by admin | May 13, 2012 | Books, Gilded Age, Historical, Revell, Romance
MY REVIEW:
“The Pursuit of Lucy Banning” gives readers an inside look at the lives of the wealthy residents of exclusive Prairie Avenue of Chicago during the late 1800’s just prior to the opening of the World’s Fair. As the gilded age is nearing its end, lifestyles are indulgent among the rich with heavy emphasis on their social standing. Making the proper marriage connection is of utmost importance within the upper class.
Lucy Banning is the only daughter of one of the Prairie Avenue families. She has been groomed to marry the son of her parents’ best friends for most of her life. As Lucy is pressured to set a wedding date and spend her time planning the event, she is much too involved with her secret college class and her orphanage work, the true loves of her life. When she meets her brother’s friend Will, she realizes that she loves Daniel like a brother and can never marry him. His resistance to her decision and his increasingly unusual behavior haunts her every move. A subplot that features a new maid in the Banning household adds extra interest to the story and just might be the lead-in to the next installment of this series.
“The Pursuit of Lucy Banning” has just the right blend of drama, romance, and even a bit of suspense. The neighborhood of Prairie Avenue was so well described that I could imagine walking down the street and viewing the marvelous architecture of the homes there. Lucy was a strong character with many redeeming qualities, especially her tender heart toward those less fortunate than herself. Will was the perfect match for her even if he didn’t measure up to her family’s social standards.
I very much enjoyed my brief look into the world of the rich and famous of Chicago and a lifestyle that no longer exists. I can’t wait for the next book of the series.
This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Riveting Story of Love, Wealth & Secrets as Historic Chicago Prepares for 1893 World’s Fair
Marshall Field, Henry Studebaker, Pullman, Kimball, Glessner, Bissell, Armour and Rothschild— these names add up to business inventiveness and unbounded wealth in turn-of-the-century Chicago – but changing social classes are threatening the luxury of the elite Prairie Avenue, the playground for the rich and powerful. Olivia Newport introduces readers to a world of luxurious mansions, secrets and forbidden love in the Windy City.
Set on Prairie Avenue, The Pursuit of Lucy Banning gives an inside look to the rich and powerful on the eve of the 1893 World’s Fair in the Windy City. Olivia Newport transports readers to a time of opulence in the first installment in the Avenue of Dreams series.
Lucy Banning may live among Chicago’s rich and famous, but her heart lies elsewhere. Expected to marry an up-and-coming banker from a respected family, Lucy fears she will be forced to abandon her charity work–and the classes she is secretly taking at the newly opened University of Chicago. When she meets an unconventional young architect who is working on plans for the upcoming 1893 World’s Fair, Lucy imagines a life lived on her own terms. Can she break away from her family’s expectations? And will she ever be loved for who she truly is?
From lavish upper-class homes to the well-worn rooms of an orphanage, Newport breathes life and romance into the pages of history–and everyone is invited.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Olivia Newport‘s novels twist through time to discover where faith and passions meet. Her husband and two twenty-something children provide welcome distraction from the people stomping through her head on their way into her books. She chases joy in stunning Colorado at the foot of the Rockies, where day lilies grow as tall as she is.
by admin | Apr 30, 2012 | Books, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
Featuring the daughters of sisters Esme and Jinx from the first volume of The Daughters of Fortune series, “Baroness” continues the saga of the Price family into the “roaring twenties”. The story follows Lily and Rosie from Paris to New York and across the U.S. as they search for love and meaning for their lives. Their search takes each of them in different directions but both have a similar emptiness they are trying to fill. Raised in homes with stepfathers, neither has opened up enough to realize the love that was waiting for them to acknowledge. “Baroness” chronicles the crazy and dangerous choices made by both Lily and Rosie that have lasting effects on their lives as they endeavor to fill the emptiness inside.
Much of this novel was emotionally wrenching as I found myself wanting to warn Rosie and Lily about the choices they were making and the people with whom they chose to become involved – especially Rosie. It was difficult to watch as they blindly and desperately made rash decisions even as the family who loved them tried to help them see the truth. Although “Baroness” was not an overly spiritual novel, there were several scenes where different characters tried to share their faith with one of the girls. With complex characters and an emotional and dramatic storyline, “Baroness” kept me engrossed until the very end.
As always, I recommend “Baroness” as well as any other book written by Susan May Warren. She is one of my all-time favorites. Although “Baroness” can stand alone quite well, “Heiress” the first book of the series provides a background story that will add to the reader’s enjoyment.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Baroness – Book Two in the Daughters of Fortune series
Lily and Rose, daughters of an empire coming of age in the roaring twenties, can have anything they want … except freedom.
Expected to marry well and to take the reins of the empire, they have their lives planned out for them. But, Lily, Esme’s daughter longs to return home to Montana, to adventure outside the confines of New York City. And Jinx’s daughter Rosie dreams of the bright lights of the newly emerging silver screen. But following their dreams – from avant garde France, to Broadway, to the skies in the world of barnstormers and wing-walkers will take all their courage.
And if they find love, will they choose freedom or happily ever after?
Find out more from Behind the Pages: http://www.susanmaywarren.com/books/baroness
Purchase a copy of Baroness HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Susan May Warren is the RITA award-winning novelist of over thirty novels. A five-time Christy award finalist, a two-time RITA Finalist, she’s also a multi-winner of the Inspirational Readers Choice award, and the ACFW Carol Award.
A seasoned women’s events speaker, she’s a popular writing teacher at conferences around the nation and the author of the beginning writer’s workbook: From the Inside-Out: discover, create and publish the novel in you!.
She is also the founder of www.MyBookTherapy.com, a story-crafting service that helps authors discover their voice. You can find her online at www.susanmaywarren.com.
Praise for the series:
“In-depth characterization and fascinating historical detail… an honest reflection of sin and the need for God’s redemption.” –TitleTrakk
“Strong entertaining, character-driven historical that will remind readers all that glitters on Wall St. is not gold… Riveting read of high society drama…highly recommended.” –Midwest Book Review
Baroness Roaring 20s Kindle Fire Giveaway from @SusanMayWarren!
Find out what the reviewers are saying here!
Expected to marry well and to take the reins of the family empire, they have their lives planned out for them. But following their dreams — from avant garde France, to Broadway, to the skies in the world of barnstormers and wing-walkers — will take all their courage. And if they find love, will they choose freedom or happily ever after?
Celebrate with Susan by entering her Roaring 20s Giveaway!
One grand prize winner will receive:
- A Kindle Fire
- Signed copies of Baroness and Heiress by Susan May Warren
But hurry, the giveaway ends on 5/7/12. The winner will be announced on 5/9/12 on Susan’s blog, Scribbles!
Just click one of the icons below to enter! Tell your friends about Susan’s giveaway on FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning.
by admin | Apr 16, 2012 | Books, Historical, Suspense, Titanic
MY REVIEW:
As the one hundredth anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic approaches, Kelsey Tate is positioned for success in the investment company founded by her great-grandmother Adele, a survivor of the disaster. Unfortunately, before Kelsey can rest on her laurels, Adele’s identity is brought into question and to make matters worse, Kelsey discovers a body in the conference room. With the value of the firm declining each day, a hostile takeover threatens the survival of the family business. With one obstacle after another hindering her progress, can Kelsey discover the answers she needs in time to avert another disaster? Can she overcome her pride and accept help from her former fiance when there is nowhere else to turn?
The story of Kelsey’s race against time and for her very life is skillfully interwoven with Adele’s experiences on the historic doomed Titanic voyage. With sufficient twists, turns, red herrings and surprises, “Echoes of Titanic” is a novel that will keep the reader on the edge of her seat as she frantically turns the pages to discover what happens next. This is one story where it is difficult to know the good guys from the bad guys so prepare to be fooled right along with Kelsey.
As always, Mindy Starns Clark has provided a satisfying suspense filled novel with a touch of romance. I heartily recommend it.
***Special thanks to Karri James Harvest House Publishers of for sending me a review copy.***
by admin | Apr 16, 2012 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
“The Discovery” is one of those story within a story books that sometimes work but often do not. When I realized it was going in that direction I had my doubts but Dan Walsh made it work. Walsh is a master of capturing human emotions which makes it so easy for his readers to identify with his characters and their experiences.
“The Discovery” is difficult to review without giving away too much and spoiling the story for other readers. Primary character is Michael Warner who has just inherited his grandfather’s home in Charleston. His grandfather, a very successful and well-known author, was also a private man who was much loved by his family – but even his family knew nothing about the details of his life before his marriage. Michael’s delight upon discovering an old but unpublished manuscript in his grandfather’s office soon turns to wonder as he realizes exactly what he is reading.
The manuscript is the center of “The Discovery” and the reader not only has the opportunity to read it along with Michael but is also privy to his reactions. Set on the Florida coast during World War 2, the manuscript contains a story of intrigue as well as a beautifully touching love story. The circumstances are such that the reader can see no possibility of a happy ending but at the same time cannot give up hope all the way to the end.
A wonderful story of what if’s, “The Discovery” highlights some of the best of human integrity, loyalty, and faith. It was a delight to read and I wholeheartedly recommend it for both men and women.
This book was provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Laced with suspense and intrigue, The Discovery is a richly woven novel that explores the incredible sacrifices that must be made to forge the love of a lifetime. Author Dan Walsh delivers yet another unique and heartfelt story that will stick with readers long after they turn the last page.
The Discovery tells the story of Michael Warner, whose grandfather, literary giant Gerard Warner, leaves him his Charleston estate. An aspiring writer himself, Michael settles in to write his own first novel and discovers an unpublished manuscript his grandfather had written, something he’d kept hidden from everyone but clearly intended Michael to find. Michael begins to read an exciting tale about Nazi spies and sabotage, but something about this story is different from all of Gerard Warner’s other books. It’s actually a love story.
As Michael delves deeper into the story he discovers something that has the power to change not only his future but his past as well.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Dan Walsh is the award-winning author of The Unfinished Gift, The Homecoming, The Deepest Waters and Remembering Christmas. He lives with his family in the Daytona Beach area, where he’s busy researching and writing his next novel. Visit www.danwalshbooks.com for more information.
Endorsements for Dan Walsh:
“The Discovery is a masterful bit of storytelling. It is, above all else, a love story for the ages, one of sacrifice and devotion that will leave readers with a renewed passion for their loved ones.”
– New York Journal of Books
“Walsh demonstrates that, like Nicholas Sparks, men are capable of writing romantic fiction.”
– RT Book Reviews
Thrilling, romantic and intriguing. In The Discovery, Dan Walsh takes a fascinating sidebar of World War II history and crafts a suspenseful, beautifully written, and deeply satisfying story. This is his best novel yet!”
– Sarah Sundin, award-winning author of the Wings of Glory series
“You don’t often find a novel that appeals to men and women alike–but Walsh delivers one here! Taking you on a scavenger hunt leading to mystery, romance and intrigue, this book-within-a-book will tug at your heart and keep you in suspense. You’ll get so caught up in the WW2 thriller you’ll forget it’s also a contemporary story. A feel-good read that commemorates the courage, integrity and sacrifice of the ‘greatest generation.”
– Christianbook.com
by admin | Apr 3, 2012 | Books, Historical, Romance, Titanic
MY REVIEW:
I’ll be the first to admit that I never got around to seeing the movie “Titanic”. Why bother when we all know how that story ends – with the unsinkable ship going down and many lives lost. No, I’m not the type who wants to have a front row seat to tragedy that I know is coming. So you can imagine my lack of excitement to learn that 2012 is the one hundredth anniversary of the Titanic’s loss and that many publishers are cranking out novels to commemorate the occasion. Fortunately everyone does not have my lack of enthusiasm – at least three of my favorite authors have either published or will be publishing novels that feature the Titanic’s voyage. “By the Light of the Silvery Moon” just happens to be the first to be added to my review calendar.
Once I began reading “By the Light of the Silvery Moon”, I forgot my shameful attitude. The narrative immediately caught my attention and I actually stayed up until 2:00 a.m. to finish reading it before I could sleep. The author’s attention to historic details and her description of everything from food to clothing to furniture to how the ship was equipped made me feel like I could have been right there on the great ship. I could imagine the excitement of the passengers and see and hear their celebrations as they set out on the voyage of their lives.
The plot itself was amazing. I won’t go into detail about it – too many other reviewers have given away much of the plot. “By the Light of the Silvery Moon” tells a tale of several people whose destiny brought them together on that fateful voyage. A major theme of the story parallels the parable of the prodigal son down to the resentful older brother. Another element of the story involves a deliberate sacrificial choice. With an unexpected romance, themes of forgiveness and reconciliation, this novel focuses on the positive without making light of the enormity of the tragedy. Throughout the entire novel, Tricia Goyer has skillfully and powerfully pointed the reader to Christ.
So – despite my avoidance of all things Titanic, I will say that I thoroughly enjoyed “By the Light of the Silvery Moon” and would heartily recommend it. I probably still won’t watch the movie.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Amelia Gladstone’s hopes are tied up in the Titanic–hopes for a reunion with her sister and an introduction to an admirer. But when she offers a spare ticket to a down-and-out young man, her fate is about to change.
Quentin Walpole is stunned when a sweet lady secures his passage to America–and even more surprised to find his wealthy father and older brother on board the ship. Suddenly Amelia finds herself caught between the attentions of two men, but who should she entrust her heart to? As the fateful night arrives, will Amelia lose everything to the icy waters?
Watch the video Trailer:
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Tricia Goyer is the award winning author of thirty-two books including Beside Still Waters, Remembering You, and the mommy memoir, Blue Like Play Dough. Tricia is a regular speaker at conventions and conferences and is the host of Living Inspired. She and her family make their home in Little Rock, Arkansas where they are part of the ministry of FamilyLife.
More info:
Purchase a copy of “By the Light of the Silvery Moon” HERE.
PRIZE PACK AND TITANIC PARTY:
Win an Flip HD Camcorder during @TriciaGoyer’s Unsinkable Titanic Giveaway and RSVP for 4/10 Titanic Party!
Celebrate the release of By the Light of the Silvery Moon with Tricia by entering her giveaway and RSVPing to her Titanic party.
One “unsinkable” winner will receive:
- Flip HD video Camera (Make your own dramatic saga!)
- Titanic movies from the ages {Titanic (1953) Unsinkable Molly Brown (1964), Titanic (1997)}
- Secrets of the Titanic (Get the facts from National Geographic.)
- And the Band Played On (Music Played on the Titanic.)
- By the Light of the Silvery Moon by Tricia Goyer (Be swept away in this tale of love and courage.)
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on April 9th. Winner will be announced at “Silvery Moon” Titanic Facebook Party on 4/10. Tricia will be hosting an author chat (on Facebook and Live from her website) and giving away books, gift certificates and a book club prize pack! (Ten copies of the book for your small group or book club). During the live chat Tricia will have a *special guest* join her. More details coming soon!
So grab your copy of By the Light of the Silvery Moon and join Tricia on the evening of the April 10th for a fun chat, trivia contest (How much do you know about the Titanic?) and lots of giveaways.
Don’t miss a moment of the fun. RSVP today and tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 10th!
by admin | Mar 31, 2012 | Books, Historical, Romance, Western
MY REVIEW:
I am a sucker for a good western romance novel so when Jessica Nelson asked if I would review her new book “Love on the Range” I naturally agreed even though my calendar was filling with other review obligations and the threat of potential jury duty was looming. I am so glad that I didn’t turn her down.
“Love on the Range” can take its deserved place among some of the best books I’ve read in awhile. Not only does this appear to be Jessica’s first novel but it is also one of those much maligned mass market paperbacks published by Harlequin. As far as I’m concerned, the quality of the books in any of the Love Inspired categories has improved dramatically. “Love on the Range” can stand proudly next to many of the trade paper novels published today.
The realities of life during World War 1 and the terrible influenza pandemic of that era were realistically portrayed. The isolation of the Oregon ranch and the constant threat of the slave traders kept just the right amount of tension throughout the story. I loved the characters. Gracie was opinionated, spunky, and stronger than she thought and she had a true love for Christ and a heart of compassion. Trevor was the perfect hero – loyal and true to the core but emotionally conflicted about his own worthiness. Uncle Lou and Mary were interesting enough that I would like to hear more of their story (hope there will be a sequel). A strong and uncompromised message of faith was woven throughout the story but was not at all preachy.
I can’t think of a thing I didn’t like about “Love on the Range” except that it ended much too soon. I look forward to more books from this promising new author.
A complimentary copy of this book was provided for review by the author.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Any other socialite would view being packed off to a remote Oregon ranch as a punishment. But Gracelyn Riley knows that this is her opportunity to become a real reporter. If she can make her name through an interview with the elusive hero known as Striker, then she’ll never have to depend on anyone ever again.
Rancher Trevor Cruz can’t believe his secret identity is being endangered by an overly chatty city girl. But if there’s one thing he knows, it’s that Gracie’s pretty little snooping nose is bound to get her in trouble. So he’ll use her determination to find “Striker” to keep an eye on her…and stick close by her side.
Read an excerpt from “Love on the Range” HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
In keeping with her romantic inclinations, Jessica Nelson married two days after she graduated high school.
She believes romance happens every day, and thinks the greatest, most intense romance comes from a God who woos people to himself with passionate tenderness.
When Jessica is not chasing her three beautiful, wild little boys around the living room, she can be found staring into space as she plots her next story. Or she might be daydreaming about a raspberry mocha from Starbucks. Or thinking about what kind of chocolate she should have for dinner that night. She could be thinking of any number of things, really. One thing is for certain, she is blessed with a wonderful family and a lovely life.
Jessica loves connecting with readers so feel free to hit her up on her blog, Facebook, Goodreads or Twitter.
