A Hero's Homecoming by Carlene Havel ~ Review
My Review: I loved it! I was hooked from the very first page!
Rich Martino returns from duty to find his wife missing, his bank account cleaned out, his father in critical condition and everyone believing him dead.
Charlotte Phillips is a psychologist and Rich's father's legal guardian, infuriatingly calm and capable, Rich suspects her of having greedy intentions and vows to reveal her for what she is, but what he finds may just lead him to the healing that his hardened heart needs to heal.
Goodness gracious, this was such a good book! I loved how the book delved deeply into the characters of Rich and Charlotte, showing them as honest relatable people with more scars than most, yet that only made them more endearing. Ms. Havel truly has a gift for creating characters, because not only were the main characters well written, but the side ones were also well developed, I loved Charlotte's mother and her best friend Martha!
The message of faith and redemption ran strong in this book, making this book so much more than a romance. There were gritty parts in the beginning (a mild instance of swearing), and there was anger that I felt was totally reasonable considering what Rich had and was going through. There were so many wonderful facets to this book, but most of all Rich's spiritual journey. If they followed the book exactly, I think this would make the perfect movie!
Overall, there was so much to love about this book, the plot moved steadily and once I started I raced through the book. I'm pretty sure I'm forgetting to mention some other things that I thought were amazing, so I'll leave it up to you to read this fantastic book for yourselves! Great characters, great plot, and great message of faith. What more could you ask for?
Posted by Faith at 9:08 PM 3 comments:
Labels: Contemporary fiction review
Blowing on Dandelions by Miralee Ferrell ~ Review
Katherine Galloway's life isn't calm for long, when her mother comes to town to move in with her and her two daughters. Katherine has always had a tough relationship with her mother, because her mother has always blatantly preferred her half-sister to her.
When widower, Micah Jacobs' home burns to the ground, he has little choice but to move into Katherine's boarding house, helping to ease the tension between her and her mother.
Can dandelion wishes some true?
A well written book, that was not so much about the relationship between Micah and Katherine, but more about the relationships between them and their children and Katherine and her mother.
The characters were strong and well developed, Katherine was a woman of seemingly endless patience and grace, I loved how she felt that she should honor her mother and be respectful, no matter what, yet she knew when to put her foot down. Another great character was Mrs. Robertson, because she was definitely a surprise! And Micah was strong, sensible, and loved his son.
Overall, a well written novel that flows naturally through the characters lives letting us get to know them and showing the struggles they faced. This was a touching story about the relationships that make up a family. Definitely a read worth your time!
North Country Hero by Lois Richer ~ Review
After losing his leg overseas, Kyle Loness is back in the town that he can't wait to escape because of memories that won't let him be. But he never expected the beautiful and kind-hearted, Sara to enlist his help to mentor the foster boys in need of a secure family. The more Kyle spends time with Sara and the kids he finds his jaded heart healing in ways he never knew possible.
I loved how Sara and Laurel had such a big heart for children, and so I really liked both of them from the beginning. Kyle was great too, he had his struggles and his hurts, but he was healing and growing.
This story had an especially good message of faith and I liked how it showed that no matter what is in your past, God can set you free.
I think that my favorite character was Laurel, because she had heart, and spirit. It was also fun to see her interact with another guy from the town, something might just be up between the two of them...
Overall this was a well written story with great characters, and side characters, all of them quite memorable. I will definitely be reading the next book in the series!
The Message on the Quilt by Stephanie Grace Whitson ~ Review
Emilie Jane Rhodes has a passion for writing and want to be a reporter at her father's newspaper, but he keeps brushing her off giving her small gossip and society columns and not real news, but when he gives her job to another woman Emilie is even more determined to be a real reporter. Emilie convinces her father to let her interview the speakers at the 1890 Chautauqua series, and meets the man known as The Man of Many Voices, Noah Shaw, who wants answers.
So many characters and so much going on! It took me awhile to figure out what was going one because of the all the threads and storylines that the book followed, but I loved how it came together in a way that made it so that I couldn't have imagined it otherwise.
While this book does say that it is the third in a series, the characters in this book are of no relation to the previous characters of the previous books, the only connection being that all of the women's live were impacted in a big way by a quilt and the things that transpired around them.
Overall this was a well written historical romance with so many characters and so much going on, yet I didn't get confused and all of it came together into an intriguing tale. The characters were well developed, even though, as I said before there were a lot of them! I loved how it all came together, this book was very satisfying, with lessons of faith woven into the fibers of the story. I would highly recommend this book!
Bride Wanted by Renee Andrews ~ Review
Ever since he was twelve years old, at church camp, Troy has been writing love letters to his future wife saving them up for the time when he finally meets her. So when his grandma "borrows" a few of his letters to enter in a magazine's love letter contest. When his letters win, the magazine editor, Destiny, travels to get his permission to put his letters in print, but she just might find more than her heart bargained for!
This was such a sweet story with such a great premise and that made me smile pretty much the whole way through! I absolutely loved Troy's grandma, she was obviously invested in her grandson and his happiness, but her way of helping him was to kinda...sorta, you know...meddle. Which made for plenty of mix ups and great plot twists.
Troy was such a great hero, and I loved how he was so optimistic an hopeful that he would find the one. And Destiny was a great heroine, with a heart for writing, and I loved how her relationship with God really grew over the course of the book.
Overall, such a sweet story with a original twist. Possibly one of the best romances that I have read this Summer, I would highly recommend reading this one!
Amish by Accident by J.E.B. Spredemann ~ Blog Tour!
Amish by Accident
By J.E.B. Spredemann
Luke Beiler has loved Elisabeth Schrock for as long as he can remember and is looking forward to the day they both join the church so they can marry. Elisabeth, however, chafes under the church rules and flees to the Englisch world leaving Luke heart broken.When an accident leaves Brianna Mitchell with amnesia, she feels helplessly lost. What will happen when she is mistaken for Elisabeth Schrock and taken home to Paradise, Pennsylvania?
J.E.B. Spredemann resides in central California and currently writes Christian fiction. Joanna's Struggle, in the Amish Girls Series, is the first of several books written by the author. The Amish Girls Series was primarily penned for teen girls, but has been enjoyed by readers of all ages. Lovers of the ever-popular Amish fiction genre are sure to enjoy these books as well, even though they are geared toward a younger audience. The characters in the stories will soon become endeared to your heart, especially the mischievous Jonathan Fisher. We hope and pray that our books will touch your life and be a blessing to you, as they have been to us! Amish by Accident, written for adults, was the first book to be released via Amazon Kindle and is the eighth book penned by the author. The Amish Girls Series (Book 1) was released in late December 2012. Each subsequent book in the series will follow 2-3 months apart thereafter. Currently, a hard copy for Amish by Accident is in the works due to the book's popularity. A release date will be posted when it becomes available. Amish by Accident is now available in audio book format as well. A book trailer for Amish by Accident may be viewed on YouTube.
Genre: Christian Fiction (Romance, Chick Lit)
Publisher: Blessed Publishing
Print Tour Flyer [PDF] | Read the book excerpt [PDF]
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Link for Audiobook | Amazon | Barnes and Noble
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Posted by Faith at 12:00 AM 5 comments:
Chivalry by Zach Hunter ~ Review
I didn't know exactly what to expect when I picked up this book, but I had a feeling that it would be good, but it surpassed my expectations and turned out to be excellent!
Mr. Hunter challenges our generation to be kind, civil, honorable, and chivalrous human beings in a world that is far from noble and is in need of modern day knights, young woman and young men who will step up to their full potential to fight for what is right.
Being Chivalrous doesn't just mean standing up and being brave in an unjust situation, but it also means living an honorable life even when no one is looking, or quietly refusing and putting a stop to heartless gossip behind someone's back. It's not just about manners, it's a way of life.
Mr. Hunter does a great job of providing examples of ways that we can become more chivalrous, in a relatable and honest way. I think that's one of the things I liked the most about this book was the way that Mr. Hunter presented it. He was honest and let the readers know that he was just like us struggling to live his values in a fallen world. Being chivalrous is hard, but it is possible with God's help. Are you ready to take the chivalry challenge?
Labels: Christian Living, Teen Non-fiction Review
Prairie Song by Mona Hodgson ~ Review
Anna and her family are ready to start over in a new land full of promises after the death of her brother in the Civil War, so they join a wagon train and head west. Along the way friendships are tested and Anna must makes tough decisions in this new prairie drama.
A full cast of characters and compelling characters, many of them from Ms. Hodgson's novella prequel series Quilted Hearts. In my opinion, it might be a little harder to get into this book if you haven't read the prequels, because some details seemed dependent on the reader already knowing what transpired in the previous series.
The characters were compelling, both Anna and Caleb had pasts and secrets that they kept. But they both grew so much over the course of the book. Caroline and Garrett also had to overcome their own struggles.
The faith track in this book was well done, with little moments here and there, that laid the foundation. There was a lot going on in this book, with moments that really made me smile. This book was more of a story of the many people who went west and how they learned to work together and the hearts that were changed forever.
Talon by Ronie Kendig ~ Review
Aspen Courtland is determined to find her twin brother, dead or alive, and discover the truth behind his disappearance. With her brother's combat dog by her side, the only one who would know where to look, Aspen is hoping to find closure. But what they find is a web of conspiracies and intrigue, that cross more than international lines.
What an adventure! I've long been a fan of Ms. Kendig's books and this one did not disappoint, it was nearly impossible to put down. The characters were well developed and driven, it was so fascinating to learn about combat dogs and what they go through and how well they are trained.
The story was action packed, with a great plot, and more than a few surprises up the author's sleeves. I liked how the story was fast paced, yet not racing past me. I was able to keep up with the who was who, of the plot and what was going on without getting confused.
Overall, a great book that I was able to just leap into, even though I hadn't read the previous book in the series, though now I really should! A terrific action and military suspense read!
Rosemary Cottage by Colleen Coble ~ Litfuse Tour and Review
After the death of Amy's brother, Ben, she goes to Rosemary Cottage on the Outer Banks of North Carolina to mourn and find the answers that she's been looking for. Amy uncovers, with the help of Coast Guard Officer Curtis, another side of Ben that she'd never seen before, his secret life.
But as Ben's past unravels, his death begins to look more and more like it wasn't an accident...
A well written mystery, with well developed characters and a pulsing plot that intertwines to weave a riveting tale. There was definitely a lot going on! And the mystery kept me guessing, with some wild turns along the way!
This book works great as a stand alone, but I also loved how it let me catch up with the characters from the previous book, and know that they were doing well.
There were some great side characters, I have honestly never read a Colleen Coble book that I didn't love!
Overall, a fast read, with plenty of adventure, mystery, and a tale about facing the truth no matter how terrible it may be. A great book that I highly recommend!
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank You!
About Rosemary Cottage: Amy came to Rosemary Cottage to grieve, to heal, maybe even find love. But there's a deadly undertow of secrets around Hope Island . . .
The charming Rosemary Cottage on the beach offers Amy Lange respite she needs to mourn her brother, Ben. She's even thinking of moving her midwife practice to the Outer Banks community. It's always been a refuge for her and her family. She also wants to investigate Ben's disappearance at sea. Everyone blames a surfing accident, but Amy has reason to wonder.
Coast Guard officer Curtis Ireland has lost a sibling too. His sister, Gina, was run down by a boat, leaving him to raise her infant daughter. If anyone knew who little Raine's father was, Curtis could lose his beloved niece. Yet he can't help being drawn to Hope Beach's new midwife, Amy. He even agrees to help her investigate what happened to both Ben and Gina.
Can two grieving people with secrets find healing on beautiful Hope Island? Or will their quest for truth set them at odds with each other . . . and with those who will go to any length to keep hidden things hidden?
Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/mQ63a
Meet Colleen: Best-selling author Colleen Coble's novels have won or finaled in awards ranging from the Best Books of Indiana, ACFW Book of the Year, RWA's RITA, the Holt Medallion, the Daphne du Maurier, National Readers' Choice, and the Booksellers Best. She has nearly 2 million books in print and writes romantic mysteries because she loves to see justice prevail. Colleen is CEO of American Christian Fiction Writers and is a member of Romance Writers of America. She lives with her husband Dave in Indiana.
Learn more about Colleen: http://colleencoble.com/
Landing page:
http://litfusegroup.com/author/ccoble
Water can be calming and healing, but it can also be dangerous, as Amy Lange and Curtis Ireland both found out. Both lost their siblings to the sea, and they hope to find healing on Hope Island. But will they find it, or will their quest to find answers set them at odds with each other and with those who have secrets that need to stay hidden?
Find out in Colleen Coble's latest book, Rosemary Cottage, which released July 9. To celebrate, Colleen is hosting a 12-day Nautical Summer Giveaway. From July 16-27, Colleen will be giving away a new nautical prize every day. She'll announce the winners on July 29 on her website, so mark your calendars for that date to see if you were picked as a lucky winner!
Not on Facebook? Enter here.
Labels: Contemporary fiction review, Mystery
Frame 232 by Wil Mara ~ Review
Margaret was standing on the street recording the president's visit with her camcorder, on the fateful day that John F. Kennedy was shot. Margaret fears what her camera might have caught so she hides her secret. But when she will is read, leaving everything to her daughter, it leads Sheila to a safety deposit box that may change everything that everyone thought they knew about Kennedy's murder...
A well told and riveting adventure. I love how the author showed what I like to call "snapshots" of each of the characters and their back rounds, I felt like I got to know some of the characters more in one chapter than I've ever known others in the course of a whole book!
The story was well written and complex with many things going on in different parts of the world. The author did a great job of bringing the idea of a exposed conspiracy changing everything, I was swept away into the world of intrigue and plotting with Sheila and Jason.
Overall a very good book, and I found myself very entertained even though this is a far cry from the usual books I read. A great book with everything from conspiracies to emotional depth.
Labels: Action/Suspense Fiction Review, Contemporary fiction review, Historical Fiction review
Whispers on the Prairie by Vickie McDonough ~ Review and FIRST Wild Card Review
When Sarah Marshall's uncle decides to head west in search of gold, she has little say in the matter. But as the miles pile up she finds herself going farther west than originally planned.
With three brothers, a widower, and a passle of ranchers vying for her heart, it's bound to be an adventure Sarah will never forget!
The trail west is fraught with misunderstandings and misfortunes as Sarah and her family soon find out. Written in an engaging and steadily paced style, this was a great read about accepting an unexpected journey.
Plenty of twists kept this book going, I really wasn't sure what would happen next. There were plenty of characters, that I felt that I got to know pretty well over the course of the book.
Overall, a fun read. I really loved the relationship between the brothers, and how they settled things by either drawing straws or wrestling! Definitely a great book, especially after I looked back on it as a whole :)
It is time for a FIRST Wild Card Tour book review! If you wish to join the FIRST blog alliance, just click the button. We are a group of reviewers who tour Christian books. A Wild Card post includes a brief bio of the author and a full chapter from each book toured. The reason it is called a FIRST Wild Card Tour is that you never know if the book will be fiction, non~fiction, for young, or for old...or for somewhere in between! Enjoy your free peek into the book!
You never know when I might play a wild card on you!
Today's Wild Card author is:
Vickie McDonough
and the book:
Whispers On The Prairie
(Pioneer Promises Volume 1)
Whitaker House (June 17, 2013)
***Special thanks to Cathy Hickling for sending me a review copy.***
Vickie McDonough is an award-winning author of twenty-six books and novellas. A member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, she served as treasurer of the organization for three years and also was treasurer for her local chapter. Vickie lives with her husband, Robert, in Oklahoma. They have four grown sons and one daughter-in-law, and are grandparents to a precocious seven-year-old girl. When she isn't writing, Vickie enjoys reading, shopping for antiques, watching movies, and traveling. Pioneer Promises Book Two, Call of the Prairie, is set for release in January 2014.
Visit the author's website.
SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:
The last thing Sarah Marshall wanted was to leave Chicago and travel the dusty Santa Fe Trail, but when her uncle demands she help her feeble aunt, she can't refuse. Her aunt had taken Sarah in after her parents died. She becomes stranded at the Harper Stage Stop in Kansas, one of the first stops on Santa Fe Trail, and her presence causes a stir. Ethan Harper's well-ordered life is thrown into turmoil with his two brothers and every unmarried male in the county lining up to woo Miss Sarah whom Ethan views as an uppity city girl. Is it because she's the wrong woman for his brother—or the right one for himself?
Publisher: Whitaker House (June 17, 2013)
AND NOW...THE FIRST CHAPTER:
The toddler's whimpers rose to an ear-splitting scream as the little girl pushed against the chest of the woman holding her captive.
"Here, let me have her, Abigail." Sarah Marshall reached for Mary, and her friend handed over the fussy child. The girl persisted in her cries, so Sarah crooned to her, swaying in time to a waltz playing in her mind as she rubbed circles on the toddler's back.
"I don't see how you can have such patience with her. That obstinate child cries more than all the others in this orphanage combined." Abigail bent down and reached for a handsome three-year-old boy, who came rushing toward her with a big smile that showed his dimples. "Personally," Abigail raised her voice over Mary's ruckus, "I prefer the quiet ones."
Sarah smiled. "I prefer the needy ones." She leaned her cheek against Mary's head. "All is well, little one. All is well."
After a few more minutes, the wails finally subsided, and the girl began to relax. She sniffled, her whole body shaking as she finally fell into an exhausted sleep.
"Poor little one." Sarah's heart nearly broke for the child, recently orphaned by the death of her mother. At least, at such a young age, she stood a chance to adapt more easily than Sarah had when her parents died. Though the accident that claimed their lives had happened over a decade ago, she still missed her father's big smile and her mother's comforting arms.
"You'll make a good mother one day." Mrs. Rayburn leaned against the door frame, looking tired. "Are you sure you don't want to move in here?"
Sarah smiled. "If my aunt was in better health, you know I would take you up on your offer. And I do hope to be a mother someday. If I'm good, as you say, it will be only because I learned from the best."
Mrs. Rayburn swiped her hand in the air, but Sarah could tell the comment pleased her. If not for the generous care of the well-to-do widow, the six orphaned children who resided under her roof would most likely still be out on the cold Chicago streets, begging for scraps to eat, working for some cruel taskmaster—or worse.
Abigail glided to the center of the bedroom that had been converted into a nursery, holding Tommy on her hip, and pretended to dance with him. "Sarah may take a giant step in the direction of motherhood this very night."
"Abigail!" Heat marched across Sarah's cheeks as she thought of Walt and how he'd hinted at proposing—again—at her birthday dinner tonight. "I don't want that news getting out."
"Why not?" Abigail spun the boy in a circle, eliciting a giggle. "You aren't going to turn the poor fellow down again, are you?"
Sarah glared at her best friend, wishing she would learn when to hush. She hoisted Mary higher on her chest and carried her to the adjoining bedroom. Stopping beside Mary's bed, she rocked the girl from side to side to make sure she was asleep. Though she would never admit it to Abigail, the toddler's wails did grate on her nerves from time to time, especially when she hadn't slept well the night before. Holding her breath, she lowered Mary into her bed and then pulled the small quilt over her.
Sarah kept her hand ready to pat Mary's back, should she stir. Thankfully, she didn't. Straightening, Sarah checked on the two napping babies. She then tiptoed across the big room to adjust the blanket covering Ian, the six-month-old whose father had deposited him on Mrs. Rayburn's doorstep last fall. The poor man had lost his wife and couldn't care for an infant. Sarah's heart ached for each one of the youngsters. She knew how hard life could be without parents. Still, she counted herself among the lucky ones—she'd been taken in by family, though she hadn't lived in a house as fine as Mrs. Rayburn's mansion.
Bending, Sarah filled her apron skirt with rag dolls, balls, and other toys, then deposited them in the toy basket as the mantel clock in the parlor chimed two o'clock. She tiptoed out of the nursery and back into the playroom.
"Time for you girls to head home." Mrs. Rayburn crossed the room and clapped her hands. "Tommy, would you like to hear a story?"
The three-year-old lunged into the older woman's arms. She hugged him and then set him down. "My, but you're getting heavy."
"Too much porridge, I imagine." Grinning, Sarah turned to Abigail. "Are you leaving now, too?"
"Yes, Papa is sending his driver for me. See you tomorrow, Mrs. Rayburn." Abigail waved good-bye as she walked from the room. She stopped in the doorway and faced Sarah. "Do you want a ride to your uncle's shop?"
"Thank you, but I'll walk."
Tommy ran out of the nursery, lifted his little hand, and waved. Mrs. Rayburn followed him into the upstairs parlor and took hold of his hand. "I don't know how I'd manage without you girls and your friends who volunteer in the evenings. I fear I'm getting too old to manage so many young children."
Mrs. Rayburn had said the same thing for the past two years, and yet she hadn't turned Mary away when a neighbor had brought her last week. Still, Sarah couldn't help wondering if the day would come when the kind woman would feel it necessary to close her door to the orphans. What would happen to them then?
She and Abigail donned their cloaks and left the warmth of the cozy home behind as they stepped out into the blustery chill of March. The gusty wind off Lake Michigan whipped at Sarah's skirts, and the gloomy sky released a light drizzle. Abigail's driver stepped out from under the shelter of a nearby tree and opened the door of her carriage.
"Are you sure you won't let us give you a ride? It's a miserable day to be out."
"Thank you, but I'll be fine. I'm headed home, anyway, and that's the opposite direction for you."
"So, you're not clerking for your uncle this afternoon?" Abigail accepted her driver's hand and climbed into the buggy. "How did you get out of doing that?" She sat, leaning toward Sarah, her eyebrows lifted.
"I'm going home to help Aunt Emma get things ready for my birthday dinner." Sarah turned so the wind was at her back and wrapped her fist around the edges of her cloak to hold it closed. "You're still coming tonight?"
Abigail nodded, grinning. "I wouldn't miss seeing Walt propose again. I don't know why you don't just accept. Your uncle will probably throw you out one of these days, and then where will you be?" She motioned to her driver, who closed the door and scurried up to his seat.
Sarah walked quickly toward State Street. She hadn't missed how Abigail had poked her with her barbed comment about her uncle casting her out. That very possibility had been in the back of her mind. Uncle Harvey had barely tolerated her presence all these years. He'd never wanted children and wasn't happy when his wife's only sister died, leaving behind a daughter. It was a miracle the stingy man had agreed to let her live with them in the first place.
She blew out a sigh of relief at the sight of the horse-drawn trolley, just a block away. Hurrying to the middle of the street, she waited until it drew near, then grabbed the rail and stepped aboard. The sides of the carriage blocked the wind, to a degree, but the chilly air still seeped inside, bringing with it the aromas of baking bread and roasting meat.
The rain picked up, and she was glad she'd decided not to walk home. She stared out the window at the Chicago city streets, teeming with horses and buggies, fancy carriages, freight wagons, and even a man pulling a handcart. Busy people bustled up and down the boardwalks. She loved this town and hoped never to have to leave it.
If she married Walt, most likely she wouldn't. Yet she struggled with the notion of being his wife. He was a good friend, yes, and she'd hate to disappoint him. Still, shouldn't a woman have stronger feelings than friendship for the man she married?
Her uncle would be beside himself if she turned Walt down again. Maybe she should just say yes this time. At least then she'd be assured of having a home of her own—and of freeing herself from the heavy sense of owing her uncle. One would think the hours she'd spent doing chores in his home and clerking at his watch repair shop would be sufficient to cover any debt she owed, but she could never do enough to please Uncle Harvey. Still, she was grateful to have lived in his home these last twelve years. She should be satisfied and not wish for more.
And yet she did. She longed to marry a man who made her laugh like her papa had, one whose broad shoulders were strong enough to protect her. But she hadn't yet met that man. Maybe she never would. Maybe she needed to give up on wishing and just be satisfied with Walt.
Sarah sat back and rested her hands in her lap, smiling in satisfaction with the meal. She stole a glance at the sideboard loaded with food she'd helped her aunt and the cook prepare—roast leg of mutton and currant jelly, mashed potatoes, creamed spinach, fried parsnips, and glazed carrots. Just the thought of it all made her stomach ache, and they had not even served dessert yet.
Walt wagged a finger at the servant standing at attention.
The servant hurried to the table from his post in the corner of the room. "Sir?"
"Bring me some more of those parsnips."
Sarah winced at his commanding tone, then looked to the head of the table. Uncle Harvey was seated next to a stranger—Mr. Gibbons—who'd appeared at the door just before they'd sat down to dinner. The two were having a private discussion, but Sarah had overheard enough to know it was about the benefits of living on the western frontier. She couldn't imagine what anyone found interesting about the untamed prairie, with its wild Indians and abundance of dust.
At the other end of the table, Lizzie Monahan and Betty Phillips engaged her aunt in a lively chat about the latest styles in fashion, while Abigail sat infatuated with Howard Shibley, Walt's best friend, who babbled on about a recent report that the population of Chicago had reached 300,000. Sarah nearly rolled her eyes.
"What was that look for?" Walt dabbed his lips with his napkin.
Sarah leaned closer to him, so not to be heard. "If Howard has any hope of winning Abigail's heart, he should find a more interesting topic of conversation."
"I doubt romance has even entered his mind."
"Obviously." Sarah shook her head.
Walt rested his chin in his palm and caught her gaze, his hazel eyes gleaming. His ash-blond hair had been slicked down and combed back from his forehead. "Speaking of romance, are you ever going to agree to marry me?"
She sucked in a sharp breath and glanced around the table once more. Nobody cast an odd look her way, so she assumed that no one had overheard the oh-so-unromantic proposal. She had pretty much made up her mind to say yes, but his casual manner of asking made her want to shake her head. Schooling her features and straightening her posture, she replied. "I don't know."
Walt blinked, obviously taken aback. Seconds later, he scowled, then glanced across the room and motioned to the servant again. The man rushed to his side. "I seem to be out of parsnips again."
Why couldn't Walt have just kept quiet? She liked him well enough, but his frequent proposals were producing the opposite of their intended effect; they made her more inclined to avoid him than marry him. She snuck a glance at Abigail, still trying so hard to get Howard to notice her, while the man, clearly oblivious, just kept spouting his knowledge.
Sarah peeked at Walt again. He wasn't particularly handsome, but he wasn't ugly, either. He would be a good provider, being the sole heir to his father's shoe factory, but she had a feeling that life with him would be just as boring as their evenings together. She wanted to marry—to finally be free from her uncle's overpowering presence and stern glare—but she wanted a man who thought she was the only woman in the world for him. Yes, Walt seemed to feel that way, but something held her back. Was there something wrong with her?
An hour later, she stood at the door to see Walt on his way. Everyone else had already gone.
Walt hung his head and twisted his hat in his hands. "I…uh, won't ask you again." He lifted his gaze to hers, pain evident in his eyes.
She'd hurt him, and that was the last thing she'd wanted to do.
"I'm twenty-nine, Sarah. I'm ready to marry and start a family. I need to know if there's any hope that you'll say yes one day."
"And I just turned nineteen—today."
He closed his eyes and exhaled a heavy sigh. "All right. I'll give you a few more months to make up your mind."
Sarah bristled. What if she still didn't have an answer? "And then?"
He stared at her with a serious, no-nonsense expression she'd never seen before. "And then I'll be forced to look elsewhere. I mean to be married before I turn thirty." He slapped his hat on his head and stepped out into the blustery evening wind.
She watched him jog down the steps with more purpose than usual. He wanted to get away from her, and that was just fine, as far as she was concerned. She shut the door. Some birthday party that had been.
The sound of raised voices drew her to the parlor. Her aunt and uncle rarely argued, mainly because Aunt Emma's chronic illness made her too weary to fuss over trifles.
"Harvey, please. You can't be serious about this."
Sarah held her breath, all manner of ideas racing through her mind.
"You might as well come in here, Sarah. I know you're out there."
She jumped at her uncle's stern command and was tempted to slither away, but her curiosity forced her to do as bidden. "I was just saying good night to Walt," she explained as she entered the room.
"Sit down. I have something to tell you."
Aunt Emma didn't look up from the sofa but anxiously wrung her hands.
Sarah sat next to her and laid a steadying hand over her aunt's.
Her uncle paced in front of the fireplace, where a cozy blaze heated the front half of the room. Still, a shiver clawed its way down Sarah's spine. Whatever news she was about to hear, it wouldn't be good, from the looks of it.
Uncle Harvey stopped in front of the hearth, rested one hand atop the mantel, and stared into the flames. "You met Gibbons tonight." He straightened and stared at her, an unreadable expression in his brown eyes. "He's a wagon master. Been leading wagon trains down the Santa Fe Trail for the past twenty years."
Sarah's thoughts whirled. Again she wondered about her uncle's interest in such a rugged man as Mr. Gibbons. He hadn't even worn proper attire for a dinner party.
"Oh, dear. Oh, dear." Aunt Emma fanned her face. "I fear I'm not feeling well."
Sarah's uncle narrowed his gaze at his wife. "You may be dismissed as soon as I'm done."
Aunt Emma gave him a meek nod, keeping her head down.
Uncle Harvey cleared his throat, drawing Sarah's gaze again. "The truth of the matter is that my brother has written me from Kansas City to inform me that he's moving his family to the New Mexico Territory, by way of the Santa Fe Trail."
"New Mexico?" Sarah pressed her lips closed, knowing her uncle wouldn't appreciate her outburst. She sidled a glance at her aunt. Why was she so distraught? Turning her attention back to her uncle, she voiced the question that wouldn't go away. "Why would your brother want to move to such an uncivilized place?"
Uncle Harvey's nostrils flared, and Aunt Emma uttered a pitiful moan.
"Because there is great opportunity there," her uncle insisted. "Bob says that one day, the New Mexico Territory will become a state. He has been to Santa Fe and plans to return to open a mercantile there."
Sarah blinked as she absorbed the information. The truth finally dawned, and she gasped, staring wide-eyed at her uncle. "Surely, you don't mean to go there, too."
He lifted his chin, revealing his wrinkled, white neck from its hiding place beneath his beard. "I most certainly do. Chicago has dozens of watchmakers. According to Bob, Santa Fe doesn't have a single one. I plan to set up shop next to his store. We'll build a door between the two, so that we can assist each other when things get busy."
Sarah could see her well-ordered life spiraling out of control. She'd already lost her parents. How could she stand to lose Aunt Emma, too? Sarah stood and started pacing the room. "You already have as much business as you can handle. And how could you expect Aunt Emma to endure such a difficult trip?"
"I've talked to the doctor, and he says the warmer climate will be much better for her. Lydia will be there to take care of her if she falls ill."
Falls ill? Didn't he realize his wife was nearly always unwell? She'd been sickly ever since she'd survived a bout of scarlet fever a year before Sarah had come to live with them. The sickness had left her frail and had robbed her of her hearing in her right ear.
Sarah doubted Aunt Emma could survive such a rugged journey. "Won't you reconsider, Uncle?"
He shook his head. "My mind is made up."
"And what about me?" Could she stay in this big house alone? He'd always expected her to pay her own way, and she could hardly afford a place as nice as this two-story brownstone.
He shrugged. "I expect you to marry Walt, and then you'll be his responsibility. I've already sold the house, so you can't stay here."
Her aunt gasped and stood. "How could you do such a thing without consulting me?"
Sarah's heart ached for her aunt. How could Uncle Harvey be so insensitive?
"Now, Emma. It's my place to make such decisions. You'll see once we arrive in Santa Fe that this move was for the best."
Emma screeched a heart-wrenching sob and ran from the room, her dark green silk dress swishing loudly.
Sarah had never once stood up to her intimidating uncle before. This time, concern for her aunt stiffened her spine, and she turned on him. "How could you be so selfish? Such a trip will probably kill Aunt Emma! Is that what you want?"
His nostrils flared. "She is no concern of yours." He walked to the dark window and stared out through the panes. "I never wanted you to come here, you know. I never wanted children. They're nothing but a nuisance. I will concede that you've been good for Emma, but she needs to learn to get along without you." He turned back to her, his eyes narrowed. "Marry Walt. He's a decent fellow."
She'd always known her uncle hadn't wanted her, but hearing the words spoken out loud pained her as badly as if she'd been stabbed in the heart. Out of respect for her aunt, she didn't lash out at him as she wanted to. "I'm not ready to marry yet." Uncle Harvey may have housed her all these years, but that didn't give him the right to force her to wed a man she didn't love. "I…I can find a boardinghouse to stay in."
He smirked. "And how do you intend to pay for it?"
A wave of panic washed over her. She had a few coins her aunt had given her—nowhere near enough to live on, even for a short time. "I'll find another job. Since I've worked for you for so long, I've honed my office skills and have plenty of experience."
"Hmpf. What employer would hire a female clerk when he can so easily find a man to do the task?"
Sarah dropped back onto the sofa, realizing the truth of his statement. What would she do? Where would she live? How could she manage without her aunt's loving guidance? The last time she'd felt as empty and confused as she did now was when she'd learned that her parents had died.
Quick footsteps sounded outside the room, and Sarah and her uncle both looked to the door. Her aunt had returned, her eyes damp, her face red and splotchy. With a trembling hand, she held a handkerchief below her nose. Sarah longed to embrace her aunt, but she would wait until her uncle left them alone.
"I see it's too late to change your mind," she said, her voice quavering. "You've wounded me deeply, Harvey. I hope you know that."
He started toward her, his expression softening, and took her hands. "Haven't I always taken care of you, darling? Have you ever lacked for anything?"
Her aunt didn't respond, but Sarah could tell by her expression that she didn't share her husband's perspective. Steeling her gaze, Emma stared up at him with rare determination in her eyes. "I won't go without Sarah."
"What?" Sarah and her uncle exclaimed at once.
"I won't go unless she goes, too." Emma hiked her chin.
Sarah didn't know what to say. This was the first time she had seen Aunt Emma stand up to her husband, and she couldn't bear to tell her that her efforts were wasted. But the last thing Sarah cared to do was leave Chicago and travel on a wagon train to Santa Fe.
Even marriage to Walt would be preferable to that.
A Most Peculiar Circumstance by Jen Turano ~ Review
My Review: A warm entertaining read, with snappy dialogue!
I don't always like characters who infuriate each other, but with Arabella and Theodore I simply couldn't refuse! Their pairing was fun and definitely entertaining, I loved watching them match wits in their witty discussions.
While this is the second book in a series, reading the first book isn't a requirement, though I would strongly suggest reading it simply because of how amazing it is!
I loved the chemistry between the characters and how they both came from two different extremes for the times, with Theodore being more traditional and Arabella being a staunch feminist.
There was mystery and adventure, and tons of fun. I loved seeing Eliza back in this story and seeing how happy she and Hamilton are now. And now I can't wait for Grayson and Felicia's story!
Overall a fun tale with an upbeat feel to it, definitely a fun relaxing read.
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
A Bride for All Seasons by Margaret Brownley, Debra Clopton, Mary Connealy & Robin Lee Hatcher ~ Litfuse Blog Tour & Review
A magazine editor, by the name of Melvin Hitchcock "doctors" letters from hopeful mail-order brides and grooms, supposedly making them more compatible. Is it possible that his meddling won't go down in flames?
What a fun read! Four thoroughly engaging novellas full of humor and a series of misunderstandings. There were some great twists and turns with unexpected matches made along the way.
I loved how the brilliant connecting thread of Mr. Hitchcock meddling in their affairs, he brought a fun element to the stories that tied them all together, yet let them stand alone.
Overall these stories were light and lively, interlaced with humor. Spark flew and hearts were bound, and wonderfully sweet and entertaining read!
More about A Bride For All Seasons:
It All Started with an Ad in a Mail Order Bride Catalogue . . .
Melvin Hitchcock of the Hitching Post Mail Order Bride Catalog isn't dishonest---not exactly. If he tweaks his clients' applications a bit, it's because he's looking out for their best interests.
This charming bouquet of novellas introduces four Hitching Post prospects in the year 1870, each one eager for second chances . . . and hungry for happiness. Year in, year out, they'll learn that love often comes in unexpected packages.
And Then Came Spring by Margaret Brownley
Mary-Jo has been unlucky all her life. But who would guess she'd travel halfway across the country to meet her match . . . only to find him dead!
An Ever-After Summer by Debra Clopton
Ellie had no idea she's not what Matthew ordered. And what's wrong with being a "Bible thumper" anyway? She's determined to show him she's tougher than she looks---and just the girl he needs.
Autumn's Angel by Robin Lee Hatcher
Luvena would be perfect for Clay if she didn't come with kids. But kids are a deal breaker, especially in a rough-and-trouble mining town. The trouble is, there's no money to send them back. . .
Winter Wedding Bells by Mary Connealy
David's convinced he's not long for the world. He needs someone to mother his boys when he's gone---nothing more. Can plucky Irish Megan convince him to work at living instead of dying?
Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/mL2Ln
Meet the Authors:
Margaret Brownley is a NEW YORK TIMES best-selling author and has penned more than twenty-five historical and contemporary novels. @margaretbrownley
Robin Lee Hatcher is a Christy and RITA award-winning author. Her books often appear on bestseller lists. @robinleehatcher
Mary Connealy is a Carol Award winner, an a RITA, Christy and Inspirational Reader's Choice finalist. @MaryConnealy
Debra Clopton is an award winning author of sweet, heartfelt, western romance that face life with a smile. With over 2 million books in print, Debra has her first book coming as a movie starring LeAnn Rimes. @debraclopton
Four novellas, four brides, and four stories to fall in love with.
Enter the world of mail-order brides with four of your favorite authors: Mary Connealy, Robin Lee Hatcher, Debra Clopton, and Margaret Brownley. In A Bride for All Seasons (Thomas Nelson) each of the prospective brides is hopeful for a second chance at love—and that second chance always seems to come in an unexpected package.
The authors are celebrating with a fun 12 Days of Unexpected Packages Giveaway! Between July 12-23 visit the authors' Facebook Page to enter to win a new giveaway each day. Winners will be announced at the Facebook Author Chat party on July 23rd! Such fun!
Beyond Ordinary by Trisha and Justin Davis ~ Review
My Review: An honest look inside of marriage and the struggles that can tear a couple apart.
I liked the diary style with which this book was written making it easy to connect with the author and get a firm grasp on what they were feeling and going through. This book made me really think about how hard marriage is and how easy it is to drift apart, as a single gal I can't say that totally understood what they were going through or could connect personally, so this book would probably be better for someone married or considering getting married in the near future.
But I really loved the hopeful message of this story, that even a marriage that looks like it is headed for divorce, full speed ahead, can be saved.
Both Trisha and Justin shared with brutal honesty what they were going through during their early years of marriage.
Overall, this was a good book with a great message of hope and honesty. Marriage isn't easy, but with faith in God and a willingness to follow His plan for marriage even a marriage that seems lost can be restored.
Labels: Christian Living, Marriage
A Little Salty to Cut the Sweet by Sophie Hudson ~ Review
My Review: A fun faith-filled read about living, learning, and laughing in the South.
Ms. Hudson tells stories from her life, and of her very Southern family. I loved the stories, full of quirk and charm, heartwarming and smile inducing moments, along with sad heartbreaking ones. She honestly portrayed her family (with some names changed, of course, and 10% of it altered) but it gave me a glimpse into Ms. Hudson's close knit family, that in a way is just like every family with it's mishaps, yet full of love.
I loved the warmth with which this book was written and the way I felt like I got to see little glimpses of her family's lives and what shaped them and were little adventures into their life.
Overall a great heartwarming collection of recollections from Ms. Hudson's life, stories of faith, hope, and love. I book I would happily recommend!
Labels: Christian Living
Small Town Girl by Ann H. Gabhart ~ Revell Blog Tour & Review
Kate Merritt has only ever loved one man, her sister's fiancé. But when Jay Tanner comes to town for her sister's wedding, her other sister, Lorena Birdsong quickly befriends him, but Kate finds him more than annoying. But when Pearl Harbor is bombed everything changes...
This was a sweet small town love story with endearing characters that I couldn't help but be enchanted by, like Lorena and Graham.
I noticed in the middle of this book that it was a sequel to the much acclaimed Angel Sister, yet it stood on it's own quite well, as I had never read Angel Sister and I got along just fine.
Overall this was a gentle story set in the 1940's with some great characters that Ms. Gabhart really took the time to develop. The only thing for me personally, was that this book felt a bit longer than it had to be. I really enjoyed the characters and setting, and would happily recommend this book to someone who likes a subtle plot and a heart warming romance.
"Available July 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group."
The Widow of Gettysburg by Jocelyn Green ~ CFBA Tour + Review
Liberty Holloway is a young war widow, who turns her farm into an inn. A mysterious stranger comes into her life who call himself "Johnny" who helps her move on after her husband's death.
But when the war comes to her front door, their lives will be changed forever.
There is a lot going in this Civil War epic, so many interconnecting and entwining story lines, that brought a rich depth to the story. I loved the complexity of the story, because while there was a lot going on it was easy to follow and very well written.
I loved how all of the many characters were fully developed and many layered and dimensional. There was just so packed into this book!
This book also had a lot of great faith messages that fit flawlessly into the story.
Overall, this book was probably the best Civil War novel I've read in a long while. Everything just came together in a incredibly poignant way and so many threads came together without a loose end in sight at the end. A great book that I would highly recommend!
This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Widow of Gettysburg River North; New Edition edition (April 12, 2013) by Jocelyn Green
Jocelyn Green is a child of God, wife and mom living in Cedar Falls, Iowa. She is also an award-winning journalist, author, editor and blogger. Though she has written nonfiction on a variety of topics, her name is most widely recognized for her ministry to military wives: Faith Deployed. Her passion for the military family was fueled by her own experience as a military wife, and by the dozens of interviews she has conducted with members of the military for her articles and books, Faith Deployed: Daily Encouragement for Military Wives and its sequel, Faith Deployed...Again: More Daily Encouragement for Military Wives. She is also co-author of both Stories of Faith and Courage from the War in Iraq & Afghanistan and Stories of Faith and Courage from the Home Front (forthcoming, May 2012). Her Faith Deployed Web site and Facebook page continue to provide ongoing support, encouragement and resources for military wives worldwide.
When a horrific battle rips through Gettysburg, the farm of Union widow Liberty Holloway is disfigured into a Confederate field hospital, bringing her face to face with unspeakable suffering--and a Rebel scout who awakens her long dormant heart.
While Liberty's future crumbles as her home is destroyed, the past comes rushing back to Bella, a former slave and Liberty's hired help, when she finds herself surrounded by Southern soldiers, one of whom knows the secret that would place Liberty in danger if revealed.
In the wake of shattered homes and bodies, Liberty and Bella struggle to pick up the pieces the battle has left behind. Will Liberty be defined by the tragedy in her life, or will she find a way to triumph over it? Widow of Gettysburg is inspired by first-person accounts from women who lived in Gettysburg during the battle and its aftermath.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Widow of Gettysburg, go HERE.
The Quarryman's Bride by Tracie Peterson ~ Review & Litfuse Tour
After her two siblings are swept away by a tornado, Emmalyne is forced to stay home and take care of her mother, and forbidden from ever marrying.
This book started out on a such a sad note, which made it a bit hard to get into but as I kept reading rays of hope began to shine I realized how much I truly enjoyed this book. Emmalyne was such a strong character, and took what her father threw at her with strength, faith, and courage.
I really liked how there were so many characters, with both Tavin and Emmalyne's large families. I also really liked the doctor, and thought that he was a kind man.
There was a lot going on and I loved how complex the families were and I really got a feel for the conflicts that were going on. There was the cutest 4 year old, named Gunnar who I just adored!
I loved the history woven into this tale and the many dynamics that really came together to make such a touching story.
Overall a touching story, with well characterized families and plenty going one with great details. I loved how it all came together and I would happily recommend this book to others!
About The Quarryman's Bride:The latest book in the Land of Shining Waters series.
Peterson Hits the Bestseller Lists Again and Again!
Emmalyne Knox and Tavin MacLachlan were destined to be together . . . until the tragic deaths of Emmalyne's youngest sisters. Family tradition mandates that the youngest daughter should remain single to care for her parents in their old age, and now that daughter is Emmalyne. Her father unyielding, Emmalyne surrenders to her duty, heartbroken. Tavin leaves town, equally devastated.
Years later, Emmalyne's family moves, and she and Tavin meet again. Their feelings for each other are as strong as ever, but their painful past and Emmalyne's father still stand between them. Soon both families are in the midst of the growing conflict rising between the workers at the granite quarry that Tavin's father owns and operates. When a series of near-fatal accidents occur, Tavin must figure out who is behind the attacks before someone gets killed.
Bound by obligation, yet yearning for a future together, can Emmalyne and Tavin dare to dream that God could heal a decade-long wound and change the hearts of those who would stand in the way of true love?
Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/m1ovH
Meet Tracie:
Tracie Peterson is the award-winning author of over eighty novels, both historical and contemporary. Her avid research resonates in her stories, as seen in her bestselling Heirs of Montana, and Alaskan Quest series. Tracie and her family make their home in Montana.
Visit Tracie's Web site at www.traciepeterson.com
Check out all of the other great stops on this tour: http://litfusegroup.com/author/tpeterson
For nearly 100 novels, bestselling author Tracie Peterson has entertained readers with heartwarming tales of history, romance and courage. Now you have the unique chance to win a large selection of some of Tracie's greatest adventures, along with her newest novel, The Quarryman's Bride. To enter, just visit Tracie's Book Page on Facebook and fill out the short form. Then click around to read an excerpt, take a poll and more!
Posted by Faith at 9:13 AM 2 comments:
Greater by Steven Furtick ~ Review
Greater is a book about not settling for the everyday average mediocrity, but striving for something Greater.
To be honest this book didn't really hook me, the book seemed to meander around the point a bit too much for my personal taste. While this book did have a good premise, I felt that the points could have been stronger, and there were multiple times when I felt like he had it all set up, but didn't drive it home.
Mr. Furtick did a great job of illustrating his topic with stories that gently told his tale. The book had a tone to it that felt like I could hear what he was saying from the pulpit and could imagine him preaching these exact words to his congregation.
Overall, this book wasn't really a book that moved me personally, I could see his point, and thought it was great, but I think it was more of the style it was presented in that I wasn't into. There were also parts I felt needed more clarification. So in conclusion, this was a nice book about fearlessly cutting our ties to this world and picking up our crosses to follow God.
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you.
Author's Web Site
Steven Furtick on Facebook
Greater Book Website
Read Chapter One
Veil of Pearls by Marylu Tyndall ~ Review
My Review: Ms. Tyndall weaves an intense tale fraught with tension and complex characters.
Adalia escapes her cruel master and puts her gifts for healing and herbs to use working for the doctor. But her light skin hides her secret heritage, and she risks losing the respect and love of those around her, if her secret were ever to be discovered...
What a riveting plot! From the very first page I was invested in Adalia's story and sympathetic to her situation. I loved how the plot moved quickly, giving Adalia a very real problem, with plenty of well researched details.
I loved how the character were portrayed as flawed and imperfect with realistic limitations for their time, and way of thinking. The Doctor would be a great example of that because he was kind and had good intentions, yet he was hardened and had a narrow idea of how things should and should not be, yet it made perfect sense for the time place, and station that he was in.
The characters were very well written and complex, I completely understood why they did what they did and the struggles that they had to overcome and the dangers they faced.
Overall this was a riveting tale of love betrayal and trusting God, can you believe this is the first time I have read a book by Marylu Tyndall? Well I can tell you right now that it will not be the last! The suspense and tension of the fast moving plot kept me reading, and made it difficult to put down! I would totally recommend this book!
I received this ebook from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
The Message on the Quilt by Stephanie Grace Whitso...
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Whispers on the Prairie by Vickie McDonough ~ Revi...
A Bride for All Seasons by Margaret Brownley, Debr...
A Little Salty to Cut the Sweet by Sophie Hudson ~...
Small Town Girl by Ann H. Gabhart ~ Revell Blog To...
The Widow of Gettysburg by Jocelyn Green ~ CFBA To...
The Quarryman's Bride by Tracie Peterson ~ Review ...