Book: Into the Starlight

About the book:
After more than a year in Europe, Joanna Vaughn returns to Sweetwater Crossing, her dreams of becoming a concert pianist shattered. As if that weren't enough, her husband, whom she married after a whirlwind courtship, has died. The only thing sustaining her on the journey back to Texas was the thought of her childhood home. But to Joanna's dismay, she's changed so much that the place she once loved no longer feels like home.

After his fiancée married his partner and both blamed him for a patient's death, Dr. Burke Finley believes it's time for a change. A quick trip with his almost-aunt Della Samuels to Sweetwater Crossing turns into an extended stay to discover what happened to his uncle and her would-be husband. But the beautiful and musical Joanna makes it more than bearable.

As the two join forces to help Della, there is no denying the attraction felt on both sides. But ghosts from the past are coming to call--and threatening to destroy any chance at happily-ever-after.

Get swept away by this emotional tale of family, friendship, and the kind of love that overcomes every obstacle.

My thoughts:
Into the Starlight is the third book in the series called Secrets of Sweetwater Crossing.  I have enjoyed all the books in the series and the characters.  

This book's main character is sister Joanna who is home from Europe.  Many things have changed when she comes home so she has a lot of adjustments to make. I like how her sisters welcome her back.  

This book has a little bit of mystery as Dr. Burke and Joanna work to find out what happened to Clive (Burke's uncle) and keep coming to dead ends.

Ideas discussed in the book include dreams, disappointment, death of a spouse, illness, and pregnancy to name a few. This is the 3rd book in the series and while it can be read on its own, I recommend reading them in order.

It's always sad to see a series end! This was a good way to end it!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

#IntoTheStarlight 

#SecretsOfSweetwaterCrossing!

Have a day of blessings! 

 Bethany

Book: Against the Wind

About the book:

Doctor-in-training Louisa Vaughn has no intention of remaining in Sweetwater Crossing. She's just there for a few days to help a friend. But she can't abandon the injured man she finds at the side of the road. Until his broken leg heals, she'll serve as the town's doctor and midwife. She may not be fully qualified yet, but surely she's better than nothing.

Josh Porter's plans to win his grandfather's challenge and fulfill his father's final wish to gain full control of the family business hit a roadblock when he breaks his leg. But his enforced stay in Sweetwater Crossing gives him new ideas about the expansion of the company into new territory--ideas Louisa could help turn into reality.

If only the town were more accepting of Louisa's talents! Someone is determined to convince her to abandon her dream of healing others. Can Josh help her uncover the person behind the threats before it's too late? And is there any future for them together when neither of them plans to stay?

My thoughts:
I've enjoyed quite a few books by author Amanda Cabot and had looked forward to this one's release after previously reading book #1 called After the Shadows in the Secrets of Sweetwater Crossing Series.

I enjoyed reading Louisa's story as she has returned to Sweetwater Crossing.  During her time she renews her friendship with her sister after a strained relationship.  She also practices her skills as a healer when she finds an injured man, Josh.  The community does not accept her as a healer though because she is a woman.  

I enjoyed the friendship that developed between Louisa and Josh and the ways they help each other.

I look forward to reading the next book in this series.  If you enjoy historical fiction check out this book and others by this author.

This is the author's website.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

Have a day of blessings!

 Bethany

After the Shadows

Today I want to share with you the first book in a new series by Amanda Cabot.

About the book: 

A brighter future awaits--if she can escape the shadows of the past

Emily Leland sheds no tears when her abusive husband is killed in a bar fight, but what awaits her back home in Sweetwater Crossing is far from the welcome and comfort she expected. First she discovers her father has died under mysterious circumstances. Then the house where the new schoolteacher and his son are supposed to board burns, leaving them homeless. When Emily proposes turning the family home into a boardinghouse, her sister is so incensed that she leaves town.

Alone and broke, her family name sullied by controversy, Emily is determined to solve the mystery of her father's death--and to aid Craig Ferguson, despite her fears of men. The widowed schoolmaster proves to be a devoted father, an innovative teacher, and an unexpected ally. Together they must work to unmask a killer and escape the shadows of their own pasts in order to forge a brighter future.

Bestselling author Amanda Cabot transports you to 1880s Texas Hill Country for a brand-new series that will have you flipping pages to solve the mystery and get to the happily-ever-after you long for.

My thoughts:

I love to read a new book from Amanda Cabot.  I was excited for this one to come out since I have enjoyed her previous books so much.  I love the setting in the Hill Country of Texas since I am a Texas girl. I'm happy to share this one with you today.  I will first say there is a trigger in this book as suicide is part of the story.  

I enjoyed the main characters form the very beginning.  I felt bad for Emily to return home and the division between her and her sister Louisa.  I liked that it was a little bit romance and a little bit mystery.  

I will look forward to the next  book in this series.  Check this out if you enjoy historical fiction.  

Visit the author's site here.  This is a trailer about the book. 

I received a copy of this book from the Revell Reads reviewer program for my honest review.  Thank you.

Have a day of blessings!

 Bethany

Book: Dreams Rekindled

I am excited to share with you a new book called Dreams Rekindled by Amanda Cabot. This is the second book in the Mesquite Springs series.

 

About the book: 

Though she hopes for a quiet, uncomplicated life for herself, Dorothy Clark wants nothing more than to stir others up. Specifically, she dreams of writing something that will challenge people as much as Harriet Beecher Stowe's Uncle Tom's Cabin seems to have. But in 1850s Mesquite Springs, there are few opportunities for writers -- until newspaperman Brandon Holloway arrives, that is.

Brandon Holloway has seen the disastrous effects of challenging others and has no intention of repeating that mistake. Instead of following his dreams, he's committed to making a new -- and completely uncontroversial -- start in the Hill Country.

As Dorothy's involvement in the fledgling newspaper grows from convenient to essential, the same change seems to be happening in Brandon's heart. But before romance can bloom, Dorothy and Brandon must work together to discover who's determined to divide the town and destroy Brandon's livelihood.

With this second novel in the Mesquite Springs series, bestselling author Amanda Cabot invites you to discover the healing power of truth.

My thoughts:

I read (and loved) book #1 in the Mesquite Springs series Out of the Embers and was looking forward to reading book #2.  

I really like the characters in this book.  I liked Dorothy and how she is getting to pursue her dream of writing in this book.  I also found it interesting that she is strongly opposed to ever marrying.  I liked Brandon too and how he has a secret that weighs so heavily on his heart.  I thought the dog was a nice addition to the story. 

It's always nice to have characters appear again that I met in the first book in a series.  There are several unexpected happenings in the story which keep it interesting.  

I enjoyed this book and you should check it out if you enjoy historical fiction.  I look forward to book #3's release!   

Here is the author's website.

I received a copy of this book from the Revell Reads review program for my honest review.  Thank you!

#DreamsRekindled and #MesquiteSprings!

Have a day of blessings! 

 Bethany

Book: The Moonlight School

About the book:

Haunted by her sister’s mysterious disappearance, Lucy Wilson arrives in Rowan County, Kentucky, in the spring of 1911 to work for Cora Wilson Stewart, superintendent of education. When Cora sends Lucy into the hills to act as scribe for the mountain people, she is repelled by the primitive conditions and intellectual poverty she encounters. Few adults can read and write.

Born in those hills, Cora knows the plague of illiteracy. So does Brother Wyatt, a singing schoolmaster who travels through the hills. Involving Lucy and Wyatt, Cora hatches a plan to open the schoolhouses to adults on moonlit nights. The best way to combat poverty, she believes, is to eliminate illiteracy. But will the people come?

As Lucy emerges from a life in the shadows, she finds purpose; or maybe purpose finds her. With purpose comes answers to her questions, and something else she hadn’t expected: love.

Inspired by the true events of the Moonlight Schools, this standalone novel from bestselling author Suzanne Woods Fisher brings to life the story that shocked the nation into taking adult literacy seriously. You’ll finish the last page of this enthralling story with deep gratitude for the gift of reading.

My thoughts:

I was drawn to this book by the beautiful cover!  I am a teacher so the entire storyline drew me in as well.  I expected it to be a good read because I have read other books by Suzanne Woods Fisher.  This one did not disappoint.  

I liked getting to know main character Lucy. She had to keep telling herself in the beginning “it’s only for 6 months.”  Everything was so new and unfamiliar to her as she met new people living life totally differently from her own lifestyle.  I enjoyed going on this new adventure with her and learning along with her.

This is a beautifully written story I have enjoyed.  

I also found it useful that at the beginning of the book the author has a listing of characters.  This helped me keep them straight.  Also the glossary was helpful and helped me understand the dialect.

You can visit the author's website here.

#TheMoonlightSchool

 I received a copy of this book as a member of the Revell Reads blogger group for my honest review.  Thank you. 

Have a day of blessings! 

 Bethany

Book: Nothing Short of Wondrous

About the book:

It is 1886, and the government has given the US Cavalry control of Yellowstone. For widowed hotelier Kate Tremaine, the change is a welcome one. She knows every inch of her wilderness home like the back of her hand and wants to see it protected from poachers and vandals.

Refused a guide by Congress, Lieutenant William Prescott must enlist Kate's aid to help him navigate the sprawling park and track down the troublemakers. But a secret from his past makes him wary of the tender feelings the capable and comely widow raises in him. As they work together to protect the park and stand firm through injustice and tragedy, they may just find that two wounded hearts can share one powerful love when God is in control.

My thoughts:
I am a big fan of historical fiction and this is a new author for me.  I first off was drawn to the cover of the book.  The location (Yellowstone) also intrigued me.  Reading this book made me want to plan a trip to visit Yellowstone myself.  (I even made a Pinterest board to plan a trip!)

I really liked the descriptions of the nature of Yellowstone. Even though I had never been there I could imagine the beauty of it.  I also liked Scott's characters and how they interact with each other.  

This is a sweet story about Kate Tremaine who is a widow running a hotel in Yellowstone.  She wants her home and the beautiful Yellowstone to be protected.  There are several examples of poachers and vandals who try to cause harm through the book.  Kate forms a friendship with Will Prescott as she helps him learn about the park and find those causing trouble.  Kate's young son Danny looks up to Will and the two form a bond.  Kate's concern is that she will be able to keep her lease from the government to continue running the hotel.  She doesn't know where she will go if she can't have her lease.

The story is somewhat predictable and was a slow start for me, but I enjoyed reading it. 

This is the second book in the series called American Wonders Collection. I have not read the first one but that did not interfere with my enjoyment of this book.

Here is the link to the author's site.

I received a copy of this book from Revell reviewer program for my honest review.

#NothingShortofWondrous #AmericanWondersCollection

Have a day of blessings! 

 Bethany

Book: More Than Words Can Say

I have a new book to share with you today from one of my very favorite authors of historical fiction, Karen Witemeyer.  This is the second book in the Patchwork Family series.  If you are not familiar with this author and her books I hope you will check them out.

About the book:

After fulfilling a pledge to a dying friend, Zacharias Hamilton is finally free to live life on his own terms. No family entanglements. No opportunities to disappoint those he cares about. Just the quiet bachelor existence he's always craved. Until fate snatches his freedom away once again when the baker of his favorite breakfast treat is railroaded by the city council. As hard as he tries to avoid getting involved, he can't turn a blind eye to her predicament . . . or her adorable dimples.

Abigail Kemp needs a man's name on her bakery's deed. A marriage of convenience seems the best solution . . . if it involves a man she can control. Not the stoic lumberman who oozes confidence without saying a word whenever he enters her shop. Control Zacharias Hamilton? She can't even control her pulse when around him.

When vows are spoken, Abigail's troubles should be over. Yet threats to the bakery worsen, and darker dangers hound her sister. As trust grows between Zach and Abby, she finds she wants more than his rescue. She wants his heart.

My thoughts:

Another fabulous book by Karen Witemeyer!  Zach and Abby have such an interesting relationship. They married and then went through a period of courtship.  It was sweet to see their relationship grow through the book.   It is clear they love each other even when they aren't sure. 

One of Abigail's struggles is that she doubts that her husband would find her attractive because she does not feel she has a perfect figure.  She considers her sister the "pretty one." I really liked this quote from the book and had to share it.   I recently had a similar conversation with my husband so this really spoke to me to read it in the book.

I thought parts of the book were predictable but there were several "surprises" as well. There was quite a bit of focus on the physical aspects and attraction in marriage but was all in a tasteful manner.  

And one more quote:  

I reviewed the first book in the Patchwork Family series More Than Meets the Eye here.  

Visit the author's website here and check out her other wonderful books.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review. Thank you.

Have a day of blessings!
    Bethany

Book: More Than Meets The Eye

One of my favorite authors of historical fiction, Karen Witemeyer, has a new book in a new series.  It is More Than Meets the Eye in the Patchwork Family series.  Let me tell you about it today! 

About the book:
Many consider Evangeline Hamilton cursed. Orphaned at a young age and possessing a pair of mismatched eyes--one bright blue, the other dark brown--Eva has fought to find her way in a world that constantly rejects her. Yet the support of even one person can help overcome the world's judgments, and Eva has two--Seth and Zach, two former orphans she now counts as brothers. 

Seeking justice against the man who stole his birthright and destroyed his family, Logan Fowler arrives in 1880s Pecan Gap, Texas, to confront Zach Hamilton, the hardened criminal responsible for his father's death. Only instead of finding a solitary ruthless gambler, he discovers a man not much older than himself with an unusual family. When Zach's sister, Evangeline, insists on dousing Logan with sunshine every time their paths cross, Logan finds his quest completely derailed. Who is truly responsible for his lost legacy, and will restoring the past satisfy if it means forfeiting a future with Evangeline?

My thoughts:
I have enjoyed the other books by Karen Witemeyer and was excited to start a new series.  Wow I loved this one!  I had read such good reviews of this one before I read it, and it did not disappoint.  Each time I read one of her books I think it may be her best one yet! 

I liked the background of this story and how Eva came to be with her brothers Seth and Zach.  Their bond is very special which I appreciated seeing throughout this story. Another thing I thought was a fun touch to the story is that Eva has a pet pig. 

One thing I would mention is that suicide is referenced in this book.  Logan's father took his own life years prior, and Logan shares about this and how it affects him and his mother.  I thought this might be important to know that it may be a trigger for someone who is dealing with a suicide in their own life. 

If you enjoy historical fiction be sure to check this one out!  I look forward to the next book in this series.  Visit the author's website here.

I received a copy of this book from the Bethany House reviewers program for my honest review.  Thank you. 


Have a day of blessings! 

Bethany

Book: Hearts Entwined

About the book:Four top historical romance novelists team up in this new collection to offer stories of love and romance with a twist of humor.

In Karen Witemeyer's "The Love Knot," Claire Nevin gets the surprise of her life awaiting her sister's arrival by train. 

Mary Connealy's "The Tangled Ties That Bind" offers the story of two former best friends who are reunited while escaping a stampede. 

Regina Jennings offers "Bound and Determined," where a most unusual trip across barren Oklahoma plains is filled with adventure, romance, and . . . camels? 

And Melissa Jagears' "Tied and True" entertains with a tale of two hearts from different social classes who become entwined at a cotton thread factory. 

Each tale is a fun blend of history and romance that will delight readers.

My thoughts:
It was fun to read this collection.  Let me share my thoughts on each of these.  Maybe you will find a new author you enjoy. 

"The Love Knot" was a great story.  I believe I have read all of Karen Witemeyer's other books so I was familiar with this setting of Harper's Station and characters.  The main character of this story is Claire.  She has a delivery arrive by train from her sister that surprises her, makes her deal with her past, and changes her life.

"The Tangled Ties That Bind" is by another author with whom I am familiar...Mary Connealy.  I have read several of her books, but it has been a while.  The characters in this book were vaguely familiar to me from those books I'd read. 

"Bound and Determined" was the hardest for me to get into as I was reading this collection.  I don't know if I've read others by Regina Jennings or not.  The camels made it odd at first.  But once I got going it was a cute story.  I really appreciated the lessons learned by the characters in this story as they journeyed together.

"Tied and True" is a great ending to this collection. Marianne and Calvin come from different social classes.  They are in love but one feels they can never be together because of their different social standings.  Can they overcome this?   

I like how these books fit together so well yet are so very different from each other.  The publisher did a great job choosing authors for this novella.  You should read this book if you enjoy historical fiction. 

I received this book from the publisher for my honest review.  Thank you.
Have a day of blessings!
  Bethany

Heart on the Line

Today I have another wonderful read to share with you from Karen Witemeyer.  It is book #2 in the Ladies of Harper's Station series.  

About the book:
Grace Mallory is tired of running, of hiding. But when an old friend sends an after-hours telegraph transmission warning Grace that the man who has hunted her for nearly a year has discovered her location, she fears she has no choice. She can't let the villain she believes responsible for her father's death release his wrath in Harper's Station, the town that has sheltered her and blessed her with the dearest friends she's ever known.

Amos Bledsoe prefers bicycles to horses and private conversations over the telegraph wire to social gatherings with young ladies who see him as nothing more than an oddity. His telegraph companion, the mysterious Miss G, listens eagerly to his ramblings every night and delights him with tales all her own. For months, their friendship--dare he believe, courtship?--has fed his hope that he has finally found the woman God intended for him. Yet when he takes the next step to meet her in person, he discovers her life is in peril, and Amos must decide if he can shed the cocoon of his quiet nature to become the hero Grace requires.

My thoughts:
I believe I enjoy each Karen Witemeyer book a little more than the last one!  The characters and story lines are always unique and a little different from your typical historical fiction romance. When you start reading you can sort of guess what will happen but lots of unexpected things are thrown in along the way which make for a great read!  I like the characters of Heart on the Line and how the reader gets to know them.  I appreciate that the hero of the story, Amos, does not fit with the qualities of your stereotypical hero.  I thought the story line having these two "meet" over the telegraph wires was a fun idea and made for a great story.

This was a fairly quick read for me because I wanted to find out what would happen next.  This is a great series, and I highly recommend this book to you if you enjoy historical fiction.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review.  Thank you.
Have a day of blessings!
   Bethany

Audio book: A Love Transformed

I am a big fan of Tracie Peterson and have read many of her books through the years.  I'd borrowed the first book in the Sapphire Brides series (A Treasure Concealed) from my local library and was happy to receive the audio version of book #3 for my review.

This book is called A Love Transformed.  In the beginning of this book the main character Clara is widowed.  She is not grief stricken by this though because she did not have a marriage of love to her husband.  She says she has only ever loved one man and her mother took her away from him.  She has two young children and decides to take them to Montana to her aunt and uncle's home where she spent time as a young girl. She discovers her first love there at the ranch recovering from an injury.  Her children fall in love with the ranch life and Clara has to decide whether to stay or return to her home and another loveless marriage with her late husband's brother.  Then she finds out a secret about her husband and his brother.

I enjoyed this book and the characters.  The children were delightful and I like how they were portrayed throughout the book.   I did not like Clara's mother and got annoyed with how she treated Clara and her children.

I did not see any connection with these characters and the first book of the series so it was fine to read on its own.  I recommend this book if you enjoy historical fiction.

This book was read by Melissa Hurst.  I enjoyed her voice and felt she had the right voice for this historical book.  She did a good job and made it enjoyable for me.

I received an audio version of this book from the christianaudio Reviewers Program.  Thank you!

Have a day of blessings!
   Bethany

No Other Will Do

About the Book:
Men are optional. That's the credo Emma Chandler's suffragette aunts preached and why she started a successful women's colony in Harper's Station, Texas. But when an unknown assailant tries repeatedly to drive them out, Emma admits they might need a man after all. A man who can fight--and she knows just the one.

Malachi Shaw finally earned the respect he craved by becoming an explosives expert for the railroad. Yet when Emma's plea arrives, he bolts to Harper's Station to repay the girl who once saved his life. Only she's not a girl any longer. She's a woman with a mind of her own and a smile that makes a man imagine a future he doesn't deserve.

As the danger intensifies, old feelings grow and deepen, but Emma and Mal will need more than love to survive.

My Thoughts:
I always enjoy books by Karen Witemeyer.  The reader gets transported to a different time period in her writings, and she does such a good job of making you feel like you are there and part of the story. I really liked the characters of Emma and Malachi.  I liked their past and the way they've stayed connected through the years and that Emma knew she could count on him to come help when the need arose.

This book has some surprising twists as the trouble and threats at Harper's Station increase. I enjoyed her previous book series and am glad this one will be a series too so I can find out more about the other characters. If you enjoy historical fiction, check out this book (or any by this author)!

Visit Karen Witemeyer's author site here or find her on Facebook.

This book was sent to me for my review from the publisher. Thank you.

Have a day of blessings!
    Bethany

A Worthy Pursuit

I can't tell you how much I enjoyed A Worthy Pursuit by Karen Witemeyer.  Her books have all been enjoyable, and this one is such a great read.

About the book:
A teacher on the run. A bounty hunter in pursuit. Can two enemies learn to trust each other before they both lose what they hold most dear?

Stone Hammond is the best tracker in Texas. He never comes home empty-handed. So when a wealthy railroad investor hires him to find his abducted granddaughter, Stone eagerly accepts. 

Charlotte Atherton, former headmistress of Sullivan's Academy for Exceptional Youths, will do anything to keep her charges safe, especially the orphaned girl entrusted to her care. Charlotte promised Lily's mother she'd keep the girl away from her unscrupulous grandfather, and nothing will stop Charlotte from fulfilling that pledge. Not even the handsome bounty hunter with surprisingly honest eyes who comes looking for them.

When Miss Atherton produces documentation that shows her to be Lily's legal guardian, Stone must reevaluate everything he's been led to believe. Is she villain or victim? Then a new danger forces Charlotte to trust the man sent to destroy her. Stone vows to protect what he once sought to tear apart. Besides, he's ready to start a new pursuit: winning Charlotte's heart.

My thoughts:
I loved the characters and story line of A Worthy Pursuit. Charlotte and Stone are both such strong, no nonsense type main characters. Their relationship changes throughout the book as they get to know one another. The children are so unique, and I appreciate the way Charlotte mothers them even though they are not her own. 

I read most of this while feeding my new baby, and it was hard to put the book down!  There was plenty happening to hold the reader's attention.  I liked the ending and would love to see more about these characters. As I finished I thought how this could be a great movie.

Be sure to check out this book. If you like historical fiction, you will love this one!  

This book was provided to me by Bethany House publishers for my review. Thank you.

Learn more at Karen Witemeyer's webpage and find more books to enjoy!

Have a day of blessings!
 

Where Trust Lies

Do you enjoy reading historical fiction? I have finished the second book in the Return to the Canadian West series by Janette Oke and Laurel Oke Logan.  I reviewed the first book called Where Courage Calls here.

About the book:
She loves her friends and students in the West, but family obligations have called her home. Where does she truly belong?

After a year of teaching in the Canadian West, Beth Thatcher returns home to her family. She barely has time to settle in before her mother announces plans for a family holiday--a luxurious steamship tour along the eastern coast of Canada and the United States. Hoping to reconnect with her mother and her sisters, Beth agrees to join them, but she quickly realizes that things have changed since she went away, and renewing their close bond is going to be more challenging than she expected.

There's one special thing to look forward to--letters and telephone calls from Jarrick, the Mountie who has stolen her heart. The distance between them is almost too much to bear. But can she give her heart to Jarrick when it will mean saying good-bye to her family once again--and possibly forever? And will she still want to live in the western wilds after the steamship tour opens up a world of people and places she never imagined?

Then comes a great test of Beth's faith. Someone in her family has trusted the wrong person, and suddenly everything Beth knows and loves is toppled. Torn between her family and her dreams, will Beth finally discover where her heart truly belongs?

A companion story to Hallmark Channel's When Calls the Heart TV series!

My thoughts:
I found this book to be much different from the first in the series because now Beth is at home with her family.  She ends up taking a cruise with her mother and sisters.  She is glad for the time to be with them but also misses her time in Coal Valley and wonders if she will be asked to return there to teach again.  

I found the sisters to be very different from one another. They had an interesting relationship in how they interacted with one another, their mother, and others on the ship. 

Beth tries to maintain a relationship with Jarrick who she met in the previous book.  They write letters and talk by phone when they are able, but Beth isn't sure how long this will last.

I enjoyed this book overall. At some points I felt it moved slowly though.  I am not familiar with the areas mentioned so I found it hard to stay focused at certain points.  Some mention is made to Coal Valley and the people there; it is clear Beth wants to return and experiences a totally different life there than on the ship with her family.  

You can read more here. This book was sent to me by Bethany House Publishers for my honest review.  Thank you.

Have a day of blessings!
  

Full Steam Ahead

"God sees things in a scope so broad our narrow-focused minds can't even comprehend."

This quote really made me stop and think as I read Full Steam Ahead by Karen Witemeyer.  I have read the other books by this author and was looking forward to this new one. 

My thoughts:
Nicole Renard is on a mission to find an heir for her father that will be able to run the family company, Renard Shipping. The family has possession of a very special dagger. The competitors of the shipping business are doing what they can to get their hands on the dagger. Nicole is out to protect the dagger and find a husband for herself at the same time.

Nicole meets Darius Thorton when she is searching for employment.  She will work temporarily for him as his secretary to earn a little money on her way to find a husband. She appreciates that he accepts her mathematical abilities and the ideas she presents to help him in his experiments and research, but she doesn't understand the man's behavior. 

Both of these characters held my interest, and it was enjoyable to read their story.  One thing in particular I liked was the setting of this book was different from many of the historical fiction books I read.  The information about the shipping industry and the experiments with the boilers was all new to me.  I found this to be a nice change from the other historical fiction I've read.

This is a wonderful book from Bethany House Publishers.  They sent it to me for my honest review.  I hope you will check out this one and all the others by this author!

Have a day of blessings!

Where Courage Calls

I remember years ago when my Meemaw would pass along to me books she had read. Some of those were in a series by Janette Oke. I enjoyed those books and was glad to read and review this new book by Janette Oke and Laurel Oke Logan.

About the book:

Her courage and her heart will be tested in ways she never expected...
Beth Thatcher has spent her entire life in the safe, comfortable world of her family, her friends, and the social outings her father's wealth provides. But Beth is about to leave it all behind to accept a teaching position in the rugged foothills of western Canada. Inspired by her aunt Elizabeth, who went west to teach school several years ago, and gently encouraged by her father, Beth resolves to put her trust in God and bravely face any challenge that comes her way. 

But the conditions in Coal Valley are even worse than she'd feared. A recent mining accident has left the town grieving and at the mercy of the mining company. The children have had very little prior education, and many of the locals don't even speak English. There isn't even a proper schoolhouse. In addition, Beth's heart is torn between two young men--both Mounties, one a lifelong friend and the other a kind, quiet man who comes to her aid more than once.

Despite the many challenges, Beth is determined to make a difference in the rustic frontier town. But when her sister visits from the East, reminding her of all the luxuries she's had to give up, will Beth decide to return to her privileged life as soon as the school year is over?

A special companion story to Hallmark Channel's When Calls the Heart TV series.

My thoughts: 

I really enjoyed Beth's story. I admired her determination in leaving behind her family and her life where she basically wants for nothing to go to the unknown in the mining village of Coal Valley. She works had to form relationships with the people there and to make a difference for the children both educationally and spiritually.   She faces  many challenges along the way that might have scared away another teacher; however, Beth remains committed to her task which is very admirable. 

One character I liked besides Beth was Molly. She runs the place where Beth resides and really takes Beth under her wing as a motherly figure. This is something Beth needs and longs for as she is away from her own family. Molly offers advice to Beth on more than one occasion that I appreciated for my own life.

I thought the setting of this book was interesting as well. Living in the mining village is totally different from Beth's normal surroundings.  Also, I think the cover is such a serene image and makes me want to visit.

I enjoyed reading this book and recommend it to you. 

This book was provided to me by Bethany House Publishers for my review. Thank you.

Have a day of blessings!

A Match Made in Texas

If you enjoy historical fiction, I have a fun book to share with you today. It is called A Match made In Texas, and it is a collection of four novellas.

First is "A Cowboy Unmatched" by Karen Witemeyer. Neill Archer is hired by someone whose identity remains a mystery to repair the roof of widow Clara Danvers.  (Neill is one of the Archer brothers that we meet in previous books by this author.)  Clara really doesn't want to accept the help, but with a baby on the way she realizes she does need it.

Next is "An Unforeseen Match" by Regina Jennings.  In this story Clayton Weber ends up at the front door of Grace O'Malley to do some work to earn some money to get to the land rush after his horse dies.  Grace has a home of her own and members of he community bring her meals since she is going blind. As Clayton works on her home, she finds out he has secrets of his own and works to find out the mystery behind this man.

The third novella is called "No Match For Love" by Carol Cox in which Lucy Benson becomes caretaker to the aunt of Andrew Simms. Andrew has concern for his aunt Martha to be alone after some strange things she has told him she has seen on the ranch. Lucy does not know how to care for a home yet Martha begins teaching her, and a friendship is formed. When Lucy sees strange things at the ranch, she realizes Martha isn't crazy and wants to prove that to Andrew.

The final novella of the collection is "Meeting Her Match" by Mary Connealy. Hannah Taylor,  the town teacher, has recently endured many losses. She has been a matchmaker for others through the years, but she has not found love for herself.  She wonders if she will be alone for the rest of her life. She cares for the son of the banker, Marcus Whitfield, but he never speaks to her so she does not think he is interested.

I enjoyed this book, and I found myself not wanting the stories to end!  I felt each one could continue with the storyline into another book. I like that they were set in the same town of Dry Gulch  and had some continuity of characters. The characters of the first three were mentioned in the fourth, and I felt it was a good ending.

This book was provided to me by Bethany House publishers for my honest review. Thank you.

Have a day of blessings!

Promise to Return

I have finished a book by new author Elizabeth Byler Younts called Promise to Return. My blog friend Linda from Mocha with Linda told me about this book. It arrived a few weeks ago and with the holidays I've read it off and on. I picked it up and finished it this weekend. It is an excellent book!

Miriam and Henry are soon to be married when he is drafted. He first goes to a work camp since he is Amish. When Henry returns later to share with Miriam that he believes he should enlist, Miriam is torn with what to do once he is gone.  Since Henry has enlisted he has gone against the church's Ordnung. Should she wait for Henry to return, or should she look for love with another of the Amish boys who is showing interest in her?  Miriam faces much confusion as she doesn't want to turn against her parents or Church.

I enjoyed this book and the historical aspect of it regarding the Amish during the war.  What a wonderful story!  I really enjoyed this book and can't wait for more books by this author.  The author's website is here.

This book was sent to me as an influencer for my honest review.

Have a day of blessings!
 

Fired Up by Mary Connealy

Fired Up by Mary Connealy is book #2 in the Trouble in Texas series.  I reviewed the first book called Swept Away here.

About the book:
Dare Riker is a doctor who saves lives, but someone seems determined to end his. It may have something to do with the traitors he dealt with during the Civil War, or it might be related to the recent incident with Flint Greer and the ranch. Whoever the culprit is, he or she seems really fired up, and Dare can't let his guard down for a moment, which is a challenge, since right now he's trying to win the heart of the recently widowed Glynna.

Glynna Greer came west as a mail-order bride and ended up in a bad situation. Now her husband, Flint, is dead, and she's determined to care for her son and daughter on her own. She wants to believe Dare Riker is as decent as he seems, but she's terrified to lock herself into another marriage. She plans to support her small family by opening a diner--never mind that cooking is not her greatest talent. The men in Broken Wheel, Texas, are so desperate for home cooking that they seem willing to overlook dried-out beef and blackened biscuits.

Glynna can't help but notice that danger follows Dare wherever he goes. There's the avalanche. And then the fire. But things really get out of hand when someone plunges a knife from Glynna's diner into Dare's back. Are Flint's cronies still plotting revenge? Is Glynna's son engaged in a misguided attempt to protect his mother? Is a shadowy outsider still enraged over past injustices? And can Dare survive long enough to convince Glynna to take another chance on love?

My thoughts:I have read several books by Mary Connealy.  This one felt like it took me longer to really get into the story and enjoy the storyline compared to other books. 

I enjoyed reading more about the characters from the first book.  I felt bad for Glynna's son Paul who was obviously deeply hurt by the men his mother had been married to previously.  This gave him a negative feeling toward all men and led to him having many issues including anger.  I thought it was interesting how Dare decided he didn't want to be a doctor anymore but no one would accept this from him.  I do look forward to seeing what happens with these characters in the next book of the series. 

It was a pretty predictable story I thought with a few surprises here and there.  It was an enjoyable read but not my favorite of this author. 

This book was sent to me by Bethany House Publishers for my honest review. 
Have a day of blessings!

Stealing the Preacher

 

Today I'd like to share with you Stealing the Preacher by Karen Witemeyer.  If you have not read anything yet by this author,  you should!  I have read all of her books and have enjoyed each one.  This one is a great read!

About the book: 
A cowboy who wants to be a preacher. An outlaw's daughter who wants to change his mind.

On his way to interview for a position at a church in the Piney Woods of Texas, Crockett Archer can't believe it when he's forced off the train by an outlaw and presented to the man's daughter as the preacher she requested for her birthday. He's determined to escape--which would be much easier if he could stop thinking about Joanna Robbins and her unexpected request.

For months, Joanna had prayed for a minister. A man to breathe life back into the abandoned church at the heart of her community. A man to assist her in fulfilling a promise to her dying mother. But just when it seems her prayers have been answered, it turns out the parson is there against his will and has dreams of his own calling him elsewhere. Is there any way she can convince Crockett he ended up right where he was supposed to be?

My thoughts:
I was happy to read more about Crockett, one of the Archer brothers introduced in a previous book.  I thought this book had a unique, creative plot with Joanna's father (Silas) being a former outlaw and stealing Crockett from a train.  I enjoyed both Joanna and Crockett and felt like I could relate to Silas actually as he learned more about God and his need for Him.  The conflict at the end was unexpected for me as I would never have imagined what happened, but I thought it was a good addition to the story.  I'll leave it at that so I do not spoil the story!  I was glad to read a little bit here and there about the other Archer brothers too.  This is another great book by Karen Witemeyer, and I look forward to more books from her. 

One more thing... I really like the cover and the pretty dress on the model.  Also, as a reader I would enjoy having a book in the future about Jackson.  I thought he would be a great main character. 

Have a day of blessings!

I received this book from Bethany House for my honest review.