by admin | Mar 6, 2012 | Books, Historical, Romance, Texas, Western
MY REVIEW:
Lucy’s life cannot get any worse. After her father’s recent accidental death, she and her younger step-siblings were abandoned by her step-mother. On the very day that Lucy lost her job, she also received notice that she had less than a week to vacate her home. To top that off a threatening visit from her mother’s boyfriend and an attempted break-in placed Lucy and the children in an extremely vulnerable position. An offer from a total stranger who claimed to be her father’s friend seemed to be the answer to prayer. The only catch was that she had to marry his son by proxy and travel to Texas to take her place as his wife.
With a beginning like that and my familiarity with Coble’s earlier novels, my expectations for a great read were high. “Blue Moon Promise” met my expectations and more. As can be expected, Nate was not very receptive to having a wife brought home to him by his dad and his first impression of Lucy was not favorable. During much of the story Lucy did everything she could to prove to Nate that she could meet his requirements but never felt like she could ever attain her goal. Unknown to her, Nate had been quickly won over by her spunk, determination, and her big heart – and he had fallen head over heels for the children.
With plenty of action, a touch of mystery, a bit of humor, and a huge dose of romance, “Blue Moon Promise” is sure to please. Coble’s skill at creating a background for her stories had me experiencing everything right along with Lucy from the dust and smells and noise of cattle roundup and branding to all the other aspects of life on a Texas ranch and the nearby small town. I fear that I’ve already given away too much about this book. I encourage you to read it for yourself if you enjoy historical romance – especially if you like those with old West settings.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Book Number One in the Under Texas Stars series
A love like Lucy and Nate’s only comes along once in a blue moon . . .
Lucy Marsh’s worldly resources are running out, but she’s fiercely determined to care for her younger brother and sister. When she discovers that their father’s recent death was no accident, Lucy is eager to leave town. She accepts a proxy marriage she believes will provide safe refuge. But trouble follows her to Texas where her new husband is surprised to suddenly have a wife and children to care for.
Nate Stanton always hoped he’d marry someday, but running the family ranch meant he had no time for romance. When his father deposits Lucy Marsh—a city girl—on his doorstep, with two siblings in the bargain, he expects ranch life will send her running on the first train out of town. But Lucy is made of tougher stuff than Nate imagined. When danger moves in, Nate finds he’d give anything to protect Lucy and the children he’s grown to love. Even if it means giving up his ranch.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Best-selling author Colleen Coble’s novels have won or finaled in awards ranging from the Best Books of Indiana, ACFW Book of the Year, RWA’s RITA, the Holt Medallion, the Daphne du Maurier, National Readers’ Choice, and the Booksellers Best. She has nearly 2 million books in print and writes romantic mysteries because she loves to see justice prevail. Colleen is CEO of American Christian Fiction Writers and is a member of Romance Writers of America. She lives with her husband Dave in Indiana.
For more about Colleen and her other books visit www.colleencoble.com
Purchase a copy of Blue Moon Promise HERE.
FACEBOOK PARTY:
Blue Moon Promise is a story of hope, romance, and suspense . . . immersing the reader in a rich historical tale set under Texas stars.
To celebrate Colleen is teaming up with her publisher Thomas Nelson for a “Blue Moon Promise” Facebook Chat party where she will giveaway a KINDLE Fire and a Texas-sized gift basket (fabulous Texas treats and fun Lucy-inspired housekeeping products)!
Click the banner, RSVP today for the Facebook Party and mark the date on your calendar!
Invite your friends and don’t miss Colleen’s evening of chat, trivia, prizes, and more.
Kindle Giveaway and More! Save the Date – 3/13!
by admin | Mar 6, 2012 | Books, Historical, Romance, Texas, Western
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingChasing The SunBethany House Publishers (March 1, 2012)byTracie PetersonABOUT 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:
When her father disappears in war-torn Mississippi, Hannah Dandridge finds herself responsible not only for her younger siblings but for the ranch her father recently acquired on the Texas plains. Though a marriage of convenience could ease her predicament, she determines to trust God for direction.
Wounded soldier William Barnett returns to his home only to discover that his family’s ranch has been seized. Though angry and bitter at this turn of events, he’s surprised to discover that it is a beautiful young woman with amazing fortitude who is struggling to keep the place running.
Hannah, desperate for help, and William, desperate to regain his family’s land, form an uneasy truce. But nearby Comanche tribes, the arrival of Confederate soldiers, and a persistent suitor all threaten the growing attraction that builds between them. Will they be able to set aside their own dreams and embrace the promise of a future together?
If you would like to read the first chapter of Chasing The Sun, go HERE.
To learn more about Tracie and her books on her website.
MY REVIEW:
Chasing The Sun is classic Tracie Peterson and is filled with all the characteristics that have kept me reading her books for years. I love how her characters are realistically flawed, each with their own blend of strengths and weaknesses that make it easy for me to identify with them. Her stories and their settings make history come to life.
In Chasing The Sun, both Hannah and William have their share of problems and pain but they do not let it stop them from doing the right thing for others including members of a Comanche tribe who are in need of their help. Despite the fact that Hannah and William both lay claim to the same ranch property, perhaps it is their very similar values and outlook on life that creates a mutual attraction. The only question is whether they can overcome all the obstacles in their way and find out if they are meant to be together or possibly even survive.
Set in Texas during the Civil War, Chasing The Sun illustrates life during that era including attitudes and the deprivations that result from war. The story includes some action, a bit of mystery, and a good romance that develops naturally and slowly. Spiritual content is genuine and believable. I recommend Chasing The Sun as well as any other book Tracie Peterson has written. Of course I have my favorites but in my opinion you can’t go wrong with Peterson’s novels.
by admin | Mar 3, 2012 | Books, Historical, Nautical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
“Heart’s Safe Passage” jumps right into action with Phoebe Lee’s abduction as she is forced to accompany her sister-in-law aboard an English privateer bound to rescue her imprisoned husband. There is much more to this story than first meets the eye as one by one, hidden motives and secrets are revealed. Phoebe and the ship’s captain Rafe Docherty both have buried pain and unforgiveness that must be dealt with if they are ever to move on with life. Their unexpected attraction complicates all their plans and a future together seems impossible.
Although not a “pirate” story, “Heart’s Safe Passage” has it’s share of swashbuckling scenes with sea battles, storms, mutiny, murder, and daring rescues. The developing romance between Phoebe and Rafe is well done and Rafe’s daughter adds the perfect counterpoint to all the drama. The spiritual aspect of the narrative was well integrated and concluded perfectly. The scenes aboard the ship were so well done that I could almost feel the roll of the deck and the spray in my face.
This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Laurie Alice Eakes writes a stirring tale of love, intrigue, and adventure on the high seas. In book 2 of The Midwives series,you will feel the salt spray and the rolling waves as you make the journey with these vivid characters on the treacherous path toward redemption.
It’s 1813 and all Phoebe Lee wants out of life is to practice midwifery in Loudon County, Virginia. When Belinda, her pregnant sister-in-law, presses Phoebe to accompany her onto a British privateer in order to cross the Atlantic and save her husband from an English prison, Phoebe tries to refuse, then finds herself kidnapped.
Captain Rafe Docherty is a man in search of revenge. His ship is no place for women, but he needs Belinda in order to obtain information about the man who destroyed his family and his life. Between Belinda’s whining and Phoebe’s hostility, Rafe can’t help but wonder if he made the right choice.
When it becomes apparent there is an enemy among them on the ship, the stakes are raised. Will they reach the shores of England in time? Can love and forgiveness overcome vengeance?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Laurie Alice Eakes is the author of Lady in the Mist, A Necessary Deception, and several other novels. She won a National Readers Choice Award for Best Regency in 2007 for Family Guardian. Laurie Alice writes full-time from her home in Texas, where she lives with her husband and sundry dogs and cats.
Learn more about Laurie and her books on her website.
ENDORSEMENTS:
“In her delightful and descriptive style, author Laurie Alice Eakes has once again crafted a story that will capture readers’ hearts from the first page. Her tales are both exciting and tender, and her characters speak to us right where they are, despite the different cultural and time settings. Heart’s Safe Passage may well be her greatest offering to date.”–Kathi Macias, author of Deliver Me from Evil and A Christmas Journey Home
“I’m still thinking about the characters in Heart’s Safe Passage, the new novel from Laurie Alice Eakes. Her turn of phrase and twist of a plot had me smiling long after the last page was turned. Eakes has crafted a don’t-miss story. Well done!”–Kathleen Y’Barbo, author of The Inconvenient Marriage of Charlotte Beck
“Available February 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”
by admin | Mar 3, 2012 | Books, England, Historical, Ireland, Regency, Romance
MY REVIEW:
“The Guardian Duke” is a light Regency romance novel that is quickly read. It contains an interesting blend of characters and a unique but mysterious plot that reminded me of a fairytale at times. Some of the characters were very well developed while I was left wanting to know more about others.
Despite the fact that what little romance there was took place in the minds of Gabriel and Alexandria based on their somewhat limited correspondence; Alex’s tendency to lie about most everything; and the way several men miraculously happened along at just the right time to protect her and to help her with her quest, I still found the story entertaining. I was surprised by the ending which had no real resolution but left me wanting more (like a good soap opera). Guess I will have to wait for the release of “The Forgiven Duke” and “The Duke’s Promise” to get the rest of the story. I would really like to know what caused Gabriel’s bouts of deafness, dizziness, nausea, and vision symptoms. Hopefully that will be explained before the series ends.
“The Guardian Duke” is a good book if you are in the mood for a light and entertaining read. If you are looking for more meat, you should probably look elsewhere.
This book was provided for review by Angie LoSchiavo with Propeller Consulting.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
The Guardian Duke is award-winning novelist Jamie Carie’s most exciting story yet, a uniquely arranged Regency-era romantic adventure where hero and heroine know each other through written letters but have yet to meet.
Gabriel, the Duke of St. Easton, is ordered by the King to take guardianship over Lady Alexandria Featherstone whose parents are presumed dead after failing to return from a high profile treasure hunt. But Alexandria ignores this royal reassignment, believing her parents are still alive and duly following clues that may lead to their whereabouts. Gabriel, pressured by what are actually the King’s ulterior motives, pursues her across windswept England and the rolling green hills of Ireland but is always one step behind.
When they do meet, the search for earthly treasure will pale in comparison to what God has planned for both of them.
Preview The Guardian Duke HERE.
Read the USA Today review HERE.
Purchase a copy of The Guardian Duke HERE.
Check out The Guardian Duke on Facebook.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
When she was six, Jamie’s parents met Jesus and soon after started a church. It changed everything.
Road trips with her dad—to and from Bible studies across Indiana—were filled with talks of things beyond earth’s bounds – creation and the fall, God and Jesus and the rapture, the earthly walk compared to the spiritual walk, and how we are born for more than what we can see or touch.
The highlight of those nights was stopping at a truck stop in the middle of the night where her dad would spend a little of the offering basket on two slices of pie and a couple of Cokes. Nothing ever felt so special as a middle of the night slice of pie with her dad. And nothing could stop the writing pouring out of her.
As Jamie’s relationship with God grew, she discovered her heart was filled with songs and poetry. During high school she wrote lyrics for her brother’s band. (And she sang them too!) After college, Jamie married, had two sons and decided to stay home with them. While she homeschooled she wrote skits, poems, plays and short stories for school and church.
When her eldest son turned five she dove into the world of novels. She’d read romance novels for years, but couldn’t relate to the flawless, saintly heroines in Christian romance novels. So she decided to write her own.
Snow Angel was born on a frosty night in an old farmhouse in Fishers, Indiana, where the cold floor gave plenty of motivation for the snow scene. Jamie loves to write late at night when the house is quiet and the darkness seems alive. Elizabeth and Noah had been playacting in herhead for a long time, so the story went fast.
Ten years later Snow Angel was published and won the ForeWord magazine Romance Book of the Year winner, was a National “Best Books 2007” Awards winner, and a 2008 RITA Awards® Best First Book finalist. It was the beginning of her dream career.
Jamie and her husband Tony have been married for twenty-one years and live in Indianapolis with their three sons and a giant of a dog named Leo.
If she could only say one thing to her readers it would be, “Live the dreams God has destined you for!”
Learn more about Jamie and her books on her website.
by admin | Feb 25, 2012 | Books, Civil War, Historical, Romance, Tearjerker, Western
MY REVIEW:
When pastor Adair felt called by God to leave his Virginia home to minister to the western town of Grand Couer in the Idaho territory, his loving and obedient daughter accompanied him. Unhappy with leaving the comfortable and refined life she was accustomed to in her lifelong home, Shannon had some difficulty adjusting to the rough and rowdy customs of her new home and also had difficulty hiding her negative attitude about it. Matthew Dubois, a Wells Fargo stagecoach driver, thrives on the adrenaline from driving at top speed. He cannot imagine any other profession and realizes that there is no place for a wife or children in the life he has chosen. When his widowed sister and her young son move in with him so that she can recover from an illness, he gradually becomes attached to them and to Shannon who has stepped in to help care for his sister who is more seriously ill than he believed.
As usual, Robin Lee Hatcher has penned a story that kept me turning the pages until I reached the end. I enjoyed reading about Shannon’s personal growth and her spiritual journey and watching as Matthew transformed from an independent and solitary soul to a loving family man. Alice’s faith in the midst of her suffering was inspiring and her son Todd was adorable. With a well paced plot and a storyline that included interesting historical facts pertinent to the location and era, “Heart of Gold” also included plenty of action, suspense, humor, a satisfying romance, and at least one moving scene that called for a box of tissues close at hand. A mystery involving stagecoach robberies and their connection to the war added an extra dimension to the story. I also want to say that the cover art for this book is just gorgeous. I felt like it expressed the them of the book perfectly.
I thoroughly enjoyed “Heart of Gold” and would recommend it to all who enjoy historical romance novels. I sincerely hope that it will be the first of a series because I hated for it to end.
This book was provided for review by Thomas Nelson Publisher’s BookSneeze program.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Against Shannon’s wishes, love stakes its claim in her heart. Will she discover treasure or treachery?
When Shannon Adair accompanies her minister father to the western gold rush town of Grand Coeur, she’s certain she’ll never be happy away from her beloved Virginia, even though the South is still gripped in civil war.
Wells Fargo driver Matthew Dubois isn’t sure the lovely Shannon belongs in Idaho Territory either, but he is a desperate man. His widowed sister is dying and leaving her young son, Todd, in his care. Matthew wants to return to driving coach for the express company soon—so he’ll have to find a wife to look after the boy when he’s away.
Shannon is determined not to lose her heart to a man who is neither a Southerner nor a gentleman. But love stakes its claim. Now, will her heart survive learning the truth behind the courtship?
Read an excerpt from “Heart of Gold” HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Best-selling novelist Robin Lee Hatcher is known for her heartwarming and emotionally charged stories of faith, courage, and love. She discovered her vocation after many years of reading everything she could put her hands on, including the backs of cereal boxes and ketchup bottles. The winner of the Christy Award for Excellence in Christian Fiction, the RITA Award for Best Inspirational Romance, two RT Career Achievement Awards, and the RWA Lifetime Achievement Award, Robin is the author of over 60 novels.
Robin enjoys being with her family, spending time in the beautiful Idaho outdoors, reading books that make her cry, and watching romantic movies. Several nights every summer, she can be found at the outdoor amphitheater of the Idaho Shakespeare Festival, enjoying plays under the stars. She makes her home on the outskirts of Boise, sharing it with Poppet, the high-maintenance Papillon, and Princess Pinky, the kitten who currently terrorizes the household.
Learn more about Robin and her books on her WEBSITE.
by admin | Feb 25, 2012 | Books, Historical, Revell, Romance, Suspense
MY REVIEW:
At first glance, “Words Spoken True” appears to be the usual historical romance novel. It is true that the book is set in historical mid-1800’s Louisville, Kentucky during an era of political unrest and adequate coverage is given to that aspect of the story. Another focus is the competition between two major newspapers in the city which includes many interesting details about the publishing business during that time period. And of course there is a special romance where Adriane Darcy, daughter of the Tribune’s owner finds herself attracted to Blake Garrett, editor of the competing Herald despite her engagement to another man. Every one of these factors should be enough to make “Words Spoken True” an excellent choice but the author has chosen to rev it up another notch by including a serial killer called the “river slasher” into the mix.
I pretty much liked everything about “Words Spoken True”. Characterization was excellent. Adriane was a great blend of spunky and feminine and didn’t back down from a challenge. Blake Garrett was the perfect hero, both strong and sensitive. I could easily visualize Louisville during that period because of the excellent descriptions. Although the plot had a somewhat slow start, it soon picked up speed and pulled me right along so that I didn’t want to put the book down. With plenty of action, suspense, and romance as well as multiple twists and surprises, the story also included a subtle spiritual theme. My only complaint is that I read too fast and it was over way too soon.
Available February 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Adriane Darcy was practically raised in her father’s newspaper offices. She can’t imagine life without the clatter of the press and the push to be first to write the news that matters. Their Tribune is the leading paper in Louisville in 1855. Then Blake Garrett, a brash young editor from the North with a controversial new style of reporting, takes over failing competitor the Herald, and the battle for readers gets fierce.
When Adriane and Blake meet at a benefit tea, their surprising mutual attraction is hard to ignore. Still, Blake is the enemy, and Adriane is engaged to the son of a powerful businessman who holds the keys to the Tribune’s future. Blake will stop at almost nothing to get the story- -and the girl. Can he do both before it’s too late?
Set against the volatile backdrop of political and civil unrest in 1850s Louisville, this exciting story of love and loyalty will hold readers in its grip until the very last page. Bestselling author Ann H. Gabhart once again delivers an enthralling and enduring tale for her loyal and ever-expanding fan base.
Read the first chapter of Words Spoken True HERE.
Endorsements:
“I’ve come to expect wonderful books from Ann Gabhart, and her latest historical romance, Words Spoken True, doesn’t disappoint. In this novel, Gabhart gives readers a peek into the lives of two news reporters–one a man and one a woman–both intent upon creating the best newspaper in Louisville, Kentucky. Amid unsolved murders, riots, and adversity, the ability to trust each other and trust God is put to the test. Gabhart weaves a story that is a page turner from beginning to end. This is one you’ll highly recommend to friends.”–
Judith Miller, author, Daughters of Amana series
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Ann H. Gabhart is the bestselling author of several novels, including Angel Sister, The Outsider, The Believer, The Seeker, and The Blessed. She lives with her husband a mile from where she was born in Kentucky.
