Audio Book Review: Hope Harbor by Irene Hannon

This is a nice story with second chance romance and family redemption.
Hope Harbor
By Irene Hannon
Narrator: Therese Plummer

Duration: 9 h 45 min
Release date: 07-07-15
Publisher: Recorded Books
Genre: Christian Romance, Contemporary
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's summary
Come home to Hope Harbor - where hearts heal...and love blooms. Tracy Campbell never wanted to leave Hope Harbor, Oregon, or the idyllic three-generation cranberry farm where she grew up. But life - and love - altered her plans. Now she's home again - with a floundering farm to run...a tragic secret...and a wounded heart. Romance is not on her agenda. Nor is it on Michael Hunter's. The visitor from Chicago has daunting secrets and devastating regrets of his own. But when Tracy recruits him to help with a project that is close to her heart, winds of change begin to sweep through Hope Harbor, bringing healing, hope, and love to countless lives - including their own.
©2015 Irene Hannon (P)2015 Recorded Books

Review:
Tracy Campbell grew up in Hope Harbor and came back after being away at college. Although she is glad to be back with her Aunt and Uncle taking care of the cranberry farm, she has survived a tragic loss, and is struggling with the decline of the farm. She is focused on the farm and not ready to open herself to new hurt.

Michael Hunter has come to Hope Harbor due to a long desire of his deceased wife. His visit is intended to be short term while he tries to focus his life dealing with regrets after her death. He bumps into Tracy and soon finds himself helping her and making friends in the community. Michael is also drawing his new landlord out of her self-imposed seclusion of many years.

I liked how both Tracy and Michael slowly begin to recognize that their meeting is not mere coincidence, and perhaps God has a different plan for their future. The romance is sweet and the underlying faith messages of healing, hope, and forgiveness are encouraging. I recommend this story (and author) to fans of clean, Christian romance.

Audio Notes: Therese Plummer is a lovely narrator. She delivers clear voices and energy that fits the characters and plot. Her narration enhanced the story for me.

Source: 2018 Audiobooks.com 2 for 1 credit. This qualifies for 2023TBR, 2023Audiobook, and 2023Location goals.

Audio Book Review: Snow Melts in Spring by Deborah Voghts

This sweet romance, with a vet, football player, and an injured horse, was not as strong as I had hoped.

Snow Melts in Spring
By Deborah Vogts
Narrated By: Emily Durante

Duration: 8 h 19 min
Release date: 05-01-10
Publisher: Zondervan
Genre: Christian Romance, Country Romance, Small Town Romance.
My Rating: 3.75 of 5.0 Overall; Story 3.75; Narration 4.0.

Summary
She loves the land. Mattie Evans grew up in the Flint Hills of Kansas. Although her family has lost their ranch, she still calls this land home. A skilled young veterinarian, she struggles to gain the confidence of the local ranchers. Fortunately, her best friend and staunchest supporter is John McCray, owner of the Lightning M Ranch. They both love the ranch, and can’t imagine living anywhere but in the Flint Hills. He’s haunted by it.Gil McCray, John’s estranged son, is a pro football player living in California. The ranch is where his mother died and where every aspect of the tallgrass prairie stirs unwanted memories of his older brother’s fatal accident. Gil decides leaving the ranch is the best solution for his ailing father and his own ailing heart. But he doesn’t count on falling in love.Falling in love isn’t an option. Or is it?When Mattie is called in to save a horse injured in a terrible accident, she finds herself unwillingly tossed into the middle of a family conflict. Secret pain, secret passions, and secret agendas play out against the beautiful landscapes as love leads to some unexpected conclusions about forgiveness and renewal.

Review:
Mattie is a vet whose heart is to remain in the community of Flint Hills of Kansas, near lands that she loves. Her father lost the ranch where she grew up and they moved to the City. Mattie was fortunate to take over the local business of an aging vet. As a young woman, she is still struggling to gain the confidence of the local ranchers especially since some of the patients she has treated have died in spite of her best efforts.

John McCray, the aging owner of the Lightning M. Ranch, is a strong supporter and friend to Mattie. They both love his ranch and his animals. But John’s health and the condition of the ranch are deteriorating. He longs to have his estranged son, Gil, return to revive the ranch.

Gil is a pro football player who is ready to retire from football. He has a dream to purchase a ranch in California and built a horse breeding stable. When Gil gets a call that his beloved cow horse, Dusty, has been injured in a car accident, he comes home to check on Dusty and maybe make amends with his father. But Gil isn’t looking to move back to the family ranch. He lost his mother and his brother there and his memories are painful.

Gil finds young vet Mattie striving to safe the life of Dusty. She seems sincere but can he trust her to do the best job? Gil also questions Mattie’s relationship with his father. Mattie doesn’t like Gil’s condescending attitude, but she is determined to treat Dusty as best she can and to remain a caring friend to John.

As Mattie and Gil work together, they are drawn to each other. But it is clear they have different dreams – Gil wants to go to California and Mattie wants to stay in Kansas. Is there any way they can find a future together?

The story is sweet and it has a nice ending, but it didn’t bring me a total sense of joy. I had trouble accepting Mattie’s character because she is full of self-doubt, fear, and gloom. This is not a sound Christian position, but rather a self-centered, self-focused perspective. Gil’s character also has some self-condemnation, bitterness, arrogance and stubbornness. There are glimpses of a charitable foundation that could have been better developed. I did like the forgiveness, rehabilitation, and surrender messages that come late in the book. Sadly, I felt distracted by the weakness of the characters, particularly Mattie.

The story plot is adequate with nice descriptions, interesting vet procedures, and some character conflict to keep the reader engaged. The writing has some cliches but the pacing was solid. There are more positive reviews so not all readers reacted to the characters as I did. It is certainly a clean romance with some nice finishing messages that could be enjoyed by fans of sweet romance.

Audio Notes: Emily Durante does a fine job with the narration. Each character has a distinct voice and energy. I am glad that I had the book in audio format.

Source: 5/8/2021 Two for One Credit Deal at Audiobooks.com. This qualifies for2023TBR, 2023Audiobook, and 2023Season goals.

Audio Book Review: Waiting for Summer's Return by Kim Vogel Sawyer

This is a charming, lovely story.
Waiting for Summer's Return
by Kim Vogel Sawyer
Narrated By: Barbara Caruso

Series: Heart of the Prairie, Book 1
Publisher: Recorded Books
Date: March 2008
Duration: 11 hours 47 minutes
Genres: Christian Romance, Historial, Inspirational
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Summary:
Kim Vogel Sawyer pens an inspiring debut novel whose unforgettable characters resonate with emotional intensity and compelling authenticity. Suddenly all alone in 1894 Kansas, Summer Steadman can't find the employment she needs to settle near the fresh graves of her husband and four children. Bitter against the Lord and refusing to eat, she collapses in despair. Remembering his own painful loss, godly widower Peter Ollenbuger offers her food and shelter for tutoring his 10-year-old son.

Review:
Summer convinced her Boston husband to leave the comforts of home and travel west to make a new home for their family. Sadly, her husband and children caught typhoid and died outside a small German, Mennonite community in Kansas. Stranded with nothing, mired in grief and having dismissed God after he failed to grant her prays for healing, Summer feels she has nothing to live for.

Widower Peter lives with his elderly mother-in-law and his son, Thomas, who is currently house bound due to injuries. Peter and Summer reach an agreement that she will tutor Thomas in exchange for food and shelter in the small shack on his farm. Others in the community are fearful of Summer as ‘not one of their kind’ and begin to make trouble for Peter and Summer. After a blizzard destroys the shack and Summer moves into the house, the rumors and resentment increase.

Summer is a sad woman but a dedicated teacher. Thomas appreciates her efforts and slowly, between Thomas’ joy in learning and Peter’s patience, caring, and steadfast faith in God, Summer begins to believe that perhaps there is a future for her after all. Just as plans for her to settle in the community are coming together, Summer gets a letter that changes her plans.

Thomas is devastated to lose a woman he views as a mother and, only when she is leaving does Peter realize how important Summer has become to him and his family. Summer too realizes that she is leaving behind something precious, but she is now listening to God and feels she must follow as he leads. What is God’s plan for all of them?

I thoroughly enjoyed this faith-filled story with the double meaning of Summer’s return. Peter’s character is wonderfully developed as a simple man with practical talents and deep-rooted faith. Thomas is a good character and even the non-English speaking grandmother has an interesting role. I enjoyed learning the fascinating tidbits of the Mennonite Community and early grist mills.

Although the community is faith-based, the author shows how small-minded people can cause hurt even in such a community. We all know that Christians are flawed and fail to live up to the teachings of Christ in one way or another. On the other side of that lesson, the author shows how true faith and love of God can spread from one faithful follower to another.

I am sure I have read and enjoyed this author before but it has been a number of years. I won't wait so long for the next book by Ms. Sawyer. I recommend this sweet story to readers who enjoy historical, Christian romance.

Audio Notes: Barbara Caruso does a great job with the narration. She captures the emotional tones of the characters as well as delivering the accents and German phrasings. The narration enhanced my enjoyment of the story. I am surprised that I didn't see I had come across Ms. Caruso as a narrator in all my readings but I would be glad to listen to more that she narrates.

Source: 7/20/19 Sale at Audiobooks.com $6.99. This qualifies for 2020TBR, 2020Audiobook goals, and my "Summer" title.

Book Review: An Endless Christmas: A Novella by Cynthia Ruchti

This is lovely!

An Endless Christmas: A Novella
by Cynthia Ruchti

File Size: 1122 KB
Print Length: 183 pages
Publisher: Worthy Inspired (October 13, 2015)
ASIN: B07NVHR7HS
Genre: Christian Romance, Holiday
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0.

Award-winning novelist's heartwarming story about family and love lost, found, and finally truly revealed at Christmas.

Audio Book Review: No Other Will Do (Ladies of Harper's Station Series, Book #1) by Karen Witemeyer

I really liked this historical romance!
No Other Will Do (Ladies of Harper's Station Series, Book #1)
by Karen Witemeyer
Narrator Johanna Parker

Runtime 11 Hrs. - Unabridged
Publisher Recorded Books
Genre: Christian Romance, Historical Romance
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Description:
Men are optional. That's the credo Emma Chandler's suffragette aunts preached and why she started a successful women's colony in Harper's Station, Texas. But when an unknown assailant tries repeatedly to drive them out, Emma admits they might need a man after all. A man who can fight--and she knows just the one. Malachi Shaw finally earned the respect he craved by becoming an explosives expert for the railroad. Yet when Emma's plea arrives, he bolts to Harper's Station to repay the girl who once saved his life. Only she's not a girl any longer. She's a woman with a mind of her own and a smile that makes a man imagine a future he doesn't deserve. As the danger intensifies, old feelings grow and deepen, but Emma and Mal will need more than love to survive.

Review:
Emma Chandler was raised by her spinster Aunts in a small Texas town. As a young girl she rescued a starving, freezing boy she found in their barn. The two are best of friends for a couple of years until Malachi is driven out of town. Emma continues to pursue her dreams to provide a women’s colony as a sanctuary for abused women.

Things have been going well in Harper’s Station for several years when suddenly someone is threatening them and trying to drive them out of their own community. Emma and her staunch women aren’t about to back down without a fight. But Emma knows she needs help and she calls in the one man she knows she can trust – her childhood friend, Malachi.

Malachi is quick to respond to the call of the girl who saved his life. He is ready to help protect her and her community, but he will struggle to keep his distance from the woman he so admires.

I was immediately drawn by the young characters of Malachi and Emma and loved their maturity when they meet as adults and try to resist their obvious feelings. Ms. Witemeyer provides a plot with building mystery, intrigue and danger along with a sweet, tentative romance. The story moved along quickly, and I found it delightful. I will be picking up more titles by Ms. Witemeyer. I recommend this to readers who enjoy Historical Romance.

Audio Notes: Johanna Parker does a lovely job with the narration. She provides appropriate voices for the characters and fitting energy. The narration enhanced the story for me.

Source: Sale at ChristianAudio.com July 2017. This qualifies for 2019TBR and 2019Audiobook goals.

#NetGalley Book Review: Ladies of Intrigue: 3 Tales of 19th-Century Romance with a Dash of Mystery by Michelle Griep

These are lovely - I really like this author.

Ladies of Intrigue: 3 Tales of 19th-Century Romance with a Dash of Mystery
by Michelle Griep

File Size: 1038 KB
Print Length: 288 pages
Publisher: Barbour Books (February 1, 2019)
ASIN: B07HYM6HQ6
Genre: Christian Romance, Historical Romance
My Rating 4.75 of 5.0

3 Page-Turners Under One Cover from Reader Favorite Michelle Griep!
Can truth and love prevail when no one is as they appear?
The Gentleman Smuggler’s Lady
Cornish Coast, 1815
When a prim and proper governess returns to England from abroad, she expects to comfort her dying father—not fall in love with a smuggler. Will Helen Fletcher keep Isaac Seaton’s unusual secret?
The Doctor’s Woman (A Carol Award Winner!)
Dakota Territory, 1862
Emmy Nelson, daughter of a missionary doctor, and Dr. James Clark, city doctor aspiring to teach, find themselves working side by side at Fort Snelling during the Dakota Uprising. That is when the real clash of ideals begins.
A House of Secrets
St. Paul, Minnesota, 1890
Ladies Aide Chairman, Amanda Carston resolves to clean up St. Paul’s ramshackle housing, starting with the worst of the worst: a “haunted” house that’s secretly owned by her beau—a home that’s his only means of helping brothel girls escape from the hands of the city’s most infamous madam.

Review:
The Gentleman Smuggler’s Lady
Helen is a Pastor’s daughter who has traveled to help her ill father. As she arrives in his community she is kidnapped by a local smuggler. Inadvertently she sees the face of the man who saves her. She is soon surprised to find out his identity. She has a dilemma as she is reluctant to turn in the man who has saved her and cared for her father so caringly.

Isaac has bent his own rules in the name of revenge. The staunch faith of Helen makes him question his motives and look for alternatives. Will he be able to make Helen see him as a reliable person rather than a scoundrel?

I fully loved both of these characters and how the story plays out. There is risk with a lascivious authority not only stalking the smuggler but also inappropriately pursuing Helen and/or Isaac’s single sister. The plot keeps it moving quickly while I was rooting for this couple to get together. I especially loved Helen’s reliance on God and willingness to look for the best in others. She also wasn’t afraid to speak her mind to rebuke inappropriate behavior. My rating 4.75.

The Doctor’s Woman
Emmy is the daughter of a missionary doctor who has recently died. She is preparing to leave the wilderness to return to her society Aunt when she is asked to help at the Fort Snelling while they await the new doctor. Emmy is about to tend a man with a seriously crushed leg when Dr. James Clark arrives. Dr. Clark is a city doctor seeking a coveted position at Harvard. To gain his recommendation he has been directed to show he is able to survive a tour of service in the wilds of the West.

Dr. Clark and Emmy meet with sparks flying. He asks her to stay to help him and the commander makes him responsible for her welfare in the rough environment. He is still set on strict old fashion doctoring techniques while Emmy tries to encourage using some natural remedies learned from the Indians – even those Indians who killed her fiancé. The doctor gains respect for Emmy’s dedication although her independence frustrates him. But when it comes time for him to return to the East will he be willing to part from Emmy?

These are two more engaging characters and another story with plenty of conflict and moments of danger. The description of the western hardships is well done. Their struggles through the circumstances and the decisions they face provide inspiring encouragement. My rating 5.0.

A House of Secrets
Young Amanda has secured the chairmanship of the Ladies Aide Society which she hopes will impress her standoff father. Amanda wants to obtain the title to a dilapidated house to turn it into a safe place for educating street children. A haughty Society member puts Amanda on a deadline to get the title or lose on her first project.

Amanda seeks the help of her fiancé, the city Attorney to find the owner of the land. He claims he is too busy with other issues to help right now but really he is hiding his involvement with the property. He has been using the house to help brothel girls escape from the hands of the city’s most infamous madam. He doesn’t want to let Amanda know his connection to the house, nor certain family secrets.

A powerful business man is thwarting Joseph’s efforts to close down the local brothel. The corrupt man is quick to comfort Amanda when she is devastated to learn of Joseph’s betrayal. Just as matters come to a head a life-threatening accident pushes Joseph to face his fears and Amanda to address her impulsive rejection.

I liked the interesting brothel and society history in this story. The story felt a little rushed and didn’t pull me in as much as the first two. Still, it was entertaining, and I appreciated the messages regarding the harm of secrets in a personal relationship. My rating 4.5.

I enjoyed a previous historical romance by this author, The Captive Heart. I highly recommend this author and this story to readers who like Christian and historical romance with real life danger and conflict.

Source: 2019 NetGalley. This qualifies for 2019TBR, 2019NetGalley and 2019 Alphabet goals.

Book Review and Giveaway: When the Heart Cries by Cindy Woodsmall

This has good characters and an engaging story.

When the Heart Cries, Sisters of the Quilt Series #1
by Cindy Woodsmall

Amazon Link
Paperback: 336 pages
Publisher: WaterBrook (September 19, 2006)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1400072921
Genre: Amish, Romance
My Rating: 4.5 0f 5.0

Hannah Lapp was raised in an Old Order Amish Family. Now seventeen, she is ready to get out and experience the world. She is thrilled to accept the proposal from her Mennonite boyfriend. If she were forced to live outside the community on her own, could she handle it? Will she turn to God for answers?

Review:
Hannah Lapp is a sweet, helpful young Amish woman who cares for her family and her community. Even so, she has developed a love for a young man of the Mennonite faith who works during the summers at a neighboring farm. They have been meeting secretly for the past three summers as their friendship grew. The day Paul is leaving to return to college she accepts his proposal of marriage. But as she is walking home her world is shattered. Her family chooses to minimize and hide the event and she is left to struggle with her trauma alone.

Hannah and Paul miss each other but have no way to communicate. Hannah has drawn into herself and rouses only when her brother and his hoped to be intended are severely injured in a buggy crash. Hannah devotes herself to caring for Mary at the hospital and at home she helps Mary rehabilitate making a past and future quilt for Mary's marriage. Meanwhile, Hannah’s younger sister becomes increasingly resentful and jealous of Hannah. She convinces herself she is doing the right thing to tell the Bishop of what she believes is wrongful behavior by Hannah.

Months go by and Hannah’s family relations continue to be strained and torn. Hannah suffers more tragedy with the community against her and a misunderstanding that makes her believe that Paul has abandoned her. Physically and mentally exhausted Hannah decides she must get away. She takes the train to a secret destination hoping to find help.

Can Hannah find peace away from her community? Will she look to God for healing and direction? The story continues in book two.

Ms. Woodsmall has created well developed characters and an engrossing storyline that tugs the heart strings. As much as I generally think fondly of the Amish faith, this story raises serious failings that result from the strictness, seclusion and limitations within this community. It was heart wrenching to follow Hannah’s trauma and suffering with no support, even – or especially – from her family. Just as in non-Amish communities some parents care more about their own reputations than the harm suffered by their child. The rules of law are more prevalent than the love of God.

Although our ladies’ book club did not get to discuss this fully, the feedback I got back from several who had finished it was very favorable. They were ready to follow Hannah’s journey in book two so I was glad I had that on hand to pass out. One member even asked me for book three after finishing the first two in two days!

I am a third of the way in book two and still fully engaged. I recommend this emotional and engaging story to readers who like Amish situations and personal growth.

Source: Chirstianabook.com 2016; purchased on sale for Ladies Book Club. This qualifies for 2018TBR and Alphabet Challenge. .

GIVEAWAY:

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Paperback Book (US Only)

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Winners are asked to respond on the winners form linked in the announcement or by email.

Book Review: Hope Under the Mistletoe by Jessica R. Patch

I am glad to have pulled this gem from my TBR shelf. I fully enjoyed this faith based Christmas story.

Hope Under Mistletoe (Seasons of Hope Book 1)
by Jessica R. Patch

File Size: 339 KB
Print Length: 94 pages
Publisher: Bales Publishing (February 24, 2015)
ASIN: B00U0IQRO0
Genre: Christian, Inspirational, Romance
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0

A rowdy bar owner. A widowed pastor’s wife. And Christmas hope that brings them together.

After widow Eden Snow’s church almost burns to the ground, she’s compelled to find a temporary place to hold services and Christmas cantata practices.

Has-been hockey player, Knox Everhart, has a reputation for being fast on the ice and with women. Except Eden. She’s always been a fascinating mystery to him, which is why he agrees to let her use the back room of his bar—with one rule: No converting his customers.

But when Eden brings the church to the bar, it offers something the bottle can’t. Hope. And he finds himself falling in love with a woman and a Savior he feels unworthy to pursue.

Review:
Eden Snow is still suffering the loss of her pastor husband, Nathan, who was killed in a car accident by a teenage drunken driver. Now there has been a terrible fire at the church. The church family needs a place to meet so Eden asks her husband’s best friend, Knox, if they can use a back room of his bar for song practices and services.

Knox is a former hockey player who has a well-known reputation for skating by with women. He never let anyone know of his feelings for his Nathan's wife, Eden. He has always admired her but knows that he could never be worthy of her. Now she is getting too close by spending time in his bar, aptly named The Penalty Box. Knox becomes ever more confused as he watches Eden and the new pastor share acceptance, love and hope with all those they come in contact with.

I really liked the primary characters. The author created a good contrast with Knox’s rough, ‘bad boy’ nature countered by Eden’s innocent and ‘good’ nature. They both struggle with their growing attraction. Knox doesn’t feel worthy and he is holding back a secret that could cause Eden to hate him. Eden has to resist her growing interest in Knox because she, even though she sees he is a good guy at heart, she knows 'good' isn't enough. She can't allow herself to get involved with a man who doesn’t share her faith and acceptance of Christ.

Ms. Patch develops a strong relationship with good dialogue and a believable sequence of steps. The faith message is clearly shared in a fitting way without being ‘in your face’. The writing is crisp and the short story reads easily. I would like to read more by this author. I recommend this to readers who like a nice romance that includes messages of hope, forgiveness and redemption.

This is a gem pulled from my TBR shelf - 2015! It qualifies for Mount TBR and #hohohorat.

Book Review: Violets in February by Clare Revell

I really enjoyed the characters and action, as well as the faith message shared in this book.
Violets in February
by Clare Revell

File Size: 855 KB
Print Length: 122 pages
Publisher: Pelican Book Group (January 8, 2016)
ASIN: B01AR4ZMN8
Genre: Christian Romance, Suspense
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

When uptight missionary, Lucy Boyd is injured her only ride to the hospital 200 miles away is the scary looking guy who delivers their supplies every two weeks. Not only is he scary, he's obviously quite heathen based on the earring in his ear, the heavy metal music blasting from his truck when he pulls into the compound, and his salty language. Jed Gorman doesn't like people, especially Christians. Shuttled from foster home to foster home after the death of his parents, he's had enough "Christian Charity" to last a lifetime. The last thing he needs is that uptight missionary woman as a passenger. But when he sees that her knee is the size of a football he can't say no. It's going to be a rough ride, his truck is old, the monsoon season has hit, and there are guerrillas in the jungle...

Review:
Lucy Boyd is a straitlaced missionary doctor serving the people in Africa. She is respected by the staff and the natives. She looks down on and askance at the brash, swearing bloke who delivers the supplies, Jed Gorman. Jed is quick to taunt Lucy, needling her with his loud music and loud, salty language. Jed had a troubled past, being passed from one foster home to another, that left him with a disdain for Christians since his experience taught him they don’t life what they supposedly preach.

Lucy is the only doctor in the area for miles around. She is horrified when an injured father and young girl arrive for treatment after barely escaping from an attack by rebels in the jungle. Lucy hurts when she isn’t able to save her patients. Then an apparent rebel gang arrives with an injured leader. Lucy is reluctant to treat him but her boss reminds her that the mission is there to show mercy and grace to all in need. She treats the injury and the man is sheltered until he is able to travel again.

Lucy is exhausted from her tireless work and accidentally falls. Now that she has suffered a serious injury she is reluctant to follow the standard advice. Her boss and aides know that she must seek help at the city hospital. The only person available to get her there is Jed. He isn’t thrilled with the idea but a threatening storm leaves his battered, but trusty utility (Ute) truck as the only option.

The two slowly share about their childhood and their issues as they cope with the long and dangerous road. A washed out bridge send them off in another direction where they must try to escape the rebels.

I liked both characters in this story. They were a bit extreme but well developed with background that help shaped their personalities. I liked how Jed learns trust and faith through the ordeal while sharing a reminder to Lucy that she needs to give and seek forgiveness to settle demons from her past. The sniping opposites slowly develop a sweet romance while the action keeps the story moving at a good pace.

I am so glad that I received both book 1 and 2 in this series to read together. I enjoy the author’s clean writing style and her ability to share faith issues in real life settings. Maybe I rated the first book too harshly but I really had a hard time with the female lead, even though I recognize that the author appears to shape her characters on the extreme edge of their issues. I really enjoyed reading book 2 and think that the whole series would probably provide engaging entertainment together with good faith messages. I recommend these to readers who enjoy character driven Christian novels with a touch of suspense.

I received this title, and the first book in the series, from PBG (Pelican Book Group) Booklovers for an honest review. This qualifies for "V" in Alphabet Challenge.

Book Review: Carnations in January by Clare Revell

I like the Christian foundation of this story although I had trouble with the heroine. Fortunately she has a strong Christian suitor who shows her the worth she has in Christ.

Carnations in January
by Clare Revell

File Size: 971 KB
Print Length: 117 pages
Publisher: Pelican Book Group (December 11, 2015)
ASIN: B018DWGGVI
Genre: Christian Romance
My Rating: 3.75 of 5.0

After Grace Chadwick receives a surprise inheritance from her aunt—a house and a florist shop—she moves in after the funeral. While she doesn't know the first thing about flowers, she sees this an answer to her prayers—the new start she desperately needs. When Elliot Wallac drops by his new neighbor's house with casserole, he finds the house next door has problems. Damp walls and a sagging floor set his builders senses on alert. But this house needs more than a cosmetic fix, inspection reveals more extensive issues. Like Grace's spiritual life, the house is suffering from neglect at the very foundation. With God's guidance can Elliot help Grace repair her home and her faith before both are condemned?

Review:
Grace has always found it hard to live up to her name. She has stumbled a time or two and hasn’t been able to get on steady feet. Now Grace has inherited her beloved Aunt’s house and florist shop. Grace has decided to make an attempt to renew the house and revive the florist shop but she will need help. She knows nothing about flowers so she rehires the prior employees who are more than happy to show her the ropes.

She also knows little about decorating a house that has apparently suffered years of neglect … and maybe worse. Her neighbor, Elliot, steps in to help. Elliot is a handsome, Christian man who was friends with Grace’s Aunt. He is also a contractor and is beginning to suspect there are problem with Grace’s house when he visits and finds damp walls and slanted floors. Grace is struggling with restarting the florist shop and doesn't have the fortitude or self-confidence to face a set back at home. 

Elliot is committed to his faith and belief in Christ. He is attracted to Grace and continually invites her to join him at church but Grace repeatedly refuses. Grace had a bad experience in college with a professed Christian which has turned her away from church and faith. Elliot wants to show Grace that faith is not religion but relationship. He will also have to convince her that she has more strength and worth than she realizes if he wants to pursue more than a friendship with her.

I very much enjoyed the premise of this story and the faith messages conveyed in a life style and not in a preachy manner. I also liked the imagery and the easy writing/reading style. The addition of Elliott's brother and nephew add a fun element and I really like the flower theme of the series. Sadly, I did not like the doubt and pity that control Grace’s character. She dwells in negativity and self-pity to the point that I found it hard to stomach the character. Thank goodness for Elliot’s strength of faith, steadfastness and perseverance. His character and the fundamental message of returning a lost soul to the flock saved this story for me. I received book two in the series, Violets in February, and am glad to say I found that one more enjoyable.

I received this title and the second title in the series from PBG (Pelican Book Group) Booklovers for an honest review. Stay tuned (tomorrow) for the review of book two which is more favorable.

Book Review: The 12 Brides of Christmas Collection by 12 authors

This is a lovely collection of historical romance novellas.

The 12 Brides of Christmas Collection: 
12 Heartwarming Historical Romances for the Season of Love
by Mary Connealy (Author), Diana Lesire Brandmeyer (Author), Margaret Brownley (Author), & 9 more

File Size: 2204 KB

Print Length: 546 pages

Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1630584894

Publisher: Barbour Books (October 1, 2015)

ASIN: B0159JAEZW

Genre: Christian Romance, Historical Novellas

My Rating: 4.25+ of 5.0

Christmas is the time for love—and weddings—and twelve historical women are on their way to the altar, whether they know it or not. In Nineteenth Century settings across the heartland of America, readers will experience heartfelt gifts, old-fashioned Christmas traditions, sweet romance, and inspiring faith from twelve acclaimed Christian authors, including Mary Connealy, Margaret Brownley, Pam Hillman, Maureen Lang, Michele Ule, Amy Lillard, Miralee Ferrell, Susan Page Davis, Diana Lesire Brandmeyer, Amanda Cabot, Davalynn Spencer, and Vickie McDonough.

Review:
This is a lovely collection of ‘frontier’ (mostly), young (mostly) bride stories. I enjoyed the variety of locations and the individual holiday traditions or themes that made each story unique. I read and reviewed one of the novellas last December and I believe they are each offered separately. However this collection gets them all together and I wish that I had started reading the full collection a little earlier so I could have savored each story a bit more. All of the stories are sweet, charming and heart-warming. My favorite is #11, The Snowbound Bride. Davalynn Spencer has a wonderful way with describing a scene and sharing folksy sayings. I will be looking to enjoy more works from her.

1) The Festive Bride by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer –Southern Illinois 1886. Roy is a widower struggling to care for his two young daughters who have asked for a “mama” for Christmas. The local doctor’s daughter, Alma, helps her nurse the younger child from a cold. Alma was raised in a festive home and is very handy with homemade crafts. She would rather work as a nurse or teacher than marry the men her father suggests. When the doctor prepares to move without his daughter she has to make plans quickly. Perhaps she can help Roy by caring for the girls. 4.25

2) The Nutcracker Bride by Margaret Brownley –Kansas 1880. Lucy is handling her wagon home when a dashing stranger on a thundering steed gives her a mission to save a package for him. When he sneaks up on her house, Lucy accidently shoots him. She isn’t sure if he is a Texas Ranger as he claims or a robbing bandit. This has a lovely Nutcracker tradition. (German Zimt Makronen Cookies recipe.) 4.25

3) The Christmas Star Bride by Amanda Cabot –Wyoming Territory 1885. Esther lost her sweetheart to the war. Now she has made a small success of a bakery in town. She needs a special portrait for her niece and her groom to carry on a family tradition. A wounded soldier turned itinerant artist finds a second chance for love when he answers Esther’s ad. 4.25

4) The Advent Bride by Mary Connealy –Nebraska 1875. Melanie is a young school teacher coping with a sullen, lonesome boy, Simon. She finds an old discarded puzzle box filled with hidden drawers. When she shares the special box with Simon and his father it changes their lives. I reviewed this story in December, 2014. 4.5

5) The Christmas Tree Bride by Susan Page Davis –Oregon Trail, Wyoming 1867. Polly’s family lives at a remote, lonely stagecoach stop. She misses her home and friends back east and longs for a Christmas tree like they had there. She asks a young driver, Jacob, if he would try to find her a tree for Christmas. She finds her dreams changing before Christmas arrives. 4.0.

6) The Nativity Bride by Miralee Ferrell –Washington 1875-1880. Sixteen year old Deborah loved the boy next door. Although Curt was a farmer’s son he longed to be a woodworker. He left Deborah behind to pursue his craft. Curt returns upon news that his mother has died. He and Deborah find a beautiful nativity as they clean the attic and Deborah finds secrets in his mother’s journal. Can the nativity and secrets revealed help restore broken relationships? 4.25

7) The Evergreen Bride by Pam Hillman –Mississippi 1887. Annabelle has her heart set on visiting her cousin in Illinois for a white Christmas. Her brother’s mill owner/woodworker partner, Sam, wants Annabelle to be happy even if he is concerned she might give her heart away in the city, without knowing how he feels. 4.25.

8) The Gift-Wrapped Bride byMaureen Lang –Chicago 1848. Sophie isn’t happy that her family has brought her to the city with other families seeking mates for their daughters. She would like to be an artist but her father scoffs at her dreams, Sophie has to deal with her childhood prankster, Noah. Can Noah convince her that he has matured and accepted faith? Inviting mischievous street lads to participate in the Nativity program will either be a disaster or show Sophie how he cares for others. There are lovely Christian messages in this story. (Stew and Dumplings recipe.) 4.25.

9) The Gingerbread Bride by Amy Lillard –Ozarks, Arizona 1870. Maddie is a preacher’s proper daughter – most of the time. But she can’t complete with her beautiful sister. She is desperate to win the heart of Harlan, the quiet lawyer in town. She decides that a love potion from the woman down the lane is the only answer. But how will she know if Harlan will love her after the potion in the gingerbread wears off? A cute story set in two days. 4.25

10) The Fruitcake Bride by Vickie McDonough –Missouri 1890. Karen was abandoned by her father and left in the care of her aunt. When her aunt dies Karen’s childhood best friend, Pastor Parsons (aka Parson Parsons) asks her to come to his town to be his bride. Karen is intimidated by the parishioners waiting to meet her and one misstep after another make her doubtful that she can be a good pastor’s wife. This has cute banter and a fruitcake recipe. 4.25.

11) The Snowbound Bride by Davalynn Spencer –Colorado 1885. Ara is running away from her uncle who wants to bargain her as a wife in a business arrangement. To escape her uncle’s henchman she hides in a wagon and ends up snowed in miles from town. Nate, the large horse rancher, has no idea where this pretty lady came from but he sure hopes he can keep her. His mother and uncle encourage the match and share a delightful family heritage. The descriptions in this are Wonderful! (“I see she’s done tangled your spurs.”) 4.75.

12) The Yuletide Bride by Michelle Ule –Nebraska 1873. Fiddler Ewan will take any work he can to make ends meet. He loves his flute playing, childhood friend, Kate, and she loves him. But Kate’s father has a banker’s fancy son in mind as a mate for his daughter. Can Ewan meet the demand price to win approval for a yuletide wedding? I enjoyed the authentic setting and musical instruments in this novella. 4.5

This is (I think) my last NetGalley title for the year. It qualifies for my NetGalley Challenge.

Book Review and Giveaway: Raven Saint by MaryLu Tyndall

In this story a young Christian woman and the bitter pirate who kidnaps her fall in love.
The Raven Saint: (Charles Towne Belles)
by MaryLu Tyndall

• Series: Charles Towne Belles (Book 3)
• Paperback: 352 pages
• Publisher: Barbour Publishing Inc.; Reprint edition (January 1, 2014)
• ISBN-10: 1624167241

Genre: Christian Romance, Inspirational
My Rating: 3.5* of 5.0  *but note all the 5*s at Amazon

Join bestselling author MaryLu Tyndall for a seafaring historical full of romance, intrigue, action, and adventure. Grace Westcott has piously served God her whole life. Captain Rafe Dubois cannot pass up the opportunity to earn more gold toward the hospital he’s building for the poor by kidnapping Admiral Westcott’s youngest daughter. But when the missionary and the mercenary meet, it’s full-sail-ahead into tumultuous waters! Find out what happens when a bitter mercenary who’s sworn off God falls in love with a pious woman determined to change him.
Charles Towne Belles Series:
Book 1 - The Red Siren
Book 2 - The Blue Enchantress

Review:
Grace is the youngest daughter of an Admiral. She is not yet twenty but has decided to dedicate her life to serving God. She is taking baskets to the less fortunate when she is kidnapped by pirates.

Captain Rafe Dubois has agreed to deliver the Admiral’s daughter in exchange for gold to build the hospital he wants to help those less fortunate. Rafe is the son of a nobleman but chose his rebellious life-style after his father’s wealth wooed away Claire, the woman he fell in love with. He has no trust in women, much less God.

Grace is frightened but also finds strength through her faith. She determines that she will face off with the Godless Capitaine and show him God’s love. Grace’s kind manner help her to make a few friends among the crew, most particularly the Captain’s cat, Spyglass, and a disillusioned former Jesuit priest, Father Alers. Others have little kindness for her and some have their own plans to use her in plans of betrayal.

I liked Grace for the most part and particularly liked her strong faith and that she showed kindness in response to evil. She learns lessons about character and pride through her trials.  Rafe is a mixed character as he has a soft-heart but his heart is full of bitterness and must show brashness and ruthlessness to control his men. The plot includes Rafe’s father, Claire and more betrayal. The characters are well developed and the plot has action, intrigue and bantering dialogue. The writing is easy to read but I just never warmed to the story.

I started this book the summer of 2014 and finally finished it late summer of 2015. I enjoyed the last 60 or so pages so maybe I just wasn’t in the mood when I started it. However – I have decided I really don’t care for kidnapping pirate themed plots. This is at least the second pirate story I couldn’t get into. There are very positive reviews at Amazon so I think it was just me and my reading tastes.

This was from my TBR shelf as I received this title as a win in October 2010 from Desertrose.

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* This contest is open to US only for Print Copy.
* This contest will close 5 PM (Central) December 20, 2015.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED after December 20, 2015.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond on the winners form linked in the announcement or by email.

Book Review and Print Giveaway: Jennifer by Dee Henderson

This is a lovely, Christian romance.

Jennifer: An O'Malley Love Story, O'Malley Series #1
By Dee Henderson

Hardcover: 160 pages
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers; 4.1.2013 edition
(May 1, 2013)
ISBN-10: 0764211129
ISBN-13: 978-0764211126
Genre: Christian Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Product Description
It's a summer of change for Jennifer O'Malley.
The busy physician has a pediatrics practice in Dallas, Texas, and meeting and falling in love with surgeon Tom Peterson is adding a rich layer to her life. She's sorting out how to introduce Tom to her family she's the youngest of seven and thinking about marriage.
She's falling in love with Jesus too, and knows God is good. But that faith is about to be tested, and in a way she didn't expect. The results will soon transform her entire family.

Review:
Jennifer was an orphan who was ‘adopted’ into the O’Malley group of young boys and girls during foster care years. Although each child has found their own career path, they are still close and protective of each other. Jennifer is a pediatrician who has a special heart for all patients, but especially her young cancer patients. She must cope with the highs and lows, remissions and losses that go along with that deadly disease.

Tom is a busy surgeon who hasn’t found the right woman to interest him in settling down and starting his own family. He is intrigued by Jennifer’s energy and giving spirit when he meets her. They begin to share time around their hospital duties and slowly spending time together after work. Then he invites her to church and quietly shares his faith with her without being pushy but showing the importance it has in his own life.

When Jennifer unexpectedly faces a crisis, the fear and anger she experiences are understandable. She has to decide if she will face the issue alone or allow Tom, and maybe even God, to help her.

I read the O’Malley series a number of years ago and really enjoyed them. Ms. Henderson does a good job of providing smooth, easy writing, personable characters and a story that is realistic. Some of the stories have suspense features but they all have some romantic tension and conflict. I say “romantic” tension because these are clean stories with at least one character grounded with Biblical foundations and the other drawn in.

I was glad to see this novella available at a low price to get for my church Ladies’ Book Club. It is consistent with the easy, personable style although this one is sweet romance with emotional conflict and no suspense or danger other than medical issues dealing with cancer. All of our ladies enjoyed the book and are interested in ready more of the series. Although this novella was actually written last, it fits at the beginning of the series and Jennifer and Tom’s story continues in The Negotiator (O'Malley Book 1).

I picked this up on sale for my ladies' book club and we discussed it October 3, 2015.

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* This contest is open to US only for Print Copy.
* This contest will close 5 PM (Central) October 31, 2015.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED after October 31, 2015.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond on the winners form linked in the announcement or by email.

Book Review and Giveaway: Cassidy (Big Sky Dreams Book 1) by Lori Wick

This is an engaging, character driven, gently paced, sweet historical romance.

Cassidy (Big Sky Dreams Book 1)
by Lori Wick

• File Size: 448 KB
• Print Length: 306 pages
• Page Numbers Source ISBN: 0736916180
• Publisher: Harvest House Publishers (July 1, 2007)
• ASIN: B005MJ8Y02

Genre: Historical Romance, Christian
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: July 1, 2007
Following the success of her recent stand–alone novel, White Chocolate Moments, bestselling author Lori Wick returns to delight readers with a new series set in the vast open places of Montana.

Token Creek, Montana Territory, 1880—Cassidy Norton is a fine seamstress who makes her living sewing for others. Amid the bustle of a busy frontier town, her life is rich. What time her business doesn’t take, her friends and church family fill. But Cassidy hasn’t always lived in Token Creek, and few people know her full story. So she struggles with a nagging unsettledness in her heart.

Cassidy’s friend Meg is married to a rancher and has a baby, something Cassidy wants for herself. But that would mean revealing the details of her life. Will Cassidy find the strength to take that risk?

Book 1 in the Big Sky Dreams series.

Review:
Cassidy moved to Token Creek leaving behind secrets. She is making a reasonable living and, more importantly, has become part of the community through church and friends. She is especially close to Meg, who is married to Brad and expecting their first child. They live outside of town on a ranch with Brad’s younger brother, Travis.

Travis believes that Cassidy may have an interest in the local bank manager, Chandler, who has been seen walking with her. She also is close to Rylan, the burly bachelor Pastor. But Travis expresses concern about Cassidy’s safety as she lives alone and the town gets a bit rowdy on Saturday nights. After talking to Brad and Meg, they ask Cassidy to stay with them on Saturday nights and then go in to church together.

The story flows gently with the sharing of the characters and their individual and combined efforts to grow in their relationships with God. Midway through the book two new characters are introduced. One makes a surprising proposal to Cassidy while the other turns her life upside down. When Travis returns from a cattle drive will he join some of the other town members in condemning Cassidy or will he stand by her?

Although it is not faced paced, I did enjoy the gentle tone and steady style of the writing. There is a little mystery but don't expect any real suspense or action. I loved the consistent Biblical messages that are shared in natural settings through bits of sermons, prayers and study group discussions. There was nothing forced or disruptive in the easy presentation. Even though a daily life-style was shown, we (Ladies’ Book Club) thought there could have been a stronger emphasis on the setting details, like clothing since sewing was Cassidy’s specialty. Also, as another of my lady friends noted, there was a strange use of "that lady" instead of "she".  There were interesting discussion questions at the end of the book.

Several members of my Ladies’ Book Club have read most all of the works by Lori Wick. Three of us had never read her before but agreed that we liked the story and would be interested to read more by the author. I recommend this story to reader’s who like a gentle, character driven, inspirational historical romance. All of those elements are wrapped nicely in this book.

I purchased this at a discount price for Ladies Book Club. It was our April read. I am using this for Full House Challenge: Published between 2000 and 2013

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I didn't find an AUTHOR'S WEBSITE but here is her page at Fantastic Fiction and at Goodreads.

* This contest is open to US only for Print Copy.
* This contest will close 7 PM (Central) May 22, 2015.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED after May 22, 2015.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond on the winners form linked in the announcement or by email.

Book Review and Giveaway: Love Remains (The Matchmakers Book 1) by Kaye Dacus

A nice, second chance, Christian story.

Love Remains (The Matchmakers Book 1)

by Kaye Dacus

• Series: The Matchmakers (Book 1)
• Paperback: 320 pages
• Publisher: Barbour Books (August 1, 2010)
• ISBN-13: 978-1602609891

Genre: Christian Romance

My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Book Description

Publication Date: June 18, 2010

Every grandmother wants to see her grandchildren happy, especially when it comes to their love lives. Join five active senior ladies—and one gentleman—who take a great interest in the lives and loves of their single grandchildren and become The Matchmakers. Zarah Mitchell and Bobby Patterson become the first focus of meddling grandmothers when he moves back to Nashville to work for the Tennessee Criminal Investigations Unit. Will Zarah be able to forgive the man who years ago chose a military career over her—especially when she learns he is investigating the historic preservation agency for which she works?

Review:
Zarah Mitchell is a young woman with confidence issues. All her young years she was criticized by her father, the General. The same man idolized her older sister and later focused on his new family, but he never had time or approval for Zarah. As a senior, Zarah dated a young soldier behind her father’s back. When he disappeared from her life she went off to college heartbroken and men-shy.

Fourteen years later Zarah is still cautious of men. She is highly respected by her boss and peers at her work with the historical preservation agency. She is also a successful leader, and willing servant, in her church singles’ group. Things are secure, if in a rut, until her teen love, Bobby, sudden moves to town to work at the Nashville office of Tennessee Criminal Investigations Unit.

Bobby is glad to see Zarah again but sad to see that she seems to be taken advantage of by those around her. Bobby doesn’t understand how he lost Zarah fourteen years ago. He begins to wonder if they might have a second chance. But first he has to deal with the fact that his new assignment involves investigating the agency where Zarah works. Then he will have to convince Zarah to open up to him and take a chance on live beyond her routines.

There are some wonderful messages of forgiveness and second chances. The story also shows the need for balancing servanthood instead of being a doormat. Ms. Dacus edges in the issue of self confidence but I felt she missed a bit of a chance to emphasize that our true worth should be found in being creations and children of a mighty, heavenly God rather than in trying to please an earthly father.

There are parts of the story that seemed no more than filler, mundane actions. But most of the story is enjoyable and engaging. This is the second book we have read by this author and we liked the first one too. The writing in this story has an easy flow and makes for a quick, light read.

This was Ladies' Book Club reading for August and we all enjoyed the easy read.

Giveaway:

ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for my gently read print copy

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I have noticed a few commenters who forgot to enter through the Form.)

For 3 Extra Bonus entries comment on the review, OR

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* This contest is open US Only for Print Book.
* This contest will close 5 PM (Central) September 20, 2014.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED after September 20, 2014.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Book Review and Giveaway: Romance Rides the Range (Romance Rider Series #1) by Colleen L. Reece

This is a lovely, sweet romance showing characters who trust in God’s faithfulness.

Romance Rides the Range (Romance Rider Series #1)
by Colleen L. Reece

• Mass Market Paperback: 176 pages
• Publisher: Barbour Publishing, Inc (April 28, 2010)
• ISBN-13: 978-1602608955

Genre: Christian Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: April 1, 2012
Sarah doesn’t dare look back . . .
Sarah Anderson refuses to become a drudge for her stepfather and his unruly children after her mother dies in 1882. Neither will she become a pawn for his indebtedness to a riverboat gambler. Sarah escapes from her Missouri home and heads for California to find her brother Seth, trusting God to keep her safe on the perilous journey west.
Matt Sterling rescued Seth from danger and taught him to become a top hand on the Sterling ranch near Madera. Betrayed by one selfish girl, Matt has vowed the San Joaquin River will run dry before he ever gets involved with another woman. He’s better off fighting cattle rustlers, floods and drought to make his spread one of the finest in the valley.

Is love's long lasso strong enough to overcome obstacles and rope in the runaway girl and the once-bitten, twice-shy rancher?

Review:
Sarah, a girl of sixteen, is grieving the death of her faithful mother. She is troubled by her rough, drunken stepfather, Gus, who has used her mother to care for his four unruly children and now expects Sarah to do the same. That expectation pales when Sarah learns that Gus has agreed to give her into marriage in exchange for his gambling debts to the slick, wealthy owner of the River Queen.

Sarah has always dreamed of having a marriage blessed by God like the example she saw in her parents. She believes that God is encouraging her to escape and make her way west to the safety of her brother, Seth. Seth left home a few years before to get away from Gus. He has written to Sarah in secret telling her of his life as a cowboy working under a Godly boss, Matthew Sterling. Seth even sent a picture of himself with Matthew and Sarah has been encouraged by dreams that maybe Matthew would be the Godly mate for her.

Seth also shared a picture of his younger sister with Matt. Matt has been reluctant to seek female friendship since being betrayed a few years earlier. Yet Matt is impressed with Seth’s hard work and Christian foundation and there is no escaping the beauty Matt sees in the picture of a young, innocent Sarah.

Can Sarah make it safely from Missouri to California to stay out of the hands of Gus and her would be fiance? She is sure God has a plan for her but does that plan include Matthew?

I really enjoyed this sweet story. Sarah is a young girl with a strong, determined faith that God will keep her from harm. But that doesn’t mean she will fall into the arms of a handsome rancher to protect her. She is obedient to seek God’s will even if that means working to support herself. Matt is a well respected man of integrity and high morals. Although Seth and Matt have one bitter enemy in town, most of the supporting characters are lovely, hard working men and women.

The author shares appropriate scripture that fits into the circumstances of the characters so it does not come across as preachy.  The writing is direct and simple, making this story an easy, quick read. The message of trust and God’s faithfulness is lovingly presented. My friends in Ladies’ Book club enjoyed the story too. We would be glad to read more stories by Ms. Reece.

I purchased and read this book for Ladies' Book Club meeting 8/2.

Giveaway:

ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for my gently read print copy

ENTRY FORM HERE

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I have noticed a few commenters who forgot to enter through the Form.)

For 3 Extra Bonus entries comment on the review, OR

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* This contest is open US Only for Print Book.
* This contest will close 5 PM (Central) August 17, 2014.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED after August 17, 2014.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Book Review and Giveaway: The Lady's Maid (Prairie Dreams) by Susan Page Davis

This is an entertaining story of two British women joining a wagon train across the United States.

The Lady's Maid (Prairie Dreams)
by Susan Page Davis

• Series: Prairie Dreams (Book 1)
• Paperback: 320 pages
• Publisher: Barbour Publishing, Inc. (October 1, 2011)
• ISBN-10: 161626439X
• Genre:  Historical Romance, Christian
• My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: October 1, 2011
Travel along with Elise Finster and her British mistress, Lady Anne Stone, as they search for the new but missing earl of Stoneford. Determined to follow David Stone’s somewhat cold trail leading to Oregon, greenhorns Elise and Anne secure livestock and supplies to join a wagon train. Will the ladies succeed in their quest or succumb to the malfeasance of the mysterious man dogging their heels? Scout Eb Bentley’s initial disgust with these ill-prepared women eventually turns into admiration for one lady in particular. Can he protect her long enough to win her over, or will prairie dreams turn into a Wild West nightmare?

Review:
Elise Finster was only sixteen when she entered domestic service as a parlor maid. Twenty-two years later she is dedicated as Lady’s Maid to twenty-year old Lady Anne, whose father has died. Lady Anne’s uncle, David Stone, is the next Earl and heir but he is in America and hasn’t been heard from for ten years. The estate remains in limbo and Lady Anne has no funds to support the family home. If there is proof that David is dead then the estate and title pass to a less friendly cousin.

Anne and Elise set off to America determined to find Uncle David.  They manage to overcome sickness during the ocean voyage, then travel by train from New York to St. Louis. Elise suspects there is a man following them but she can’t pin him down. Elise and Anne believe that David went west on a wagon train. They resolve to travel after him even though it is a totally alien world to them. They are already traveling as companions instead of Lady and servant so others will not mock them.

Elise and Anne meet Rob and Eb, the trail master and scout for the first wagon train heading west. The rule is that women cannot travel without a man to help them drive their team and do other chores. The ladies hire Thomas, a man who poses as one recommended by Eb but who has been spying on them for the man who followed them from New York. Eb is particularly unsure if Elise and Anne can make the trip but slowly they modify their attire and learn how to cope on the trail. They learn to cook and handle the team of mules under the protective eye of Rob and especially Eb, a widower, who has developed a quiet interest in Elise.

The story contains wonderful details of life on a wagon train and it was particularly interesting to have the British women as a focal point in that journey. The ladies show determination and grace in dealing with each new ‘adventure’, danger and obstacle they face. Elise finds herself in a personal dilemma as she is committed to her promise to help Anne find her Uncle but she has fallen for Eb and can’t help but wonder what it would be like to have a husband and home of her own. There is a bit of a mystery remaining at the conclusion of this book which leads to the second book in the series.

I enjoyed the old-fashioned nature of the story, including the protective attitudes of the men (fitting for the time period) and the support and friendships among the pioneer families. There is an underlying faith that helps different characters although the author also presents scenes that show how jealousy, anger and fear can twist men and women who proclaim to be Christian. The book is well researched and written. The book club ladies all agreed that it was an entertaining and easy read.

I purchased and read this for my Ladies’ Book Club for 8/2/14.

Giveaway:

ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for my gently read print copy

ENTRY FORM HERE

(Don't forget to fill in the form for entry!

I have noticed a few commenters who forgot to enter through the Form.)

For 3 Extra Bonus entries comment on the review, OR

visit THE AUTHOR'S WEBSITE and tell me something you like/learned there.

* This contest is open US Only for Print Book.
* This contest will close 5 PM (Central) August 17, 2014.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED after August 17, 2014.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Audio Book Review: Natalie's Journey Back to Love by E. Jean Beres

I think this sweet story would be a good choice for anyone who has suffered a loss and is struggling to feel the emotions of love and joy again.
"Natalie's Journey Back to Love"
by E. Jean Beres (MindWings Audio)
Read By: Laural Merlington

(This data refers to the Kindle version.}
• File Size: 202 KB
• Print Length: 37 pages
• Simultaneous Device Usage: Unlimited
• Publisher: Mind Wings Audio (November 18, 2011)
• Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.

Genre: Christian Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: November 18, 2011
When Natalie’s daughter and son-in-law were killed in a car accident, she inherited their house and the responsibility for their four children. She lost her husband two years earlier, and now feels overwhelmed. She’s bitter and feels forsaken. Pastor Richard Gill, helps her to cope. Through a growing closeness with Richard, Natalie discovers God’s love for her.

Review:
Natalie is bitter with God as she lost her husband two years before and now loses her daughter and son-in-law in a car accident. She has moved in with her four grandchildren and is struggling with her own grief as she tries to find energy and patience to deal with the children.  The oldest daughter, Angela, is 15 and wearing strange clothes as a means of establishing her independence through her pain.  Natalie learns she has a boy-friend pushing her for sex and other friends encouraging her to smoke.

Mark has a boa constrictor for a pet that escapes from his cage. Other than having to chase down the snake, Mark seems quiet, calm and responsible to do his homework, but he can still be a sullen young boy. Young five year old Lily is saddened by the loss of her parents but has the ability to say wise things that help to comfort Natalie. And three year old toddler Sam, sweet and warm, doesn’t fully understand what has happened but is the first to reach out and give hugs.

Natalie’s teenage sweetheart, Richard, has become the Pastor of the local church. He steadily encourages Natalie to re-connect with God and put her trust in him.  He asks Natalie, “What do you do with love? Give it away and God will pour more into you.”

This story is quite lovely. Natalie’s bitterness steams from her loss and stress at handling a whole new family. The children are appropriately portrayed for their ages. It is beautiful to see the growth in the whole family. Even Angela begins to change in attire and attitude. When Natalie notices Angela replies: “You’re showing me the way Grandma.”


Audio Notes: I really enjoyed the narration. Ms. Merlington does an excellent job of capturing the different voices, even those of the children. Her reading enhances the emotional sorrows and joys of the story. This Audio provides a full, beautiful story in under an hour listening enjoyment.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Lily comforts Natalie (from the mouths of babes):

“But God is helping us. He knows what we are going through.”

I received this title for Review from MindWings Audio through AudioBook Jukebox.