet I loved it. The countryside was lush and green, and the rolling hillsides were dotted with farm animals, wildlife, and broad-limbed oak trees. There were wild blackberries sprawling along the farm’s fences and fresh fruit in our orchard. It looked much the same as the Oregon Emmalin discovered in my story, One Hundred Valleys.
I loved hard work and spent a lot of time splitting logs for our only heat source—a wood burning stove—felling trees on our new property, and working alongside my husband in our vegetable garden.
I had run-ins with things like poison oak and skunks, but that did not dampen my enthusiasm as a new Oregonian. I loved picking wild blackberries, fishing the high mountain lakes, hiking mountain trails, and fishing the North Umpqua river. I cherished those days as a farm wife and mother. Those were the best years of my life. I have never regretted our move to the beautiful land of one hundred valleys in Southern Oregon.
I am thankful for the early explorers who challenged the wilderness in the Oregon Territory more than a century ago. It is their courage and determination that made it possible for me and my family to live and thrive in this beautiful place.
BLOG STOPS:
| A Baker’s Perspective, April 15
Through the Lens of Scripture, April 15
Texas Book-aholic, April 16
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 16
Reading Is My SuperPower, April 16
For Him and My Family, April 17
Read Review Rejoice, April 17
Inklings and notions, April 18
Bigreadersite, April 18
Emily Yager, April 18
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 19
Lis Loves Reading, April 19
Stories By Gina, April 19
Betti Mace, April 20
Pause for Tales, April 20
My Devotional Thoughts, April 20
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 21 |
Splashes of Joy, April 21
deb’s Book Review, April 21
Simple Harvest Reads, April 22 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)
To Everything There Is A Season, April 22
Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, April 23
Worthy2Read, April 23
Daysong Reflections, April 23
Older & Smarter?, April 24
Through the Fire Blogs, April 24
Blossoms and Blessings, April 25
janicesbookreviews, April 25
For the Love of Literature, April 26
Vicky Sluiter, April 26
Mary Hake, April 26
Locks, Hooks and Books, April 27
Genesis 5020, April 27
Artistic Nobody, April 28 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)
With a Joyful Noise, April 28 |
GIVEAWAY:
To celebrate her tour, Bonnie is giving away the grand prize package of a $15 Amazon Gift Card and Vintage Oregon myrtle wood porringer bowl!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
https://promosimple.com/ps/f8e0/one-hundred-valleys-celebration-tour-giveaway
by admin | Apr 17, 2020 | Books, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
I thoroughly enjoyed Runaway Bride by Jody Hedlund which features a wealthy young woman who fled for her life to escape marriage to an abusive older man. Fearing for her life she boarded a bride ship to British Columbia where she joined other women with hopes of a better future. With two vastly different men wooing her, Arabella felt immediate attraction to the one least suited to a woman of her standing but no sparks with the one she thinks she should marry. Time revealed the true character of both men and Arabella’s choices became more clear.
Arabella was a very likeable character. Although raised with every thing she could ever desire, she managed to adapt to a different lifestyle where she learned to enjoy serving others rather than being served. Her compassionate heart endeared her especially to the town baker who decided to marry her at their first meeting. Peter was a charmer and quite forward for the times yet he too had a heart filled with compassion for others. Lieutenant Richard Drummond was a gentleman on the surface but his perfect veneer hid a scheming heart.
Runaway Bride is an enchanting and fun to read tale that made me want to read all night. The plot moved along at a steady pace with a few surprises along the way. I highly recommend it to all lovers of historical fiction.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group. A favorable review was not required.All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Haunted by Mistakes in Her Past, Will She Ever Again
Trust Her Heart to Another?
Wealthy Arabella Lawrence flees to British Columbia on a bride ship, still bearing the scars of past mistakes. One of the few single women in the boomtown, she immediately attracts suitors, but she is determined not to find herself trapped again by making a poor choice.
Vying for her hand are two very different men. Lieutenant Richard Drummond is a gentleman in the Navy, held in high esteem. Peter Kelly is the town’s baker who has worked hard to build a thriving business. He and Drummond not only compete for Arabella’s affections, but also clash over their views of how the natives should be treated in the midst of a smallpox outbreak.
As Arabella begins to overcome her fears, she discovers someone in dire need–a starving girl left behind by her tribe. Intent on helping the child, Arabella leans on Peter’s advice and guidance. Will she have the wisdom to make the right decision, or will seeking what’s right cost both her and Peter everything?
Read an excerpt here.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Jody Hedlund (www.jodyhedlund.com) is the author of over 20 novels, including Love Unexpected, Captured by Love, Unending Devotion, The Preacher’s Bride, and A Noble Groom, and is the winner of numerous awards, including the Christy Award, Carol Award, and Christian Book Award. She received a bachelor’s degree from Taylor University and a master’s from the University of Wisconsin, both in social work. Jody lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy teens, and five spoiled cats. She loves hearing from readers on Facebook and on her blog.
by admin | Apr 6, 2020 | Books, Historical, Louisiana, Post Civil War, Split Time
MY REVIEW:
I honestly don’t even know how to begin a review for The Book of Lost Friends. As a long-time fan and influencer for Lisa Wingate, I obviously wanted to review this book but due to my mind being distracted by a prolonged family crisis, I had absolutely no clue as to its contents. I went into the story totally blind. As some other reviewers mentioned, it began fairly slow but I knew that the author tends to build her stories one layer at a time and the next thing I know I find myself hooked. That was the case with this beautiful tale. It didn’t take me long to wonder why I thought it could be at all slow.
A split time novel, readers are taken back and forth between post-Civil war Louisiana and 1987 Louisiana with freed slave Hannie and a teacher with her very first assignment. Interspersed between the chapters are actual historic newspaper ads from Hannie’s era of people who have written in search of their family members or friends. These ads played a huge role in the story as Hannie and two other young women traveled to Texas in search of her former master. Hannie’s tale is filled with danger and tragedy yet a small spark of hope pushes Hannie to continue searching for her own family members who were sold years before.
Benny soon finds herself in over her head with the high school students she is expected to teach. An avid reader, Benny hopes to instill a love of books into her pupils but most of them have absolutely no interest in the only book available to them. An unexpected discovery prompts Benny to develop a project that requires the students to dig into their own backgrounds.
I loved the way the author ties the characters of the two eras together. It was fun reading a name in a newspaper ad or in Hannie’s story and then find the same name among Benny’s students or residents of Augustine, Louisiana. Sometimes poignant yet filled with hope, The Book of Lost Friends brought me a new understanding of the slaves displaced by their owners or the war. It is a story with a little bit of everything – action and adventure, secrets and mystery, faith and hope, with just a touch of romance for good measure. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would recommend it to everyone.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by the author. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Before We Were Yours comes a new historical novel: the dramatic story of three young women searching for family amid the destruction of the post–Civil War South, and of a modern-day teacher who learns of their story and its vital connection to her students’ lives.
Bestselling author Lisa Wingate brings to life startling stories from actual “Lost Friends” advertisements that appeared in Southern newspapers after the Civil War, as newly freed slaves desperately searched for loved ones who had been sold away.
Louisiana, 1875: In the tumultuous era of Reconstruction, three young women set off as unwilling companions on a perilous quest: Hannie, a freed slave; Lavinia, the pampered heir to a now destitute plantation; and Juneau Jane, Lavinia’s Creole half sister. Each carries private wounds and powerful secrets as they head for Texas, following roads rife with vigilantes and soldiers still fighting a war lost a decade before. For Lavinia and Juneau Jane, the journey is one of stolen inheritance and financial desperation, but for Hannie, torn from her mother and siblings before slavery’s end, the pilgrimage west reignites an agonizing question: Could her long-lost family still be out there? Beyond the swamps lie the limitless frontiers of Texas and, improbably, hope.
Louisiana, 1987: For first-year teacher Benedetta Silva, a subsidized job at a poor rural school seems like the ticket to canceling her hefty student debt—until she lands in a tiny, out-of-step Mississippi River town. Augustine, Louisiana, is suspicious of new ideas and new people, and Benny can scarcely comprehend the lives of her poverty-stricken students. But amid the gnarled live oaks and run-down plantation homes lie the century-old history of three young women, a long-ago journey, and a hidden book that could change everything.
Order a copy here.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Lisa Wingate is the author of the #1 New York Times bestseller Before We Were Yours, which remained on the bestseller list for fifty-four weeks in hardcover and has sold over 2 million copies. She has penned over thirty novels and coauthored a nonfiction book, Before and After with Judy Christie. Her award-winning works have been selected for state and community One Book reads throughout the country, have been published in over forty languages, and have appeared on bestseller lists worldwide. The group Americans for More Civility, a kindness watchdog organization, selected Lisa and six others as recipients of the National Civies Award, which celebrates public figures who work to promote greater kindness and civility in American life. Booklist summed up her work by saying, “Lisa Wingate is, quite simply, a master storyteller.” She lives with her husband in North Texas. More information about her novels can be found at www.lisawingate.com where you can also sign up for her e-newsletter and follow her on social media.
LISA’S INTERNET LINKS:
Lisa’s website: www.Lisawingate.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/lisawingate
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LisaWingateAuthorPage
Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/lisawingatebook/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/178832.Lisa_Wingate
Greeting cards with Lisa Wingate quotes. Buy a Card, Feed a Child.
http://www.shoplegacy.com/greeting-cards/browse-author-series/lisa-wingate-series-756/
