by admin | Jul 4, 2017 | Books, Historical, Mail Order Brides, Romance
MY REVIEW:
“My Heart Belongs in Ruby City, Idaho” is a mail order bride story with a twist. When Rebecca arrives in Ruby City to marry Mr. Fordham, it is not until she has already tied the not that she learns that she has married the wrong Mr. Fordham. She was supposed to marry his cousin. To make matters worse, the cousins are not on the best of terms due to past differences over a woman. The new husband and wife agree to get an annulment so that Rebecca can marry the right man but accomplishing that is taking much longer than expected. Could it be that she married the right man after all?
I found this novel to be quite entertaining with humorous mix-ups, plenty of action and danger, and of course romance. Tad and Rebecca were both likeable characters who were obviously suited to each other but Theodore offered Rebecca the security she craved. She cared for Tad too but she refused to marry a lawman. Over the course of the story Rebecca learns the importance of placing her trust in God rather than man.
An enjoyable as well as thought provoking novel, “My Heart Belongs in Ruby City, Idaho” focuses on finding one’s purpose in where the Lord has placed her and trusting Him to take care of her. This book is an excellent addition to Barbour’s new series. I look forward to reading more of the series as well as other books by Ms. Dietze.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by the Barbour Review Crew. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Journey now to Ruby City, Idaho of 1866 where…
A Marriage Mishap Creates an Awkward Love Triangle in this Silver Mining Town
Looking forward to a quiet life and a full stomach, mail-order bride Rebecca Rice is pleased to marry her shopkeeper intended, Mr. Fordham, until the justice of the peace calls him Thaddeus, not Theodore—proceeded by the title Deputy.
Is it possible to marry the wrong man?
When the newlyweds realize they’ve married the wrong partners with similar names, an annulment seems in order—and fast, since Rebecca’s true intended is impatient to claim her as his own, not to mention Rebecca would never marry a lawman like her father. But when the legalities take longer than expected, Rebecca wonders if Tad wasn’t the right husband for her all along. . . .
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Susanne Dietze began writing love stories in high school, casting her friends in the starring roles. Today, she’s the award-winning author of a dozen new and upcoming historical romances who’s seen her work on the ECPA and Publisher’s Weekly Bestseller Lists for Inspirational Fiction. Married to a pastor and the mom of two, Susanne lives in California and enjoys fancy-schmancy tea parties, the beach, and curling up on the couch with a costume drama and a plate of nachos. You can visit her online at www.susannedietze.com and subscribe to her newsletters at http://eepurl.com/bieza5.
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by admin | Jul 4, 2017 | Books
MY REVIEW:
“The Captain’s Daughter” is another debut novel that I enjoyed enough to make me look forward to the remaining books of the series. I am now familiar enough with three book series to know that the other two will feature Rosalyn’s sisters who were introduced in the prologue of this one. I hope that each of those will be equally as unique as “The Captain’s Daughter”.
I almost always enjoy a good historical romance but I particularly enjoyed reading about life in the theater during Gilbert and Sullivan’s early years. The stage came alive in the pages of this book and it was fun to read about everything required to pull off a production in Victorian London from the costumes to the lighting. Strong characters, both primary and secondary were mostly likeable with one particular character receiving their comeuppance by the end. A surprise or two were in store during this sweet romantic novel and I loved watching Nate and Rosalyn’s relationship develop slowly. Their spiritual growth was also encouraging.
It will be difficult to wait on the next installment of the London Beginnings series. I am hoping that the Bernay sisters will discover what happened to their missing father before the series ends. “The Captain’s Daughter” was an excellent beginning and I would recommend it to those who enjoy Historical Romance, especially those set in Victorian London.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Litfuse Publicity. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Warm-hearted Victorian romance brings 1880s London to life.
When a series of circumstances beyond her control leave Rosalyn Bernay alone and penniless in London, she chances upon a job backstage at a theater that is presenting the most popular show in London. A talented musician and singer, she feels immediately at home and soon becomes enthralled with the idea of pursuing a career on the stage.
A hand injury during a skirmish in India has forced Nate Moran out of the army until he recovers. Filling his time at a stable of horses for hire in London, he has also spent the past two months working nights as a stagehand, filling in for his injured brother. Although he’s glad he can help his family through a tough time, he is counting the days until he can rejoin his regiment. London holds bitter memories for him that he is anxious to escape. But then he meets the beautiful woman who has found a new lease on life in the very place Nate can’t wait to leave behind.
Learn more and purchase a copy.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Jennifer Delamere’s debut Victorian romance, “An Heiress at Heart,” was a 2013 RITA award finalist in the inspirational category. Her follow-up novel, “A Lady Most Lovely,” received a starred review from “Publishers Weekly” and the Maggie Award for Excellence from Georgia Romance Writers. Jennifer earned a BA in English from McGill University in Montreal, where she became fluent in French and developed an abiding passion for winter sports. She’s been an editor of nonfiction and educational materials for nearly two decades, and lives in North Carolina with her husband.
Find out more about Jennifer at http://www.jenniferdelamere.com.
GIVEAWAY:
Enter to win a copy of The Captain’s Daughter. Five winners will be chosen!
Click the image above to enter to win.
The winners will be announced July 10th on the Litfuse blog!
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by admin | Jul 1, 2017 | Books, Love Inspired, Romantic Suspense
MY REVIEW:
“Deep Waters” is the second novel I’ve read by Jessica Patch and it has been confirmed – I must read each and every one of her books. Not only does this author live in my general part of the country but she has a definite talent with words that make me want to keep turning the pages. Unfortunately that means I reach the end much too quickly and have to wait for her next book.
Character development and dialogue are nearly perfect as far as I’m concerned. An excellent balance of romance and suspense is relieved by a touch of humor, something I always appreciate. The plot moves at a quick pace with escalating danger and suspense as well as secrets and some surprising twists.
I particularly enjoyed learning more about sea turtles and the setting made me wish for another visit to the ocean. “Deep Waters” has everything I look for in a suspense novel and I would recommend it to those who enjoy good, clean suspense with a message of faith interwoven throughout the story.
I voluntarily reviewed a digital copy of this book provided by the author. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Thirty feet underwater when her oxygen tank fails, Caley Flynn fears it’s been sabotaged—and she’ll be the next to die. Her intern’s already dead, her home breached and something’s amiss at her Florida marine-life rescue center…but no one believes she’s in danger. Except Shepherd Lightman. When Caley’s brother asked him to check on her, the marine turned security specialist hoped it would be a case of calming down a nervous veterinarian. But the threats are all too real. Rescuing Caley and remaining alive isn’t easy, but resisting his boss’s sister is where the real danger lies. Because with his heart in the balance, he’ll do whatever it takes to stop a killer who’s desperate to keep a secret hidden.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Jessica R. Patch writes inspirational contemporary romance and romantic suspense. She is the author of the Seasons of Hope series and several Love Inspired Suspense novels including, Fatal Reunion, Protective Duty, Concealed Identity, and Final Verdict. When she’s not hunched over her laptop or going on adventurous trips in the name of research with willing friends, you can find her spending time with her family and collecting recipes to amazing dishes she’ll probably never cook. Jessica is represented by Rachel Kent of Books & Such Literary Management.
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by admin | Jun 21, 2017 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
“Under a Summer Sky” is one of those books that one should pick up when in need of a relaxing read. It would be perfect for summer vacation whether at the beach, in the mountains, or in your own backyard. I would probably classify it as a “feel good romance”.
Many of us have been there – stuck in a rut with our lives – maybe because we’ve been hurt, or maybe afraid, or possibly even apathetic or depressed. Whatever the reason, Nicole Anderson found herself is a similar place when her mother arbitrarily arranges for her to spend the summer helping out an old friend in her art gallery in Savannah. It also happens that the trip across the country puts her in contact again with the friend’s two sons who Nicole remembers from vacations the families spent together during her childhood.
With its memorable characters and engaging plot, “Under a Summer Sky” was just what I needed as a break from historical romance and intense suspense novels. It was fun seeing Savannah through Nicole’s eyes and the interaction between Nicole and the other characters was entertaining. It didn’t take me very long to decide which brother Nicole should choose and it became more evident at the story progressed.
Not an overtly Christian novel, “Under a Summer Sky” is squeaky clean and would be appropriate for teens. There are several examples of how to treat others and doing the right thing. I can always count on Melody Carlson for an entertaining read with a few life lessons subtly inserted into the plot.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
She’s anticipating a quiet summer surrounded by beauty. She never expected a fresh chance at love.
High school art teacher Nicole Anderson is looking forward to a relaxing summer in Savannah, house-sitting and managing an art gallery for a family friend. The house is luxurious in a way that only old money could make it, and the gallery promises interesting days in a gorgeous setting. Yet it isn’t long before her ideal summer turns into more than she bargained for: a snooty gallery employee who’s determined to force her out, a displaced adolescent roosting in the attic, and two of her childhood friends–who also happen to be brothers–vying for her attention.
With the backdrop of a gorgeous historical city, incredible architecture, and even an alleged ghost or two, combined with the opportunity for romance . . . anything can happen!
Bestselling and award-winning author Melody Carlson invites you to spend the summer surrounded by splendor . . . and tantalizing possibilities.
Read an excerpt from “Under a Summer Sky” HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Melody Carlson is the award-winning author of over two hundred books with sales of more than five million. She is the author of several Christmas books from Revell, including the bestselling The Christmas Bus, The Christmas Dog, and Christmas at Harrington’s, which is being considered for a TV movie. She is also the author of many teen books, including Just Another Girl, Anything but Normal, Double Take, the Life at Kingston High series, and the Diary of a Teenage Girl series. She is the winner of a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her many books, including the Diary of a Teenage Girl series and Finding Alice. Melody and her husband live in Oregon.
For more information about Melody visit her website at www.melodycarlson.com.
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by admin | Jun 21, 2017 | Books, Florida, Historical, Louisiana, Romance, Suspense
MY REVIEW:
“Freedom’s Price” is the third book in Christine Johnson’s Keys of Promise series. Although there are some crossover characters, this book easily stands on its own. I would also recommend both of the other books in this series, “Love’s Rescue” and “Honor Redeemed”, not because they are necessary but because each is an enjoyable read.
I personally have enjoyed this series that has seemed to get better with each book. In my opinion “Freedom’s Price” was amazing with it’s steady plot that seemed to move from one dangerous situation to another as the mystery and suspense escalated. Strong characters whose faith saw them through trials and seemingly impossible circumstances were well crafted and natural. An equally convincing villain brought a compelling sense of evil to the story.
I liked how the relationship between Catherine and Tom developed slowly despite their opposing ambitions. I particularly admired Tom’s determination to protect Catherine even when her stubborn choices put her at risk. It goes without saying that romance was inevitable but was not the primary focus of the story.
I would be quite happy if “Freedom’s Price” is not the last book of this series as is the usual practice. I would enjoy reading more novels set in historic Louisiana and Florida.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Sometimes the hardest step to take is the first step forward
When Englishwoman Catherine Haynes loses both her father and her home in 1856, she decides to cross the Atlantic to find her American mother’s family in Louisiana. She enlists the help of Tom Worthington, a dashing Key West man who makes his living salvaging wrecked ships.
When Catherine arrives at the plantation, she finds that her family has left it in the care of a manager–who’s let it fall into disrepair. Torn between returning to Key West with Tom and beginning the hard work of restoring the plantation, Catherine soon finds herself snared in a plot to steal her inheritance. When an incredible secret comes to light, both she and Tom will face a choice: grip their dreams ever tighter or step forward in faith–even if it costs them everything.
Read an excerpt from “Freedom’s Price” HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
© E.A. Creative Photography 2013
Christine Johnson is the author of several books for Steeple Hill and Love Inspired and has been twice named a finalist for Romance Writers of America’s Golden Heart® award. When not writing, she loves to hike and explore God’s majestic creation. These days, she and her husband, a Great Lakes ship pilot, split their time between northern Michigan and the Florida Keys.
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by admin | Jun 20, 2017 | Books, Children
MY REVIEW:
“When God Made You” is a delightfully colorful, imaginative, rhythmic, and even a bit quirky book for children that strives to show them exactly how special they are in God’s plan.
I loved the vivid illustrations that are so filled with color and humorous people and animals. There is so much to see on each page that it must be read slowly to allow the child to take it all in. After reading it myself, I watched as a young mother friend read it to her three-year-old. There was no rushing this child whose attention was grabbed by several things on each page. I imagine that it could take many readings of this book to see everything there is to see.
I regret that I do not have grandchildren with whom to share this book but I do have little friends who will definitely enjoy it. I would recommend it!
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Blogging for Books. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
YOU, you… God thinks about you.
God was thinking of you long before your debut.
From early on, children are looking to discover their place in the world and longing to understand how their personalities, traits, and talents fit in. The assurance that they are deeply loved and a unique creation in our big universe is certain to help them spread their wings and fly.
Through playful, charming rhyme and vivid, fantastical illustrations, When God Made You inspires young readers to learn about their own special gifts and how they fit into God’s divine plan as they grow, explore, and begin to create for themselves.
‘Cause when God made YOU, somehow God knew
That the world needed someone exactly like you!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Matthew Paul Turner is a blogger, speaker, and author of Hear No Evil, The Coffeehouse Gospel, the What You Didn’t Learn from Your Parents About… series, and several other popular books. Matthew, his wife, Jessica, and his son, Elias, live in Nashville, Tennessee. He can be found online at www.matthewpaulturner.com.
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