by admin | Apr 27, 2014 | Amish, Books, Romance
This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
The Amish Groom
Harvest House Publishers (April 1, 2014)byMindy Starns Clark
and
Susan MeissnerABOUT THE AUTHORS:
Mindy Starns Clark Mindy Starns Clark is the bestselling author of the inspirational Million Dollar Mysteries, the Smart Chick Mysteries, and three standalone mysteries, as well as the nonfiction books The House That Cleans Itself and A Pocket Guide to Amish Life. Her novels include A Penny for Your Thoughts, Don’t Take Any Wooden Nickels, A Dime a Dozen, A Quarter for a Kiss, The Buck Stops Here, The Trouble with Tulip, Blind Dates Can Be Murder, Elementary, My Dear Watkins, Whispers of the Bayou, Shadows of Lancaster County, and Under the Cajun Moon, plus other books!
Mindy is also the author of numerous plays and musicals which have been performed all over the United States. She has written textbooks, articles, short stories, and more than 75 computer software manuals. A former singer and stand-up comedian, Mindy lives with her husband and two teenage daughters near Valley Forge, PA. She enjoys speaking to churches, civic groups, and libraries across the country. Her unique blend of humor and insight make her an audience favorite.
Susan Meissner is a multi-published author, speaker, and writing workshop leader with a background in community journalism. Her novels include The Shape of Mercy, named by Publishers Weekly as one of the 100 Best Novels of 2008 and a Carol Award winner. She is a pastor’s wife and the mother of four young adults. When she’s not writing, Susan writes small group curriculum for her San Diego church. Visit Susan at her website: www.susanmeissner.com, on Twitter at @SusanMeissner, or at www.facebook.com/susan.meissner.
ABOUT THE BOOK
New from bestselling authors Mindy Starns Clark and Susan Meissner, The Amish Groom (Book 1 in The Men of Lancaster County series) explores the men of an Amish community in Lancaster County, how their Amish beliefs play out in their unique roles, and the women who change their lives.
Born to an ex-Amish mother and an Englisch father, 23-year-old Tyler Anderson was raised as a military kid until the age of 6, when his mom passed away. His dad, shipping off to yet another overseas post, placed Tyler in the care of his Amish grandparents, an arrangement that was supposed to be temporary. It lasted a lifetime.
Rachel Hoeck is the young woman waiting for Tyler’s proposal. She senses that though he loves her and wishes to make a commitment to her and his Amish beliefs, part of him still wonders whether an Amish lifestyle is truly for him.
When an opportunity to connect with his father unexpectedly arises, a visit to California causes Tyler to question everything, including a future with Rachel. Will the new girl in his life, Lark, cause him to remain in the Englisch world? Or will he choose to be an Amish groom after all?
A poignant novel of hoping for romance and searching for identity, set in a beloved Amish community.
If you would like to read the first chapter of The Amish Groom, go HERE.
by admin | Apr 21, 2014 | Books, Historical, Quilts, Romance, WWII
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingA Promise in PiecesAbingdon Press (April 15, 2014)byEmily T. WierengaABOUT THE AUTHOR:
A Word from the Author:
I’m Emily, and I’m honored and humbled to meet you, friend.
We’re all stumbling along on this journey and you can approach me about anything okay? I’m an open book, with dog-eared pages and a worn cover.
I’m mama to two boys, ages two and four, and married to a farm-boy-turned-math-teacher. We live in a small Dutch hamlet with three churches, one Co-Op and no stop lights. There are a lot of fields out here, there’s a lot of space and sky for breathing and running and writing.
We foster two boys in addition to our own two, and before I had kids, I took care of my Mum who had brain cancer. She fought back and has recovered, all glory to God, and my pastor-father still holds her hand while they go for daily walks.
I battled anorexia nervosa as a child, and then again as a newly married woman, and I write a lot about body image now and have a passion for women to learn to love themselves.
My husband and I have battled infertility and are currently trying to adopt our third child through the local Alberta government.
I hurt for the church, and believe in it, and pray for it, as I’ve grown up inside its walls and have heard its groanings.
I have a heart for Africa, particularly Uganda, and went there in January on a bloggers’ trip with World Help.
My favorite things to do are read literary novels, play guitar, snowboard, paint with oil and acrylics and hug my babies.
I am the author of two books on eating disorders, a novel releasing this spring, and a memoir coming out this summer.
I hope you’ll connect with me on FB: https://www.facebook.com/emilytwierenga, or if you prefer, Twitter: @emily_wierenga. I’d love to have a virtual glass of wine, or cup of coffee, with you.
Peace to you friends,
e.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
After the end of World War II, Clara Kirkpatrick returns from the Women’s Army Corp to deliver a dying soldier’s last wishes: convey his love to his young widow, Mattie, with apologies for the missed life they had planned to share.
Struggling with her own post-war trauma, Clara thinks she’s not prepared to handle the grief of this broken family. Yet upon meeting Mattie, and receiving a baby quilt that will never cuddle the soldier’s baby, Clara vows to honor the sacrifices that family made.
Now a labor and delivery nurse in her rural hometown, Clara wraps each new babe in the gifted quilt and later stitches the child’s name into the cloth. As each new child is welcomed by the quilt, Clara begins to wonder whatever happened to Mattie—and if her own life would ever experience the love of a newborn. Little does she know that she will have the opportunity to re-gift the special quilt—years later and carrying even greater significance than when it was first bestowed.
If you would like to read the first chapter of A Promise in Pieces, go HERE.
MY REVIEW:
The legacy of a special baby quilt is told to a grandson by Clara during a lengthy family road trip to New Orleans for a special purpose. Clara’s story fills most of the novel but snippets of the present add contrast to the tale. A Promise in Pieces was a sweet story that chronicled most of Clara’s life complete with moments of joy, loneliness, tragedy, and grief. The characters were painted with a realistic touch and I particularly enjoyed reading about the loving relationship between Clara and her grandson. The story was well-written and should appeal to all who enjoy historical fiction as well as quilt lovers.
by admin | Apr 19, 2014 | Books, Historical, Romance, Texas, Western
MY REVIEW:
While I have not read all one hundred (yes, 100!) of Tracie Peterson’s novels, I have read more of them than I can count – and I have enjoyed each and every one of them. I always like her stories set in Texas since I have secretly wanted to live in Texas my entire life. “A Sensible Arrangement” met all my requirements and I plan to read the future books in the Lone Star Bride series.
A story about a mail-order bride and a young bank officer who needs a wife, “A Sensible Arrangement” is not exactly the typical mail-order bride story. Both parties in this marriage have no expectations of love developing between them. They just want a “sensible arrangement” and their marriage will be mutually beneficial to them. Of course as all readers of historical romance know, there WILL be a romance despite their good intentions.
I personally found the historical background and the events that surrounded Marty and Jake to be of more interest than their romance. I would have liked to see a bit more interaction between them so that their falling in love would be a bit more believable. More conversations or time spent together would have been nice.
Secondary characters played strong supporting roles that added greatly to the plot. A bit of mystery, drama, and even touches of humor made the book quite enjoyable to read.
Marty’s habit of skirting or hiding the truth was somewhat disturbing at times so I was happy to see the author emphasize how it was wrong and had Marty eventually repent of her lies. As usual, Peterson deftly wove a message of faith and integrity throughout the pages. Fans of Tracie Peterson will not want to miss “A Sensible Arrangement”.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Marty Dandridge Olson is ready to leave behind the pain of the past.
Answering an advertisement for a “Lone Star bride,” she leaves her Texas ranch and heads to Denver to marry a man she doesn’t know.
Jake Wythe is the man waiting for her.
Burned by love, he marries now simply to satisfy the board of Morgan Bank, which believes a man of his standing in society should be wed. Together Jake and Marty agree they are done with romance and love and will make this nothing more than a marriage of convenience.
When missing money and a collapsing economy threaten his job, Jake’s yearning to return to ranching grows ever stronger, much to Marty’s dismay. But a fondness has grown between them, as well, further complicating matters.
What will happen when their relationship shifts in unexpected ways… and dreams and secrets collide?
Purchase a copy and learn more at Tracie’s website.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Tracie Peterson is the award-winning author of over eighty novels, both historical and contemporary. Her avid research resonates in her stories, as seen in her bestselling Heirs of Montana, and Alaskan Quest series. Tracie and her family make their home in Montana.
Visit Tracie’s Web site at www.traciepeterson.com.
Tracie Peterson celebrates 100 books with an iPad Mini Giveaway & A SENSIBLE ARRANGEMENT Live Webcast Event!
Welcome to the campaign launch for Tracie Peterson’s 100th book! A Sensible Arrangement launches Tracie’s new Texas-based series, Lone Star Brides, that’s sure to please. As a special treat, devoted fans will be able to catch a glimpse of several popular characters from previous series.
Tracie is celebrating by giving away an iPad Mini and hosting a LIVE webcast event on 4/29.
One winner will receive:
- An iPad Mini
- A Sensible Arrangement by Tracie Peterson
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on April 29th. Winner will be announced at the A Sensible Arrangement Live Webcast Event on April 29th. Connect with Tracie for an evening of book chat, trivia, laughter, and more! Tracie will also be taking questions from the audience and giving away books, fun prizes, and gift certificates throughout the evening.
So grab your copy of A Sensible Arrangement and join Tracie and friends on the evening of April 29th 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 by signing up for a reminder. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 29th!
by admin | Apr 17, 2014 | Books, England, Historical, Regency, Romance
MY REVIEW:
I have known readers who refused to begin reading a series before all its books had been released because they did not want to wait for the next volume to be published before they could continue reading. Jessica Dotta’s Price of Privilege series might actually be one that would make that practice seem like a good idea. After reading the first two installments of this series I can confirm that the second depends greatly on the first for background details. It has been awhile since I read “Born of Persuasion” with quite a few other books in between so it took me a bit to remember what had transpired in it.
In a style reminiscent of the best gothic novels I once devoured, “Mark of Distinction” carried a dark and brooding atmosphere throughout and revealed only enough details to keep me thoroughly confused about what was actually going on. Of course that is part of the attraction of this type novel and I loved wondering exactly who were the villains and who were the honorable characters. At times the lines between them were definitely a bit sketchy to say the least.
There was little not to like about “Mark of Distinction” except maybe the wait for the publishing date of “Price of Privilege”. Once again the characters were superb, the plot well-crafted, and the atmosphere and setting perfection. Then there was the surprise ending – I’ll admit I never saw that coming! I can’t wait to find out what will happen next.
This book was provided for review by The Tyndale Blog Network.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
London is said to be the glittering jewel of society, a world unto itself—but to Julia Elliston it is a city of shadows. Her life is swiftly dissolving into scandal. And in Victorian society, even a whisper of scandal—substantiated or not—can be the death of a young woman’s reputation.
Now under the watchful eye of Lord Roy Pierson, one of most influential men in England, Julia begrudgingly accepts his protection. But Chance Macy’s power is far-reaching as well, and he is eager to assert his claim over her.
Thrust into society as the Emerald Heiress, Julia is the toast of London, a celebrated curiosity. But in reality she’s trapped between the clutches of two powerful men. Aided only by a gentleman whose intentions she prays she can trust, Julia must finally take control of her own fate—but outwitting one’s foe rarely goes according to plan.
Read an excerpt from Mark of Distinction HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Jessica Dotta has always been fascinated by England during the Regency and Victorian era. Her passion for British Literature fueled her desire to write in a style that blends the humor of Jane Austen and the dark drama of a Bronte sister. She lives in the Nashville area with her family and works as a freelance media consultant and publicist.
Visit Jessica Dotta’s website.
Jessica Dotta’s Facebook.
by admin | Apr 11, 2014 | Books, Historical, Romance, Western
MY REVIEW:
“Claiming Mariah” contains all the elements I look for in a good historical western romance novel including cowboys, plenty of action, conflict, a bit of mystery, and of course, romance. I liked the premise of the story which had a strong, somewhat angry man on a mission to take back the ranch he believes rightfully belongs to his family. He just doesn’t expect to have second thoughts about how it will affect the current occupants.
I really liked Slade. Hidden by his tough exterior was a heart of gold filled with compassion and the need to protect those unable to protect themselves. Mariah was strong and hard working and put the needs of everyone else above her own needs. It was inevitable that the two of them would butt heads repeatedly. I liked how the author gradually introduced tiny clues along the way about the identities of those involved in the cattle rustling. My suspicions grew and it was fun to learn that my instincts had been correct. The story is filled with misunderstandings, revealed secrets, faith, and forgiveness.
All-in-all, “Claiming Mariah” is exactly the kind of western romance I enjoy and I look forward to reading more by this author. I am hoping she has one in the works featuring Slade’s brother Buck and possibly Mariah’s sister.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
After her father’s death, Mariah Malone sends a letter that will forever alter the lives of her family. When Slade Donovan, strong willed and eager for vengeance, shows up on her front porch, Mariah is not ready to hear his truths: her father’s farm, the only home she’s ever known, was bought with stolen gold. With Slade ready to collect his father’s rightful claim and force Mariah and her family out on the streets, Mariah must turn to God for guidance. Though Mr. Frederick Cooper, a local landowner, promises to answer her financial woes if she agrees to be his bride, Mariah finds herself drawn instead to the angry young man demanding her home.
With the ranch now under Slade’s careful eye, he unearths more than he ever imagined as a devious plot of thievery, betrayal, and murder threatens the well-being of the ranch, endangering those who hold it dear. As the days dwindle until the rest of the Donovan clan arrives at the Lazy M ranch, Mariah and Slade must rise above the resentment of their fathers and see their true feelings before greed changes their futures forever.
Purchase a copy HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Pam Hillman was born and raised on a dairy farm in Mississippi and spent her teenage years perched on the seat of a tractor raking hay. In those days, her daddy couldn’t afford two cab tractors with air conditioning and a radio, so Pam drove the Allis Chalmers 110. Even when her daddy asked her if she wanted to bale hay, she told him she didn’t mind raking. Raking hay doesn’t take much thought so Pam spent her time working on her tan and making up stories in her head. Now, that’s the kind of life every girl should dream of!
Learn more about Pam HERE.
Claiming Mariah released February 1st, and Pam Hillman is hosting a cool Giveaway during the month of April. Use the Rafflecopter widget below to sign up to win a Kindle Fire!
by admin | Apr 9, 2014 | Books, Historical, Romance, Western
MY REVIEW:
Over the course of many years of reading countless novels, I don’t believe I have ever run across another one that featured a woman buffalo hunter! I immediately knew that “Caught in the Middle” would be interesting and somewhat different that my usual fare. My suspicions proved to be correct and I was thoroughly entertained by this book.
During the course of the story, I learned the reasons why Anne Tillerton had become a buffalo hunter and watched her tentative relationship with Nicholas Lovelace develop despite its total improbability. It was fun and amusing to watch Nicholas develop strong feelings for Anne who was an absolutely inappropriate companion for an up-and-coming young man with his ambition. I loved the interaction between the pair, especially how Anne challenged Nicolas about his faith when she had no trust in the Lord herself. It was gratifying to watch Anne’s progress as she began to trust others as well as grow into a faith of her own.
“Caught in the Middle” was a satisfying conclusion to the Ladies of Caldwell County series but easily stands on its own strength. I enjoyed all three books and would recommend each of them.
This book was provided for review by
Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
She Wants the Freedom of the Open Plains.
He Wants the Prestige of a Successful Career.
Neither is Ready for What Comes Instead.
The train to Garber, Texas, is supposed to bring life’s next victory to Nicholas Lovelace. Instead, it gets held up by robbers who are thwarted by the last person Nick ever expected–Anne Tillerton from back home in Prairie Lea.
Anne’s been hiding away as a buffalo hunter. She’s only in town to find their runaway cook, but the woman flees–leaving Anne with her infant son. With Nick the only person Anne knows in town, the two form an unlikely team as they try to figure out what to do with the child.
But being in town means acting and dressing for polite society–and it’s not going well for Anne. Meanwhile, Nick’s work is bringing new pressures, and being seen with a rough-around-the-edges woman isn’t helping his reputation. Caught between their own dreams, a deepening relationship, and others’ expectations, can the pair find their way to love?
“[Jennings is] a fresh voice in Christian historical romance…” Library Journal
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Photo Credit: Photo courtesy of Ginger Murray Photography
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.
More Info
- Twitter
- @reginajennings
- Facebook
- https://www.facebook.com/ReginaLJennings
- Website
- http://www.reginajennings.com
