Heart on the Line - A Review

Published - June 2017, Bethany House
Series - Ladies of Harper Station Book 2
Author - Karen Witemeyer
Title - Heart on the Line
Format - ebook, paper
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About the book:
Grace Mallory left Colorado on the run. She's running from the men who murdered her father. In Harper's Station, she has finally found a place she can call home. She's working as the telegraph operator. Yet even in Harper's Station, she's not completely safe. When her location is discovered by those who killed her father, Grace logs off of the telegraph rather suddenly. Amos Bledsoe, the operator on the other end of the telegraph, has been chatting to Grace for months over the wire. When she abruptly disappears in the middle of their conversation, he becomes concerned. He is determined to meet her in person to see if she's ok. Soon both of them find themselves trying to keep themselves and the town safe.

My thoughts:
I always enjoy reading Karen Witemeyer's books. They are fun and sweet. This one had just a tough of romantic suspense in it.

I really enjoyed getting to know both Grace and Amos. I also enjoyed visiting with the other characters in Harper's Station. Sometimes, it seems that secondary characters can stand out. And in this case, all of the ladies of Harper's Station certainly stand out.

This book, overall, was a delight. I recommend it to fans of Karen Witemeyer.

I received a copy from the publisher for free to review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of Karen Witemeyer, Mary Connealy, historical romance

Rating - 4 stars

An Uncommon Courtship - A Review

Published - January 2017, Bethany House
Series - Hawthorne House Book 3
Author - Kristi Ann Hunter
Title - An Uncommon Courtship
Format - ebook, paper
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Lord Trent Hawthorne has always dreamed of marrying for love. Yet when he finds himself in a compromising situation with Lady Adelaide Bell, he is honor bound to offer marriage. Adelaide is content to live life in the shadows. She found that easier until her sister married. Yet, now that she finds herself in a marriage of convenience, Adelaide is determined to make the best of it. Can she and Trent learn to live together and maybe fall in love in the process?

I was so excited to see this book. I'd been looking forward to this book for a while. I'll admit that I was a little sad not to see as much of either of Trent's sisters in this book, but I still enjoyed the story.

Trent was a character I wanted to know more about. He'd been a minor character in the other two books, so getting to know him was delightful. I positively adored his unusual group of servants. They were fascinating, and I could tell that they wanted their master and mistress to find happiness. I really liked it when Trent started courting his wife. I loved how he was determined to give her what she didn't have.

I cannot wait for the 4th book in this series - the one about Griffith.

I received this book from the publisher in order to share my honest opinion. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of historical fiction, Karen Witemeyer, Kristi Ann Hunter, Jody Hedlund, Julie Klassen

Rating - 4 stars

Never Forget - A Review

Published- January 2017, Northern Lights Press
Series - Beacons of Hope Book 5
Author - Jody Hedlund
Title - Never Forget
Format - ebook, paper
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About the book:
Rose Island Lighthouse, Rhode Island June 1880 Will she betray his trust to stay on the island she loves? Abbie Watson is content to spend her days clamming, crabbing, and tending Rose Island Lighthouse. Her grandpa is the head light keeper, but his senility may lead to their eviction. Since leaving the island would kill her beloved Gramps, Abbie will do anything to keep him in the one place he knows and loves. Wealthy Nathaniel Winthrop III’s wild living has gained him a reputation as the ‘bad boy’ among the elite social circles of Newport. After a blow to the head in a yachting accident washes him up on Rose Island, Nathaniel has no memories of his past. Abbie tends the wounded stranger in her home only to realize he assumes they’re married. Although she knows she needs to correct Nathaniel’s mistake, his presence calms Gramps and provides a way to prevent eviction from the lighthouse. The longer the charade continues, the harder it gets for Abbie to tell Nathaniel the truth, more so as she begins to fall in love. Everyone she’s ever loved has abandoned her. Will Nathaniel leave her too, once he discovers he’s not really her husband?

My Thoughts:
I remember meeting Nathaniel in book 4. I was glad to get to know him a bit better in this book. I loved the fact that while he did have amnesia, he really did want to change from what he knew of himself. I loved the way that he treated Abbie. I loved how Abbie kept struggling to keep her grandfather in the home that he loved. 

This book was a wonderful conclusion to the series. It has Hedlund's usual style of romance blended with a touch of suspense. While the second book in the series remains my favorite, I happily devoured this book. 

I received the Kindle version of this book from the author to help influence the book. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of historical fiction, Jody Hedlund, light houses, Karen Witemeyer

Rating - 4 stars

For the Record - A Review

Published - December 2016, Bethany House Publishers
Series - Ozark Mountain Romance Book 3
Author - Regina Jennings
Title - For the Record
Format - ebook, paper
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Betsy Huckabee dreams of being a reporter for a newspaper bigger than her uncle's paper. But the bigger papers don't seem to be interested in the news coming out of Hart's County. So she decides to try something new. She starts writing a fictionalized serial based in part on the new deputy. She figures no one in Pine Gap will ever know. Deputy Joel Puckett never wanted to leave Texas. But the only way to keep his badge is to be a lawman in Pine Gap. He soon realizes that there are masked marauders testing his patience and skills. Add into the mix a sassy journalist determined to make a name for herself, Joel soon has his hands full. But as he gets to know Betsy, he knows she's hiding something. Will her secret stories tear them apart or bring them together?

This book was delightful! I remember first meeting Betsy when she was a child in one of the author's other books. I couldn't wait to see her grow up and fall in love.

Betsy is spunky. She's determined. She's a bit unconventional. But she's got a good heart. And I loved how she interacted with Joel. Even to the point that she was beginning to confuse real life with her fictional hero. I loved how she tried to make things right when she realized what she'd done to Joel. Joel is perfect for Betsy. He has a way about really seeing her that I loved.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It was fun, full of witty banter, and just very uplifting. I didn't have to think as I read this book.

I received complimentary copies from both the author to promote and the publisher to give my honest opinion. I passed one copy on to one of my family members. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of Regina Jennings, Mary Connealy, Karen Witemeyer, Jody Hedlund

Rating - 4 stars

The Artisan's Wife - A Review

Published - August 2016, Bethany House
Series - Refined By Love Book 3
Author - Judith Miller
Title - The Artisan's Wife
Format - ebook, paper
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Summary (from Amazon):
Ainslee McKay's world is shaken when she discovers her twin sister has not only eloped with a man she barely knows but now Ainslee must fulfill their obligation at a tile works in Weston, West Virginia. Ainslee must learn the ropes and, if she can keep the tile works profitable, her brother will help her sell the business. When Levi Judson arrives and shows Ainslee his designs for new tiles, she's impressed by his skill and passion for the business. But he's hiding his true reason for coming to Weston. And Ainslee knows he'd be crushed to learn his plans for a long career at McKay Tile Works are in vain since she intends to sell. Can the growing feelings between them survive if the truth comes to light--or is a future together as untenable as the future of the tile works itself?

My Thoughts:
I've enjoyed each of the books in this series that I've read. While it is a series, each stands alone, and can be read out of order. One of the things that I've really enjoyed about this series is the detail that is shown whether it is making pottery or making tiles. 

I loved how Ainslee had to figure out who she is without her twin sister around. I also loved how compassionate she is. Her relationship with Levi was fun to watch as well. His secrets weren't really all that of a surprise, honestly. I expected it.

But overall, seeing the McKay family again was fun. And seeing how they come full circle was also nice.

I received this book for free from Bethany House for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of historical fiction, Tracie Peterson, Janette Oke, Elizabeth Camden

Rating - 4 stars

Dawn at Emberwilde - A Review

Published - May 2016, Thomas Nelson
Series - Treasure of Surrey Book 2
Author - Sarah E. Ladd
Title - Dawn at Emberwilde
Format - ebook, paper
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Summary from Amazon:

Isabel Creston never dared to dream that love could be hers. Now, at the edge of a forest filled with dark secrets, she faces a fateful choice between love and duty. For as long as she can remember, beautiful and free-spirited Isabel has strained against the rules and rigidity of the Fellsworth School in the rolling English countryside. No longer a student, Isabel set her sights on a steady role as a teacher at the school, a safe yet stifling establishment that would enable her to care for her younger sister Lizzie, who was left in her care after her father’s death. The unexpected arrival of a stranger with news of unknown relatives turns Isabel’s small, predictable world upside down, sweeping her and her young charge into a labyrinth of intrigue and hidden motives. At her new family’s invitation, Isabel and Lizzie relocate to Emberwilde, a sprawling estate adjacent to a vast, mysterious wood rife with rumors and ominous folklore—along with whispers of something far more sinister. Perhaps even more startling, two handsome men begin pursuing Isabel, forcing her to learn the delicate dance between attraction, the intricate rules of courtship, and the hopes of her heart. At Emberwilde Isabel will discover that the key to unlocking the mystery of her past may also open the door to her future and security. But first she must find it—in the depths of Emberwilde Forest.

My Thoughts:

It's been a while since I read one of Sarah Ladd's books. I've forgotten how much I enjoyed them. 

While this is book 2 in the series, it stands alone, and one does not need to have read book 1 in order to enjoy this one. I was quickly drawn into the story, and I found myself intrigued by Isabel. 

As for the two men who vie for her attention and affection, there was one I liked more than the other. I was rooting for him the entire time. 

I also enjoyed the fact that this book had a touch of mystery in it that added to the richness of the story. 

I received this book for free from BookLook Bloggers for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of: Jane Austen, Julie Klassen, Jody Hedlund

Rating - 4 stars

Hesitant Heiress - A Review

Published - September 2015, Whitaker House
Series - Everstone Chronicles Book 1
Author - Dawn Crandall
Title - Hesitant Heiress
Format - ebook, paper
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Amaryllis Brigham has been suddenly ejected from the Boston Conservatory of Music. Since she has no place else to go, she turns to her great-aunt and soon finds herself in the middle of Boston's Society. She longs to return to her beloved Seattle though. In order to accomplish that, Amaryllis must marry. Her maternal grandmother has left her a sizable fortune with the stipulation that she marry within a year. She doesn't trust men and has no desire to marry. But she soon finds herself falling in love with Nathan Everstone, a man with his own secrets. Will she learn to trust God and in doing so discover that sometimes things from the past aren't what they seem?

This was the first book I've read by this author, but it won't be the last! The cover caught my attention months ago, but I just hadn't gotten around to reading it yet.

I'll admit, that at first it moved rather slowly. But as the story progressed, and I stuck with it, I found myself becoming enthralled in this story. It has all of the feels of a gothic romance. But it's not.

By the time I finished the book, I promptly wanted to read the second one as I became engrossed in the tale. I loved how Nathan pursued Amaryllis. I loved how he was relentless, yet also tender.

Overall, I enjoyed this book.

I received a Kindle copy for free from the author to review in anticipation of the 4th book coming out later this year. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of historical fiction, Julie Klassen, Roseanna M. White, Jody Hedlund

Rating - 4 stars

Forever Safe - A Review

Published - June 2016, Northern Lights Press
Series - Beacons of Hope Book 4
Author - Jody Hedlund
Title - Forever Safe
Format - ebook, paper
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Victoria Cole is the pampered daughter of Henry Cole. She has everything that she could want, including a doting fiance. As her wedding draws closer, her life is threatened. When her normal bodyguard is injured protecting her, her father hires Tom Cushman. Tom's not like her other bodyguards. First of all he's young and handsome. Secondly, her charms don't appear to work on him. After she's nearly kidnapped, the wedding is cancelled. Tom knows the only way to keep her safe and force the kidnapper into the open is to put Victoria in hiding. There's just one problem with that - to do so, he must marry her in name only. With the isolation of the lighthouse that Tom's been appointed as the assistant keeper, Victoria must learn to live without the luxuries she's grown up with. But is she really safe? And even more importantly, is her heart safe from Tom?

I've loved each book in the Beacons of Hope Series. I love how Jody is able to take characters that need to have hope in their lives and turn them into something beautiful.

Let me be honest. I didn't like Victoria when I first met her. I thought that she was spoiled, and a bit of a brat. But as the story went on, I did come to like her.

I loved Tom though. I loved how he struggled to keep Victoria safe from himself. And I ADORED Tom's parents. They were awesome!

One of the things I've loved about this series is that there is a small wooden cross that has passed from person to person. It went from Isabella to Emma to Ryan to Tessa to Victoria and finally to Nathaniel. I love how when it comes to each person, that there is a moment when they need hope. I also love how this series could just keep going. If this is the conclusion, then that's great. If it's not, then I'm looking forward to Nathaniel's story.

I received the Kindle version of the book for free from the author to help promote. I do plan on purchasing the actual paperback at some point. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of Jody Hedlund, Historical Fiction, Elizabeth Camden, Julie Klassen

Rating - 4 stars

Reluctant Duchess - A Review

Published - April 2016, Bethany House
Series - Ladies of the Manor Book 2
Author - Roseanna M. White
Title - The Reluctant Duchess
Format - ebook, paper
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Lady Rowena Kinnaird is the heir to a Highland earldom, but she has never felt worthy. All her life, her father has belittled her. When the man that she thought she would marry brutally attacks her, Rowena is left broken and bruised. She's afraid to trust anyone and longs to escape her father's home. Brice Mysterson, Duke of Nottingham, is a favorite of London, but he's no stranger to sorrow. He's recently lost his father and has come into possession of a rare treasure. He's not looking to marry while the danger associated with the gems is still so high. Yet when he and his family go to their Highland home, he meets Lady Rowena. There's something about her that stirs his protective instincts. When she's the victim of another attack, Brice proposes marriage to rescue her. Rowena longed to escape, but she didn't expect it would be by marrying a notorious flirt! When she learns that Brice is in danger due to the rare gems, will Rowena be able to trust her husband enough to be safe? And can Brice show his wife that not all men are like those she's known? Will the pair find love together or will they live as strangers for the rest of their lives?

This is book 2 in the series, and I have to say I enjoyed it way more than the first book. I found the first book to be slow, but this one I loved! I do recommend reading the first one before this one though as it explains how Brice came to be in possession of the Fire Eyes. I loved how this book continued the mystery surrounding the Fire Eyes.

I loved how Brice was obedient to the Lord. And how he didn't question the leading. Even when his world was shaken, I loved how steadfast he remained. I loved how he was there for Rowena and that he showed her that she could trust him and love him.

Rowena is so strong. I think that she's a perfect compliment to Brice. While she grew frustrated that he wouldn't listen to her concerns, she did learn to trust him.

The other characters were interesting. Especially the villain. The villain wasn't the person that I would have thought. And as we get into this character's mind, I was shocked at the depth of this particular character's delusions. I wasn't sorry to see this particular character get what was coming.

The third book is going to follow Brice's sister, Ella, and the Fire Eyes to its conclusion. I believe it comes out in the fall, and I'm excited about it.

I received this book for free from Bethany House for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of Roseanna M. White, Jody Hedlund, Sarah Ladd, Melanie Dickerson, Julie Klassen

Rating - 4 stars

Playing the Part - A Review

Published - March 2016, Bethany House
Series - Class of Their Own Book 3
Author - Jen Turano
Title - Playing the Part
Format - ebook, paper
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Lucetta Plum is the darling of the New York stage. When her stepfather offers her up as payment for his outstanding gambling debts, Lucetta has no choice but to abandon her starring role and seek shelter at the estate of the grandson of her widowed friend, Abigail Hart. Since Lucetta has no interest in Abigail's matchmaking schemes, she hopes to remain politely cordial to Bram Haverstein, Abigail's grandson and owner of the estate. Bram's eccentric in his own right, and is fascinated with a certain actress, yet his secrets could change the course of everything. As Lucetta and Bram get to know each other through a series of misadventures, both realize that it's time to drop the roles they've assumed and play the parts that they were meant to play.

I loved this book! I knew going in to expect humorous situations, but I was literally giggling through the entire book. Of the ones in this series, I think that this one is my favorite.

Bram and Lucetta's first meeting isn't all that normal. I mean, she's tossed in the moat of his castle! Plus there are walking suits of armor, a skirt eating goat, and a ton of other misadventures that the pair face. I loved their chemistry and their interactions.

I also loved the secondary characters. Some of them really stole the show. Plus it was good to catch up with Millie and Harriet.

Overall, this book was very light-hearted and delightful.

I received this book for free from Bethany House for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of Janice Thompson, Karen Witemeyer, Mary Connealy, Jody Hedlund, Regina Jennings

Rating - 5 stars

At Love's Bidding - A Review

Published - December 2015, Bethany House Publishers
Series - Ozark Mountain Romance Book 2
Author - Regina Jennings
Title - At Love's Bidding
Format - ebook, paper
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Miranda Wimplegate's family owns an auction house in Boston. When her grandfather mistakenly sells a painting that the owner's family did not wish to be sold, Miranda and her family are willing to do whatever it takes to return the painting to its rightful owners. Their research into who purchased the painting lead them to a small town in the Ozarks that has an auction house up for sale. Hoping to make amends, her grandfather purchases the auction house and all of its contents sight unseen. Miranda and her grandfather then travel across the county to their newly purchased auction house only to discover that the house specializes in livestock not antiquities. With her grandfather's health rapidly declining, Miranda has no choice but to enlist the help of the manager Wyatt Ballentine to help move the livestock from the auction house. Wyatt's dreamed of purchasing the sale barn for years. So when these city folks arrive in town, he's hurt to find out that they are his new bosses. Yet he understands his community. He sees that neither the pretty Miranda nor her grandfather know the first thing about livestock, so he helps them out. After all, the sooner they find what they are looking for, the sooner they will be gone and his life can return to normal. Neither Wyatt or Miranda count on the attraction and the sparks that fly between them.

While this book may be part of a series, I found that it stands alone. The cover on this one caught my eye. It's whimsical and looks like a lot of fun.

As I started reading, I couldn't help but be delighted. I've read a lot of Regina's books before, and I forget how she can write romantic comedy. I loved watching Miranda struggle with the fact that their auction house housed livestock and not priceless heirlooms. And how gentle she was with her grandfather. I just sighed a little then.

I loved the sparks between Wyatt and Miranda. I thought that their banter was great. I also figured out that there was more to Wyatt than we were first led to believe. Yet when it came out what exactly made there to be more to Wyatt than appearing, I loved Miranda's reaction.

I received this book from the author for the purpose of promoting. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of Mary Connealy, Karen Witemeyer, Regina Jennings, Melissa Tagg

Rating - 4 stars

The Painter's Daughter - A Review

Published - December 2015, Bethany House Publishers
Author - Julie Klassen
Title - The Painter's Daughter
Format - ebook, paper, audio
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Captain Stephen Overtree is used to cleaning up his brother's messes. When he arrives in the Devonshire village where his brother had said he'd be painting, he finds his brother disappeared and the painter's daughter, Sophie Dupont, left pregnant and alone. To rescue the young lady and keep a scandal from smearing her reputation, Stephen proposes a marriage in name only. Her child will have a name and should he be killed, Sophie would be a respectable widow. Sophie agrees knowing that it is the best decision. Yet why does her heart feel torn between her husband and the man who fathered her child? When Wesley arrives home, will Sophie seek a future with the father of her child or will she have discovered that she's fallen in love with her husband?

Once again, Julie Klassen has written a beautiful gothic tale of romance, betrayal, and mystery. While I found found the book to be really good, it didn't enthrall me like The Secret of Pembrooke Park did.

I loved the way that Stephen treated Sophie. I loved that he went out of his way to ensure that she was going to be provided for. I especially loved that he set up a studio for her to paint and to be creative. I loved that he wasn't willing to let her go.

Sophie, on the other hand, was hard for me to really like. I did come to like her. But for much of the story, I thought that she needed to stand up for herself. And Wesley needed to grow up.

Still, the book was beautifully written and like her others, makes me want to visit England.

I received the book for free from Bethany House for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of Jane Eyre, Jane Austen, Julie Klassen, Regency fiction, Sarah Ladd

Rating - 4 stars

Fire & Ice - A Review

Published - October 2015, Bethany House Publishers
Series - Wild at Heart Book 3
Author - Mary Connealy
Title - Fire & Ice
Format - ebook, paper, audio
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Bailey Wilde is the oldest sister. She's the one who served in the war the longest and as a result has the fewest number of years to work off her homestead. She's built her house across the entrance to a canyon that is prime grazing land. The problem is that Gage Coulter owns the canyon. And she's cut off his only access to his land. That makes him mad. Over the past few months, the two have butted heads. Gage still doesn't know she's a woman, though the secret's out about both sisters. When he does find out, he's madder than ever. Both of these two don't speak for months due to the harsh winter. For Bailey, the long winter is longer than ever and she's the loneliest she's ever been with both sisters married and moved away. When the first thaws of spring arrive, the melting snow brings Gage to her doorstep. He's desperate. Sure he wants the land, but he really needs a wife and thinks Bailey would be perfect. In a moment of desperation, she agrees to his proposal. But these newlyweds soon discover that things aren't going to be all roses. Someone still is set on harming Bailey, and Gage realizes he will do anything to protect the woman he's coming to love. Can these two strong people manage to catch the culprit and fall in love in the process?

This book was a delight to read. I certainly recommend  reading this series in order as there are hints of Gage and Bailey throughout. Their story though, was positively delightful.

The chemistry between the two is very strong. I loved how determined Gage was to get to his land. And Bailey was equally determined not to let him. Well at least to an extent. And when they did finally get married, I loved how understanding Gage was of Bailey's fears.

I really think that this book was the best in the series and my personal favorite of the series.

I received this book for free from Bethany House Publishers for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of Mary Connealy, Karen Witemeyer, romantic comedy, historical fiction

Rating - 4 stars

Luther & Katharnia - A Review

Published - October 2015, Waterbrook/Multnomah
Author - Jody Hedlund
Title - Luther & Katharina
Format - ebook, paper
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Martin Luther is the leader in the movement to reform the church. He is known as a heretic by many. Yet his teachings have touched the hearts of several nuns, among them Katharina von Bora. Since she was five years old, Katharina has lived a secluded life in the abbey. When she escapes with several other nuns, they soon find refuge with Martin Luther. All Katharina wants is for Luther to arrange her marriage to a nobleman. Luther fully understands that with tensions rising, he should never take a wife. After all, there have already been several attempts on his life. Yet as much as he tries to deny it, Katharina's fiery nature and her intelligence draw him like a moth to a flame. Will they both discover that perhaps a penniless monk and a noble nun can find happiness and love together?

Jody Hedlund is by far one of my favorite authors. While her other books have been historical, this particular one is very different. You see, in her others, she may base them on the lives of historical people, but changes the names. In this one, no names are changed.

I'll admit I know who Martin Luther was. I don't know much about his life, but I do know who he was. What I didn't know was all that went on in this time period. There really is so much going on that I was shocked. There are also some customs that were normal then that I was like what?!

I loved the romance between Luther and Katharina. I loved how neither one wanted it and that it kinda snuck up on them. I also loved how great they were together. The betrothal ceremony and the need for witnesses did not make sense to my modern mind. But a recent blog post I read by Jody explains that custom in a whole lot more detail.

This book really is packed full with adventure, mystery, romance, and grace. It's unlike any of her others, but it is still wonderful. It probably took me a day or two to read (yes I put everything else down).

I recommend this anyone who loves history, love historical romance, loves church history.

I received this book for free from the author to help promote. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of Laura Frantz, Jody Hedlund, Kristy Cambron

Rating - 4 stars

*Note - this review will appear on Amazon once the book has been released, which is October 6, 2015.

Not By Sight - A Review

Published - August 2015, Bethany House Publishers
Author - Kate Breslin
Title - Not By Sight
Format - ebook, paper
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In the midst of WWI, Jack Benningham is the heir to the Stonebrooke earldom. While most other young men his age are fighting in the trenches in France, Jack's wild reputation as a rogue as well as his high status in society provide the perfect cover for him to track down German spies on English soil. Grace Mabry has a twin brother fighting on the front. She's fiercely patriotic. She's also a wealthy suffragette. When she sees Jack across a ballroom, she is determined that he pay for his cowardice by handing him a white feather. She never dreams that her actions would have far reaching results. To escape London, she seeks work with one of the haying crews in the countryside. When her path crosses with Jack's again, will Grace be able to find the courage to admit she was wrong? Neither of them can predict the danger and betrayal that follows them.

I LOVED this book! After loving the author's debut book last summer, I was almost afraid to pick up the second book. I didn't want to be disappointed. I worried for nothing. I wasn't disappointed at all. I was quickly drawn into a tale rich in history, full of adventure and romance, and had the pain of suffering.

Both Jack and Grace were deep characters. There was so much to them than what appeared on the surface. As the story unfolds and their layers are pulled back, my heart hurt for the child Jack was once. I hurt over Grace's unknowing if her twin was dead or alive. And I cried when all the secrets came to light.

I wondered about the title "Not By Sight" and how it came about. Yet it's revealed rather quickly that one must learn to see with the eyes of faith as well as to trust. There's another more obvious reason, but I'm not going to be mentioning that for fear of spoilers.

This may very well be the best book that I've read this year. I know it's been one of my most highly anticipated ones. It's certainly one of the most character driven ones. I literally got the book in one evening, started it the next day AND finished it about 6  hours later.

Fans of historical fiction will love this book.

I received a copy for free from the author for the purpose of promoting. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of historical fiction, Francine Rivers, Laura Frantz, Jody Hedlund, Sarah Sundin, Julie Klassen

Rating - 5 stars

Bride at Last - A Review

Published - July 2015, Bethany House Publishers
Series - Unexpected Brides Book 3
Author - Melissa Jagears
Title - A Bride at Last
Format - ebook, paper
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Silas Jonesy's life hasn't gone the way he'd planned it. His mail-order bride left him after only a few months of marriage. Since then, he's fought an uphill battle to overcome addictions, and to actually become a productive member of the community. Then he receives a letter from his wife after ten years of silence. He's hopeful that she wants to reconcile and he sees the letter that his prayers have been answered. He doesn't expect to arrive in Missouri to find her dying and that she has a nine year old son. Could he be the boy's father? Kate Dawson has her own opinions regarding mail-order marriages. She was supposed to be a mail-order bride but never went through with the ceremony. Now she's a teacher.Over the past few years, she has grown to care for her student Anthony and his sick mother. She promises his mother to care for Anthony, and she intends to do that until a man shows up claiming to have been married to Lucinda ten years ago. Soon Kate and Silas must join forces to determine what is best for Anthony especially as another man claims to be the boy's father. With Silas doing all he can to prove his paternity, Kate only wants what is best for Anthony. Their tentative relationship is tested when Silas's past and Kate's fears come to light. Can they figure out their differences to be the family that all three desperately need?

This is the third book in the Unexpected Brides Series. Each one stands alone. While this one was not my favorite, I did enjoy it.

First I found that Silas had changed so much from the first book to this one. Seeing how he's changed and grown made him very believable. I loved how he struggled. I also loved how he was willing to do whatever he needed to for the sake of providing Anthony a safe place, even if he wasn't the boy's father.

I didn't really care for Kate. I didn't really like the way that she judged Silas on his past but didn't like having her own faults called out in question. I also didn't really care for how she just behaved in general. Don't get me wrong. I did come to like her, but it wasn't until much later in the book, like almost the end.

Still the book overall was a very good read. I enjoyed catching up with the characters from the other books as well.

I received this book from the author for the purpose of reviewing and promoting. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of mail-order brides, historical romance, Mary Connealy, Jody Hedlund, Karen Witemeyer

Rating - 4 stars

Now & Forever - A Review

Published - June 2015, Bethany House Books
Series - Wild at Heart Book 2
Author - Mary Connealy
Title - Now & Forever
Format - ebook, paper, audio
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Matthew Tucker is on his way back up to his cabin in the mountains when he is attacked by a mama grizzly. In order to survive, he jumps off a cliff into a raging river, unintentionally sweeping Shannon Wilde along with him. Fighting through rapids, waterfalls, and caves bonds the pair together in a way that Tucker certainly didn't expect. Especially when they are found five days after having gone missing and Shannon's reputation compromised. The mountain man finds himself married hastily to a young woman with a homestead, a flock of sheep, and more relatives than he cares to have. Forced to recover from his injuries at Shannon's cabin, Tucker soon realizes that someone wants to drive Shannon and her sisters off their land. Yet the culprit didn't count on Shannon having an experienced tracker as her husband. And Tucker gets mad when he is underestimated about those he cares about especially when he's starting to fall in love with his new wife.

I'm really enjoying this series. I love the humor in these  books. And the circumstances that are causing the sisters to cast off their masquerading as men and find love.

Shannon was my favorite in the first book and I was delighted to read her story in this one. Especially learning of what she did during the war. I also enjoyed seeing sparks starting to fly between Bailey and Gage. I know their story is next and I'm excited about it.

Tucker was interesting. I actually found him rather charming really. I wasn't expecting the gruff mountain man to have a soft spot for Shannon's sheep, but he did. And his horse is pretty awesome!

Still the way Tucker and Shannon have yet to figure out to talk to each other is rather annoying. I kept wanting to shake them and force them to talk to each other.

I received this book for free from Bethany House Publishers. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of historical romance, comedies, Mary Connealy, Karen Witemeyer.

Rating - 4 stars

Hearts Made Whole - A Review

Published - June 2015, Bethany House Publishers
Series - Beacons of Hope Book 2
Author - Jody Hedlund
Title - Hearts Made Whole
Format - ebook, paper
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After the death of her father, Caroline Taylor has continued to man the light at the Windmill Point Lighthouse. It provides a home for her four siblings, yet she knows that it is just a matter of time before the lighthouse inspector removes her from the post because she is a woman. Unfortunately for Caroline, that happens sooner rather than later. When Civil War veteran Ryan Chambers accepts the position as the lighthouse keeper, he has no idea that he is causing a woman and her siblings to become homeless. All Ryan wants is someplace remote where he can chase the demons of the war away. Caroline sees Ryan's wounded heart and soul. As he comes to depend on her, she finds something she'd never dreamed possible - a chance to let someone else take care of her. Yet with someone determined to see Caroline and her family driven away, the chance for a future with Ryan seems impossible. Will she be able to trust God through this storm? And can God heal Ryan's brokenness?

While this is book 2 in the Beacons of Hope series, it can be read as a stand alone. One of the things that I love about Jody Hedlund's novels is that her books are very character driven. This particular book may be the most character driven of her novels to date. I'd kinda fallen slightly for Ryan when I met him in Love Unexpected. Seeing him in his own story, only made me like him more. Caroline is a woman working in a field where at the time, was dominated by men. And she's good at it. Yet she also has a tender heart. I loved seeing how Ryan nurtured her tender heart.

I'll admit that I never really thought about lighthouses in places other than Maine. Silly me. Yet, I feel like I've been on a trip to Michigan and visiting the lighthouses there. The research that is put into this novel is very much evident. I love how Jody Hedlund tries to be as accurate as possible.

While this one isn't my favorite one of hers, I did find it to be a delightful read. Fans of books rich in historical detail will enjoy this book. I am eagerly awaiting the next book in this series.

I received a copy of the book for free from the author for the purpose of reviewing and promoting. My thoughts and opinions are my own. As part of my agreement with her, I will be giving away my copy of the book in July during my Quarterly Giveaway.

Recommended to fans of historical fiction, Karen Witemeyer, Jody Hedlund, Laura Frantz

Rating - 4 stars

A Worthy Pursuit - A Review

Published - June 2015, Bethany House Publishers
Author - Karen Witemeyer
Title - A Worthy Pursuit
Format - ebook, paper
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Stone Hammond is the best in the business. The business of retrieving people that is. When he is asked to track down and return a little girl to her grandfather, Stone is determined to locate the child and her teacher. Charlotte Atherton is the former headmistress at Sullivan's Academy for Exceptional Youths. When the school closed suddenly, Charlotte left with Lily and two boys, one an orphan and the other's parents were traveling in Europe and unable to come get him. She will do anything to keep her charges safe, especially Lily. Charlotte made a promise to Lily's mother to not let the child return to her grandfather. When Stone appears on her doorstep, Charlotte is even more determined that he not return Lily to her grandfather. When he discovers that Charlotte has documentation that legally lists her as Lily's guardian, Stone is determined to get to the bottom of the situation. What he learns casts a whole new light on his employer. Soon, he has one goal left - claim Charlotte's heart for his own.

I've always loved each book I've read by Karen Witemeyer. This one is no exception. While it doesn't stand in the same regard as either Short Straw Bride or Stealing the Preacher, it was a delightful read.

First, I loved Stone. I loved how he was good at what he did and that he was more concerned with the truth as opposed to the just collecting the reward. Once he met the children, I loved how he treated each one as someone special. And the way that he was with Charlotte made him a very noble gentleman.

I thought that Charlotte was a bit stiff. Sure it was the walls that she had built around herself that made her seem stiff, but I didn't really relate to her. I did find her determination to protect the children very admirable.

As with any of Karen's books, the characters are delightful, for the most part, and the story is very engaging. It's definitely one that her fans would enjoy reading. And for any historical fiction fan, this would be a delightful read.

I received this book for free from the author to help promote it. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of Karen Witemeyer, Mary Connealy, Jody Hedlund, historical fiction, Tamera Alexander

Rating  - 4 stars

As Love Blooms - A Review

Published - May 2015, Revell Books, a division of Baker Publishing Group
Series - The Gregory Sisters Book 3
Author - Lorna Seilstad
Title - As Love Blooms
Format - ebook, paper
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Tessa Gregory is a very determined young lady. After years of going from one adventurous career dream (the stage) to another, she has finally found the field that she truly loves - being a horticulturalist. Yet when she is denied a position at the prestigious Como Park in Saint Paul, Minnesota, Tessa isn't afraid to put her skills as a former Pinkerton and an actress to use by infiltrating the world of the highly successful and wealthy society and garner donations that would help present her cause. But before she really gets started on that, she meets Reese King, a handsome gardener at Como Park. Reese longs for the position that Tessa wants. He's got to design and plant a garden that will catch the eye of the park's superintendent. There's one problem with that - he's able to cultivate just fine, he just can't envision the garden's designs. As he and Tessa get to know one another, they discover that perhaps they can help each other out. That is if they manage to do that while falling for each other.

I've read each of the other books in this series. The second one is my favorite. I've got to be honest, I was a bit bored with this one. That's probably because gardening holds zero interest to me. But still, it was fun to catch up with Tessa's sisters and their families.

I loved Tessa's spark about life. She literally glowed with excitement with whatever project she was working on. And to have watched her grow up from the pages of the first book, it was fun to see her story and what career she would finally settle in. I liked Reese, but he didn't wow me like some of the other heroes I've read. He was just a nice man.

Overall, I think that the reason I didn't care for this one as much as the other two is that I didn't care for all of the gardening details. Yeah, I get that they were there for a specific reason, but because of it, I found myself putting the book down frequently.

But fans of historical romance will enjoy this book.

I received this book for free from Revell Books for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not required to like the book, just give my honest opinion.

Recommended to fans of historical fiction, Jody Hedlund, Julie Klassen, Julie Lessman, Deeanne Gist

Rating - 3 stars