by admin | Oct 25, 2013 | Books, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
“Perfectly Matched” relates the story of newly marrieds Edward Palmer and his mail-order bride Anna who are definitely not perfectly matched by most standards. Edward is a skilled at making and repairing clocks and watches and expects his life and home to work with the same precision as his creations. He is somewhat obsessive-compulsive and is not at all certain how to relate to his free-spirited new wife. Anna is an inexperienced homemaker but is determined to work hard to make her marriage work; however her penchant for rescuing animals tends to cause disruption in the Palmer home as well as some misunderstandings. One thing the pair do seem to have in common is strong physical attraction which leads to frequent scenes that some may find uncomfortable although nothing graphic is shared.
Both Anna and Edward are set in their ways but little by little each learns to compromise and to allow their differences to be complimentary rather than divisive. A strong message about the importance of trust in a marriage is evident.
While not my favorite novel by Maggie Brendan, “Perfectly Matched” was nevertheless entertaining with several quite humorous incidents and contained some good historical background as well.
This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
His life runs like clockwork. Hers is a spontaneous adventure.
But God’s timing is always perfect.
Anna Olsen knows it’s time to leave her sister’s increasingly crowded house and start a life of her own. Following both sisters’ examples, she becomes a mail-order bride, and after a short correspondence with clock maker and jeweler Edward Parker, she moves to Denver to become his wife.
Almost immediately it’s painfully apparent that Anna and Edward are very different. Anna is a free spirit who would rather be painting and enjoying the company of friends than cleaning house. Edward is a consummate perfectionist who, on their wedding day, hands Anna a list of chores that need to be done around the house daily.
Can this mismatched couple see past their differences to a harmonious future? Or will their disparate passions create obstacles neither is willing to surmount?
“Once again, Maggie Brendan has created a refreshing read with a powerful heroine and a hero to match. Readers will especially love the devotion given to animals in this charming historical romance.”–Kelly Long, bestselling author of A Patch of Heaven series
Read an excerpt from “Perfectly Matched” HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Maggie Brendan is the bestselling author of several books, including the Heart of the West series and The Blue Willow Brides series. She was a 2013 finalist for the Published Maggie Award of Excellence, a 2013 finalist for the Heart of Excellence Readers’ Choice Award, a 2012 finalist for Inspirational Reader’s Choice award, and a recipient of the 2004 ACW Persistence Award in Atlanta. She is a member of the ACFW; Author’s Guild; Romance Writers of America; Faith, Hope, and Love; and Georgia Romance Writers. When she’s not writing, she enjoys reading, researching for her novels, and spending time with her family. You can follow her at her website, her blog , and on Facebook and Twitter @MaggieBrendan.
by admin | Oct 18, 2013 | Books, Historical, Romance, Western
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingA Bride for KeepsBethany House Publishers (October 1, 2013)byMelissa JagearsA Word From The Author:
I am a stay at home mother on a tiny little farm with a fixer-upper house. As much as I love writing and reading about homesteaders, I am so glad I’m a homesteader during an era with modern grocery stores to take up for my slack. I am an ESL (English as a Second Language) teacher by trade, and I still work occasionally in that field along with being my church’s financial secretary and writing novels.
My husband and I have been married since 2001 and have a daughter and two little boys. My husband shares my fascination with traditional living except for being more hands on. He loves blacksmithing, knife smithing, traditional archery, hunting, etc. Generally whatever a mountain man does, he does it or has or wants to attempt it. He comes in handy for research! And of course, the rest of the family gets involved. I have my own blackpowder rifle, named Calvin, that my husband made for me. And I’m pretty sure my daughter is probably one of very few her age who can instruct adults how to shoot a longbow properly. The boy digs random holes in my yard to make “cement” with dirt and water making our yard a tripping hazard. The baby does what babies do.
Learn more about Melissa and her books on her Website.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
A Tender Tale of Love on the Prairie Perfect for CBA Readers!
Although Everett Cline can hardly keep up with the demands of his homestead, he won’t humiliate himself by looking for a helpmate ever again–not after being jilted by three mail-order brides. When a well-meaning neighbor goes behind his back to bring yet another mail-order bride to town, he has good reason to doubt it will work, especially after getting a glimpse at the woman in question. She’s the prettiest woman he’s ever seen, and it’s just not possible she’s there to marry a simple homesteader like him.
Julia Lockwood has never been anything more than a pretty pawn for her father or a business acquisition for her former fiance. Having finally worked up the courage to leave her life in Massachusetts, she’s determined to find a place where people will value her for more than her looks. Having run out of all other options, Julia resorts to a mail-order marriage in far-away Kansas.
Everett is skeptical a cultured woman like Julia could be happy in a life on the plains, while Julia, deeply wounded by a past relationship, is skittish at the idea of marriage at all. When, despite their hesitations, they agree to a marriage in name only, neither one is prepared for the feelings that soon arise to complicate their arrangement. Can two people accustomed to keeping their distance let the barricades around their hearts down long enough to fall in love?
If you would like to read the first chapter of A Bride for Keeps, go HERE.
MY REVIEW:
Poor Everett has given up on finding a wife…the woman he loved married another man. He tried mail order brides but that didn’t work out either…two married others and one died on her journey to Kansas. Marriage just must not be in God’s plan for Everett’s life. Julia is running from her past and hoping for a new life. She has no other choice but to marry but hopes for a platonic understanding. She is done with men but is willing to work hard for security. Brought together by the wife of Everett’s best friend, they agree to marry but each of them is so deeply wounded that a real marriage seems impossible.
A Bride for Keeps is a story filled with one misunderstanding after another. Julia is stubbornly determined to help in every way she can, often at her own risk but has difficulty accepting any offer of kindness from Everett. In turn, Everett believes that Julia’s insistence on keeping her distance must be because of something lacking in him. I will admit that at times I grew a bit weary of the misunderstandings but by the end of the book I understood their purpose.
The characters will touch your heart and the strong message of faith is encouraging. Although A Bride for Keeps is her first novel, Melissa Jagears is an author to keep an eye on. I know I will be watching for her next book.
by admin | Oct 18, 2013 | Books, England, Historical, Regency, Romance
MY REVIEW:
Third book in The Daughters of Bainbridge House series, “A Reluctant Courtship” leaps right into action with the first sentence. My attention was captured immediately and was held until the very last word. Heroine Honore Bainbridge has a less than perfect reputation due to her somewhat naive association with two different men who to her surprise turned out to be a murderer and a traitor. Sent to the family country estate in order to distance her from the scandal, she becomes acquainted with Lord Ashmoor who has a reputation of his own to mend. Acknowledging that a match between them is impossible, Honore nevertheless offers to help Ashmoor clear his father’s name as well as discover who is responsible for helping French prisoners escape and possibly smuggling.
I loved both of the primary characters. Despite her penchant for trouble, Honore had a compassionate heart and the desire to do the right thing. Lord Ashmoor also had a good heart and chose time and again to stand up for Honore when doing so cost him the respect of the very people he needed on his side. The plot was suspenseful, humorous, and romantic with clever twists and surprises. A secondary romance was a welcome bonus. Honore and Lord Ashmoor find courage and peace as they seek to follow the leading of the Lord and their hearts.
“A Reluctant Courtship” is a fine end to the series and I recommend it and each of the previous novels in the series. All three can stand alone but what fun to read them all. I am looking forward to the next offering from this talented author.
This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
A woman without a prospect. A man without a homeland.
Can love give them a future?
Honore Bainbridge has been courted by two men, one of whom turned out to be a traitor, the other a murderer. Banished to her family’s country estate, where she will hopefully stay out of trouble, she finally meets the man she is sure is exactly right for her: Lord Ashmoor. Tall, dark, and handsome–what more could a girl ask for?
But he too is under suspicion because of his American upbringing and accusations that he has helped French prisoners escape from Dartmoor Prison. If he’s to keep out of a British prison himself and secure his place in British society, Lord Ashmoor needs a wife beyond reproach–something the vexingly beautiful Honore certainly is not. Though they find themselves drawn to each other, family obligations may conspire to keep them apart forever.
For the sake of her heart, Honore determines to prove Ashmoor’s innocence–even if doing so risks her own life.
From the first sentence, award-winning author Laurie Alice Eakes thrusts you into high drama amid the rocky cliffs of Devonshire, England, and keeps you suspended there until the final page.
For more information, please visit HERE.
Available October 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell,
a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
“Eakes has a charming way of making her novels come to life without being over the top,” writes Romantic times of bestselling, award-winning author Laurie Alice Eakes. Since she lay in bed as a child telling herself stories, she has fulfilled her dream of becoming a published author. To date, she has sixteen books in print with five more under contract for release over the next two years. Eight of her books have been published in large print editions, one as a Crossings Bookclub hardcover edition, and one book has been put into Braille.
A graduate of Asbury University with a degree in English and French, and Seton Hill University, with a masters degree in Writing Popular Fiction, she also writes articles in writers publications, teaches writing workshops, and gives inspirational talks.
>She lives in Texas with her husband, dogs, and cats. She enjoys long walks, all too rare rainy days, and knitting—rather badly—while watching movies or listening to music.
Follow her on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LaurieAEakes
Read excerpts from her books at: http://www.lauriealiceeakes.com
by admin | Oct 15, 2013 | Amish, Birds, Christmas, Historical, Romance, WWII
MY REVIEW:
“A Christmas Gift For Rose” is a heart-warming historical Amish novella that takes place at the end of World War 2. Because of their pacifist beliefs, most Amish men chose not to enlist during the war and if they were drafted, chose to go to prison instead. Rose’s fiance Jonathan’s conscience would not let him rest until he enlisted as a medic to help the wounded men. Despite her love for Jonathan, Rose listened to the talk about him and decided she could no longer marry him. Already sad because of her decision, Rose’s world is shaken when a secret about her past is revealed.
Although “A Christmas Gift For Rose” is a shorter format novella, it is full of everything that I look for in a good book. The plot is to-the-point with few wasted words yet was satisfyingly complete. It was easy to become quickly caught up in Rose’s story and to share her joys and sorrows. Jonathan was a true hero in so many ways but his devotion to Rose was admirable.
“A Christmas Gift For Rose” is a perfect story to prepare for the upcoming Christmas season. Its theme of faith and family, love and loyalty, and most of all forgiveness is one with which most readers can identify.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Inspired by a true story, A Christmas Gift for Rose is a heartwarming novella of sacrifice and deep love.
Born in the midst of the hardships of The Great Depression, Rose grew up in Berlin, Ohio, in the arms of a loving Amish family. But she is overwhelmed by self-doubt when she learns the truth of her birth. She was born Englisch and abandoned when her family moved West in search of work. Was she meant to be Amish or would she have been better off growing up with her own kind—Englischers? And was her intended’s gift of discovering her birth family given out of love or fear?
Don’t miss award-winning author Tricia Goyer’s first Christmas novella.
Purchase a copy here.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
USA Today best-selling author Tricia Goyer is the author of over 35 books, including the three-book Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors series and “Lead Your Family Like Jesus,” (co-written with Ken Blanchard). She has written over 500 articles for national publications and blogs for high traffic sites like TheBetterMom.com and MomLifeToday.com. She is the host of Living Inspired, a weekly radio show. Tricia and family live in Little Rock, Arkansas. They have six children. You can find out more about Tricia at www.TriciaGoyer.com.
Find out more about Tricia and her books at http://triciagoyer.com.
Double Kindle HDX Christmas Gift Pack from @TriciaGoyer!
Tricia Goyer is celebrating the release of her first Christmas novella, A Christmas Gift for Rose, with a Christmas Gift giveaway!
Enter to win a NEW Kindle Fire HDX for you AND one for a friend!
One grand prize winner will receive:
- A brand new Kindle Fire HDX and one to give away to a friend!
- A Christmas Gift for Rose, by Tricia Goyer for you and your friend!
Four second place winners will receive:
- A Christmas Gift for Rose Christmas pack (includes a recipe card, bookmark, a signed book plate, discussion questions, and a Gathering & Giving handout!)
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on October 19th. All winners will be announced October 21st at Tricia’s blog.
Don’t miss a moment of the fun; enter today and be sure to visit Tricia’s blog
on the 21st to see if you won one of the great prizes!
(Or better yet, subscribe to her blog and have the winner
announcement delivered to your inbox!)
by admin | Oct 12, 2013 | Books, Europe, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
“Glittering Promises” is the third and final book in Bergren’s Grand Tour series and I must say that it brings the series to a very satisfying conclusion. Although a thick 400+ pages, the story was so well written and compelling that I found myself surprised when I reached the end so quickly. If I ever find the time, I plan to read the entire series again, one after the other. It is that good.
This installment finds the Kensington and Morgan families determined to keep a lower profile in order to avoid the attention of the press and of a man who is a potential threat to them all. Cora has finally chosen between the two men who profess to love her but the rejected suitor does not intend to give up easily. Relationships between Cora and her recently discovered siblings have improved but the one with her father remains difficult. The following weeks bring new challenges to the group as conflicts, jealousies, accidents, death, and more danger stalk them. The plot takes more than one very unexpected twist as the suspense builds to its climactic conclusion.
At this point in my life I doubt that I will ever set foot in Europe but through the magic of Lisa’s writing, I feel like I have experienced some of its wonders along with Cora and her friends and family. Her descriptions are so vivid that it almost as good as actually being there. I was most gratified by the positive changes that took place in most of the characters during the course of the series, especially Cora’s decision to use her newly acquired wealth to help others as directed by God.
For those who have not read any of the Grand Tour series, I strongly recommend that you do. I also recommend that you start at the beginning and read all three books in order. I don’t think you will regret it.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Lisa T. Bergren’s popular Grand Tour series concludes as Cora Kensington journeys farther into Italy, wrestles with a terrible ultimatum from her father, and comes to terms with the Father who will never fail her.
America’s newest heiress must decide if her potential fortune is rationale enough to give up her freedom and all that God is leading her toward. And when her newly-discovered siblings are threatened with ruin, her quandary deepens. Then as Cora nears Rome, more journalists are tracking the news story of the decade—“Copper Cora,” the rags-to-riches girl—and want to know more about her family and the men vying for her attention. Meanwhile, a charming Italian countess decides that if Cora isn’t going to claim Will’s heart, she might just try…
Purchase a copy here.
Read what others are saying about “Glittering Promises” HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Lisa T. Bergren is the award-winning author of over thirty-five books, with more than 2 million copies sold. A former publishing executive, Lisa now divides her time between writing, editing, parenting three children with her husband, Tim, and dreaming of her next trip to Italy. She lives in Colorado Springs.
Find out more at Lisa’s website.
Welcome to the blog tour for the exciting conclusion of Lisa T. Bergren‘s beloved Grand Tour series, Glittering Promises (David C. Cook). Wealth cannot buy peace or direction, and as Cora Kensington glimpses the end of the tour, Cora knows it’s time to decide Who and what defines her . . . and who and what does not.
Lisa is celebrating the release of Glittering Promises by giving away a $200 Italian feast from Williams-Sonoma and hosting a fun Facebook party on October 29th.
One winner will receive:
- A $200 Italian feast from Williams-Sonoma delivered to your door
- The three-book Grand Tour set
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on October 29th. Winner will be announced at the “Glittering Promises” Facebook Author Chat Party on October 29th. Connect with Lisa for an evening of book chat, European trivia, and prizes, and get an exclusive look Lisa’s next book.
So grab your copies of the Grand Tour series and join Lisa on the evening of October 29th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven’t read the books, 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 the 29th!
by admin | Oct 12, 2013 | Books, Historical, Post Civil War, Romance, Western
MY REVIEW:
“The Journey of Josephine Cain” is a historical novel that takes place during the period of time immediately after the end of the Civil War and the assassination of President Lincoln. Much of the story revolves around the Transcontinental Railroad and the people involved with its construction as well as the temporary towns that grew around the construction sites. It was a place where gunfights and Indian raids were common and saloons and brothels were more evident than churches and schools.
Josephine Cain is the pampered daughter of the former Union general who has been assigned to oversee the eastern end of the railroad construction. Bored with living in a house of mourning, Josephine finds a way to manipulate her father into letting her new suitor accompany her and her aunt to visit the site. She finds a new dangerous but exciting world so unlike the safe and comfortable home to which she is accustomed. She also meets an entirely unsuitable young railroad worker but immediately feels a strong connection to him. Torn between her feelings for Hudson and the suitability of Lewis, Josephine may be forced to make an unwelcome decision regarding her future.
“The Journey of Josephine Cain” was perfectly paced with a storyline that was not only entertaining but informative. I loved learning about the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad and its importance to the history of our country. The plot contained several unexpected twists and a few surprises. Josephine was a well-rounded character who evolved from a spoiled, selfish, and manipulative girl to a strong, compassionate, and mature woman of God. Hudson was proof that social standing is not as important as integrity and Lewis was a good example of what can happen when a person allows revenge to rule their life.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
When a socialite from the nation’s capital embarks on a journey to the Wild West, her life is changed forever.
A setting populated by hundreds of laborers, outlaws, and Indians is hardly the place for a wealthy general’s daughter. But Josephine Cain is determined to visit her father, who supervises the day-to-day work involved in the grandest ambition of post-Civil War America: the building of the Transcontinental Railroad. Life with the railroad is far from the proper life Josephine is used to, and she faces deadly gunfights, harsh weather, and vigilante uprisings. She is torn between the West and the East; between her privileged upbringing and the challenges of a new frontier; between the pull of the suitable beau her parents approve of and an attraction to a rough but charming Irish railroad worker. But if Josephine is willing, she just might find a new life, a unique purpose . . . and true love.
Purchase a copy 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.
The Journey of Josephine Cain by Nancy Moser follows the adventures of a D.C. socialite as she gets involved with the building of the Transcontinental Railroad right after the Civil War. Be sure to check out Nancy’s fun Pinterest board for the book!
Enter to win 1 of 5 copies of the book!
Five winners will receive:
- The Journey of Josephine Cain by Nancy Moser
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on October 26th. All winners will be announced October 28th at the Litfuse blog.
Don’t miss a moment of the fun; enter today and be sure to visit the Litfuse blog on the 28th to see if you won one of the books!
