by admin | Jan 8, 2015 | Books, Historical, Quilts, Romance
MY REVIEW:
Masterpiece Marriage is a delightful historical romance between two perfectly mismatched individuals. Although Zenus would love to have a wife and family, he has never found a woman he can tolerate who also fits his idea for the perfect wife. When he meets Mary Varrs, he is instantly drawn to her but a more inappropriate woman for him could not exist. Mary’s determination to achieve the scientific success she believes will prove her worth would leave her no time to care for his home and children. On the other hand, Mary finds Zenus a bit pompous for her own taste when they first meet. Could their differences combine to create a masterpiece?
I thoroughly enjoyed Masterpiece Marriage and all its intricacies. I loved some of the humorous situations Mary found herself in as she attempted to learn to quilt. For some reason I had a problem with Zenus’ name – I kept reading it as Zeus. That was a new one for me! Other than that tiny point, I found everything else to be exemplary. The wealth of historical facts, interaction between characters, the humor, and the romance was all first rate.
For those who have enjoyed other Quilts of Love novels, Masterpiece Marriage is a don’t miss book. For those unfamiliar with the series, this would be a good place to start.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
He wants to save his business. She wants to be a professor. But are they asking for more than they can really have?
After a flood damages the looms at Zenus Dane’s Philadelphia textile mill and the bank demands loan payment, Zenus turns to his aunt for help repurposing his textiles. Trouble is . . . his aunt has already been hired by the lovely yet secretive Englishwoman Mary Varrs.
Eager to acquire his aunt’s quilt patterns, Zenus attends the summer Quilting Bee, a social event his aunt has uniquely designed with the secret purpose of finding Zenus a wife. However Zenus only has eyes for Mary, but Mary has no such desire for him.
Though his aunt is determined to design a masterpiece marriage, both Zenus and Mary will have to overcome their stubborn ways. Can he realize that love requires stepping out of his routine? And will she recognize that following her heart doesn’t mean sacrificing her ambition?
Find out more and purchase a copy at the Quilts of Love website.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Gina Welborn is the author of several novels and novellas, including “The Heiress’s Courtship.” She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers; the president of Faith, Hope and Love; and a founding member of InkwellInspirations.com. She lives in Cache, Oklahoma, with her pastor husband and their five children. Visit her online at GinaWelborn.com.
Find out more about Gina at http://ginawelborn.com.
Don’t miss the newest Quilts of Love book, Masterpiece Marriage by Gina Welborn. December’s QOL release celebrates the ebb and flow of marriage.
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by admin | Jan 8, 2015 | Books, Historical, Quilts, Romance
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducing
Masterpiece MarriageAbingdon Press (December 16, 2014)byGina WelbornABOUT THE AUTHOR:
After Gina Welborn earned a Communications degee from an Oklahoma university, she thought the perfect career choice was working at a news radio station writing commercial copy, public service announcements, and news reports. A PSA writer, sadly, can only be so creative when describing ketchup and Geronimo’s grave. (No, she never combined those two elements in the same script, but now that she thinks about it, she wishes … ) Thus Gina “retired” to focus on goal, motivation, and conflict within her family before discovering her niche in writing romances. A member of RWA and ACFW, Gina has four published novellas, including one in the ECPA-bestselling Mistletoe Memories, and three short historical romances: The Heiress’s Courtship, The Marshal’s Pursuit, and Masterpiece Marriage. A moderately obsessive fan of Community, Once Upon a Time, and Chopped, Gina lives in Oklahoma with her pastor husband, their five Okie-Hokie children, a box-lab, two rabbits, four guinea pigs, and a fancy Russian dwarf hamster named Tom Bob Deucalion. Gina is represented by the Steve Laube Agency.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
After a flood damages the looms at Zenus Dane’s Philadelphia textile mill and the bank demands loan payment, Zenus turns to his aunt for help repurposing his textiles. Trouble is . . . his aunt has already been hired by the lovely yet secretive Englishwoman Mary Varrs. Eager to acquire his aunt’s quilt patterns, Zenus attends the summer Quilting Bee, a social event his aunt has uniquely designed with the secret purpose of finding Zenus a wife. However Zenus only has eyes for Mary, but Mary has no such desire for him. Though his aunt is determined to design a masterpiece marriage, both Zenus and Mary will have to overcome their stubborn ways. Can he realize that love requires stepping out of his routine? And will she recognize that following her heart doesn’t mean sacrificing her ambition?
If you would like to read the first chapter of Masterpiece Marriage, go HERE.
MY REVIEW:
Masterpiece Marriage is a delightful historical romance between two perfectly mismatched individuals. Although Zenus would love to have a wife and family, he has never found a woman he can tolerate who also fits his idea for the perfect wife. When he meets Mary Varrs, he is instantly drawn to her but a more inappropriate woman for him could not exist. Mary’s determination to achieve the scientific success she believes will prove her worth would leave her no time to care for his home and children. On the other hand, Mary finds Zenus a bit pompous for her own taste when they first meet. Could their differences combine to create a masterpiece?
I thoroughly enjoyed Masterpiece Marriage and all its intricacies. I loved some of the humorous situations Mary found herself in as she attempted to learn to quilt. For some reason I had a problem with Zenus’ name – I kept reading it as Zeus. That was a new one for me! Other than that tiny point, I found everything else to be exemplary. The wealth of historical facts, interaction between characters, the humor, and the romance was all first rate.
For those who have enjoyed other Quilts of Love novels, Masterpiece Marriage is a don’t miss book. For those unfamiliar with the series, this would be a good place to start.
by admin | Jan 5, 2015 | Books, Historical, Rome, Time Travel
MY REVIEW:
A bit of time travel combined with a fictional tale based on actual historical facts is what the reader finds when she opens the pages of first “The Healer of Carthage” and now the greatly anticipated second volume of The Carthage Chronicles, “Return to Exile. A love story that spans the centuries, “Return to Exile” paints a graphic picture of the dangers faced by the early Christians in Roman Carthage. Surrounded on every side by deadly epidemics, power-seeking politicians, or disgruntled traitors, daily existence is a trial that takes nearly superhuman effort just to survive. Yet knowing the dangers, Dr. Lisbeth Hastings makes the choice to return, hoping her modern medical knowledge can make a difference in history.
Lynne Gentry has written a compelling novel that is at times difficult to read but equally difficult to put down. This story has it all – time travel, romance, danger, intrigue, a few surprises, and historical facts that are interwoven with a story of a faith to die for and characters willing to lay down their own lives for others. “Healer of Carthage” and now “Return to Exile” each have cliffhanger endings that leave the reader craving the next installment.
Lovers of Biblical fiction, this series is not to be missed. I am quite certain others will love it also.
A copy of this book was provided for review by the author in exchange for my honest review.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Six years ago, impossible circumstances forced Dr. Lisbeth Hastings to leave behind the love of her life, not just in another country, but in another time. Her work as a top-notch epidemiologist and parenting her little girl helps alleviate the pain, but at night when her exhausted head hits the pillow, images of her beloved Cyprian haunt her sleep.
Cyprian Thascius returns from political exile a broken man. He’s lost his faith, the love of his life, and his purpose. He attempts to move on, to face the danger that is looming over Carthage, but when Cyprian’s true love suddenly reappears, his heart becomes as imperiled as the fledgling church he seeks to save.
Have the years that kept Lisbeth and Cyprian apart created too wide a chasm to bridge? In the midst of a new epidemic and rising oppression, will their love be the most costly fatality? Filled with gripping action and raw emotion, this spell-binding adventure of star-crossed lovers captivates with every turn of the page in this electric continuation of The Carthage Chronicles.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Lynne Gentry has written for numerous publications. Her novel, Healer of Carthage, is the first in The Carthage Chronicles series and Return to Exile is the newly released and greatly anticipated second book of the series. She is a professional acting coach, theater director, and playwright with several full-length musicals and a Chicago children’s theater curriculum to her credit. Lynne is an inspirational speaker and dramatic performer whose first love is spending time with family.
Watch the video where Lynne discusses how she got her ideas for The Carthage Chronicles:
by admin | Jan 2, 2015 | Books, Historical, Romance, WWII
MY REVIEW:
Although I have not read the previous novels in Myra Johnson’s Till We Meet Again series, I had no problems keeping up with the story in “Every Tear a Memory”. I enjoyed reading about Joanna and Thomas and their families and thought the character development was excellent. The setting of Hot Springs, Arkansas is fairly close to where I live and this novel made me want to visit there soon.
Both Joanna and Thomas had an uneasy relationship with their respective families. Joanna had left home at an early age because of her difficulties with her mother and had intended to stay in France after the war. However her mother’s death and an urgent request for help from her brother brought her home to Hot Springs. Thomas, on the other hand, had remained in Hot Springs due to health issues while his brother shipped out to fight in the war. Feelings of inadequacy and an inability to please his demanding mother were constantly on his mind. When Thomas and Joanna reconnected after many years, they quickly felt an attraction but both realize that their personalities and goals were entirely too far apart for a relationship to work.
I thoroughly enjoyed “Every Tear A Memory” as I watched Thomas and Joanna’s relationship with each other and the Lord develop. I feel certain that I will go back and read the first two novels in this series as soon as I find the time.
This book was provided for review by The Amazon VINE program.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Joanna Trapp found adventure serving in France as a “Hello Girl,” one of over 200 telephone operators called upon by General Pershing to serve in the Army Signal Corps, but she still mourns her doughboy sweetheart killed in battle. Returning to Hot Springs, Arkansas, she takes a job as a switchboard operator at the Arlington Hotel and quickly discovers that after her experiences overseas, civilian life proves dull.
Thomas Ballard still regrets he was medically ineligible to serve in the war and feels inferior to those who did, especially his war-hero brother, Gilbert. When Thomas finds himself attracted to Joanna, he strives to match her adventurous spirit, when all he really wants is to settle down, raise a family, and earn respect as a successful businessman.
As romance blossoms, can two such different people learn to accept not only their own but each other’s God-created individuality . . . or will love change them both?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Myra Johnson‘s roots go deep into Texas soil, but after surviving five icy winters and blistering summers in Oklahoma, she and her husband now enjoy the milder weather of Carolinas. The Johnsons share their home with two lovable (and very spoiled) dogs.
Myra’s most recent novels comprise the Till We Meet Again historical romance series from Abingdon Press: WHEN THE CLOUDS ROLL BY (winner of the 2014 Christian Retailing’s Best Award for historical fiction), WHISPER GOODBYE, and EVERY TEAR A MEMORY. Her debut novel, ONE IMPERFECT CHRISTMAS, was a 2009 release from Abingdon Press.
She has also written for Heartsong Presents. AUTUMN RAINS (2009) won the 2005 RWA Golden Heart for Best Inspirational Romance Manuscript and was named a 2010 ACFW Carol Award finalist. In November 2011, AUTUMN RAINS, ROMANCE BY THE BOOK, and WHERE THE DOGWOODS BLOOM (Heartsong Presents romances set in Missouri) were re-released as a Barbour 3-in-1 collection entitled GATEWAY WEDDINGS. Other recent Heartsong Presents titles include A HORSEMAN’S HEART, A HORSEMAN’S GIFT, and A HORSEMAN’S HOPE.
Myra writes full-time and is active in her church as well as local and national writers groups. Married since 1972, the Johnsons have two beautiful daughters, two terrific sons-in-law, and seven grandchildren.
by admin | Dec 31, 2014 | Books, Historical, Romance, Texas, Western
MY REVIEW:
The third book in Caryl’s Texas Romance series, “Hope Reborn” catches the reader up on the lives of characters from the previous two novels plus introduces new characters, particularly feisty May Meriweather. May is a popular author of dime novels but is bored with her usual stories. Determined to find adventure for herself and possible new subject matter for her novels, May sets out to Texas where she may just write her own story.
With memorable characters, Caryl’s signature humor, and plenty of adventure, drama, and romance, “Hope Reborn” is anything but fluff. A strong message of salvation runs throughout the entire story but it is presented well within the storyline. I enjoyed the unique twist that essentially had May writing the stories of the characters from the two previous novels – clever and fun!
I enjoyed this story of second chances and emotional healing that can only come from the Lord. It was wonderful to learn about how life turned out for Henry after his previous loss. I strongly recommend “Hope Reborn” but really encourage readers to read both “Vow Unbroken” and “Hearts Stolen” first. Each book can stand on its own merit but reading them in chronological order will add to your reading pleaesure.
A digital copy of this book was provided for review by the author.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Loss both tests faith and almost eradicates any expectations of enjoying a happy-ever-after life. However, the decision to temporarily change one’s existence, no matter how successful or how hopeless, can lead to rebirth—in either case.
New York novelist May Meriwether decides a heroic Texas Ranger will make a great love interest for her new novel’s heroine. Bored to tears with muscle-hard dapper heroes and their fluffy, semi-brainless counterparts and loving adventure, she decides to go to the Lone Star State and tells her right-hand man, constant companion, and confidant Chester to make the arrangements post haste.
While strong desires for a husband and children have been long since relegated to the recesses of her heart, the self-confessed old maid throws caution to the wind when she meets a near-perfect widower He resurrects a smidgeon of hope that dreams can come true. Only his impenetrable, superstitious religious beliefs stand in the path to her falling head over heels, those and his everlasting love for his dead wife.
Would there ever be room for her in his heart? And would he give up his fanaticism over God?
An unexpected romance surprises both. Hope is reborn in God’s unfailing love and grace. Can a life built on lies find the Way to confession, forgiveness, and true joy? In a day when the church offers the only stability on the 1850 Texas prairie, these unlikely players find one another and fall in love. But will it be enough?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Caryl has always loved to write and has published several books including the three novels of the Texas Romance series. For every good blessing – including 10 children (4 by birth, 6 by marriage) and 14 grandchildren – she gives God the glory. Caryl lives a country-life with Ron, her husband of forty-six years and four grandsons, outside Clarksville, Red River County Seat, located in far Northeast Texas
by admin | Dec 28, 2014 | Books, Christmas, Historical, Novella, Romance
MY REVIEW:
“The Fruitcake Bride” is the last but certainly not the least of The 12 Brides of Christmas collection of novellas. I have spent several enjoyable hours reading this series and hate to see it reach its end.
Karen Briggs has moved to Bakerstown, Missouri in order to marry her longtime friend Pastor Clayton Parsons. After the death of her aunt, Karen has no family and nowhere to live. Clayton’s offer of marriage was an answer to her problems but she has very mixed feelings about the offer. Does Clayton really love her or does he just feel sorry for her? Will she be a good pastor’s wife or could she even hurt his ministry?
“The Fruitcake Bride” is a sweet story with several humorous scenes. Karen learns that despite her inadequacies, God has a plan for her life and that she is loved by Him and others just for being herself.
This book was provided for review by Shiloh Run Studios.
Pastor Clayton Parsons waited a year to bring his fiancée, Karen Briggs, to his new church post. They plan a Christmas wedding, but in the meantime Karen helps the church ladies with various projects, including a bake sale. But revealing her fruitcake recipe could spell disaster for her future in Bakerstown, Missouri.
More About The Fruitcake Bride with Vickie McDonough
The author of many novels set in the old west, particularly in Texas, Vickie McDonough had no problem choosing a time period for her 14th novella.
“I love reading novels set in the late 1800?s, and it’s the time period that most of the books I’ve written are set in, so when I started brainstorming ideas for The Fruitcake Bride, it was natural for me to set my novella in 1890.”
She chose her subject matter from a list of titles provided by Barbour Publishing. “I figured not too many people would want to write The Fruitcake Bride story. Being how I’m a little fruity, I thought I’d take a stab at it. I was thrilled when my editor loved my story idea.”
Vickie started with the idea of a young pastor headed west to prepare a home for his prospective bride before she joined him. Along the way, he encountered a problem: a troublesome woman named Prudy with designs on him!
Vickie was surprised by Prudy’s strong personality. “She’s a bit of a Nellie Olson from Little House on the Prairie type of character.” She wasn’t originally in the story, “but I needed more conflict. Prudy more than a little graciously added that as she popped in, bent on marrying the preacher—the same man my heroine is engaged to,” Vickie said.
Spiritual themes run strong in this novella collection.
“Karen, my heroine has lots of doubts that she is the right woman for Pastor Clay. They’ve been friends for many years, but their engagement is rushed when her aunt dies. Karen isn’t sure she is cut out to be a pastor’s wife. She prays a lot and seeks God’s will to be sure she’s not making a mistake. Clay never doubts his love for Karen, and he ends up being a good example of how God’s love for us is so strong and everlasting.”
Given her past books, research for this novella wasn’t too difficult for Vickie. She merely had to ensure Advent, Texas was a fictional town and examine fruitcake recipes. In terms of her characters, she feels they reflect her stubbornness, faith in God and concern to do the right thing.
Vickie is the descendant of early 1700?s pioneer from Germany who emigrated to the Lancaster area of Pennsylvania and later traveled west to Kansas and Oklahoma. “I am quite enamored with books about settling in the Old West, but if I had a chance to live in the 1800?s, I’d have to decline. I’m too much a creature of comfort—and I’d have to wear dresses.”
Vickie is thrilled to be working with “such a great cast of authors and is excited to hear what the readers think of the 12 Brides of Christmas Collection.”
She’d like to invite you to sign up for her newsletter to keep up with her book news. Click on this link to sign-up: http://www.vickiemcdonough.com/www.vickiemcdonough.com/Newsletter_Sign-up.html
Who is Vickie McDonough?
Vickie McDonough is the author of 33 novels and novellas, including two books in the Texas Trails: Morgan Family series, The Texas Boardinghouse Brides, The Pioneer Promises series and A Pioneer Christmas Collection. Vickie has been married 39 years and she and her husband live in Oklahoma and have four grown sons.
She’s the blogger on the tenth of each month at Heroes, Heroines and History.
For more information about Vickie and her books, visit her website: www.vickiemcdonough.com
You can also find her on Facebook and Twitter
