by admin | Jan 6, 2017 | Books, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
I have been a fan of Regina Jennings since I reviewed my very first novel by her. It didn’t take me very long to decide that I did not intend to miss any subsequent novels. Fortunately I have been blessed with the opportunity to review most of them. “For the Record” just reinforces my decision to place her on my must read list.
Newly appointed sheriff Joel Puckett finds himself just a bit out of his element in Pine Gap, Missouri. Used to the wide open spaces in Texas and straightforward law enforcement, it takes him awhile to become accustomed to the hills and valleys and woods of his new assignment. And then there are the Bald Knobbers, a local vigilante group who have taken things into their own hands. Betsy Huckabee helps her uncle with his newspaper but has aspirations of writing for a larger one.
Although this novel takes a bit of a detour from Jennings’ usual offerings, the high quality and her signature humor were intact. Characters were obviously lovingly crafted and the plot was inspired with just the right mix of drama, action, and suspense plus a sweet romance of course. Loved, loved, loved this book and am so looking forward to the next Ozark Mountain Romance.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book that was provided by Bethany House Publishers and the author. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Rather Than Wait for a Hero, She Decided to Create One
Betsy Huckabee has big-city dreams, but nobody outside of tiny Pine Gap, Missouri, seems interested in the articles she writes for her uncle’s newspaper. Her hopes for independence may be crushed, until the best idea she’s ever had comes riding into town.
Deputy Joel Puckett didn’t want to leave Texas, but unfair circumstances have made moving to Pine Gap his only shot at keeping a badge. Worse, this small town has big problems, and masked marauders have become too comfortable taking justice into their own hands. He needs to make clear that he’s the law in this town–and that job is made more difficult with a nosy reporter who seems to follow him everywhere he goes.
The hero Betsy creates to be the star in a serial for the ladies’ pages is based on the dashing deputy, but he’s definitely fictional. And since the pieces run only in newspapers far away, no one will ever know. But the more time she spends with Deputy Puckett, the more she appreciates the real hero–and the more she realizes what her ambition could cost him.
Read an excerpt from “For the Record” HERE.
Purchase a copy of “For the Record” HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Regina Jennings is a graduate of Oklahoma Baptist University with a degree in English and a history minor. She is the author of A Most Inconvenient Marriage, Sixty Acres and a Bride, and Caught in the Middle, and contributed a novella to A Match Made in Texas. Regina 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, Oklahoma, with her husband and four children and can be found online at www.reginajennings.com.
Save
Save
by admin | Dec 28, 2016 | Arizona, Books, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
I have always enjoyed historical novels by Carol Cox and was happy to have the opportunity to read and review “Copper Sunrise”. Not only was it an excellent and riveting story but I learned quite a bit I didn’t know about Arizona’s progression toward statehood.
“Copper Sunrise” features Catherine whose independent streak has taken her from the ranch where she grew up to the city of Phoenix where she hopes to prove she can take care of herself. She quickly finds a job at a land investment company where to her delight she quickly advances. At her workplace Catherine also meets Mitchell Brewer, an up-and-coming journalist whose assignment is to profile the influential men of Phoenix who could impact Arizona’s future. Although Catherine and Mitchell quickly form a friendship and their attraction is strong, Catherine’s increasing hours at work not only keep them apart but threaten to undermine her former values as well. As it becomes evident that some underhanded land acquisition is taking place, both Mitchell and Catherine must decide whether to face the truth and do the right thing.
Although “Copper Sunrise” was a fairly short novel, the story itself seemed pretty big. I enjoyed watching the relationship between Catherine and Mitchell develop as well as learning what choices they would make. With plenty of drama, history, suspense, and romance for most readers, this novel was a quite satisfying read.
I voluntarily reviewed a digital copy of this book that was provided by the author. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Book 4 in the Arizona Brides Series
Catherine is moving from the ranch she’s always called home to Phoenix. Hoping to help Arizona achieve statehood any way she can, she starts her job at a land investment company. With a quick promotion, Catherine soon forgets to keep the Lord as her priority. Mitchell Brewer, a journalist for the Phoenix Clarion, can hardly believe his luck in getting to write about the most influential pacesetters of Arizona’s future. But when some of the land sales look to be cover for fraud, he knows he has to write the truth, even if it costs him dearly—so dearly that any future with Catherine could be gone. Will Mitch be able to stand his ground while being faced with losing his love? Will they be able to see the Lord’s hand at work under a copper sunrise?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Native Arizonan Carol Cox has an abiding love for history, mystery, and romance. The author of more than 25 books, she believes in the power of story to convey spiritual truths. Carol lives with her husband and daughter in northern Arizona, where deer and antelope really do play–within view of the family’s front porch. Visit her website at www.authorcarolcox.com.
Save
by admin | Dec 13, 2016 | Books, Historical, Turn of the Century
MY REVIEW:
“Meddlin’ Madeline – Sweet on You” was a delightful read. It did take me a little while to become fully involved in it but once I did I was hooked. I loved how the author made a huge effort to keep her historical details accurate – even down to having her characters use some “big” words that are rarely heard these days. This all added to the authenticity of the story.
Madeline was a charming heroine who cared about her friends enough that she was willing to take huge risks in order to prevent them from being hurt. I also thought Russell was the perfect hero and kept hoping that Madeline would come to see him as more than her “big brother”. I loved how protective he was of her and his patience was unparalleled. With a bit of mystery, plenty of drama, lots of humor, and hints of romance, “Meddlin’ Madeline – Sweet on You” was entertaining and fun yet had the perfect balance of spiritual insight.
As often happens in the first volume of a series, this book closed at a good point but several issues were left unresolved. Readers will have to wait for volume two to hopefully find out how things advance between Madeline and Russell and to see if another certain young man gets the comeuppance he so deserves.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book that was provided by Celebrate Lit Publicity Group. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Click to purchase
It is my hypothesis that social conventions are created to test our fortitude.
Rockland circa 1900-
As the mayor’s daughter, Madeline Brown enjoys a rich social life that many might envy. But a sharp mind but a growing talent for observation leaves Madeline torn between avoiding social censure and exploring the world around her.
With an aunt who considers higher education and employment equally unsuitable for the mayor’s daughter, there is little to amuse her save endless committee meetings, evening socials, and her favorite pastime: curling up with an exciting detective novel. The temperance and suffrage movements hold little interest for a young woman who has just endured the rigors of her father’s mayoral campaign.
So when a young man shows interest in her friend, Madeline’s interest piques–until his actions hint that he might not be the upstanding gentleman everyone presumes him to be. Unable to ignore her concerns, Madeline finds herself in the middle of an investigation into his character and discovers a side of Rockland she’s never encountered.
Will her new hobby reduce the tedium of her life, or will her “meddling” create tension for herself and her father? Will she be forced to squelch this budding skill of hers or has Madeline finally found her calling in life?
Meddlin’ Madeline: Sweet on You.
Welcome to Rockland’s infancy.
Sweet on You is the first book in the Meddlin’ Madeline Mysteries. Watch for the second book in the series, Such a Tease, in winter, 2017
Click here to purchase your copy.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
I am fortunate enough to live in the great state of California (in the Mojave Desert) with my husband Kevin and five of my nine children. My eldest is married with five children, so I have the fun of a son-in-law and grandbabies to enjoy. I’ve graduated six out of my nine children from our home school, and they’re all doing quite well in their lives. My younger children keep me from getting too selfish, and someday I’ll be fully retired as their teacher. I have to say, I’m lookin’ forward to it. Teaching about gerunds was fun the first time… not so much anymore. I salute all of those in the education field. You are my heroes.
When I’m not writing (which I admit isn’t often) I enjoy blogging (a totally different kind of writing, trust me), paper crafts, sewing, smocking, photo editing, and old music. No, really, I like OLD stuff… the Beatles are too newfangled for me. Yeah,I know they’re before my time… but I like stuff before my PARENTS time.
GUEST POST FROM CHAUTONA:
The idea for Madeline came while I was searching for photos for another book idea (one I still haven’t fleshed out yet!). I came across an intriguing picture of a girl wearing a bowler and loved it. I wondered who she was and what she was reading. Well… then I turned the page and… wow! Dozens of photos appeared—all in the same general theme. Bowler hat, gloves, late Victorian/early Edwardian clothes…. I could just see her riding through town on a “wheel” and solving crimes. And well, the rest was born. I had to narrow down about twenty pictures to five. I couldn’t do it. So, I did six. I just hope I can limit myself to six.
Fun Facts:
Fact #1:
This is a historical novel, so that meant lots of research. Well, in the sense that it takes place in another period, anyway. Research proved much more difficult than you might imagine. You see, the world was in a state of flux in 1901. Victorian mores gave way way to a new, modern era—a new century! Though an exciting time in history, because everything was in a perpetual state of change, finding truly historically accurate information was almost impossible!
Additionally, the writing style is very different. This is partly due to a quirk of Madeline’s, but it is also because people used broader vocabularies back then. I wrote the book with a style that fit the era. It was difficult not to lapse into modern vernacular or even something a bit more twenties. After all, the series title was inspired by a song from the 1920’s!
Fun Fact #2
This book begins a journey of self-discovery for Madeline. One of the things I wanted most to do with this book was to explore the “birth” of a detective—to show what it might be like for someone to realize that he or she notices things that others don’t. Through Madeline, I explored how people would react to having their secrets exposed, and I tried to show just how difficult it would be to investigate suspicious things without becoming deceitful or putting oneself in compromising positions. It’s easy to assume people would appreciate knowing if they were being taken advantage of, but would they really? Would pride not get in the way of things? I suspect it would.
Each book does have a definite “mystery”. But, these aren’t traditional mysteries. There won’t be a murder until the final book, but each one will increase in difficulty for Madeline and the reader to decipher the truth and will add a new element of danger and self-discovery. Addtionally, there’s an overarching story over the entire series that won’t be resolved until the end.
Fun Fact #3
We have five more books to go! We’re just getting started with Madeline’s adventures. A sneak peek into the rest of the series: we’ll get to learn more about her best friend, Amy. I haven’t decided just what kind of girl Amy is, but I suspect she’s quite beautiful. I think that’ll play a part in a future book. She’s also likely to meet someone in her European tour. Will she be the friend with the suspicious letter in book four? Who knows? Not me!
Madeline’s Unofficial Glossary
One of the best parts about writing this series is playing with words that I grew up using and reading, but most people don’t use anymore. I had parents of a literary turn of mind, so I grew up being told to, “Slow down and enunciate.” This began at age 3. So, while other kids were told to “go potty,” I was told to “use the facilities.” I’ll never forget in second grade telling a classmate, “That’s your prerogative,” when she said, “I don’t like you.” She was… confused, I think.
Add to that the fun slang of the day, not to mention a quirk I’m not giving away, and I can honestly say I had a blast writing this book. However, I know not everyone is fond of sesquipedalian words or erudite language. So, with that in mind, I decided to write this glossary of words you will find in the book. Please note: definitions are mine and written with my tongue super-glued to the inside of my cheek.
Diffidence: noun
- Pretending to be reserved in an attempt to hide the truth. Desperate. A misguided notion that pretending not to notice someone will create interest.
Vicissitude: noun
- The quality of never being able to make up your mind. A woman.
Multi-eloquent: adjective
- The misguided notion that one must be like Nellie Olson in These Happy Golden Years and allow one’s tongue to go “flippity-flop.” Example: Gossips are often multi-eloquent.
Jitney: noun
- Slang for a nickel. Also, a horse-drawn “cab.” Because it has fewer syll–nope. Not that. Because people like to confuse one another in speech. “Hey, do you have a jitney?” Gee… let’s see. I’ve got a nickel, but I left my horse and carriage in my other pants at home…
Copacetic: adjective
- Doesn’t matter, because I had to remove it from the book. I didn’t read the entire dictionary entry when I chose the word, and only saw 1880 mentioned. Alas, the first known use is 1919. Eighteen years after this book takes place. I consider the coiner to be tardy, and would appreciate that in the future, words be coined by the dates I need. Thank you. (Do you see the amount of research I must do. I have to check if words were even IN USE before I use them. And I still almost flubbed it.)
Recalcitrant: adjective
- Madeline… wait. That’s not quite right. But close enough. Okay. Madeline Brown when she has a bee in her bowler. Resisting authority or convention.
Dialogue de sourds: noun (French)
- Literally: a worthless conversation where both parties speak to a glass wall, hearing only themselves. Example: political conversations, theological conversations, ideological conversations, Facebook wall “discussions,” and arguments with toddlers.
Asinine: adjective
- Ridiculous or silly–like the assertion that someone saying the word is using foul language.
Penurious: adjective
- Marked by an inability to part with money. A lickpenny. (see how I did that?)
Scintillating: adjective
- A word meaning amusing or extremely interesting that lends itself more to sarcasm than plain speaking.
Hawkshaw: noun
- A nosy person who gets away with it under the guise of “helping.” Sometimes known as a detective.
Fustian: noun
- Um… yeah. This glossary. Madeline does lend herself to the fustian.
There you go. It’s just a taste of what’s ahead. Happy reading!
BLOG STOPS:
December 13: Bigreadersite
December 13: Jeanette’s Thoughts
December 13: History, Mystery & Faith
December 14: Daysong Reflections
December 14: Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations
December 14: Baker Kella
December 15: Back Porch Reads
December 15: Moments Dipped in Ink
December 16: Pause for Tales
December 16: Quiet Quilter
December 17: cherylbbookblog
December 17: A Baker’s Perspective
December 18: ASC Book Reviews
December 18: Book Bites, Bee Stings, and Butterfly Kisses
December 19: Reading Is My SuperPower
December 19: A Greater Yes
December 20: Lane Hill House
December 20: A Simple Life, really?!
December 21: Books for Christian Girls
December 21: Reader’s cozy corner
December 22: Two Girls and a Book
December 22: Blogging With Carol
December 23: His Grace is Sufficient
December 23: 1983
December 24: Neverending Stories
December 24: Carpe Diem
December 25: Bibliophile Reviews
December 25: The Scribbler
December 26: History, Hope, Laughter & Happily-ever-after
December 26: For The Love of Books
December 26: Ashley’s Bookshelf
GIVEAWAY:
To celebrate her tour, Chautona are giving away a $25 Amazon gift card! Click the link below to enter. Be sure to comment on this blog post to claim nine extra entries in the giveaway! https://promosimple.com/ps/aa59
Save
Save
Save
Save
Save
by admin | Dec 13, 2016 | Books, Christmas, Historical
MY REVIEW:
I have read and very much enjoyed Roseanna White’s Ladies of the Manor series so I eagerly agreed to participate in the blog tour for “Giver of Wonders”. It was evident from the cover image that this book would have an entirely different setting but I neglected to actually read the description of the story. I had no idea what I had agreed to read. Now that I have read the entire story I am so happy that I didn’t have previous knowledge of what to expect. I loved the moment when the light bulb came on and I realized exactly whose story I was reading! Some may call me dense but I usually just dive into a book and let it take me where it will. I’m glad I did that with this one.
I truly enjoyed reading this story about Cyprus, Nikolaos, Petros, and the Visibullis family. I was immediately captivated during the first few pages and had to keep reading to learn what might happen next. I found the details about early church history to be extremely interesting and loved how each of the primary characters sought to follow the Lord’s plan for their lives. Some history, a bit of danger, plenty of drama, and a touch of romance all work together to create a compelling narrative that is partially truth and partially fiction yet paints an entirely believable tale of a Christmas tradition that exists to this day. A story of sacrificial love “Giver of Wonders” is the perfect book to bring our hearts and minds back to Jesus, the true reason for the season.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book that was provided by Celebrate Lit Publicity Group. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Click to purchase
A miracle once saved her life ~ will another give her a future?
Cyprus was little more than a child when a fall left her paralyzed…and when the boy known as the wonder-worker healed her. Ever since, she has wondered why the Lord spared her, what he has in store for her. But her pagan father thinks she was spared solely so she could be introduced to the wealthy wonder-worker, Nikolaos.
Nikolaos has never questioned that his call in life is to dedicate himself to the church and to God. Never, that is, until he and his cousin Petros meet the compelling Cyprus Visibullis. For years he struggles with the feelings she inspires…and with the sure knowledge that Petros loves her too.
Petros knows he will never be good enough for Cyprus’s father to consider him as a match for his favorite daughter not as long as Nikolaos is there. But when tragedy strikes the Visibullis family, he will do anything to save his beloved. Unfortunately, his beloved is determined to do anything to save her sisters ~ even at the cost of herself.
As the festival of lights bathes their Greek city in beauty, Cyprus, Petros, and Nikolaos celebrate the miracle of their Savior s birth together one last time. And in remembrance of their Lord’s greatest gift, one of them will make the ultimate sacrifice for the others…and a centuries-long tradition will be born.
Click here to purchase your copy.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Roseanna M. White pens her novels beneath her Betsy Ross flag, with her Jane Austen action figure watching over her. When not writing fiction, she’s homeschooling her two small children, editing and designing, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of a slew of historical novels and novellas, ranging from biblical fiction to American-set romances to her new British series. Spies and war and mayhem always seem to make their way into her novels…to offset her real life, which is blessedly boring. You can learn more about her and her stories at www.RoseannaMWhite.com.
GUEST POST FROM ROSEANNA WHITE:
I was fed up with Christmas.
Or, no. I was fed up with the Christmas the world kept shoving at me. The one that was all about presentes. I’d always enjoyed gift giving and receiving, but I began to wonder: What was it I really valued—my Savior . . . or the stuff? We all say the right thing when this question is brought up. But we also all talk about “giving people Christmas” who can’t afford it. About how disappointed our kids might be if they wake to few packages under the tree. And you know, that belies our claims that it’s all about Jesus, doesn’t it?
And of course, when one thinks of gifts at Christmas, a jolly old elf springs to mind. So I started thinking that if I wanted my kids to understand the meaning of Christmas, it might be time to pull the plug on the embodiment of the commercialism: Santa Claus.
But I’m a historical novelist, and I believe in looking at the real history before making decisions. So one morning before our homeschool day began, I sat down and did some online research about Saint Nicholas. About the traditions he began that persist to this day. Who was he, before the Victorians turned him into the figure we know today as Santa?
I read. And I was awed.
Within fifteen minutes, I realized that St. Nick wasn’t the problem with Christmas. This was a man who was committed, above all, to honoring Jesus. Who believed in giving anonymously, so that all the glory went to God. Who performed miracles. Who healed and shepherded a flock under persecution.
St. Nicholas was a man who deserves my honor and respect. Who should be my inspiration for what Christmas is really about, not my scapegoat.
Nicholas gave generously—and in secret. It wasn’t until after his death that the stories started making their rounds about the many times he quietly gave of his wealth. But for centuries afterward, whenever someone wanted to give a gift anonymously, they would sign it from St. Nicholas—it was like saying, “This is because God loves you.”
Why are we giving? Is it to give God glory . . . or to please ourselves and our families? Would you still give if you got no credit for it? If no one even knew it was from you?
That day I read about St. Nicholas, I also decided I’d write a book with him as one of the main characters. A novel that brings one of our traditions—gifts coming down chimneys, stockings stuffed with goodies—to life. And so, we have Giver of Wonders.
Is it a Christmas story? It is. But not like the others out there. Is it about Santa Claus? It is, but not the version you see all over your TV. Is it about giving? It is. But not about presents wrapped and put under the tree. It’s about sacrifice. And it’s about Jesus. And it’s about what He really asks of us, and what He really did for us. And what we’re willing to give for love of Him.
Because that, my friends, is Christmas.
BLOG STOPS:
December 6: Neverending Stories
December 6: Blossoms and Blessings
December 7: Moments Dipped in Ink
December 7: A Greater Yes
December 8: Book Bites, Bee Stings, and Butterfly Kisses
December 8: Book by Book
December 9: Stuff & Nonsense
December 9: Chas Ray’s Book Nerd Corner
December 10: Blogging With Carol
December 10: Giveaway Lady
December 11: New Horizon Reviews
December 11: A Simple Life, really?!
December 12: D’S QUILTS & BOOKS
December 12: Genesis 5020
December 13: Daysong Reflections
December 13: Inklings and Notions
December 14: A Reader’s Brain
December 14: Pause for Tales
December 15: Redeemed Hope Dweller
December 15: simple harvest reads
December 16: Baker Kella
December 16: For The Love of Books
December 17: Bibliophile Reviews
December 17: Reader’s Cozy Corner
December 18: Henry Happens
December 18: Bigreadersite
December 19: History, Hope, Laughter & Happily-ever-after
December 19: Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations
GIVEAWAY:
To celebrate her tour, Roseanna is giving away a stocking full of wonder! Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this blog post to claim nine extra entries in the giveaway!
http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/e146afbf31/?
Save
Save
Save
by admin | Dec 9, 2016 | Books, Historical, Romance, WWII
MY REVIEW:
“Soar Like Eagles” is a historical romance that takes place during World War 2. Written from the perspectives of both Carol and Chet, the narrative gives readers an inside look at what it was like as a navigator on a bomber and as a doughnut girl serving near military bases and the battlefields of England and France during the war.
I enjoyed reading about Chet and Carol’s individual experiences during the war but especially enjoyed how their relationship developed during their brief and sometimes unexpected encounters in various locations. Descriptions were so vivid that I could easily picture in my mind their surroundings and the actual events. More than one somewhat graphic scene illustrated the horrible realities of war; however a few lighter moments helped to relieve the tension as did the growing romance between Chet and Carol.
I thought the book was summarized very well with this quote from Chet in the epilogue – “Neither side really wins a war. Both sides lose. One side just loses less than the other.”
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book that was provided by Celebrate Lit Publicity Group. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Click to purchase
Carol becomes a Red Cross doughnut girl, serving GIs and boosting their morale. Convinced wartime romances are doomed to disappointment, she attempts to avoid entanglements. She didn’t plan on Chet, the navigator who tempts her to throw caution to the wind.
Chet’s father and brothers always belittled him. As a squadron lead navigator, he longs to prove them wrong. He’s already been offered a terrific job with PanAm after the war. First he must survive his combat tour. Will he even have a future?
To purchase your own copy, CLICK HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Terri Wangard grew up in Green Bay, Wisconsin, during the Lombardi Glory Years. Her first Girl Scout badge was the Writer. These days she is writing historical fiction, and won the 2013 Writers on the Storm contest and 2013 First Impressions, as well as being a 2012 Genesis finalist. Holder of a bachelor’s degree in history and a master’s degree in library science, she lives in Wisconsin. Her research included going for a ride in a WWII B-17 Flying Fortress bomber. Classic Boating Magazine, a family business since 1984, keeps her busy as an associate editor.
Guest Post from Terri Wangard:
For the third book of my World War II series, I needed something to involve my main character with. At first I considered the train canteens, where volunteers laden with food met troop trains crisscrossing the country. That wouldn’t work though, because my navigator was heading overseas and I didn’t want a correspondence relationship. Besides, someone else had already written a novel about the canteens. Then I discovered the Red Cross clubmobiles.
The American Red Cross operated canteens on the home front and clubs and clubmobiles overseas during World War II to provide soldiers and sailors with a cup of coffee, a doughnut, and a bit of friendly conversation that gave the men a familiar connection with home.
Around the world, the Red Cross staffed permanent service clubs, traveling clubmobiles, and other recreational facilities. Service clubs provided refreshments, accommodations, and comfort and recreational activities wherever American troops were located overseas. In major cities, they offered meals, recreational activities, overnight accommodations, and barbershops and laundries. Some also provided sightseeing opportunities, touring museums, castles and cathedrals, and attending local theaters and movie houses.
Smaller clubs provided food in outlying areas near American military camps. The Red Cross also operated rest homes, often in stately manor houses in rural, tranquil locations overseas, for service personnel needing respite from the pressures of war.
To serve military sites in isolated areas, the Red Cross used clubmobiles in Great Britain in 1942 and later, the continent. Staffed by three American Red Cross women and a local driver in England, they visited several sites in a day, bringing refreshments, entertainment, and a touch of home to the troops in a foreign land. They used converted half-ton trucks and single-deck London buses, which featured kitchen equipment for making and serving doughnuts and coffee. Some carried phonographs and loudspeakers to provide music for the troops, and the women often danced with the servicemen. On the continent, the women had to drive and service their trucks.
Many American servicemen had never traveled far from home. At Red Cross clubs and clubmobiles in far-flung places around the globe, they received a connection to home and civilian life through friendly American women and familiar food. The Red Cross served a basic purpose of raising morale.
Carol Doucet of Soar Like Eagles was proud to be a Red Cross Doughnut Girl.
BLOG STOPS:
December 8: Blossoms and Blessings
December 8: Artistic Nobody
December 9: Daysong Reflections
December 9: Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations
December 10: D’S QUILTS & BOOKS
December 10: Bukwurmzzz
December 11: Petra’s Hope
December 12: Chas Ray’s Book Nerd Corner
December 12: The Power of Words (spotlight)
December 13: A Baker’s Perspective
December 14: Carpe Diem
December 14: Reading Is My SuperPower
December 15: Bigreadersite
December 15: Quiet Quilter
December 16: Christian Bookaholic
December 17: A Path of Joy
December 18: Jeanette’s Thoughts
December 18: Karen’s Krayons
December 19: Simple Harvest Reads (Spotlight)
December 19: A Greater Yes
December 20: Moments Dipped in Ink
December 21: Bibliophile Reviews
GIVEAWAY:
To celebrate her tour, Terri is giving away a $25 Amazon gift card and a signed paperback copy of Soar Like Eagles.
Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries!
https://promosimple.com/ps/aa5f
Save
Save
Save
Save
Save
by admin | Dec 8, 2016 | Books, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
A compelling story of tragedy and triumph, “The Pattern Artist” captured my attention and imagination from the very beginning. I loved reading Annie’s story that stretched from her hopeless job as a housemaid to a sought after dress designer. Although many difficulties paved her journey to success, only God could have placed just the right people in her life just when she needed them.
Annie’s story is filled with strong supporting characters who encourage and advise her as she makes decisions that affect herself and others. The also offer comfort to her during especially difficult situations in her life. Sean’s love for Annie was so protective and unconditional even when he was unsure of her feelings for him. The plot moved along at a steady pace and was fairly well balanced with drama, danger, and romance with a touch of levity. The spiritual content was strong and I appreciated how Annie learned to hear from God.
As a lifetime seamstress myself with a mother, grandmother, and mother-in-law who also sewed, I loved reading about the early days of the Butterick Pattern Company and how the patterns were developed. It was also fun to read about the original Macys department store. My how things have changed!
“The Pattern Artist” was an excellent book that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys historical novels. Those interested in fashion or sewing would probably find it particularly interesting.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book that was provided by Barbour Publishing. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Born into a life of hard work, English housemaid Annie Wood arrives in New York City in 1911 with her wealthy mistress. Wide-eyed with the possibilities America has to offer, Annie wonders if there’s more for her than a life of service.
Annie chooses to risk everything, taps into courage she never knew she had, and goes off on her own, finding employment in the sewing department at Macy’s. While at Macy’s Annie catches the eye of a salesman at the Butterick Pattern Company. Through determination, hard work, and God’s leading, Annie discovers a hidden gift: she is a talented fashion designer—a pattern artist of the highest degree.
As she runs from ghosts of the past and focuses on the future, Annie enters a creative world that takes her to the fashion houses of Paris and into a life of adventure, purpose, and love.
Read an excerpt from The Pattern Artist HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
NANCY MOSER is the best-selling author of more than twenty novels. She is a winner and two-time nominee of the Christy Award, and her latest novel was named to Booklist’s “Top 10 Romance Novels of 2011.” Nancy and her husband have three grown children and three grandchildren, and they live in the Midwest.
Learn more at Nancy’s website.
Save
