by admin | Mar 24, 2015 | Books, Colonial America, Historical, Native American, Romance
MY REVIEW:
Although set during similar time frames and in the same general area of colonial America, each of Lori Benton’s novels has been a unique read for me. I was instantly captivated by the pure poetry of the opening lines of “Burning Sky” and by the almost immediate action and suspense of “The Pursuit of Tamsen Littlejohn”. “The Wood’s Edge” seemed to take me a bit longer to get into because there was so much background needed to set the stage for what would happen later. I am so glad I continued reading it until I reached a point I couldn’t stop.
“The Wood’s Edge” is an epic historical novel with a pre-Revolutionary War setting in and around Schenectady, New York. The story is shared through the viewpoints of several characters who all play an important part in the overall plot. I was actually puzzled for awhile by the prominent part played by Lydia during the early portion of the story since the back cover indicated that Anna was the primary character. In actuality, in my opinion it would be difficult to assign any one character the leading role because each and every one of them were extremely important to the narrative.
I enjoyed reading how each character, both English and Native American, was affected by one event that changed their lives forever. The grief, anger, guilt, and sacrifice were just a few of the emotions experienced by various characters. What a beautiful plot with such deep feelings! If only American History classes could be taught with this much emphasis on the human experience rather than the hard, cold facts. “The Wood’s Edge” is such a beautiful example of the power of redemption and forgiveness. I especially loved the unexpected twists that brought the message home in such a new way.
I fear that to continue would be to chance revealing too much and ruin the story for others. If you love historical fiction, you NEED this book! If you are not a history lover, “The Wood’s Edge” just might change your mind.
This book was provided for review by Blogging For Books.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
At the wood’s edge cultures collide. Can two families survive the impact?
The 1757 New York frontier is home to the Oneida tribe and to British colonists, yet their feet rarely walk the same paths.
On the day Fort William Henry falls, Major Reginald Aubrey is beside himself with grief. His son, born that day, has died in the arms of his sleeping wife. When Reginald comes across an Oneida mother with newborn twins, one white, one brown, he makes a choice that will haunt the lives of all involved. He steals the white baby and leaves his own child behind. Reginald’s wife and foundling daughter, Anna, never suspect the truth about the boy they call William, but Reginald is wracked by regret that only intensifies with time, as his secret spreads its devastating ripples.
When the long buried truth comes to light, can an unlikely friendship forged at the wood’s edge provide a way forward? For a father tormented by fear of judgment, another by lust for vengeance. For a mother still grieving her lost child. For a brother who feels his twin’s absence, another unaware of his twin’s existence. And for Anna, who loves them both—Two Hawks, the mysterious Oneida boy she meets in secret, and William, her brother. As paths long divided collide, how will God direct the feet of those who follow Him?
Click here to download chapter one of The Wood’s Edge.
Purchase a copy of The Wood’s Edge HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Lori Benton was raised east of the Appalachian Mountains, surrounded by early American history going back three hundred years. Her novels transport readers to the eighteenth century, where she brings to life the Colonial and early Federal periods of American history. When she isn’t writing, reading, or researching, Lori enjoys exploring the Oregon wilderness with her husband. She is the author of Burning Sky, recipient of three Christy Awards, and The Pursuit of Tamsen Littlejohn.
by admin | Mar 24, 2015 | Biblical, Books
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingThe TombHoward Books (March 17, 2015)byStephanie Landsem
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
A word from the author:
I write historical fiction because I love adventure in far-off times and places. I’ve traveled since I was a teenager—backpacking through Germany and Eastern Europe, studying German in Salzburg, eating gelato in Italy, and riding camels in Morocco were some of the highlights. Travel kindles my imagination, fuels my love of history, and introduces me to one-of-a-kind characters. It’s the best kind of research.
When I can’t travel, I read. I love fiction, of course, but I’m often found behind a stack of history books or searching the web for historical tidbits. How people lived together, worked, and what they ate (I love food!) is usually what catches my imagination. No matter where or when we live, people are more alike than they are different. I love to find the similarities between our lives and those of the men and women of the ancient world.
I make my home in Minnesota with my husband of 22 years, four children, three fat cats, and a tortoise named Moe. When I’m not writing Biblical fiction, I’m feeding the ravenous horde of kids and their friends, volunteering at church and school, battling dandelions, and dreaming about my next adventure – whether it be in person or on the page.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
In this captivating retelling of a classic biblical story, Jesus shocks the town of Bethany with Lazarus’s resurrection from the dead, leading Martha—a seemingly perfect woman trapped by the secrets of her past—to hope and a new life.
Everyone in Bethany admires Martha—the perfect Jewish woman. She feeds and clothes her loved ones, looks after the family farm, and meticulously follows every precept of the Pharisees’ strict laws. But Martha is hiding a secret. At her sister’s marriage feast, she gave her heart and her innocence to a young musician who promised to return and marry her, but instead betrayed her love and abandoned her.
Seven years later, only two people in Bethany know of Martha’s secret sin: her brother, Lazarus, and Simon, the righteous Pharisee to whom Martha is betrothed. When Lazarus falls ill, Martha is faced with a choice: send for Jesus to save her dying brother—risking the wrath of Simon who threatens to betray her—or deny Jesus’ healing power and remain trapped in her tomb of secrecy and lies.
Meanwhile, on the shores of Galilee, Isa roams the wilderness, tortured by demons and knowing only that someone is waiting for him. When he is healed by Jesus, he finds that seven years have passed since his descent into madness. Isa journeys home to Bethany only to find he is too late to win back Martha’s love.
When Martha risks all to heal Lazarus, will Jesus arrive in time, or will he—like Isa—come too late?
If you would like to read the first chapter of The Tomb, go HERE.
by admin | Mar 19, 2015 | Amish, Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
“A Path Made Plain” is the second novel in Sowell’s Seasons in Pinecraft series which offers an entirely different look at the Amish than is usually presented. Some might even think “What happens in Pinecraft stays in Pinecraft!” That would not be quite in the vein of what happens in Vegas but for the Amish, the more casual lifestyle that includes cell phones, flip flops, and three-wheel bicycles is certainly a change.
This novel features Betsy Yoder who was a somewhat irritating character in the first installment of the series. As the story begins, Betsy must adjust to the fact that Jacob, the man she wanted, has married another and she must make other plans for her life. What she really wants is to open her own bakery in Pinecraft rather than return home to Ohio.
Thaddeus Zook, who has left the Amish to work as a frowned upon pastry chef, shows up in Pinecraft after the death of his boss in the midwest. He is obviously not Amish anymore with his Englisch clothing, tattoos, and a motorcycle, but there is something about him that appeals to Betsy. Determined that he has left the Amish life behind, Thaddeus attempts to deny his obvious attraction to Betsy.
With a bit of suspense, other drama, some humor, jealousy, gossip, and of course romance, “A Path Made Plain” was fun to read. I enjoyed the change in pace from the usual Amish fiction offerings.
This book was provided for review by the Amazon Vine Program.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Will the warm sun of Pinecraft thaw Betsy Yoder’s heart or lead her to greater heartache and danger?
Betsy Yoder lives with her great aunt in Sarasota’s Pinecraft neighborhood, far from her family in Ohio. Heartbroken by a man who left her—and the Order—to marry someone else, Betsy instead pours her time and energy into her bakery, offering the village of Pinecraft delicious desserts from her Amish heritage, and is content in her hard-working yet peaceful life.
Enter the formerly Amish Thaddeus Zook, a pastry chef who has moved to Pinecraft after working in restaurants among the Englisch. While Betsy nurses a hesitant heart, Thaddeus shows a similar hesitancy about rejoining an Amish community. Though neither can deny the attraction between them, Thaddeus is hiding a past that could threaten their future together. Betsy has lost one love already; dare she risk loving another who has adopt Englisch ways? Or will Thad listen to the call of the open road and move on again . . . without the love of his life?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Lynette Sowell is the Carol Award-winning and ECPA best-selling author of more than twenty titles. When she’s not crafting stories, she works as a freelance news reporter and columnist for her local newspaper. She makes her home in Copperas Cove on the doorstep of the Texas hill country. She hangs out on Facebook at facebook.com/lynettesowellauthor and blogs at lynettesowell.blogspot.com.
by admin | Mar 19, 2015 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Fantasy, Romance
MY REVIEW:
Set in the make-believe kingdom of Brighton, “How to Catch a Prince” is Hauck’s third novel in the Royal Wedding Series. Very much a modern fairytale, this novel is filled with romance and whimsy but also some cold, hard looks at reality. The fact is, no one is exempt from heartache and tragedy, not even royalty or the wealthy. Each person must deal with whatever life hands out and this book is a fine illustration of how much more successful one can do so by trusting in the Lord’s help.
I have been a huge fan of Rachel Hauck’s book since the very first one I opened. I have enjoyed the Royal Wedding series very much and found “How to Catch a Prince” to be a wonderful addition to the series. Each of the previous books has had special touches of the supernatural woven into the story but I think Hauck took it a step further with her inclusion of Adelaide and Brill who just might have been guardian angels.
“How to Catch a Prince” is a story complicated by miscommunication, imagining how another would respond if told the truth, and wrongly applied guilt. It is a story about a family nearly destroyed by grief and a man who has wrongly blamed himself for the deaths of others. But most of all it is a story about the redemptive power of the God who loves His children and is ready to restore their hearts in order that they might fulfill the plans He has for their lives.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
She caught her prince once. Can she catch him again?
American heiress Corina Del Rey’s life was devastated by war. Every thing she loved was lost. But after five years of grief, she’s shed her grave clothes and started over in the sunshine along the Florida coast.
But some things are not so easily forgotten. When a secret from her past confronts her face to face, she realizes she must follow her heart. Even if it cost her everything.
Prince Stephen of Brighton Kingdom is a former Royal Air Command lieutenant turned star rugby player, trying to make sense of his life after the devastation of war.
When his brother, King Nathaniel, discovers Stephen’s pre war secret, he must deal with an aspect of his life he longed to forget. But how can he do so without exposing the truth and breaching national security?
Yet, true love has a destiny all it’s own. As the cathedral bells peal through Cathedral City, Corina and Stephen must chose to answer the call of love on their hearts.
Or let it be lost forever?
Learn more and purchase a copy at Rachel’s website.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Rachel Hauck is an award-winning, best selling author of critically acclaimed novels such as “The Wedding Dress,” “Love Starts with Elle,” and “Once Upon A Prince.” She also penned the Songbird Novels with multi-platinum recording artist, Sara Evans. Booklist named their novel, “Softly and Tenderly,” one of 2011 Top Ten Inspirationals. She serves on the Executive Board for American Christian Fiction Writers and is a mentor and book therapist at My Book Therapy, and conference speaker. Rachel lives in central Florida with her husband and pets.
Find out more about Rachel at http://www.rachelhauck.com/.
New Book from Rachel Hauck | ‘How to Catch a Prince’ and Royal Giveaway
An American heiress and a crown prince seem destined to be together. Will the devastation of war keep them apart forever? Find out in Rachel Hauck’s new book, How to Catch a Prince. True love has a destiny all its own. With a little heavenly help, Prince Stephen and Corina embark on a journey of truth. But when the secrets are revealed, can they overcome, move forward, and find love again?
Enter to win a “royal” prize pack!
One grand prize winner will receive:
- A royal-themed Brighton charm bracelet
- 2 tickets to see the new Cinderella movie
- The Royal Wedding series (Once Upon a Prince, Princess Ever After, and How to Catch a Prince)
Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on March 23rd. Winner will be announced March 24th on Rachel’s blog.
{NOT ON FACEBOOK? ENTER HERE.}
by admin | Mar 18, 2015 | Books, England, Fantasy, Historical, Romance
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingDauntlessBethany House Publishers (March 3, 2015)byDina L. Sleiman
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
A word from the author:
Since selling my first book, I have also become an acquisitions editor for the company. I am a member of the Inkwell Inspirations blog, HEWN Marketing, ACFW, and a contributor to Christian Review of Books. I hold publishing credits in poetry and songwriting, and I was the writer and featured teacher in a nationally distributed instructional dance video for children. I have written several songs about the plight of the Islamic people, which have been produced in association with the Christian Broadcast Network. In addition, I have taught college and high school classes in writing and literature, as well as homeschool classes in the fine arts, and now enjoy teaching at writers conferences throughout the nation.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Where Legend and History Collide,
One Young Woman Will Fight for the Innocent
Born a baron’s daughter, Lady Merry Ellison is now an enemy of the throne after her father’s failed assassination attempt upon the king. Bold and uniquely skilled, she is willing to go to any lengths to protect the orphaned children of her former village–a group that becomes known as “The Ghosts of Farthingale Forest.” Merry finds her charge more difficult as their growing notoriety brings increasing trouble their way.
Timothy Grey, ninth child of the Baron of Greyham, longs to perform some feat so legendary that he will rise from obscurity and earn a title of his own. When the Ghosts of Farthingale Forest are spotted in Wyndeshire, where he serves as assistant to the local earl, he might have found his chance. But when he comes face-to-face with the leader of the thieves, he’s forced to reexamine everything he’s known.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Dauntless, go HERE.
MY REVIEW:
With a similar setting and time frame, Dauntless aims for the same audience as the legend of Robin Hood. But Dauntless has a twist – the leader of this merry group of “The Ghosts of Farthingale Forest” is a young woman. Lady Merry Ellison, an orphan herself, has dedicated herself to caring for all the other orphaned children of her former village. She has managed that task fairly well until the day Timothy Grey, decides to gain fame and recognition by finding the notorious thieves.
Dauntless is an easy-to-read tale that kept me in suspense as I wondered what would happen to Merry and the children if they were caught. I was totally surprised when I learned the identity of the person who hated Timothy so much – I really thought it was someone else until it was revealed later in the book. I liked the contrast between the four characters of Merry, Allen, Timothy, and John, especially the different ways they responded to the misfortunes and tragedy in their lives. What a lesson for each of us!
Although Dauntless is aimed at a young adult audience, this particular oldie enjoyed it too. Be sure and check it out!
