by admin | Jun 30, 2014 | Books, Historical, Romance, Texas, Western
MY REVIEW:
Sequel to Peterson’s “A Sensible Arrangement”, “A Moment in Time” features Alice Chesterfield, the young woman hired to work for Marty and Jake Wythe who quickly became Marty’s good friend. Alice is still being stalked by a mysterious man who may have a connection with the murder of her father so when a change in fortune for the Wythes leaves them no choice but to leave Colorado and return to Texas, Alice is eager to make the change with them.
“A Moment in Time” contains all the essential elements that make Tracie Peterson’s novels must reads for me – some conflict, a bit of mystery, a few misunderstandings, a sweet romance, interesting historical facts, and a good dose of faith. The novel is quite able to stand on its own merits but background provided in the previous installment of the Lone Star Brides series makes it all the more enjoyable. I enjoyed the continuation of Marty and Jake’s story, especially the reality that their marriage was not 100% “happy ever after” but actually had a serious disagreement or two in common to real marriages. I loved the surprises Alice had in store for her and was happy that there were good ones to balance the bad. If I had any complaint, it would be that the romance between Alice and Robert may have been just a bit too rushed and shallow.
Overall, “A Moment in Time” was enjoyable and allowed me to escape everyday modern life for a brief time to venture back in time to Colorado and Texas as I joined the lives of Alice, Robert, and the other characters. I look forward to the next book of this series.
This book was provided for review by
Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Alice Chesterfield is a woman pursued. Having survived an attack that left her scarred and her father dead, she is never free from the fear and memories of the man who is responsible.
Texas seems to be an answer to Alice’s prayers, and when she has the opportunity to relocate to a ranch near Dallas, Robert Barnett captures her attention. Unlike any man Alice has ever known, Robert doesn’t worry about the obstacles that stand in their way–and he hardly seems to notice the scar she bears.
But there are storm clouds gathering; devastating information about her family comes to light, threatening Alice’s peaceful sanctuary. Disillusioned, Alice must learn to place her trust in God as she seeks a measure of peace for her future…and for her heart.
Read an excerpt from “A Moment in Time” HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
by admin | Jun 19, 2014 | Anthology, Books, Historical, Romance, Western
MY REVIEW:
“Four Weddings & a Kiss” is a collection of novellas by four of my favorite authors of western romance that features couples who appear to be unsuitable for each other. Novella collections such as this are perfect for those hot summer afternoons when one needs a cool break under the air conditioner, by the pool, on the beach or in the backyard under a shade tree.
Each novella stood on its own with strong feminine characters and men who were able to meet them as equals. Humor was plentiful in all of the stories yet there was adequate serious material and strong themes of faith as well. The short format allowed the authors little space to develop a romance but I felt that each one of them did a bang-up job. I thoroughly enjoyed the entire book and would be hard pressed to choose a favorite from among the four. I how the prologue set things up and I also liked learning what happened to that particular preacher at the end.
“Four Weddings & a Kiss” is the perfect book for your vacation or even a “staycation”. Be sure and pick up a copy soon.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Spitfire Sweetheart by Mary Connealy
Maisy MacGregor’s reckless ways injured rancher Rylan Carstens, endangering his livelihood. So she signs on as his caregiver – but just until he’s well enough to run his ranch. Maisy’s tender care soon has Ryan falling hard and fast. Can these two willfull souls give up their solitary ways to embrace love?
A Love Letter to the Editor by Robin Lee Hatcher
Molly Everton writes the most popular features in her town’s newspaper. When newcomer Jack Ludgrove is named the new editor, Molly is flabbergasted. She wants the position for herself and will do what it takes to get it. But Jack is not easily intimidated. He’s determined to change Molly’s mind about him – and win her heart too.
A Cowboy for Katie by Debra Clopton
Katie Pearl must rebuild her ranch after the tornado, but she can’t do it on her own. Treb Rayburn is a cowboy with a serious case of wanderlust. He signs on to help Katie so he can afford a new horse. But once Treb gets to know Katie, will his desire to stay drown out the call of the open road?
Courting Trouble by Margaret Brownley
Grace Davenport is a young widow in a heap of trouble. When her son asks attorney Brock Daniels to take on her case, Brock wants to say no, but then he meets the lovely Grace. As Brock and the boy work to free Grace, Brock discovers that her arrest may be the best thing that’s ever happened to him.
Learn more and purchase a copy here.
ABOUT THE AUTHORS:
Margaret Brownley is a NEW YORK TIMES best-selling author and has penned more than thirty novels. Her books have won numerous awards and has written for a TV soap opera. @margaretbrownley
Robin Lee Hatcher is a Christy and RITA award-winning author. She is the author of over seventy novels and her work often appear on bestseller lists. @robinleehatcher
Mary Connealy is an award-winning author of romantic comedy with cowboys. Mary and her Nebraska rancher husband have four grown daughters and two spectacular grandchildren. @MaryConnealy
Debra Clopton is an award winning author of sweet, heartfelt, western romance that face life with a smile. With over 2 million books in print, Debra’s first book-to-movie aired on ABC Family and starred LeAnn Rimes. @debraclopton
Find out more about Brownley, Hatcher, Connealy, Clopton at http://amzn.to/118aiwL.
FOUR WEDDINGS AND A KISS – Win an iPad Mini & rip-roarin’ Facebook Party!
Four best-selling romance novelists bring tales of feisty heroines, stubborn heroes, and unlikely love in the Wild West in Four Weddings and a Kiss. Don’t miss the latest from the Western Brides Collection from Margaret Brownley, Robin Lee Hatcher, Mary Connealy, and Debra Clopton.
The authors are celebrating with a “Sweet on Love” iPad Mini Giveaway and rip-roarin’ Facebook party.
One winner will receive:
- An iPad Mini
- A Bride for All Seasons and Four Weddings and a Kiss
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on July 8th. Winner will be announced at the Four Weddings and a Kiss Facebook Author Chat Party. Connect with Western Brides Collection authors Margaret Brownley, Robin Lee Hatcher, Mary Connealy, and Debra Clopton for an evening of fun book chat, western-themed trivia, and prizes. The authors will also be answering audience questions and giving an exclusive look at the next book in the collection!
So grab your copy of Four Weddings and a Kiss and join the authors on the evening of July 8th 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. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning.
Hope to see you on the 8th!
by admin | Jun 13, 2014 | Books, Historical, Romance, Western
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingThe Lawman’s Oklahoma SweetheartLove Inspired (June 3, 2014)
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Enthusiastic but slightly untidy mother of two, Allie Pleiter writes both fiction and nonfiction. An avid knitter, harp player and non-reformed chocoholic, she spends her days writing books, doing laundry, running carpools and finding new ways to avoid housework. Allie grew up in Connecticut, holds a BS in speech from Northwestern University and currently lives in suburban Chicago, Illinois. The “dare from a friend” to begin writing eight years ago has blossomed into a career that includes numerous public speaking engagements, two books on parenting; Becoming a Chief Home Officer and Facing Every Mom’s Fears and now novels for Steeple Hill Books. She is the mother of two children and, most recently, a Havanese dog named Bella.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
When Katrine Brinkerhoff’s cabin is attacked, only sheriff Clint Thornton’s heroism saves her. She owes Clint her life—and her help catching the men responsible. All she has to do is trust in Clint’s plan to protect her family. But she can’t let herself care too deeply, not when her past carries secrets that would drive him away.
Infiltrating the murderous gang is a dirty job, yet Clint is determined to see it through. The brigands will face justice—and they will never harm Katrine again. Clint would give his life to keep the beautiful settler safe…but will he be willing to risk his heart?
Bridegroom Brothers: True love awaits three siblings in the Oklahoma Land Rush
If you would like to read the first chapter of The Lawman’s Oklahoma Sweetheart, go HERE.
MY REVIEW:
The Lawman’s Oklahoma Sweetheart is a fast-paced historical romance that takes place during the Oklahoma land grab. The story is filled with loads of action, danger, suspense, and of course romance. I had not read the previous two books of this series but it was obvious that if I had read it, several of the supporting characters would be familiar to me. Nevertheless, my enjoyment of this book did not suffer because I had not read the others. If time were to permit, I would probably enjoy reading them.
Both primary characters were strong and likeable. Katrine was lovely and appeared to be fragile but she had a backbone of iron. After Clint saved her life, she had no choice but to go along with his plans to keep her and her brother Lars safe from the men who threatened the entire area. Clint was a steadfast sheriff whose goal was to drive out the troublemakers and protect the town’s residents as well as those on surrounding farms. As Clint and Katrine spent more time together, their attraction grew but Clint held a personal secret that convinced him he should never marry. Would he be able to overcome his pain and let himself love Katrine? And will any of them survive the increasing violence of the men known as the Black Four?
by admin | May 19, 2014 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance, Western
MY REVIEW:
I enjoyed Cathleen Armstrong’s “Welcome to Last Chance” so I eagerly agreed to review “One More Last Chance”. I can verify that I enjoyed it as much if not even more than the first installment of this excellent series. Each of the books can easily stand on its own but the combination is dynamite. Last Chance, New Mexico is small town life at its best in my opinion.
It was fun to find familiar and loved characters within the pages of “One More Last Chance”, especially Elizabeth, Juanita, and Carlos. The Dip ‘n’ Dine was once more a prominent setting, yet it too had undergone a few changes, particularly in ownership. Chris and Sarah were perfect as the leading characters and I liked the subtle way their relationship changed over the course of the book. Once again Elizabeth imparted her love, wisdom, and matchmaking skills in ways that impacted those around her positively.
A wonderful story of love, forgiveness, and doing what is right no matter what it costs, “One More Last Chance” is a special story that will find its place among my keeper books.
This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Some things never change . . . and some things change you forever.
Sarah Cooley has come home to Last Chance, New Mexico, for one reason–because it doesn’t change. After a relationship gone bad with a man who wanted to change everything about her, Sarah is more than ready for the town whose motto may as well be, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”
Chris Reed, on the other hand, wants nothing more than to spark some change in the little town. As the new owner of the Dip ‘n’ Dine, he’s shaking things up to draw folks from all over the Southwest into his restaurant.
As it turns out, the winds of change are blowing into Last Chance–just not in the ways that Sarah or Chris might expect.
With the same evocative writing and charming characters that won fans for her debut novel, Cathleen Armstrong invites you back to Last Chance for a heartwarming, romantic story of two people navigating the twists and turns of life in a small town.
Praise for Welcome to Last Chance
“Armstrong’s style is as comfortable as a pair of well-worn jeans.”–Crosswalk
“Readers will enjoy the simplicity of Last Chance.”–New York Journal of Books
“Armstrong’s enjoyable debut will pull readers into the joys–and trials–of a small town.”–RT Book Reviews
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Cathleen Armstrong lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband, Ed, and their corgi. Though she has been in California for many years now, her roots remain deep in New Mexico where she grew up and where much of her family still lives. After she and Ed raised three children, she returned to college and earned a BA in English. Her debut novel Welcome to Last Chance won the 2009 American Christian Fiction Writers Genesis Award for Women’s Fiction. Learn more at www.cathleenarmstrong.com.
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 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!
