by admin | Mar 20, 2013 | Books, Historical, Romance, Western
This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Catherine’s PursuitRealms (February 5, 2013)
by
Lena Nelson DooleyABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Award-winning author, Lena Nelson Dooley, has more than 675,000 books in print. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers http://www.acfw.com/ and president of the local chapter, DFW Ready Writers. She’s also a member of Christian Authors Network, CROWN Fiction Marketing, and Gateway Church in Southlake, Texas.
Lena loves James, her children, grandchildren, and great grandson. She loves chocolate, cherries, chocolate-covered cherries, and spending time with friends. Travel is always on her horizon. Cruising, Galveston, the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas, Mexico. One day it will be Hawaii and Australia, but probably not the same year. Helping other authors become published really floats her boat, with fifteen signing their first book contract after her mentoring. Three of her books have been awarded the Carol Award silver pins from American Christian Fiction Writers and she has received the ACFW Mentor of the Year award at their national conference. The high point of her day is receiving feedback from her readers, especially people whose lives have been changed by her books. And she loves chocolate, especially dark chocolate.
Learn more about the author and her books on her Blog.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
When Angus McKenna was forced to give two of his daughters to families in the wagon train, he promised he’d never try to contact them. Catherine made no such pledge. But when she sets out to find her sisters, she doesn’t go alone. Angus sends Collin with her. Will they discover the two women—and love?
If you would like to read the first chapter of Catherine’s Pursuit, go HERE.
MY REVIEW:
The final installment of the McKenna’s Daughters series, Catherine’s Pursuit wrapped everything up nicely with a conclusion that brought the three separated sisters back together before it ended. Written from Catherine’s point of view, the author skillfully illustrated her emotional response to the unexpected news shared by her father.
I liked both Catherine and Collin and found their interaction interesting. I did however find it a bit of a stretch to believe they had fallen in love so quickly due to their aversion to each other for much of the story. I guess I would have liked a few more positive scenes between them before they reached that conclusion. Other than that, I thoroughly enjoyed the story and its historical background, well-defined characters, interesting plot, strong message of faith and satisfying ending.
I would definitely recommend Catherine’s Pursuit as well as the previous two books in the McKenna’s Daughters series.
by admin | Mar 19, 2013 | Books, Historical, Romance, Suspense
MY REVIEW:
“Grave Consequences” is the second book in Bergren’s Grand Tour trilogy. Although possibly enjoyable as a stand-alone novel, I believe the reader would understand and enjoy it better after reading Glamorous Illusions, the first book of the series as “Grave Consequences” continues where it leaves off without any recap to fill in details.
After a traumatic kidnapping attempt in the first book, Cora Kensington and her newly discovered half-siblings continue their grand tour of Europe, staying in luxurious hotels and castles along their journey. Torn between two men who both profess to love her, Cora continues to be confused about her true identity. Can she return to her old life after experiencing the luxury and opportunities provided by her wealthy birth father or will she choose to follow his plans for her life? All she can do is try to follow God’s plans for her life and hope that she can accurately discern what He is telling her.
Although at times the descriptions of historic locations and even meals become a tad lengthy, there is plenty of drama, action, mystery and romance to keep things interesting. I liked the way the author portrayed the characters so that even some of the most unlikeable people from Glamorous Illusions turned out to have some positive attributes after all – particularly Hugh.
Some reviewers have described “Grave Consequences” as being highly improbable but I found the story to be good enough to capture my attention until the very last page and enjoyed traveling through Europe through the experiences of its characters. Improbable or not, to me the story is what is important.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
The Powerful, Epic Romance Continues, Book 2 in Lisa T. Bergren’s Grand Tour series
For Cora Kensington, the journey of a lifetime takes unexpected twists. And her future—her very life—depends on the decisions she’ll make at each crossroad. As her European tour with her newfound family takes her through Austria, France, and Italy, an unseen enemy trails close behind. Meanwhile, a forbidden love continues to claim her heart, putting everyone’s plans in danger.
And as Cora stays one step ahead of it all, what might need the most protection is her own heart, torn between the dramatic pursuit of a dashing Frenchman and a man who has been quietly staking claim to her affections all along. Love has dangers all its own. She must escape the bonds of the past and discover the faith to make the right choices, as each one has grave consequences.
Purchase a copy here.
Read an excerpt here.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Lisa T. Bergren is the award-winning author of more than thirty-five books, with more than 2 million copies sold. She has written fiction and non-fiction for readers of all ages—children, teens and adults. A former publishing executive, Bergren now divides her time between writing, freelance editing, and ministry.
Bergren loves to travel, especially for writing research, and dreams of her next trip to Italy. Lisa and her husband, Tim, are the parents of three and live in Colorado Springs, CO.
Learn more about Lisa T. Bergren at her online home, www.lisatawnbergren.com. Readers can also join Bergren’s Facebook fan page or follow her on Twitter.
Celebrate the release of Grave Consequences with Lisa T. Bergren by entering to win an iPad Mini!
One “grand” winner receive:
- A brand new iPad Mini
- Grave Consequences and Glamorous Illusions will be pre-loaded onto the Mini!
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on March 23rd. Winner will be announced on March 25th at Lisa’s website.
Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning.
by admin | Mar 14, 2013 | Books, Historical, Romance, Western
This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Swept Away
Bethany House Publishers (March 1, 2013)
by
Mary ConnealyABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Mary Connealy writes romantic comedy with cowboys. She is a Christy Award Finalist, a Carol Award Finalist and an IRCC Award finalist.
The Lassoed in Texas Series, Petticoat Ranch, Calico Canyon and Gingham Mountain. Petticoat Ranch was a Carol Award Finalist. Calico Canyon was a Christy Award Finalist and a Carol Award Finalist. These three books are now contained in one large volume called Lassoed in Texas Trilogy.
The Montana Marriages Series, Montana Rose, The Husband Tree and Wildflower Bride. Montana Rose was a Carol Award Finalist.
Cowboy Christmas—the 2010 Carol Award for Best Long Historical Romance, and an Inspirational Readers Choice Contest Finalist.
The Sophie’s Daughters series. Doctor in Petticoats, Wrangler in Petticoats, Sharpshooter in Petticoats.
She is also the author of; Black Hills Blessing a 3-in-1 collection of sweet contemporary romances, Nosy in Nebraska, a 3-in-1 collection of cozy romantic mysteries and she’s one of the three authors contributing to Alaska Brides with her Carol Award Winning historical romance Golden Days.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
When a cowboy focused on revenge encounters a woman determined to distract him, there’s going to be trouble in Texas!
Swept away when her wagon train attempts a difficult river crossing, Ruthy MacNeil isn’t terribly upset at being separated from the family who raised her. All they’ve ever done is work her to the bone. Alive but disoriented, she’s rescued by Luke Stone…so unfortunately, there are more chances to die in her immediate future.
Luke is on a mission to reclaim the ranch stolen from his family. But the men currently on the property won’t let it go without a fight. Luke plans to meet up with friends who will help him take back the land, and since he can’t just leave Ruthy in the middle of nowhere, she’s going to have to go with him.
But the more time Luke spends around the hardworking young woman, the more he finds himself thinking of things besides revenge. Will Ruthy convince him to give up his destructive path and be swept away by love?
If you would like to read the first chapter of Swept Away, go HERE.
MY REVIEW:
Once again Mary Connealy has brought her readers a thoroughly entertaining diversion from their daily routines. With a feisty heroine and a manly hero, Swept Away is an action-packed, suspense-filled western romance seasoned with with Mary’s trademark humor.
I loved getting to read Luke’s story and thought that Ruthy was a good match for him. There seemed to be a bit more action and not quite as much humor in this novel but that did not hinder the story for me. I enjoyed meeting Luke’s friends, “the Regulators” and hope some of them will be featured in future novels. As usual Mary has provided the perfect blend of faith, fun, action and romance to keep me reading her books as long as she can write them.
If you are not already a fan of Mary Connealy, give “Swept Away” a try and I can almost guarantee you will love it.
by admin | Mar 5, 2013 | Books, Historical, Romance
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingIcecutter’s DaughterBethany House Publishers (March 1, 2013)byTracie Peterson
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Tracie Peterson is the bestselling, award-winning author of more than 85 novels.
She received her first book contract in November, 1992 and saw A Place To Belong published in February 1993 with Barbour Publishings’ Heartsong Presents. She wrote exclusively with Heartsong for the next two years, receiving their readership’s vote for Favorite Author of the Year for three years in a row.
In December, 1995 she signed a contract with Bethany House Publishers to co-write a series with author Judith Pella. Tracie now writes exclusively for Bethany House Publishers.
She teaches writing workshops at a variety of conferences on subjects such as inspirational romance and historical research.
Tracie was awarded the Romantic Times Career Achievement Award for 2007 Inspirational Fiction and her books have won numerous awards for favorite books in a variety of contests.
Making her home in Montana, this Kansas native enjoys spending time with family–especially her three grandchildren–Rainy, Fox and Max. She’s active in her church as the Director of Women’s Ministries, coordinates a yearly writer’s retreat for published authors, and travels, as time permits, to research her books.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
As the lone female in a houseful of men, Merrill Krause dedicates her life to caring for her family and their business, as her dying mother asked. Besides, it suits her; she’s never felt like she fits what most people expect in a girl–she’d rather work with her father’s horses and assist with the ice harvest. And though she’s been mostly content up to this point, a part of her wonders if there will ever be anyone who will notice her amid the bevy of brothers determined to protect her from any possible suitors.
When Rurik Jorgenson arrives in their small Minnesota town to join his uncle’s carpentry business, he soon crosses paths with Merrill. But unlike other men, who are often frightened away by her older brothers, Rurik isn’t intimidated by them or by Merrill’s strength and lack of femininity. The attraction between them begins to build…until Rurik’s former fiance shows up with wild claims that bring serious consequences to Rurik.
Can Rurik and Merrill learn to trust God–and each other–when scandal threatens their newfound love?
If you would like to read the first chapter of Icecutter’s Daughter, go HERE.
MY REVIEW:
The Icecutter’s Daughter is a warm, lovely historical romance set in the wilds of icy Minnesota. Merrill is a strong young woman accustomed to working side-by-side with her father and brothers in the ice fields. A natural with the family horses, Merrill is also widely known for her cooking skills. She dreams of a husband and children of her own but believes that men are only attracted to the petite frilly women she sees in town. When Rurik Jorgenson shows up to help his ailing uncle, Merrill is surprised at the immediate attraction she feels and even more surprised that he seems to feel the same. Naturally the course of romance could not run smoothly so numerous complications arise to interfere with its progression.
I always enjoy a novel by Tracie Peterson because she never fails to keep me entertained with a good story populated with compelling characters and she always manages to inform me with unique historical facts of which I have little former knowledge. I loved learning about life in turn-of-the-century Minnesota where men made a good living cutting ice for those in warmer states. I also enjoyed the interaction between the characters, particularly one conversation between Merrill and her father. As expected, a strong message of faith permeates the pages of The Icecutter’s Daughter with a heavy emphasis on forgiveness.
by admin | Feb 8, 2013 | Books, Historical, Romance
February, 2013
Dear Readers,
I cannot believe how quickly the time has gone by since I signed the contract with Abingdon Press for this series in 2010. So many of my readers have been in touch with me about this next book, expressing their anticipation to find out what happens next and how I conclude the series. I think Beyond the Valley is my favorite out of the three. Sarah seemed to resonate with me on so many levels. She is a wife and expectant mother, a loyal friend, a grieving widow. Her faith is shown in a way relevant to the times she lived in, not just a Sunday Christian, but a virtuous woman whose daily walk with God required ultimate trust, though her trials cause her to question. I hope for those who have read books 1 and 2 in the series will read Beyond the Valley to discover how Sarah came to River Run and the many trials she faced and the love she finds in a compassionate physician, Alex Hutton.
Visit Rita’s Website HERE.
Join Rita on Facebook HERE.
Beyond the Valley, the final book in The Daughters of the Potomac series.
When Sarah Carr’s husband Jamie drowns, her young life is shattered and takes a turn that she never expected. Pregnant and widowed, she reaches out to Jamie’s family for help, but they are unwilling. Instead they devise a plan to have her kidnapped through deception and taken to the Colonies to live a life of servitude.
In Virginia, Sarah is auctioned to a kindly gentleman to serve his eccentric wife. After she meets Dr. Alex Hutton, and is loaned to him to help with his orphaned nieces,hope comes alive he will find a way to free her. But when The Woodhouses go bankrupt and sell off all they own, Sarah is sent away. She faces hardships in the wilderness, and is soon surrounded by a family’s whirlwind of secrets, praying the young doctor she loves will find her again and bring her freedom.
Praise for ‘Beyond the Valley’
Beyond the Valley is a delightful escape of adventure and romance and a sweeping saga of tragedy and hope that you won’t want to miss!(5 Stars) MaryLu Tyndall, author of the Surrender to Destiny Series
Creating characters with intense realism and compassion is one of Gerlach’s gifts. Her books typically involve dramatic situations, giving her characters a chance to rise above their adversity. Beyond the Valley is a shining example of that, reminding us that we are never forsaken. This is the third in the Daughters of the Potomac series. Sarah’s character was introduced in the first novel, Before the Scarlet Dawn, and now she has her own heart-wrenching story that takes us from England to Virginia and Maryland. The historic setting is vividly descriptive, bringing the story to life, almost becoming a character unto itself. You may shed some tears, but you’ll come away with deep contentment and satisfaction of a story well told. (Review in RT (Romantic Times) Book Reviews Magazine – 4 stars)
Book 3 in the Daughters of the Potomac series, ‘Beyond the Valley, is available in ebook and paperback in all fine bookstores.
Purchase a copy of Beyond the Valley at AmazonHERE.
Buy the entire series from Christianbooks.com HERE.
by admin | Feb 5, 2013 | Books, Historical, Romance, Texas, Western
MY REVIEW:
I first became a fan of Colleen Coble when I read her contemporary Rock Harbor suspense series. Since that time I have enjoyed ready many more of her novels ranging from contemporary to historical settings, all of which have the shared traits of a good mystery/suspense and romance. So as a fan of westerns, suspense, and historical romance and my past enjoyment of Colleen’s books, “Safe In His Arms” was sure to be a pleasure.
As expected, the characters were top-notch with strong but sensitive and beautiful heroine Margaret who carried a somewhat skewed self-image and found it difficult to trust others. Hero Daniel Cutter was an unwelcome addition to Margaret’s daily routine but she found herself attracted to him despite some suspicious conversations she overheard. Because of his own secrets, Daniel was determined to fight his growing attraction to Margaret. Mysterious and vicious attacks on the O’Brien spread, a disappearance, and even death kept the plot moving with plenty of action, danger, lots of suspects, and even a red herring or two. Several twists and surprises were in store that kept me from guessing the identity of the villain until the very end.
I will stop here before I give away the entire story. I really liked the characters of Margaret and Daniel and it was fun to revisit Lucy and Nate from “Blue Moon Promise”. Colleen Coble’s books just keep getting better as far as I’m concerned. Do yourself a favor and give “Safe in His Arms” a try if you are not already a fan.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Under Texas Stars series (Book 2)
Margaret suspects the new foreman on her father’s ranch is hiding something. Though Daniel promises she’s safe with him around, how can she be sure?
Born and raised on a sprawling ranch in Texas, Margaret O’Brien prides herself on her competence as a rancher. She’s convinced she can do as good a job on the ranch as her brother who died in the war. But her father believes she’s made for more than just dawn-to-dusk work. He wants her to have the love of a good man, to have children, to build a life. But she gave up hope for such dreams years ago. The ranch is her life now.
When Margaret’s father hires Daniel Cutler as a new foreman, she’s frustrated and suspicious. Daniel swears he’s turned over a new leaf and isn’t involved with the thieves he used to run with, but Margaret is unconvinced. When she finds out he’s an undercover Texas Ranger, sparks fly. Can she help Daniel extricate his younger brother who is still involved? And can Daniel convince her he’s the safe haven he’s promised for her heart?
Purchase a copy here.
Learn more about Book 1, Blue Moon Promise here.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Colleen Coble is the author of more than forty books, most of them bestsellers. Some of her most recent novels are Lonestar Angel, The Lightkeeper’s Ball, Blue Moon Promise, an Anathema, an Amish suspense. One of her most popular series is the Rock Harbor mystery series featuring Bree and Samson, a search-and-rescue dog team. She has won the Carol Award numerous times as well as romance and mystery awards. She lives in Wabash, Indiana, with her husband, Dave.
For more of Colleen Coble, check out her website: http://www.colleencoble.com/
