by admin | Jun 22, 2015 | Books, Historical, Romance, Series, Western
MY REVIEW:
As a long-time fan of Collen Coble’s novels, I have enjoyed the chance to read this revised and republished edition of her very first books. Although not these books do not have the detailed and carefully crafted plots of her later books, it is quite easy to find early glimpses of the talent that has made Coble a favorite of so many readers.
The fourth installment of Colleen Coble’s Journey of the Heart series, A Heart’s Betrayal, begins the story of Emmie Croftner, a recently widowed young wife who receives even more heart-breaking news. With nowhere else to go, Emmie agrees to travel to Fort Laramie, Wyoming to help her friend Sarah who is expecting her first child.
Emmie’s story continues the tale of drama, danger, suspense, and romance in the wilderness setting of Fort Laramie. The characters from earlier installments continue to make appearances in this volume also.
I will admit that I am a somewhat impatient reader and have found it difficult to read this series one book per month. Those who are similarly impatient will be happy to know that the entire series can also be purchased in one volume.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Emmie finds shelter in the arms of a soldier, but her secret could drive them apart.
When Emmie Croftner answered the door to her late husband’s home, she discovered an awful truth: her deceased husband was a bigamist. And what’s more, the home she thought she inherited never belonged to her at all.
Suddenly displaced, powerless, and ashamed, Emmie can’t stay in Wabash, Indiana. She makes a hopeful start for Fort Laramie, Wyoming, to find her friend Sarah Montgomery and a new beginning. But when she arrives, she discovers she’s pregnant—and without a husband. The new start she’d hoped for slips from her fingers.
But then she meets Isaac Liddle, a handsome soldier with a kind heart. When he begins to court her, Emmie wonders whether she could ever really be his—and whether she dares to tell him she is carrying another man’s baby.
Learn more and purchase a copy.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
USA Today bestselling author Colleen Coble has written several romantic suspense novels including “Tidewater Inn,” “Rosemary Cottage,” and the Mercy Falls, Lonestar, and Rock Harbor series.
Find out more about Colleen at http://www.colleencoble.com/.
Colleen Coble’s Melt into Summer Giveaway and ‘A Heart’s Betrayal’ Blog Tour
Melt into summer with a new giveaway from Colleen: four books (books one–four in Colleen’s A Journey of the Heart series) and a box of chocolates to pair with your new books!
One grand prize winner will receive:
- A copy of A Heart’s Betrayal
- A box of Colleen’s favorite chocolate truffles from DeBrand Fine Chocolates
- A copy of A Heart’s Disguise
- A copy of A Heart’s Obsession
- A copy of A Heart’s Danger
Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on June 30th. Winner will be announced July 1st on Colleen’s website.
by admin | Jun 17, 2015 | Books, Historical, Romance
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingThe Midwife’s TaleBethany House Publishers (June 2, 2015)byDelia Parr
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Delia Parr is the author of sixteen historical and inspirational historical romance novels, including Hearts Awakening, Love’s First Bloom, and Hidden Affections. The mother of three grown children, she was a long-time high school teacher in southern New Jersey before retiring to Florida.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Martha Cade comes from a long line of midwives who have served the families of Trinity, Pennsylvania, for generations. A widow with two grown children, she’s hopeful that her daughter will follow in her footsteps, but when Victoria runs off, Martha’s world is shattered.
Worse, a new doctor has arrived in town, threatening her job, and she can’t remember a time when her faith has been tested more. Still determined to do the work she knows God intended for her, Martha is unprepared for all that waits ahead. Whether it’s trying to stop a town scandal, mending broken relationships, or feeling the first whispers of an unexpected romance, she faces every trial and every opportunity with hope and faith.
If you would like to read the first chapter of The Midwife’s Tale, go HERE.
MY REVIEW:
As an older reader, I am almost always happy to run across a novel that features a more mature heroine for a change. After all, not every woman marries young and lives happily-ever-after until she reaches old age. In The Midwife’s Tale, Martha Cade has been widowed for a number of years and her children are grown. Serving as a midwife, Martha believes she is following her calling and the legacy of previous generations of the women of her family. When her daughter runs away and Martha fails to locate her, Martha begins to come to the realization that perhaps she has been mistaken in some of her actions and beliefs.
I enjoyed reading The Midwife’s Tale. After a bit of a slow start, the story grew on me and proved to be quite a page-turner. I loved Martha’s heart to serve and her willingness to examine her own heart and motives. The contrast between Martha’s approach to childbirth and the new doctor’s approach were informative and interesting. I actual have witnessed a move back toward her methods during the past several years.
The Midwife’s Tale is an enjoyable tale with strong characters and a solid story line that has just a taste of romance. I am looking forward to the next installment of this series.
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 | Jun 6, 2015 | Books, Historical, Key West, Revell, Romance
MY REVIEW:
Although I tend to not be a very adventurous person, I certainly enjoy reading about the adventures of others. The heroine of “Love’s Rescue” is the kind I most enjoy. Elizabeth Benjamin is not the usual Southern belle who loves dressing up for afternoon teas and evening balls but would rather run barefoot on the beach and sail the ocean in her brother’s skiff. Although she know her parents had other plans for her future husband, the only man who ever caught her attention was wrecker Rourke O’Malley, a man of whom her family would never approve.
Elizabeth’s return to the Florida Keys after her mother’s death was not particularly welcomed by her father who seemed all the more determined to force a marriage to a man she disliked. The demands of her also makes life miserable. Then the discovery of her mother’s secret journal reveals things that Elizabeth finds difficult to believe but has not choice. The question is, “Can Elizabeth stand up for what she believes is right even if she has to go against her father?”
With a dashing hero, a strong and determined heroine, and a cast of other characters who are essential to the tale, “Love’s Rescue” was a welcome evening’s entertainment. The well-paced plot delved into such subjects as disability, the treatment of slaves, adultery, and forgiveness. There was plenty of adventure, danger, and romance to go around. An emphasis on forgiveness, including oneself and dependence on the Lord was a welcome inclusion.
I thoroughly enjoyed “Love’s Rescue” and look forward to reading more books by this author.
This book was provided for review by Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Can a girl enamored with the adventurous seas ever be content with the tame life of a Southern belle?
When her mother dies, Elizabeth Benjamin heads home to Key West, determined to transform herself into the perfect Southern belle her parents always wished her to be. But nothing goes according to plan. Her brother resents her, the servants do not obey her, and Rourke O’Malley, the dashing man she vowed to forget, refuses to relinquish his hold on her heart. Worst of all, it becomes painfully obvious that her father is not the man he appears to be.
As family secrets come to light, Elizabeth is faced with a difficult choice: to perform her duty and abandon her dreams, or to leave her life of privilege behind to chase the man her father sees as little better than a pirate.
From the first emotional page, author Christine Johnson throws you into a world of impossible choices, hidden desires, and heart-melting romance in the steamy South.
Read an excerpt from “Love’s Rescue” HERE.
Where to Purchase:
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
by admin | May 20, 2015 | Books, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
I have so enjoyed Lorna Seilstad’s latest series The Gregory Sisters. Each of the sisters was a strong and unique personality and determined to make her way in a predominately man’s world. Last but not least is youngest sister Tessa whose ambition has changed enough times that her sisters find it difficult to take her seriously and tend to be a mite overprotective. Tessa’s love of gardening and her talent for design have stayed with her throughout her life and she really wants a chance to work as a horticulturist in one of the St. Paul city parks.
It wouldn’t be a Seilstad book without lots of historical detail, a bit of intrigue and suspense, and of course her trademark humor. “As Love Blooms” steps up to the mark in each of these areas and may have been my favorite of the series. Tessa was a joy to read about and Reese was the perfect match for her personality. I liked how he started out planning to use Tessa’s talent to further his own career but his conscience would never let him rest.
“As Love Blooms” is a fun and faith-filled romance that made my day better while reading it. I highly recommend it. I personally would not miss a one of Lorna Seilstad’s novels. If you have not discovered her books. Take a chance on this one.
This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Young romance opens like a rose . . . but even a rose has its thorns.
Tessa Gregory is nothing if not tenacious. Denied a position as a horticulturist at prestigious Como Park in Saint Paul, Minnesota, she is not above a little benevolent deception in order to get the park superintendent to change his mind and hire her. She plans to infiltrate the world of wealthy and influential people in hopes of drumming up financial support for a world-class conservatory. But before she can put those plans into action, she meets Reese King, a handsome gardener at Como Park–and a major distraction. Still, Reese might be the key to achieving her dream. But is his goal to help her . . . or to capture her heart?
Against the lush backdrop of manicured gardens and greenhouses full of the exotic, Lorna Seilstad weaves a sweet and sassy story that is sure to delight.
Read an excerpt from “As Love Blooms” As Love Blooms by Lorna Seilstad.
What people are saying about The Gregory Sisters
“A cut above the rest.”–RT Book Reviews
“Thoroughly charming.”–Maggie Brendan, author of the Heart of the West series and The Blue Willow Brides series
“Delightful . . . a wonderfully satisfying read.”–Suzanne Woods Fisher, bestselling author of The Inn at Eagle Hill series
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
A history buff, antique collector, and freelance graphic designer, Lorna Seilstad is the author of When Love Calls and the Lake Manawa Summers series. A former high school English and journalism teacher, she has won several online writing contests and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers. Lorna lives in Iowa with her husband. Learn more at www.lornaseilstad.com.
by admin | May 20, 2015 | Books, Historical, Romance, Suspense, Western
MY REVIEW:
Colleen Coble’s Journey of the Heart series continues in “A Heart’s Danger” with more plots and plans, escalating tension with the Sioux, threats and danger from an old enemy, and of course a touch of romance. The story line in the first three volumes of this six book series seems to reach a conclusion in “A Heart’s Danger” where major revelations and romance are wrapped up nicely by the end.
Thus far I have enjoyed reading these short books that have been revised and re-released from Cobles first two novels. My only complaint is that I have to wait an entire month to read the next installment. I have to confess that I can be a very impatient reader. Nonetheless, these brief novels are a welcome break from some of the longer and more serious novels I have on my review list. It is easy to see Coble’s talent in her early work and how far she has come since then.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
On the brink of war with the Sioux, Sarah risks everything to expose the betrayal threatening the man she loves.
Christmas is coming, and the air at Fort Laramie has turned cold . . . but relations with the Sioux have turned colder. As tensions between soldiers and natives approach a tipping point, a trap has been set for Rand Campbell.
Rand’s new fiancée wants to keep him from returning to Sarah Montgomery . . . for whom his heart clearly still yearns.
Sarah just wants to move on with her life at Fort Laramie, but doing so under the watchful eyes of both Campbell—the man whose love she craves—and Croftner—the man whose lies have cost her everything.
Will Rand fall victim to the conspiracy and go through with his wedding? Or will he declare his love for Sarah and make good on the promises that brought her into the rugged western territories?
Learn more and purchase a copy.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
USA Today bestselling author Colleen Coble has written several romantic suspense novels including “Tidewater Inn,” “Rosemary Cottage,” and the Mercy Falls, Lonestar, and Rock Harbor series.
Find out more about Colleen at http://www.colleencoble.com/.
Colleen Coble’s Perfect Pairing Giveaway and Blog Tour
Sarah risks everything to expose the betrayal threatening the man she loves—but will the risk be worth it? Find out in book three, A Heart’s Danger, of Colleen Coble’s A Journey of the Heart series.
Rand’s new fiancée wants to keep him from returning to Sarah Montgomery . . . for whom his heart clearly still yearns. Sarah just wants to move on with her life at Fort Laramie, but doing so under the watchful eyes of both Campbell—the man whose love she craves—and Croftner—the man whose lies have cost her everything.
Enter to win the perfect pairing giveaway: three books (books one–three in Colleen’s A Journey of the Heart series) and coffee to pair with your new book!
One grand prize winner will receive:
- A copy of A Heart’s Danger
- A pound of Colleen’s favorite coffee, Captain Davy’s Coffee Roaster Costa Rican
- A copy of A Heart’s Disguise
- A copy of A Heart’s Obsession
Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on May 31st. Winner will be announced June 1st on Colleen’s website.
Christine Johnson is the author of several books for Steeple Hill and Love Inspired and has been twice named a finalist for Romance Writers of America’s Golden Heart® award. When not writing, she loves to hike and explore God’s majestic creation. These days, she and her husband, a Great Lakes ship pilot, split their time between northern Michigan and the Florida Keys.
