by admin | Sep 27, 2016 | Books, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
I knew as soon as I saw the cover of “Guide Me Home” that it was a book I must read and was thrilled when I found it was a choice on my Blogging For Books account. I can enthusiastically say that it more than met my expectations.
“Guide Me Home” is the story of a family struggling to make a living in Kentucky in the area near the famous Mammoth Cave. Despite their hardships and family tragedies, the family members are almost all content with their lives and the love they have for each other. The oldest daughter Rebekah carries a heavy load of guilt and regret over the accidental death of her brother so she is determined to find employment that will allow her to help her father provide for their family. When the only job available happens to be as a guide in the very caves where her brother died, Rebekah overcomes her fear, dons some men’s clothing and becomes “Reb” during working hours. As such stories usually go, Rebekah meets a young man, Devlin Bale in the course of her work and begins to care for him.
“Guide Me Home” is a story overflowing with unique characters who embody the best and sometimes worst of human nature. I loved the way Tolly looked out for Rebekah’s reputation and took the time to teach her what she needed to know in order to succeed at her job. I also liked the secondary story-line that featured sister Cissy, the one family member not satisfied with her lot in life. Although her character was sometimes frustrating, it was gratifying to see her attitude undergo change before the story’s end. Rebekah was such an admirable character who won my heart early in the novel and Devlin worked his way in as well.
Another book that I didn’t want to put down until I finished the last page, “Guide Me Home” was such a satisfying read. Once again Kim Vogel Sawyer has penned a masterpiece that took me back to another time and place and made me want to stay there. Loved, loved, loved this book!
A copy of this book was provided for review by Blogging For Books.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Working in the massive cave might allow Rebekah the chance to bring joy back to her family.
But will it claim more than it gives?
After tragedy leaves its mark on Rebekah Hardin’s family, she plans to help her parents and six siblings honor her beloved brother’s memory and alleviate their poverty by working as a guide in the dangerous cave system. Kentucky’s renowned Mammoth Cave presents profitable opportunities in for hardworking, capable men. But Rebekah is determined and if it means presenting herself as a himself, then she’s up to the job.
Under the wing of experienced guide Tolly Sanford, “Reb” begins to learn the complexities of the cave and the two are joined by an aspiring young cartographer, Devlin Bale.
The university student has traveled to the hill country to map tunnels—not to fall for a girl in disguise. Can the God who designed miles of underground astonishment shape Devlin’s ambitious plans and free Reb from the weight from the past?
Read an excerpt from “Guide Me Home” HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
KIM VOGEL SAWYER’s titles have garnered awards including the ACFW Carol Award, the Inspirational Readers Choice Award, and the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence. Kim lives in central Kansas with her retired military husband Don. She enjoys spending time with her three daughters and grandchildren.
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by admin | Sep 19, 2016 | Books, Historical, Novella, Romance, Western
MY REVIEW:
“Ask Me to Marry You” is a novella with an unusual twist on the age-old mail order bride story. In it, Audra Drysdale has come to realize that in order to save the family ranch after her father’s death, she needs a man to run it. Although she knows how to do it herself, her hands do not trust a woman to be in charge. Not only that but another rancher wants the ranch – and Audra. So…she has her uncle find her a temporary husband. Little does she expect she will want to make it permanent.
I am a new reader of Heather Blanton’s novels but what I have read to date has made me a fan. My only complaint about “Ask Me to Marry You” is that it ended much too quickly. I would have been quite happy with a full length novel. I loved her unique take on what she called a “male order bride”. The entire story was well-written and moved along at a fast clip. Her characters were well-rounded and realistic. There was just the right amount of action, danger, humor, and romance for a story of this length and the author made the characters’ faith seem natural and not out-of-place. I like the fact that Blanton is not afraid to present real life with all its grit yet manages to do so without offense. Did I say it ended too soon?
I have more of the author’s books on my Kindle. I really want to find time in my review schedule to work them into my reading. I am so happy that I ran across this author and would recommend her to anyone who enjoys a good Western romance.
A digital copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for my honest review.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Though she’s loath to admit it, Audra Drysdale needs a man to save her ranch.
Her father has passed away and her hands are abandoning her like rats from a sinking ship. Worse, neighboring cattle baron Jess Fairbanks is making a play for the Diamond D and Audra, whichever he can get his hands on first.
Audra grudgingly accepts that the mere presence of a husband will keep her men working, and Fairbanks under control. It seems a perfectly reasonable idea, then, to ask her uncle, who is the town attorney and a matchmaker of sorts, to find her a groom—a “proxy” who will take her orders and dish them out to the men.
Dillon Pine is in jail for a conspiracy charge, but because of certain mitigating factors he’s deemed a good risk for an unusual form of probation: serving as Audra’s husband. After a year, he can abandon her and she won’t tell. By then, she will have proven to the cowboys she’s a competent rancher, and the cattle man next door will be looking elsewhere for a wife. But when word gets out that Dillon came to Audra via Evergreen’s matchmaker, he’s dubbed a “male order bride.” The resulting jokes at his expense are constant and brutal. Just how much abuse can Dillon’s pride stand?
When Audra discovers her father’s death was no accident, she realizes her new husband is in danger, too. And she cares . . . quite a lot, it turns out.
To save Dillon, she may have to let go of the one thing she’s fought her whole life to keep.
Read an excerpt from “Ask Me to Marry You” HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
A former journalist, Heather is an avid researcher and skillfully weaves truth in among fictional story lines. She loves exploring the American West, especially ghost towns and museums. She has walked parts of the Oregon Trail, ridden horses through the Rockies, climbed to the top of Independence Rock, and even held an outlaw’s note in her hand. You can learn more about her and her work at https://ladiesindefiance.com/ or https://www.facebook.com/heatherfreyblanton. Sign up for Heather’s email newsletter to receive the latest book release updates, as well as info about contests and giveaways (https://ladiesindefiance.com/).
Heather is the independent bestselling author of several Christian Westerns, including the Romance in the Rockies series, which has sold over 40,000 copies. Intrigued by the concept of three good sisters stranded in a lawless Colorado mining town, a few notable Hollywood producers have requested the script for her first book in that series, A Lady in Defiance. Heather’s writing is gritty and realistic. In fact, her books have been compared to AMC’s Hell on Wheels series, as well as the legendary Francine Rivers book, Redeeming Love.
She writes Westerns because she grew up on a steady diet of Bonanza, Gunsmoke, and John Wayne movies. Her most fond childhood memory is of sitting next to her father, munching on popcorn, and watching Lucas McCain unload that Winchester!
She can be reached several different ways:
http://ladiesindefiance.com/
https://www.facebook.com/authorheatherblanton/?ref=hl
https://www.pinterest.com/heatherfblanton/
Christian Westerns is the genre that lets her write about strong pioneer women and men who struggle to find God and then live out their faith in real ways. Romance is always a strong element in her stories because it is such a beautiful gift from God, and a perfect reflection of how he loves His children: sacrificially and lavishly. Heather’s stories aren’t preachy or cheesy, but she hopes they are heart-warming, realistic, illuminating, and glorifying to God. Like good old fashioned Westerns, there is always justice, a moral message, American values, lots of high adventure, unexpected plot twists, and more than a touch of suspense.
“I believe Christian fiction should be messy and gritty, because the human condition is … and God loves us anyway.” — Heather Blanton
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by admin | Sep 19, 2016 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Prince Edward Island, Romance
MY REVIEW:
“Where Two Hearts Meet” is the second book in the Prince Edward Island Dreams series and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was fun to return to Prince Edward Island and find the Red Door Inn up and running with Caden Holt as executive chef. I loved the opening scene in which Caden displayed a hint of the true personality she usually kept hidden from others even though she ended up embarrassing herself just a bit.
The story is jam-packed with the type content that keeps me reading. The plot is fueled by misunderstandings, humor, and of course romance. I particularly enjoyed the give and take between Caden and Adam and loved that despite his own hangups, Adam recognized Caden’s true worth. I just wish that all young women with less than perfect bodies could have an Adam in their lives to help rebuild the self-esteem others have torn down with “helpful” remarks.
“Where Two Hearts Meet” is such a lovely novel with an exceptional theme. Johnson’s vivid descriptions of the location makes me long to pay PEI a visit. That probably won’t ever happen but at least I can visit there in the pages of the first two books and at least one more installment to this series. Can’t wait for the next one!
A copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for my honest review.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
In her kitchen at Rose’s Red Door Inn, executive chef Caden Holt is calm, collected, and competent. But when her boss asks her to show off their beautiful island to impress a visiting travel writer and save the inn, Caden is forced to face a world much bigger than her kitchen–and a man who makes her wish she was beautiful.
Journalist Adam Jacobs is on a forced sabbatical on Prince Edward Island. He’s also on assignment to uncover a story. Instead he’s falling in love with the island’s red shores and Caden’s sweets.
When Caden discovers Adam isn’t who she thought he was, she realizes that the article he’s writing could do more than ruin the inn’s chances for survival–it might also break her heart.
Read an excerpt from “Where Two Hearts Meet” HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Liz Johnson is a full-time marketing specialist for a Nashville-based publisher. She has been a freelance writer and editor for several publications, including CBA Retailers+Resources, Christian Fiction Online magazine, and Storytellers Journal. A member of American Christian Fiction Writers, she is the author of several books, including The Kidnapping of Kenzie Thorn (an ACFW Carol Award finalist) and A Star in the Night, which was part of the New York Times and ECPA bestselling A Log Cabin Christmas Collection.
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by admin | Sep 15, 2016 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
Rachel Hauck’s books are always on my must read list and I NEED to read her books as soon as they are released. I love it when I am fortunate enough to receive a review copy but if I don’t I will always preorder so I can get a copy ASAP. “The Wedding Shop” is her latest offering and I can truthfully say that I loved it. Of course that was no surprise to me.
Often our idea of success is different from what God intends for us. I believe that “The Wedding Shop” is a beautiful illustration of the Lord’s definition of success, especially the story of Cora and how she used her shop to minister to young women in her community. It was so fitting that some of those same women were used years later to help Haley reopen the shop.
Two stories of two women from different generations yet somehow connected, “The Wedding Shop” is so infused with Holy Spirit moments that some might describe it as magical. It is a story filled with unexpected romance yet it is so much more. It is a story of faith and forgiveness and moving on with life past disappointments and mistakes.
I have enjoyed each of the books in this series and I also loved the way Rachel tied this story together with the first two books. To me that made it even more special. Do yourself a favor and read “The Wedding Shop” and don’t forget “The Wedding Chapel” and “The Wedding Dress“. I guarantee you will be in for a special treat.
A copy of this book was provided for review by Celebrate Lit.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Click to purchase.
Two women separated by decades. Both set out to help others find their dreams when their own have crumbled.
It’s the early 1930s, but Cora Scott is walking in stride as a career woman after having inherited her great aunt’s wedding shop in Heart’s Bend, Tennessee, where brides come from as far away as Birmingham to experience her famed bridal treatment. Meanwhile, Cora is counting down the days until her own true love returns from the river to make her his bride. But days turn into months and months to years. All the while, Birch Good continues to woo Cora and try to show her that while he is solid and dependable, he can sweep her off her feet.
More than eighty years later, former Air Force Captain Haley Morgan has returned home to Heart’s Bend after finishing her commitment to military service. After the devastating death of her best friend, Tammy, and discovering the truth about the man she loved, Haley is searching for her place in life.
When Haley decides to reopen the romantic but abandoned wedding shop where she and Tammy played and dreamed as children, she begins a journey of courage, mystery, and love.
As Cora’s and Haley’s stories intertwine through time in the shadow of the beloved wedding shop, they both discover the power of their own dreams and the magic of everyday love.
To purchase your copy, click here.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Rachel Hauck is a USA Today Bestselling author. Her book, The Wedding Dress, was named Inspirational Novel of the Year by Romantic Times and was a RITA finalist. Her book Once Upon A Prince was a Christy Award finalist.
Rachel lives in central Florida with her husband and two pets and writes from her ivory tower. Visit her online at rachelhauck.com, Facebook: rachelhauck, and Twitter: @RachelHauck
Guest Post from Rachel Hauck
Hey everyone! I’m so excited to share The Wedding Shop with you. This book is one of my favorites.
While all books are my “babies,” this one found a special place in my heart.
This standalone novel is part of the Wedding Collection – The Wedding Dress and The Wedding Chapel – and it came to life when I discovered the story of Cora Scott, a 1930s wedding shop owner.
At 30, she’s an old maid, but the best “bride’s maid” in fictional Heart’s Bend, Tennessee. But she’s in love with a charismatic, charming river boat captain.
The contemporary heroine, Haley Morgan, is a retired Air Force captain returning to Heart’s Bend to restart her life. She’s recovering from a broken heart. The handsome, dynamic, charming man she loved was nothing but trouble.
Returning home, Haley is set on keeping a childhood promise she made with her best friend—to open the old wedding shop.
The shop is legend in Heart’s Bend. Haley grew up with stories of Miss Cora and the shop, hearing the town’s mothers, grandmothers, and great grandmothers reminiscing about their “day in the shop,” walking down the grand staircase in their wedding gown.
But in 2016, the shop is dilapidated, neglected and in need of more money than Haley possesses.
While writing this story, I had to ask a lot of questions. Why reopen the old shop? Why not just open a new one?
Haley was a combat veteran, deployed to Afghanistan twice, why would she want to open a wedding shop?
I also investigate the meaning of the shop to the town? To Cora? To Haley?
As I developed the backstory for the characters, the shop and the town, Cora’s came to life. She fascinated me. I admired this fictional woman. She exuded ingenuity, courage, and deep, deep devotion.
On the other hand, Haley was a bit of a mystery but from the start, she saw value in something no one else did.
What if we all saw value in people or places others wanted to reject?
Isn’t that what Jesus does for us?
The heroes of the book, Birch and Cole, are just stellar guys. Princes among men. I love writing about slightly wounded but strong and tender men.
The theme of family and community populates the story. Also, how misconceptions and preconceived ideas often ruin relationships.
Booklist gave The Wedding Shop a Starred Review and called it, “Spellbinding.”
There’s a lot of fun drama in this book! I hope you enjoy spending time with Cora and Haley, the men they love and the shop they bring to life.
I’d love to hear your thoughts! Connect with me at www.rachelhauck.com.
BLOG STOPS:
September 13: History, Mystery & Faith
September 13: A Holland Reads
September 14: Giveaway Lady
September 14: Daysong Reflections
September 15: Book Bites, Bee Stings, and Butterfly Kisses
September 15: Bibliophile Reviews
September 16: Bigreadersite
September 16: The Scribbler
September 17: Books,Dreams,Life
September 17: ASC Book Reviews
September 18: Book Babble
September 18: D’S QUILTS & BOOKS
September 19: Pause for Tales
September 19: Book by Book
September 20: The Power of Words
September 20: Lighthouse Academy
September 21: Proverbial Reads
September 21: Splashes of Joy
September 22: Faithfully Bookish
September 22: Singing Librarian Books
September 23: Tell Tale Book Reviews
September 23: Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations
September 24: Quiet Quilter
September 24: Reading Is My SuperPower
September 25: For The Love of Books
September 26: His Grace Is Sufficient
September 26: Chas Ray’s Book Nerd Corner
GIVEAWAY:
To celebrate her tour, Rachel is giving away her Wedding Collection Series! Click here to enter: https://promosimple.com/ps/a366
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by admin | Sep 11, 2016 | Books, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
“The Steeplechase” is a novella that is quickly read – possibly in one sitting if you are a speedy reader like myself. The historical story takes place in Virginia in the days preceding the War of 1812 and features Martha Osborne, a young woman who only wants to find a way to bring her young brother home from boarding school. What she finds is possible danger and also love.
As is the case of most novellas, I found myself wanting more details about the characters that are necessarily missing due to the shorter length of the book. Nevertheless, I found “The Steeplechase” to be well written and a satisfying read. I look forward to reading more by this author in the future.
A copy of this book was provided for review by the Book Club Network.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Martha Osborne fears for her six-year-old brother, who was shuffled off to boarding school when his British mother departed to England.
Set in Hampton Roads, Virginia, in the build-up to the War of 1812, expert rider Martha plans to substitute for her older brother in a “race to the steeple” to win the prize—and a bet with Phillip Paulson, equestrian trainer at Yorkview Academy, to help have her little brother returned home. When Phillip stumbles upon the real reasons behind the secret race he finds he may not be able to keep his end of the bargain. Can he save Martha and her brother? And will his heart be lost in the process?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Carrie Fancett Pagels is a multi-published award-winning author of Christian historical romance. Twenty-five years as a psychologist didn’t “cure” her overactive imagination! She resides with her family in the Historic Triangle of Virginia, which is perfect for her love of history. Carrie loves to read, bake, bead, and travel – but not all at the same time!
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by admin | Sep 2, 2016 | Amish, Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
All three Stoltzfus brothers had left their Amish home due to conflicts with their father. When older brother David moves back home and marries her sister, Mary Elizabeth hopes that Sam, the brother she loves, will soon follow. When he tells her otherwise, Mary Elizabeth decides she needs to move on with her life and there just happens to be a new resident in the community who is all too willing to court her. But nice as he is, her heart just isn’t in it.
I really liked the way “Seasons in Paradise” was written with emphasis on other aspects of characters’ lives other than their love life. Of particular interest to me was the way Mary Elizabeth and her sisters worked with the Englisch women’s shelter by teaching the women to quilt and donating food, supplies, and their time to help them. I really enjoyed reading about the Amish and Englisch working together to help their community.
The story was well developed with an interesting plot and characters. I was not so certain that I liked Sam at first but as I grew more familiar with him I decided he was a pretty good fellow. On the other hand, I never did quite trust the other man who was interested in Mary Elizabeth and applauded the caution she used in her interactions with him.
All-in-all, “Seasons in Paradise” is an enjoyable story. Although it is the second in the series, I had not read the first book and found that this one could easily stand on its own. I now really want to read the third volume in order to find out how things turn out with the “bad boy” Stoltzfus brother.
A copy of this book was provided for review by Amazon Vine.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Sam Stoltzfus left the Amish community and followed his older brother, David, into the Englisch world, walking away from a chance for love. Sam had clashed with his father, but is there more to his leaving the community than what he says?
Mary Elizabeth, the woman he was starting to love before he left, is determined to find out the reason and bring him back into the fold in time for Christmas.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Barbara Cameron has a heart for writing about the spiritual values and simple joys of the Amish. She is the best-selling author of more than 40 fiction and nonfiction books, three nationally televised movies, and the winner of the first Romance Writers of America Golden Heart Award. Her books have been nominated for Carol Awards and the Inspirational Reader’s Choice Award from RWA’s Faith, Hope, and Love chapter. Barbara resides in Jacksonville, Florida.
Find out more about Barbara at BarbaraCameron.com and Amishliving.com.
