by admin | Nov 22, 2013 | Books, Christmas, Historical, Shakers
MY REVIEW:
“Christmas at Harmony Hill” is Ann Gabhart’s Christmas novella with the same setting as her Shaker series. The story primarily features Heather Worth, a young bride during the Civil War who has been able to stay with her husband Gabriel by working as washerwoman for the Yankee troops. As her pregnancy reaches its end, Gabriel sends her home to be with her family because the battlefield is no place for a baby to be born. Heather arrives home to devastating news and finds herself unwelcome to stay. A letter from her mother directs her to Harmony Hill, a Shaker village where she can find help from her Aunt Sophrena. Heather’s arrival seems to be a sign from the Lord to Sophrena who has recently found herself struggling with the restrictions of the Shaker practices.
“Christmas at Harmony Hill” is a short, easily read story that is packed to the brim with historical facts about both the Shakers and the Civil War. More important, it relates those facts through the reactions and emotions of people who experienced that history which makes it much more personal. Through Heather and Sophrena’s experiences, the author tactfully manages to illustrate some of the errors in the Shaker beliefs without obvious finger pointing. It was however, quite interesting to learn more about the Shakers and the story behind their beliefs.
A warm and uplifting tale, “Christmas at Harmony Hill” is a story of forgiveness and reconciliation as well as the importance of family. This is one more book to be added to my Christmas book box.
This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
She stared up at the Shaker buildings. They took in those in need. That was why she was riding into their village. But she couldn’t stay here. Not forever. They divided families. She’d heard her grandmother speak harshly of the way Shakers didn’t believe in marriage and had special houses where children were kept from their parents.
Heather put a hand over the swell of her baby inside her. Surely they wouldn’t take a newborn from his mother’s bosom. Heather’s mother couldn’t have imagined that happening or she’d have never told her to come . . .
A stirring story of healing, hope, and home at Christmas
It is 1864 and the nation is torn apart by civil war when Heather Worth discovers she is with child. With her husband at the front and nowhere else to turn, she seeks refuge in the Shaker village of Harmony Hill. Amid the tumult of the times, Heather yearns for the peace she sees in this strange community. But can this longing really be fulfilled amid these people with their peculiar beliefs about family?
As Christmas approaches, the joy of new life and the love that is born of forgiveness may hold the answer.
Join bestselling author Ann H. Gabhart for a peek into the world of the Shakers–and the world of the human heart.
Read an excerpt of Christmas at Harmony Hill HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Ann H. Gabhart is the bestselling author of several Shaker novels–The Outsider, The Believer, The Seeker, The Blessed, and The Gifted–as well as other historical novels, including Angel Sister, Small Town Girl, and Words Spoken True. She lives with her husband a mile from where she was born in rural Kentucky. Find out more at www.annhgabhart.com.
by admin | Nov 15, 2013 | Books, Historical, Romance, Western
MY REVIEW:
“Beloved” is the third and final book in Hatcher’s Where The Heart Lives series but it can easily stand on its own. It is not necessary to read the previous two books in order to understand Diana and Tyson’s story.
Diana is about to announce her intentions to remarry when her missing and presumed dead husband Tyson appears at her engagement party. Apparently the reports of his death on the battlefield were in error. Tyson is a different man than the angry one who left Diana and his parents seven years before and he intends to do his best to make amends, especially with his wife. Although Diana is resistant, she does agree to live in the same house until after the election in which Tyson has decided to run. Diana is determined not to remain a minute longer but Tyson is equally determined to make her change her mind.
With a plot that switches between the present and the past, it is easy to understand why each of them react as they do. Several other unique characters and animals help to make the story even more interesting, especially a young orphan boy and Diana’s mother and Tyson’s father. A twist or two of the plot and one short but suspenseful scene near the end keep things moving along.
All in all, “Beloved” is a fitting end to the series and I believe all the loose ends were tied up nicely. I always enjoy novels by Robin Lee Hatcher and this one was no exception.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Diana is ready to begin a new chapter in her life-until the husband she believed dead reappears at her engagement party.
Diana Brennan came west on the orphan train and was given a home with a loving couple who cherished and spoiled her. At 17, she fell hard for Tyson Applegate, the son of a wealthy mine owner. After a whirlwind courtship and marriage, Tyson took off for adventures around the world, including fighting with the Rough Riders in Cuba. Receiving no word from him in years, Diana’s infatuation with her dashing husband died an ugly death, and she is ready to move past the old pain and marry again, just as soon as Tyson is declared legally dead.
But when Tyson returns, claiming to be a changed man, he wants to reunite with his wife and run for the senate. While Diana suspects the election is his real reason for wanting her by his side, she agrees to maintain his home and to campaign with him, but when it is over, win or lose, she wants her freedom.
He agrees with one condition—she must give him a chance to change her mind about him.
Purchase a copy HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Robin is the author of 65+ novels and novellas. Her home is in Idaho, where she spends her time writing stories of faith, courage, and love; pondering the things of God; and loving her family and friends.
Learn more at her website.
“Beloved” iPad Mini Giveaway from Robin Lee Hatcher!
Robin Lee Hatcher is celebrating the release of her latest novel, Beloved, with an iPad Mini giveaway!
One winner will receive:
- An iPad Mini
- Beloved by Robin Lee Hatcher
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on November 15th. Winner will be announced November 16th at Robin’s blog.
Don’t miss a moment of the fun; enter today and be sure to stop by Robin’s blog on the 16th to see if you won. (Or, better yet, subscribe to her blog and have the winner announcement delivered to your inbox!)!
by admin | Nov 6, 2013 | Books, Historical, Romance, Western
MY REVIEW:
What do you get when a Pinkerton detective and a Wells Fargo detective are working on the same case and each suspects the other? If it’s “Gunpowder Tea” by Margaret Brownley, you get a fun-filled, novel laced with just the right amount of humor, romance, danger and suspense. The sparks fly between Miranda and Jeremy despite their mutual suspicion. When the level of danger increases at the Last Chance Ranch, both Miranda and Jeremy are determined to find the “Phantom” before someone is seriously injured or killed.
It was nice to revisit characters from the previous two books of the series as well as getting to know Miranda and Jeremy. I loved Miss Eleanor’s explanation of the way the ranch got its name. I don’t remember it from the previous books but it has been awhile since I read them.
Margaret Brownley’s books have been on my must read list for awhile now and her Last Chance Ranch series has to be my favorite. As the third book in the series “Gunpowder Tea” is a fitting conclusion; however it can easily stand on its own. I can say that once you read it you will probably want to read the first two books also. I am sorry to see this series end but look forward to what Margaret has to offer her readers next.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
In a case that could change her career, Miranda uncovers a love that will change her life.
When Miranda Hunt sees the classified ad for an heiress to the legendary Last Chance Ranch, she knows assuming the identity of Annie Beckman is the perfect cover. As one of the finest agents for the Pinkerton Detective Agency, Miranda has been tasked with apprehending the Phantom—an elusive and notorious train robber thought to be hiding on the sprawling ranch.
But she isn’t the only one at the ranch with something to hide. Wells Fargo detective Jeremy Taggart is working undercover as well. Their true identities may be a secret, but it is impossible for Jeremy and Miranda to hide the sparks flaring between them.
Neither is about to let romance interfere with such a huge case. Besides, Miranda hasn’t removed Jeremy from her list of suspects yet. The closer they get to uncovering the identity of the Phantom, the more dangerous he gets—and no one on the ranch is safe.
The longer Miranda and Jeremy spend working together, the harder it becomes to keep their feelings in check. Their careers—and their lives—depend on solving this case. Love will just have to wait.
Purchase a copy here.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Thrills, mystery, suspense, romance: Margaret penned it all. Nothing wrong with this–except Margaret happened to be writing for the church newsletter at the time. After making the church picnic read like a Grisham novel, her former pastor took her aside and said, “Maybe God’s calling you to write fiction.” So that’s what Margaret did. She’s now a New York Times bestselling author and a Romance Writers of America RITA finalist with more than 25 novels to her credit. Her first non-fiction book “Grieving God’s Way: the Lasting Path to Hope and Healing” has won much critical acclaim. She is currently working on the third book in her “Brides of Last Chance Ranch series.” Not bad for someone who flunked 8th grade English. Just don’t ask her to diagram a sentence.
Learn more at Margaret’s website.
Win a Kindle Fire from Margaret Brownley and RSVP for “Tea with Margaret” on 11/7!
Margaret Brownley‘s latest release, Gunpowder Tea, is receiving high praise, and she’s celebrating with a Kindle Fire giveaway and a “Tea with Margaret” Facebook party!
One winner will receive:
- A Kindle Fire
- Gunpowder Tea by Margaret Brownley
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on November 7th. Winner will be announced at the “Tea with Margaret” Facebook Author Chat Party on the 7th. Connect with Margaret and friends for an evening of book chat, prizes, and get an exclusive look at Margaret’s next book!
So grab your copy of Gunpowder Tea and join Margaret on the evening of November 7th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven’t read the book, don’t let that stop you from coming!)
Don’t miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today by clicking JOIN at the event page. Spread the word — tell your friends about the giveaway and party via FACEBOOK or TWITTER. Hope to see you on 11/7!
by admin | Nov 4, 2013 | Books, Historical, Post Civil War, Romance
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingTraces of MercyDavid C. Cook (October 1, 2013)byMichael Landon Jr. and Cindy KelleyABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Michael Landon Jr., son of television legend Michael Landon, is an award-winning storyteller, first in television and film, and now in books. His print works include One More Sunrise co-written with Tracie Peterson.
****
Cindy Kelley is the co-author of the novel The Silent Gift, and Traces of Mercy. Her career as a screenwriter with long-time writing partner, Michael Landon, Jr., began with the adaptation of Margery Williams’ classic story, The Velveteen Rabbit, which had a theatrical release. Several television movies followed, most notably Love Comes Softly, (based on Janette Oke’s novel) which won a CAMIE Award and the Epiphany Prize for Movie Guide’s most inspirational television movie of 2003. Cindy and her husband, Jim, make their home in the Southwest; have three adorable grandchildren and four big dogs who rule the house.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
From Michael Landon Jr. and Cindy Kelley, authors of The Silent Gift and creators of the hit television film Love Comes Softly, comes an exciting historical romance set in post-Civil War, and filled with suspense and faith-building values.
At the war’s end, a young woman suffers an accident that leaves her unconscious and alone. Waking with amnesia, she takes the name Mercy and wants more than anything to find out the truth of her past. But then a handsome stranger arrives, who may hold the key to everything she has forgotten. What he knows could devastate her future, and even end her life.
Written by two proven storytellers, Traces of Mercy is perfect for anyone who loves historical fiction, prairie-based tales, or just a good romance.
If you’d like to read the first chapter of Traces of Mercy, go HERE.
MY REVIEW:
Traces of Mercy is one of those novels that grabbed me from the beginning so that I didn’t want to put it down until I had reached the end. Then I was so unhappy that it was over. I will find it difficult to wait for the next installment of the Mercy Medallion Trilogy.
Vivid descriptions of the characters and their surroundings set the stage for an unusual but nevertheless engrossing story. There were times that I did not approve of Mercy’s decisions and/or actions but I was still able to sympathize with the desperation that drove her. Rand was never my choice for Mercy. I always felt he was just a somewhat spoiled rich boy but he did redeem himself by his generous aid to Mercy at the end. Elijah Hale did not play a very prominent role until the last part of the story but I hope to read more of his story in the next book. There were certainly several unexpected twists that I didn’t see coming.
Traces of Mercy may be one of the best books I have read this year and there have been many that I would rate as extremely good. It is a “don’t miss” book, especially of those who love historical fiction.
by admin | Nov 1, 2013 | Books, Historical, Romance, WWII
MY REVIEW:
Liz Tolsma is a new author to me so I was not sure what to expect when I agreed to review “Snow on the Tulips”. I am happy to say that there was absolutely no reason to be concerned. The story grabbed me immediately and I was not ready to give it up when I reached the final page.
“Snow on the Tulips” was so well written that I almost felt as if I were there with the characters and experiencing everything they experienced – the fear, the anger, the determination, the hopelessness, the deprivation, and the grief. I could also identify with Cornelia’s feeling that God did not listen to her prayers. It is beyond my imagination how citizens of countries occupied by Nazi forces were able to function day to day with the ever present threat of those cruel and unfeeling men. I knew very little about the Dutch resistance during World War 2 but found their story both fascinating and inspiring.
Thanks to Litfuse Publicity, another new author has been added to my Must Read list. “Snow on the Tulips” kept me spellbound until the end and I am in hopes that a sequel is in the works. I would recommend this novel to anyone, both male or female, especially those who enjoy historical fiction of this era.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
A stranger’s life hangs in the balance. But to save him is to risk everything.
The war is drawing to a close, but the Nazis still occupy part of the Netherlands. After the losses she’s endured, war widow Cornelia is only a shadow of the woman she once was. She fights now to protect her younger brother, Johan, who lives in hiding.
When Johan brings Gerrit Laninga, a wounded Dutch Resistance member, to Cornelia’s doorstep, their lives are forever altered. Although scared of the consequences of harboring a wanted man, Cornelia’s faith won’t let her turn him out.
As she nurses Gerrit back to health, she is drawn to his fierce passion and ideals, and notices a shift within herself. Gerrit’s intensity challenges her, making her want to live fully, despite the fear that constrains her. When the opportunity to join him in the Resistance presents itself, Cornelia must summon every ounce of courage imaginable.
She is as terrified of loving Gerrit as she is of losing him. But as the winter landscape thaws, so too does her heart. Will she get a second chance at true love? She fears their story will end before it even begins.
Purchase a copy here.
Learn more at Liz’s website.
A splendid debut novel! With a tender romance, a gripping plot, and a well-researched setting, Snow on the Tulips drew me in to the harrowing uncertainty of life in the Netherlands under Nazi rule. Liz Tolsma’s beautiful story kept me up at night—not just wondering what would happen to her endearing characters, but wondering what I would do in similar circumstances. Do not miss this book!
Sarah Sundin, award-winning author of With Every Letter
This book was a fascinating look at WWII from the Netherlands perspective, one I hadn’t heard before. It captured my interest and wouldn’t give it back until the last page!
CBA Retailers and Resources
Tolsma crafts strong characters and easy-to-visualize scenes. The inherent danger of the Nazi occupation is apparent. Relevant biblical connections remind the reader that God is always in control, no matter how dire the situation may seem. Tolsma’s story is a way to remember the past and those who gave their lives for freedom. A German and Dutch glossary is included.
4 Star Romantic Times Review
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Liz Tolsma has lived in Wisconsin most of her life, and she now resides next to a farm field with her husband, their son, and their two daughters. Add a dog and a cat to that mix and there’s always something going on at their house. She’s spent time teaching second grade, writing advertising for a real estate company, and working as a church secretary, but she always dreamed of becoming an author. She’d love to have you visit her at www.liztolsma.com.
Snow on the Tulips “Amazon Reader Pack” Giveaway from Liz Tolsma!
Liz Tolsma is celebrating the release of her novel, Snow on the Tulips, by giving away an Amazon Reading Pack to one lucky winner.
Find out what readers are saying about the book here.
One winner will receive:
- A $50 Amazon gift card
- Snow on the Tulips by Liz Tolsma
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on November 16th. Winner will be announced November 18th at Liz’s blog.
Don’t miss a moment of the fun; enter today and be sure to stop by Liz’s blog on the 18th to see if you won. (Or, better yet, subscribe to her blog and have the winner announcement delivered to your inbox! Just enter your email address on the left sidebar of her blog.)
Snow on the Tulips “Amazon Reader Pack” Giveaway from Liz Tolsma!
by admin | Oct 27, 2013 | Books, Historical, Romance, Smoky Mountains
MY REVIEW:
“My Hope is Found” is the third and final book in Joanne Bischof’s excellent Cadence of Grace series. I suppose this novel could be enjoyed as a stand-alone without having read the previous two volumes but why would anyone want to do so? Only by starting at the very beginning can one reap the full benefit of Gideon and Lonnie’s story as they weather the storms of life through the grace of God who provides them with hope.
As the book opens, Gideon has been set free from his obligations to Cassie who has sent him home to Lonnie. Naturally it just couldn’t be that simple and Gideon soon finds out just how complicated life can be. When he finally makes it back home he finds that Lonnie has another man in her life who is not willing to give her up easily. Trials and tribulation abound as Gideon seeks to prove himself to Lonnie despite his own doubts that he is the right man for her.
“My Hope is Found” is a deeply moving story that contains several surprising twists. Once again Bischof has penned a compelling tale that perfectly complements the first two books of this series. The entire series is so beautifully written with memorable characters. I won’t soon forget Lonnie and Gideon’s story and the books will gain a permanent space on my bookshelf. If you don’t read another series this year, find a way to read the Cadence of Grace series if at all possible.
This book was provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah
Publishing Group’s Blogging For Books program.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Gideon O’Riley has been given another chance at a life with Lonnie.
But will the fight for her heart risk it all over again?
After finally finding love with his sweet bride Lonnie, Gideon’s heart was torn when a woman from his past claimed to be his true and rightful wife, forcing him away from his family. God’s merciful hand saw Gideon through the heartache, and with Cassie’s blessing, he is able to return home. Though his journey back through the Blue Ridge Mountains will hold a trial he never anticipated.
Meanwhile, Lonnie determines to seal off her heart from Gideon, convinced he is lost to her forever. Strengthening her resolve to move on is the fondness she has for the handsome Scotsman, Toby McKee—the young reverend she has come to care deeply for. His proposal of marriage offers a bright future for her and her young son.
Yearning to allow joy back into her life, Lonnie must put aside the broken pieces of her heart that still love Gideon. When he returns to find her betrothed to another, he has to place his hope in God, trusting that the One who redeemed their love once can do it again.
Read the first chapter HERE.
What others are saying about “My Hope Is Found”:
“A tender story, told with loving care, My Hope Is Found takes many a twist and turn, as Lonnie must choose between two good men. Her struggle is genuine, and the outcome remains deliciously uncertain until the joy-filled ending.” —Liz Curtis Higgs, New York Times best-selling author of Mine is the Night
“Joanne has hit a home run with her Cadence of Grace series, and this book wraps up the story nicely. But I was never sure of the ending—either man could have made her happy—until the end. With memorable characters and struggles aplenty, this is the kind of story that will have readers telling their friends, ‘You’ve got to read these books.’” —Lauraine Snelling, author of the Red River North series
“In My Hope is Found, God’s grace and tender mercies bloom in the rugged hills of early 1900s Appalachia. The familiar characters of the Cadence of Grace series live out the delicious tension of romance and reason, heartache and hope—discovering the true measure of love and lasting peace. If you need a healthy dose of hope for a pesky case of hopelessness, this one is a must-read.” —Mesu Andrews, author of Love Amid the Ashes
“Joanne has the rare talent of creating such compelling characters and story worlds that I wish her books would never end.” —Serena B. Miller, RITA Award–winning author of The Measure of Katie Calloway
“This deeply moving conclusion to the Cadence of Grace series will captivate your heart and keep you turning pages. Once again Joanne Bischof brings her well-drawn characters and beautiful setting to life in an intricately woven tale of faith and love that will leave you wanting more. I highly recommend it!” —Carrie Turansky, author of The Governess of Highland Hall
“A soaring conclusion to the Cadence of Grace series! With lyrical phrasing, Joanne Bischof blends measures of faith, hope, and love into pitch-perfect, soul-stirring harmony sure to resonate in every reader’s heart. Bravo!” —Jocelyn Green, award-winning author of the Heroines Behind the Lines series
“In My Hope is Found, gifted storyteller Joanne Bischof writes of redemption and reconciliation. Her characters stepped off the page and into my heart as I held my breath over their heartbreaks, disappointed dreams, and ultimate choices, all skillfully woven through with spiritual truths. Bischof has found her calling as a writer.” —Beth K. Vogt, author of Catch a Falling Star
“Amid the beauty of the Appalachians, Lonnie Sawyer O’Riley finds herself in an impossible situation created by her beloved Gideon’s wild past. Having no choice but to give him up and move on, she clings to stubborn hope that all will yet be well, somehow. Like a mountain trail, the story winds through sunlight and shadow, through love and despair, with glimpses of grace at every turn. My Hope Is Found is another keeper from Joanne Bischof.” —Meg Moseley, author of Gone South
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Married to her first sweetheart, Joanne Bischof lives in the mountains of Southern California where she keeps busy making messes with their home-schooled children. When she’s not weaving Appalachian romance, she’s blogging about faith, writing, and the adventures of country living that bring her stories to life. Be Still My Soul is her first novel.
