by admin | Oct 9, 2013 | Books, England, Regency, Romance
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingAn Honest HeartB&H Books (October 15, 2013)byKaye DacusABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Humor, Hope, and Happily Ever Afters! Kaye Dacus is the author of humorous, hope-filled contemporary and historical romances with Barbour Publishing, Harvest House Publishers, and B&H Publishing. She holds a Master of Arts in Writing Popular Fiction from Seton Hill University.
Kaye Dacus (KAY DAY-cuss) is an author and educator who has been writing fiction for more than twenty years. A former Vice President of American Christian Fiction Writers, Kaye enjoys being an active ACFW member and the fellowship and community of hundreds of other writers from across the country and around the world that she finds there. She currently serves as President of Middle Tennessee Christian Writers, which she co-founded in 2003 with three other writers. Each month, she teaches a two-hour workshop on an aspect of the craft of writing at the MTCW monthly meeting. Kaye lives in Nashville, Tennessee, where she is an academic advisor and English Composition instructor for Bethel University.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Set during the Industrial Revolution and the Great Exhibition of 1851, An Honest Heart is a “sitting-room romance” with the feel of a Regency-era novel but the fashions and technological advances of the mid-Victorian age.
Featuring dual romance stories, the main plot involves seamstress Caddy Bainbridge and the choice she must make between two men: one from the aristocracy, the other from the working class. Award-nominated author Kaye Dacus pinpoints the theme of honesty—both men in this love triangle have deep secrets to hide, and Caddy’s choice will be based on which of them can be honest with her.
Courtship . . . cunning . . . candor. Who possesses an honest heart?
If you would like to read the first chapter of An Honest Heart, go HERE
by admin | Oct 5, 2013 | Books, Gilded Age, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
I became a Jen Turano fan after reading her first book. I just finished the third book in her Ladies of Distinction series and they just keep getting better. In each of the novels set during the gilded age, the primary female character is what many would describe as somewhat eccentric. However you might describe them, they do not exhibit the usual behavior for proper ladies of that era, yet they are all women of excellent character. I have loved and laughed at the antics of each heroine and Felicia can hold her own with both Eliza and Arabella from the previous two novels.
I thoroughly enjoyed Felicia and her penchant for getting into trouble even when she was trying to do the right thing. It was encouraging to watch her discover how to really be herself. And Grayson – what a perfectly imperfect hero he was. Weighted down with guilt from his past he tried so hard not to fall for Felicia but was such a caring person he could not stop himself from trying to protect Felicia and eventually loving her. I was glad to see him learn to rely on God and accept His forgiveness. The dialogue between Felicia and Grayson as well as other characters was so entertaining. I found myself trying to stifle my laughter as I read while my husband slept.
I also enjoyed catching up with Eliza, Hamilton, and Piper from “Change of Fortune” and Arabella and Theodore from “A Most Peculiar Circumstance”. I do hope that there will be at least one more book in this series because I would love to see how Agatha’s story ends.
“A Talent For Trouble” is a great book and can easily stand alone – but if you have not read the previous two books of the series, you would miss so much fun if you pass them up.
This book was provided for review by the author and her publisher
Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
For years, Miss Felicia Murdock’s every thought and action have been in pursuit of becoming a minister’s wife. When the minister she’d set her sights on has other ideas, she decides something in her life needs to change–and soon–before she wastes any more time pretending to be someone she’s not. If that means spreading her wings and embracing a more lively way of life, who’s to say nay?
Grayson Sumner, Lord Sefton, has had more than enough of spreading his wings and only hopes to settle into the life of a respectable New York gentleman. Prompted by some friends to lift the spirits of the disappointed-in-love Miss Murdock, he is surprised to encounter an adventurous young lady with an unfortunate knack for stumbling into troublesome situations.
Just as Grayson decides he’s had quite enough of her antics, his past comes back to haunt him and his presence in Felicia’s life endangers her. As they work together to extricate themselves from this latest complication, will Grayson and Felicia decide they want to spend the rest of their lives keeping one another out of trouble?
Read an excerpt from A Talent For Trouble HERE.
Read what the author has to say about A Talent For Trouble HERE.
What others are saying about Jen Turano’s books:
This madcap battle of the sexes is the sequel to Turano’s hilarious A Change of Fortune, and it is perfect for any readerwho enjoys stories bubbling with humor.”
—Booklist on A Most Peculiar Circumstance (starred review)A Top 10 Pick for Romance!
~~~~~~
A Talent for Troubleis a laugh-out-loud historical romance with feisty, fun-loving characters who want to live the way they want to—not the way society demands.”
—RT Book Reviews (four stars)
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Jen Turano, author of A Change of Fortune, A Most Peculiar Circumstance, and A Talent for Trouble, is a graduate of the University of Akron with a degree in Clothing and Textiles. She is a member of ACFW and lives in a suburb of Denver, Colorado. Visit her website at www.jenturano.com.
by admin | Oct 1, 2013 | American Revolution, Books, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
I have always enjoyed historical fiction, particularly that pertaining to my own country’s early history. Melanie Dobson’s “The Courier of Caswell Hall” presented me with an entirely different look at the Revolutionary War than I have experienced in other novels. In it I found a more personal look at life in Virginia during that crucial period for our nation . It was a time when friends and neighbors and even family members disagreed on where to place their loyalties knowing their decisions could separate them from those closest to them. It was a time when their loyalty could cost them everything they owned or even their lives. And sometimes that loyalty was not rewarded as expected but taken for granted or even misused.
Many novels about this era focus on the battles won or lost but “The Courier of Caswell Hall” takes the reader behind the scenes into the lives of those who risked their lives to pass along vital messages to the Patriots. Lydia was one such young woman who found herself participating as a courier despite her family’s loyalist stand. Other family members and friends also played critical roles in Virginia’s struggle for independence.
I thoroughly enjoyed “The Courier of Caswell Hall”. The characters were exceptional and the plot was perfectly orchestrated. The author succeeded in presenting each character’s viewpoint and illustrated clearly how the war affected the people of the area. I was also made aware of historical facts that my high school classes did not cover. A couple of romances added a nice touch but were not the primary emphasis of the book. I enthusiastically recommend this book, especially those who enjoy early American historical fiction.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
An unlikely spy discovers freedom and love in the midst of the American Revolution.
As the British and Continental armies wage war in 1781, the daughter of a wealthy Virginia plantation owner feels conflict raging in her own heart. Lydia Caswell comes from a family of staunch Loyalists, but she cares only about peace. Her friend Sarah Hammond, however, longs to join the fight. Both women’s families have already been divided by a costly war that sets father against son and neighbor against neighbor; a war that makes it impossible to guess who can be trusted.
One snowy night Lydia discovers a wounded man on the riverbank near Caswell Hall, and her decision to save him will change her life. Nathan introduces her to a secret network of spies, couriers, disguises, and coded messages—a network that may be the Patriots’ only hope for winning the war. When British officers take over Caswell Hall and wreak havoc on neighboring plantations, Lydia will have to choose between loyalty and freedom; between her family’s protection and her own heart’s desires.
As both armies gather near Williamsburg for a pivotal battle, both Lydia and Sarah must decide how high a price they are willing to pay to help the men they love.
Part of the American Tapestries™ series: Each standalone novel in this line sets a heart-stirring love story against the backdrop of an epic moment in American history. This is the fifth book in the series.
Purchase a copy here.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Melanie Dobson is the author of twelve novels; her writing has received numerous accolades including two Carol Awards. Melanie worked in public relations for fifteen years before she began writing fiction full-time. Born and raised in the Midwest, she now resides with her husband and two daughters in Oregon.
Find out more about Melanie at http://www.melaniedobson.com.
Welcome to the blog tour for Melanie Dobson‘s latest release, The Courier of Caswell Hall. An unlikely spy discovers freedom and love in the midst of the American Revolution in the newest book in the American Tapestries™ series.
Enter to win 1 of 5 copies of the book!
Five winners will receive:
- The Courier of Caswell Hall by Melanie Dobson
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on October 5th. All winners will be announced October 7th at the Litfuse blog.
Don’t miss a moment of the fun; enter today and be sure to visit the Litfuse blog on the 7th to see if you won one of the books!
by admin | Sep 30, 2013 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Love Inspired, Medical, Romance
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingThe Nurse’s Secret SuitorLove Inspired (October 1, 2013)byCheryl WyattABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Not even Cheryl Wyatt’s closest friends would dream that this sweet, shy intercessor plots mayhem during announcements at church. She is a Registered Nurse turned stay-at-home-mom, wife and writer who loves Jesus with all of her heart.
Joyful chaos rules her home, and she delights in the stealth moments God gives her to write. She stays active in her church and in her laundry room. She is convinced that having been born on a Naval base on Valentines Day destined her to write Inspirational Military Romance.
Cheryl loves to laugh and to make others laugh, so she often plans comedic moments for her defenseless characters in spite of their grumbling. She says it’s payback for when they refuse to obey the plots she’s set out before them.
Prior to publication, six of Cheryl’s manuscripts placed in ten RWA Contests. Two of Cheryl’s stories also placed First in ACFW’s Noble Theme Contest 2005 (Contemporary Romance Category), as well as ACFW‘s Genesis Contest 2006 (Mystery/Suspense/Thriller Category).
She currently writes for Love Inspired. Her Wings of Refuge Series, about a team of USAF Pararescue Jumpers and the ladies who capture their hearts, can be purchased anywhere books are sold.
Learn more about Cheryl and her books on her Website.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
A Strong-Willed HeartTrauma nurse Kate Dalton can handle any challenge—except love. The combat veteran dreams of settling down, but heartbreak is one risk she won’t take. Then a chance encounter opens her heart to a masked stranger…who might not be a stranger after all! Caleb Landis, the army medic behind the disguise, has always admired Kate, even though she only saw him as her best friend’s brother. What will it take for Kate to discard her fears and discover the man she’s always hoped to unmask?
Eagle Point Emergency: Saving lives—and losing their hearts— in a small Illinois town
If you would like to read the first chapter of The Nurse’s Secret Suitor, go HERE.
MY REVIEW:
The Nurse’s Secret Suitor was a fun and entertaining book yet it included several highly emotional personal scenes and some intense medical ones as well. From the masquerade wedding that began the book to the storybook ball at its end, the author incorporated several unusual ideas into a very unique novel. Cheryl even has photos and links on her Facebook page to some of the projects described within the story.
I enjoyed the characters of The Nurse’s Secret Suitor, especially hero Caleb and Tia. That child Tia kept me laughing with her quips throughout the book that added just the right touch of humor. I also enjoyed touching base with characters from Cheryl’s previous books in this series.There were times I was a bit frustrated with Kate’s dependance on her mystery man when Caleb was such a caring person who was right there with her the entire time. I was so happy to watch how the Lord taught both Kate and Caleb how to trust him with their past hurts and to allow others past their self-imposed walls.
by admin | Sep 28, 2013 | Books, Historical, Pre-Civil War, Romance
MY REVIEW:
When I first read the description of “Love’s Awakening” I opened it somewhat expecting a retelling of the story of Romeo and Juliet or perhaps even the Hatfields and McCoys. I am pleased to say that neither situation transpired – no tragic deaths of star-crossed lovers or the violent fighting of feuding mountain families. However, there is a bit of violence but it is not graphic – it is mostly described after the fact. And there is a romance between the two predominant characters that seems doomed from the start.
Compared to previous novels by Laura Frantz, “Love’s Awakening” may move at a slower pace but it certainly has some action filled moments. Heroine Ellie Ballantyne is a sweet and innocent young woman with a backbone of steel that develops as her story progresses. I liked the way she learned to stand up for her dreams and beliefs and to fight for love rather than settling for security and society’s approval. Jack Turlock is the perfect hero. Viewed by most as a rogue, primarily because of the actions of his whiskey making family who have been known to resort to most anything to get ahead including suspected murder. Jack finds himself in love with Ellie but knows that there is no way her family would allow her to even be seen with a Turlock. He hates what his father and brother stand for but has no hope he can ever escape the family reputation.
Jam-packed with an abundance of historical facts, “Love’s Awakening” offers the reader an intimate look inside the lives of a family willing to risk everything to assist slaves to freedom. The highly volatile feelings between the abolitionists and those who favored slavery were vividly portrayed. The remarkable plot incorporates a wide range of emotions including anger, humor, grief, love, hate, and forgiveness. A prevalent theme is that a person does not have to be defined by his family or circumstances but by his own actions and by following the plan that God has for his life.
As with all Laura’s previous novels, I enjoyed “Love’s Awakening” and highly recommend it to those who love American historical fiction.
This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
The path to true love lies somewhere between two feuding families
In the spring of 1822, Ellie Ballantyne leaves finishing school and returns to the family home in Pittsburgh only to find that her parents are away on a long journey and her siblings don’t seem to want her to stay. Determined to stand her ground and find her place in the world, Ellie fills her time by opening a day school for young ladies.
But when one of her students turns out to be an incorrigible young member of the Turlock family, Ellie knows she must walk a fine line. Slaveholders and whiskey magnates, the Turlocks are envious of the powerful Ballantynes and suspicious of their abolitionist leanings. As Ellie becomes increasingly entangled with the rival clan–particularly the handsome Jack Turlock–she finds herself falling in love with an impossible future. Will she betray her family and side with the enemy?
Masterful storyteller Laura Frantz continues to unfold the stirring saga of the Ballantyne family in this majestic tale of love and loyalty. This is the Ballantyne Legacy.
Read an excerpt from Love’s Awakening HERE.
“Frantz’s in-depth historical research combines with her fascinating characters to create a gripping romance that kept me turning pages late into the night. I highly recommend Love’s Awakening. It is a rare find.”–Serena B. Miller, RITA Award-winning author of The Measure of Katie Calloway
In the second installment of the Ballantyne Legacy series, we are reunited with familiar characters from the first book and introduced to some new ones. Frantz’s family saga is a rare treat for fans that will stay with readers long after they finish. –RT Reviews
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Laura Frantz is a lover of history, is the author of The Frontiersman’s Daughter, Courting Morrow Little, and The Colonel’s Lady, and currently lives in the misty woods of Washington with her husband and two sons.
Learn more about Laura and her books HERE.
by admin | Sep 27, 2013 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingMade to LastBethany House Publishers (September 15, 2013)by
Melissa TaggABOUT THE AUTHOR:
A Word From The Author:
I’m a former reporter turned author who loves all things funny and romancey. My debut novel, a romantic comedy titled Made to Last, releases from Bethany House in September 2013. In addition to my nonprofit day job, I’m also the marketing/events coordinator for My Book Therapy, a craft and coaching community for novelists.
It all started when my dad, at the ripe old age of sixteen, picked up my mom up for their first date. She was thirteen. Thirteen!* Dad drove a cherry red car up the lane to my grandparents big ol’ green house and honked his horn…whereupon Mom jumped out of the apple tree she’d been waiting in and off they went…fishing. True story. (I’d give more details, but I’m saving it for a novella I plan to entitle Two Leaves. Mom, I really hope you read this.)
Four years of college, a few trips abroad and a stint as a reporter later, that dream is soon to be a reality. My debut novel, a romantic comedy titled Made to Last, is now out from Bethany House. Book two, Here to Stay, comes out on May 1, 2014.
In between writing and staring out the window brainstorming, I also work as a grant-writer at one of Iowa’s largest private nonprofits and serve as the marketing/events coordinator for My Book Therapy, a craft and coaching community for novelists founded by Susan May Warren.
And I love, love, love talking about finding our purpose and identity in Christ. (And well, okay, food, old movies, boots and scarves, my awesome nephew Ollie, and, fine, Tim Tebow, too.)
Learn more about Melissa and her books on her Website.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Miranda Woodruff has it all. At least, that’s how it looks when she’s starring in her homebuilding television show, From the Ground Up. So when her network begins to talk about making cuts, she’ll do anything to boost ratings and save her show–even if it means pretending to be married to a man who’s definitely not the fiance who ran out on her three years ago.
When a handsome reporter starts shadowing Miranda’s every move, all his digging into her personal life brings him a little too close to the truth–and to her. Can the girl whose entire identity is wrapped up in her on-screen persona finally find the nerve to set the record straight? And if she does, will the life she’s built come crashing down just as she’s found a love to last?
If you’d like to read the first chapter of Made to Last, go HERE.
MY REVIEW:
Made to Last is a fun to read romantic novel that is based on a classic theme of one woman juggling multiple men. Often humorous and definitely romantic, the story also has a more serious side that looks into what can happen when a person attempts to construct a successful life on their own terms.
Miranda Woodruff is the star of her own TV show in which she teaches home building and repairs to her audience. Ratings are down and in an attempt to keep her show on the air, Miranda agrees to a pretend marriage to provide a face to the nonexistent husband she talks about on the program. Matthew Knox is a struggling journalist who had actually been nominated for a Pulitzer Prize before a misguided decision cost him his credibility and now he can’t seem to get anything right. As a final chance He accepts a job blogging about Miranda, hoping to get a scoop that will put him back on top. What he actually finds may just change his life.
Several of the characters in Made to Last have secrets – some are revealed in the course of the story and others can only be imagined by the reader. Miranda’s secrets contribute to the load of guilt she carries everywhere, guilt that hinders her relationship to God. It also seems that each lie she tells requires another lie, then another lie – lies that could destroy any chance she has for future happiness. Matthew has a few secrets of his own but strangely finds it difficult to forgive Miranda for her shortcomings. Then there is Blaze, Miranda’s pretend husband. He’s a great guy as long as no one gets too close. He is definitely hiding something too.
Although some of the situations in Made to Last are just a bit over-the-top, the characters and their response to their personal problems and to others is so very human. We each have our own struggles but often judge others in similar circumstances. Made to Last brilliantly illustrates the need for forgiveness and the need to let the Lord direct our lives. It is an excellent first novel and I look forward to future books by Melissa. I hope she will tell more of Blaze’s story in her next one.
