by admin | Apr 25, 2013 | Books, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
I found myself zipping through the pages of “A Noble Groom” and reached the end much too quickly. The novel is so well written that it took almost no effort to read – it just flowed. Of course that could also be due to the fact that I became so involved in the story that I had to keep reading in order to learn what would happen next.
Recently widowed Annalisa Werner loves stories as evidenced by how many of them she tells her young daughter throughout the book. However she believes that true love is simply a fairytale and is not something she should ever expect. She has seen very little evidence of that kind of love in the marriages that surround her. For that reason she is resigned to another marriage to the cousin her father has sent for in Germany since she really needs help to save her farm. When Carl Richards shows up with a message that her future husband has been delayed, he agrees to help out on the farm until the man arrives. Little does he realize that he will come to care for Annalisa and her children as if they were his own family. Is it possible for two people from such diverse backgrounds to find happiness together?
I pretty much loved everything about “A Noble Groom”. The characters were so well described they could have stepped right off the pages – even the villainous Ward. Both Annalisa and Carl were such strong and determined people but each of them needed to depend on the Lord a bit more for their guidance. The story had a little of everything, humor, drama, suspense, action, and disaster with a healthy dose of romance in all the right places.
You cannot go wrong in picking up a copy of “A Noble Groom” if you like historical romance even a little. Take my word for it!
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Michigan, 1880
Annalisa Werner’s hope for a fairy tale love is over. Her husband failed her in every way and now his death has left her with few options to save the family farm. She needs a plentiful harvest. That, and a husband to help bring it in. Someone strong, dependable. That’ll be enough. A marriage for love…that’s something she’s given up on.
So her father sends a letter to his brother in the Old Country, asking him to find Annalisa a groom.
Then a man appears: Carl Richards, from their home country of Germany and a former schoolteacher–or so he says. He’s looking for work and will serve on the farm until her husband arrives.
With time running out, she accepts his help, but there’s more to this man than he’s admitting. He’s also gentle, kind, charming–unlike any man she’s ever known. But even as Carl is shining light into the darkness of her heart, she knows her true groom may arrive any day.
Purchase a copy here.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Jody Hedlund is an award-winning and bestselling historical fiction author. She won the 2011 Inspirational Reader’s Choice Award, the 2011 Award of Excellence from the Colorado Romance Writers and was a finalist for Best Debut Novel in the 2011 ACFW Carol Awards. Currently she makes her home in central Michigan, with her husband and five busy children. She loves hearing from readers on Facebook and on her blog.
Find out more about Jody at http://jodyhedlund.com/.
Welcome to the campaign launch for Jody Hedlund’s latest novel, A Noble Groom. Booklist says of Hedlund, “Swiftly becoming a well-known contender in the world of Christian historical fiction …”, and Publishers Weekly says she “intricately balances romance and drama….”
Jody Hedlund is celebrating the release of A Noble Groom by giving away a Kindle Fire and hosting a Facebook Author Chat Party {5/8}!
One “noble” winner will receive:
- A Kindle Fire
- A copy of A Noble Groom by Jody Hedlund
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on May 7th. Winner will be announced at the “A Noble Groom” Author Chat Party on May 8th. Connect with Jody, get a sneak peek of her next book, try your hand at the trivia contest, and chat with readers just like you. There will also be many fun giveaways — gift certificates, books, and more!
So grab your copy of A Noble Groom and join Jody on the evening of May 8th 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. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 8th!
by admin | Apr 16, 2013 | Books, Historical, Romance
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducing
Josiah’s TreasureWorthy Publishing (April 16, 2013)byNancy HerrimanABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Nancy Herriman abandoned a career in Engineering to chase around two small children and take up the pen. She has been writing for longer than she would like to admit. Her work has been a finalist in several Romance Writers of America contests and she won the 2006 RWA Daphne du Maurier award for Best Unpublished Mystery/Romantic Suspense. In 2009, she was an ACFW Genesis finalist. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America.
When she is not writing, or gabbing over lattes about writing, she is either watching history shows on cable TV or singing. She lives in the Midwest with her husband and sons, and wishes there were more hours in the day.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
In 1882, Sarah Whittier dreams of opening an art studio run by immigrant women. She plans to use the house left to her by family friend Josiah Cady as collateral for her studio. But will all be lost when the inheritance is challenged by an angry man claiming to be Josiah’s son and legal heir? Rumor of gold nuggets hidden in the house, place Sarah’s life in danger. Her future uncertain and her safety threatened, Sarah has nowhere to turn. That is, unless she can soften a vengeful man’s heart-and they both learn that love is finer than any gold.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Josiah’s Treasure, go HERE.
MY REVIEW:
I thought it was interesting that I have read and reviewed two consecutive novels this week that took place primarily in San Francisco’s Nob Hill yet their setting was about all they had in common (other than that I enjoyed both of them). Josiah’s Treasure is the first novel I have read by Nancy Herriman so I wasn’t sure what to expect. Looks like I have yet another author to add to my ever-growing must read list. In fact, I just ordered The Irish Healer a few minutes ago. The Kindle version is on sale at Amazon for a very good price so I had to grab a copy quickly.
I enjoyed the interaction between the characters, the natural dialogue, and the believable plot development. I also liked the way the romance developed between Sarah and Daniel despite their conflict over the same inheritance – a growing attraction based upon positive character traits that each saw in the other rather than physical attraction only. Plenty of drama, suspense, romance and surprises abound as Sarah and Daniel learn the meaning of true treasure in their lives. Josiah’s Treasure is a novel that emphasizes true forgiveness and trust in the Lord. It is well worth reading.
by admin | Apr 16, 2013 | Books, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
Although it seems a bit sad to leave the oh so charming and beloved O’Connor family behind as Julie embarks on a new series set in a new city and featuring an entirely new family, “Love at Any Cost” relieved any misgivings I might have had. It only took a few chapters for me to know that the McClare family and friends would quickly work their way into readers’ hearts. I for one cannot wait to learn which family member’s story will be offered next.
When Cassidy McClare arrives in San Francisco for an extended visit with family, she has only one objective – to avoid romantic entanglements so that her battered and bruised heart can heal. As she steps from the train she is literally knocked off her feet by Jamie McKenna who will quickly become an unavoidable fixture in the McClare household. Jamie’s primary objective is to find a wealthy and well-connected woman who can not only help advance his career and status but can help him provide for his mother and crippled sister. It doesn’t take him long to zero in on Cassidy as that woman.
“Love at Any Cost” is a mostly light-hearted and witty novel with large doses of romance. It also has its share of drama as well as some surprises that I didn’t see coming. A possible secondary romance adds to the enjoyment and it will be interesting to see how that develops as the series continues. But right in the middle of all the angst and romance are wonderful bits of wisdom, usually rendered by Cousin Bram or Aunt Cait that eventually break through the barriers erected by both Cassidy and Jamie to help them learn how to allow God be in control of their lives.
This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
The Gilded Age is brought to life in the new Heart of San Francisco Series. Fans of bestselling author, Julie Lessman, will join her on a journey to the West Coast for romance, passion, and surprising revelations found in Love at Any Cost.
Jilted by a fortune hunter, cowgirl Cassidy McClare is a spunky Texas oil heiress without a fortune who would just as soon hogtie a man as look at him. Hoping a summer visit with her wealthy cousins in San Francisco will help her forget her heartache, Cassidy travels west. But no sooner is she settled in beautiful California than Jamie McKenna, a handsome pauper looking to marry well, captures her heart. When Jamie discovers the woman he loves is poorer than he is, Cassidy finds herself cheated by love a second time. Will Jamie discover that money can’t buy love after all? And can Cassidy ever learn to fully trust her heart to a man?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Julie Lessman is an award-winning author whose tagline of “Passion with a Purpose” underscores her intense passion for both God and romance. Winner of the 2009 ACFW Debut Author of the Year and Holt Medallion Awards of Merit for Best First Book and Long Inspirational, Julie is also the recipient of 14 Romance Writers of America awards. Chosen as the #1 Romance Fiction Author of the Year in the Family Fiction magazine 2011 Readers’ Choice Awards, Julie was also awarded #1 Series of the Year in that same poll. She resides in Missouri with her family and is the author of The Daughters of Boston series and the Winds of Change series whose first book, A Hope Undaunted, ranked #5 on Booklist’s Top 10 Inspirational Fiction for 2010.
Praise for Love at any Cost:
With an artist’s brushstroke, Julie Lessman creates another masterpiece filled with family and love and passion that compares to none in the Christian market today. Interwoven with themes of betrayal, trust, and God’s love, Love at Any Cost will not only soothe your soul, but it will make you laugh, stir your heart, and release a sigh of satisfaction when you turn the last page. The next book in the series cannot come soon enough!—MaryLu Tyndall, bestselling author of Veil of Pearls
by admin | Apr 9, 2013 | Books, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
Things are bound to get interesting when Lucy Kendall, daughter of a candy factory owner finds herself attracted to the son of the city’s rival candy manufacturer but doesn’t know his connection. Needless to say, she discovers Charlie Clarke’s true identity soon after she learns that his father is determined to destroy her father’s company. Although Charlie doesn’t like his father’s schemes, he follows his directions as he tries to prove himself to his dad. Lucy desperately counterattacks each move made by Standard Manufacturing to undermine City Confectionery but somehow they always seem to be one step ahead of her strategies.
“Unrivaled” is a tale filled with family secrets, greed, fierce competition, drama, and unexpected twists. Tempered by an elusive romance and humor, this novel was a quick read despite its four hundred page length. Although the seemingly doomed romance and the escalating rivalry kept things interesting, at times I became frustrated with Lucy and Charlie for trying to solve the problems under their own strength rather than actually talking over the situation and working together. I did approve of the way each of them came to terms with their own shortcomings and found themselves turning to God for the answers.
A bit different than previous novels I have read by Mitchell, “Unrivaled” was nevertheless a delightful reading experience.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Lucy Kendall returns from a tour of the Continent, her luggage filled with the latest fashions and a mind fired by inspiration. After tasting Europe’s best confections, she’s sure she’ll come up with a recipe that will save her father’s struggling candy business and reverse their fortunes. But she soon discovers that their biggest competitor, the cheat who swindled her father out of his prize recipe, has now hired a promotions manager–a cocky, handsome out-of-towner who gets under Lucy’s skin.
Charlie Clarke’s new role at Standard Manufacturing is the chance of a lifetime. He can put some rough times behind him and reconnect with the father he’s never known. The one thing he never counted on, however, was tenacious Lucy Kendall. She’s making his work life miserable…and making herself impossible for him to forget.
Purchase a copy here.
Read an excerpt here.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Siri Mitchell is the author of nearly a dozen novels, among them the critically acclaimed Christy Award finalists “Chateau of Echoes” and “The Cubicle Next Door”. A graduate of the University of Washington with a degree in business, she has worked in many different levels of government. As a military spouse, she has lived in places as varied as Tokyo and Paris. Siri currently lives in the DC-metro area.
Find out more about Siri at http://sirimitchell.com/.
One “swooning” winner will receive:
- A Kindle Fire
- Vintage Candy Kit
- Unrivaled by Siri Mitchell (one for you and one for a friend!)
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on April 17th. Winner will be announced at the “Unrivaled” Author Chat Facebook Party on 4/18. Connect with Siri, get a sneak peek of her next book, try your hand at a trivia contest, and chat with readers just like yourself. There will also be gift certificates, books, vintage candy kits, and more!
So grab your copy of Unrivaled and join Siri on the evening of the April 18th for a chance to connect with Siri 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. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 18th!
by admin | Mar 28, 2013 | Books, Historical, Romance, Western
MY REVIEW:
Oh my, this is going to be one of the most difficult reviews I have written to date because it will be nearly impossible without spoilers. There is just so much that happens within the pages of “Love in the Balance” that I am not going to even try to give an overview of it.
What is a pampered and self-indulgent young woman to do when she loves a handsome cowboy with absolutely no prospects – at least in the eyes of her ambitious father and mother who want so much more for her future. Molly Lovelace and Bailey Garner have know each other their entire lives and would like to marry but Molly’s parents would never agree. Bailey has decided he has to keep his distance from Molly to avoid the growing temptation that threatens to overtake them both. Unable to understand his motives, Molly allows herself to be courted by a stranger in town, one Edward Pierrepont who seems able to provide everything her parents desire for her.
“Love in the Balance” does not follow the usual romance formula but takes the reader on an adventure that is rife with so many twists and surprises that one will wonder how the story will end. As Molly’s circumstances change, she begins to see others with new eyes and is able to view their circumstances with compassion. I loved the way the author portrayed both Molly and Bailey, especially as they wrestled with their own shortcomings and finally found forgiveness from each other and from themselves.
A beautiful picture of the Lord’s faithfulness, “Love in the Balance” is one novel that fans of western historical romance will not want to miss. It is the perfect followup to Regina’s previous novel “Sixty Acres and a Bride”.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
Handsome Cowboy or Debonair Tycoon.
How’s a Girl to Choose?
Molly Lovelace dreams of a life without cares in Lockhart, Texas. She also dreams of handsome wrangler Bailey Garner, her ardent but inconsistent beau. The problem is, with Bailey’s poor prospects, she just can’t fit the two dreams together.
Then mysterious stranger Edward Pierrepont sweeps into town–and her life–and for the first time Molly wonders if she’s met the man who can give her everything. But he won’t be in Lockhart long and while it certainly seems like he talks about their glorious future together, she can’t quite get Bailey out of her mind.
What’s a girl to do with all these decisions when love is in the balance?
Purchase a copy here.
Read an excerpt here.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Regina Jennings is a graduate of Oklahoma Baptist University with a degree in English and a history minor. She 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 with her husband and four children.
Find out more about Regina at http://www.reginajennings.com/.
Regina Jennings is celebrating the release of Love in the Balance with a Kindle Fire Giveaway and a Facebook Author Chat Party on 4/4!
One “lovely” winner will receive:
- A Kindle Fire
- A copy of Regina’s Sixty Acres and a Bride and Love in the Balance
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on April 3rd. Winner will be announced at the “Love in the Balance” Author Chat Party on April 4th. Connect with Regina, get a sneak peek of her next book, try your hand at a trivia contest, and chat with readers just like you. There will also be many fun giveaways — gift certificates, books, and more!
So grab your copy of Love in the Balance and join Regina on the evening of April 4th 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. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 4th!
by admin | Mar 22, 2013 | 1960's, Books, Historical
MY REVIEW:
Like Josie, I was thirteen years old in 1964 and lived in a small rural neighborhood so it was easy for me to identify with the characters in “Scent of Lilacs”. In some ways, this novel relates Josie’s departure from childhood as she learns one after another family secret, many of which affect her life. She often responds with a maturity that belies her age but at times her emotional reactions lead to trouble.
The plot moved at a steady pace and its characters and setting quickly drew me deeply into the story. I loved the way it brought back memories of times gone by but the story itself was the real attraction. The quirky characters and surprising twists and humorous scenes added an extra dimension to the narrative. Interwoven with wisdom and faith, “Scent of Lilacs” manages to communicate a truth about family that goes beyond blood ties.
I thoroughly enjoyed “Scent of Lilacs” and would recommend it to most everyone. For a taste of life in Holly Hill, check Hollyhill Book of the Strange HERE.
This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
After the summer of 1964, life for Jocie Brooke will never be the same.
Life-changing events rarely happen in quiet Hollyhill, Kentucky, and when they do, they are few and far between. But for young Jocie Brooke and her family, they happen all at once during the humid summer of 1964. Though on the surface things are just fine, it seems like everyone in Jocie’s life has something they’re not saying, something they’re hiding from her-and from themselves. As Jocie digs into her family’s past, she stirs up a whirlwind of discoveries. Will she find the answers everyone so desperately needs? Or will her questions lead to truths better left hidden?
Combining unforgettable characters, true-to-life struggles, and the perfect dose of humor and nostalgia, this riveting story from bestselling author Ann Gabhart explores the very essence of new life and love.
“Gabhart’s compelling characterization serves up a juicy slice of life in a small town where little is as it seems. Jocie’s conversational voice and quirky sense of humor are a delight.”-RT Book Reviews
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Ann H. Gabhart is the bestselling author of several novels, including Angel Sister, Words Spoken True, The Outsider, The Believer, The Seeker, The Blessed, and The Gifted. She lives with her husband a mile from where she was born in rural Kentucky. Find out more at www.annhgabhart.com.
