Book description: "One of the many immigrants struggling to survive in 1850s New York, Elise Neumann knows she must take action to care for her younger sisters. She finds a glimmer of hope when the New York Children's Aid Society starts sending skilled workers to burgeoning towns out west. But the promise of the society's orphan trains is not all that it seems.
Born into elite New York society, Thornton Quincy possesses everything except the ability to step out from his brother's shadow. When their ailing father puts forth a unique challenge to determine who will inherit his railroad-building empire, Thornton finally sees his chance. The conditions to win? Be the first to build a sustainable community along the Illinois Central Railroad and find a suitable wife.
Thrown together against all odds, Elise and Thornton couldn't be from more different worlds. The spark that ignites between them is undeniable, but how can they let it grow when that means forfeiting everything they've been working toward?"
My review: While I really enjoyed this book, it was more about women traveling west in order to find work instead of orphans heading west to find homes. This book had a great plot though given that that particular historical detail is not often heard. I think Jody Hedlund did a great job portraying the difficult circumstances many women found themselves in as well as the reality they had to endure in order to do what they could for their families. The unique challenge that is presented made for a great plot, and the relationship between Elise and Thornton was well-balanced and fit in perfectly with challenge that Thornton faced. I have really enjoyed reading books by this author, and I felt that this particular book was one of her best. I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers. All opinions are my own.
Tuesday, June 13, 2017
Monday, May 15, 2017
Threads of Suspicion
Book description: "Evie Blackwell's reputation as a top investigator for the Illinois State Police has landed her an appointment to the governor's Missing Persons Task Force. With so much public fanfare surrounding the launch of this elite investigative team, the political stakes are high, and the team will have to produce results--and quickly.
Evie and her new partner, David Marshal, are assigned to a pair of unrelated cases in suburban Chicago, and while both involve persons now missing for several years, the cases couldn't be more different. As Evie opens old wounds in a close-knit neighborhood over the disappearance of a college student, David searches for a private investigator whose last case involved a high-powered client.
With a deep conviction that "justice for all" truly matters, Evie and David are unrelenting in their search for the truth. But the questions that lie just beneath the surface in Evie's personal life are also begging for answers."
My review: I really enjoyed this book, but in my opinion it wasn't one of Dee Henderson's best. For some reason I seemed to get bogged down in the middle of the book. Usually I'm able to read through her books very quickly, but this time I didn't have as much time to read. There might have been too much time between my reading sessions that caused me to get bogged down. As always, Mrs. Henderson clearly included the gospel message, which I so appreciate. Overall it was another good book by a great author. I am looking to forward to reading the next books in this series. I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Evie and her new partner, David Marshal, are assigned to a pair of unrelated cases in suburban Chicago, and while both involve persons now missing for several years, the cases couldn't be more different. As Evie opens old wounds in a close-knit neighborhood over the disappearance of a college student, David searches for a private investigator whose last case involved a high-powered client.
With a deep conviction that "justice for all" truly matters, Evie and David are unrelenting in their search for the truth. But the questions that lie just beneath the surface in Evie's personal life are also begging for answers."
My review: I really enjoyed this book, but in my opinion it wasn't one of Dee Henderson's best. For some reason I seemed to get bogged down in the middle of the book. Usually I'm able to read through her books very quickly, but this time I didn't have as much time to read. There might have been too much time between my reading sessions that caused me to get bogged down. As always, Mrs. Henderson clearly included the gospel message, which I so appreciate. Overall it was another good book by a great author. I am looking to forward to reading the next books in this series. I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Friday, April 14, 2017
If I'm Found
Book description: "Is Dylan hunting Casey to prosecute her or protect her?
Casey Cox is still on the run, fleeing prosecution for a murder she didn’t commit. Dylan Roberts—her most relentless pursuer—is still on her trail, but his secret emails insist that he knows the truth and wants to help her. He’s let her escape before when he had her in his grasp, but trust doesn’t come easily.
As Casey works to collect evidence about the real murderers, she stumbles on another unbearable injustice: an abused child and a suicidal man who’s also been falsely accused. Casey risks her own safety to right this wrong and protect the little girl from her tormenters. But doing so is risky and just may result in her capture—and if she’s captured, she has no doubt she’ll be murdered before she ever steps foot in a jail.
In this riveting sequel to the USA Today bestseller If I Run, evil lurks, drawing Casey out of the shadows . . . but there is light shining in the darkness. Is Dylan a provision from the God who loves her, or another heartache yet to happen?"
My review: Wow! This book was worth waiting for! The first book in this series, If I Run, was amazing and left the reader hanging. I have been anxiously waiting for the sequel, and now I am anxiously waiting for the third and final book in this series. If you like suspense, this is the series for you. The overall plot is complex and the sub plot in this book kept me just as captivated as the plot itself. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough, yet I didn't want to turn them fast in order that the book might last a little longer. The characters are real, and you feel like Casey is family by the time you finish the book. Terri Blackstock writes some of the best suspense novels available. This is a series that you won't want to miss! I received an e-copy from the publisher through the Booklook Blogger program. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
My review: Wow! This book was worth waiting for! The first book in this series, If I Run, was amazing and left the reader hanging. I have been anxiously waiting for the sequel, and now I am anxiously waiting for the third and final book in this series. If you like suspense, this is the series for you. The overall plot is complex and the sub plot in this book kept me just as captivated as the plot itself. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough, yet I didn't want to turn them fast in order that the book might last a little longer. The characters are real, and you feel like Casey is family by the time you finish the book. Terri Blackstock writes some of the best suspense novels available. This is a series that you won't want to miss! I received an e-copy from the publisher through the Booklook Blogger program. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
The Ebb Tide
Book description: "Sallie Riehl has dreamed of traveling at least once before settling down to join church, so she is thrilled at an unexpected summer opportunity to nanny in Cape May for a well-to-do family. However, saying even a temporary good-bye to Paradise Township means forgoing baptism another year, as well as leaving behind a would-be beau. Yet the weeks in Cape May soon prove unforgettable as Sallie meets a Mennonite young man whose friendship she quickly begins to cherish. Has she been too hasty with her promises, or will she only find what her heart is longing for back home?"
My review: The ability to write quality fiction is truly a gift from the Lord! Beverly Lewis has certainly been blessed with that gift! I always look forward to reading her books, and this book became one of my favorites from her. I appreciated the subtle yet unmistakable message of following God's will for our lives and not someone else's desires for us. And as parents we have to understand that God's will for our children may look way different than what we had imagined. Sallie had some hard choices to make, and I love that she chose to seek wise counsel. The message also crosses the fence. Give Godly wise counsel when asked and not personal preference. This is a delightful story that just seemed to resonate with me more than others. I received an e-copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
My review: The ability to write quality fiction is truly a gift from the Lord! Beverly Lewis has certainly been blessed with that gift! I always look forward to reading her books, and this book became one of my favorites from her. I appreciated the subtle yet unmistakable message of following God's will for our lives and not someone else's desires for us. And as parents we have to understand that God's will for our children may look way different than what we had imagined. Sallie had some hard choices to make, and I love that she chose to seek wise counsel. The message also crosses the fence. Give Godly wise counsel when asked and not personal preference. This is a delightful story that just seemed to resonate with me more than others. I received an e-copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Saturday, March 11, 2017
Grace and the Preacher by Kim Vogel Sawyer
Book description: "At the age of twenty-three, postmistress Grace Cristler has all but given up hope of finding a husband among the narrowing group of eligible men in her town of Fairland, Kansas. But when her uncle decides to retire from the pulpit, Grace is responsible for corresponding with the new preacher set to take his place. She can’t deny the affection growing in her heart for Reverend Rufus Dille—a man she deeply admires but has only met through his letters.
Theophil Garrison is on the run from his past. Ten years ago his outlaw cousins convinced him to take part in a train robbery, but Theo fled the scene, leaving his cousins to face imprisonment. Now they’ve finished their sentences, but the plan for vengeance has just begun. Branded a coward and running for his life, Theo has a chance encounter that could provide him with the escape he needs.
But the young man’s desperate con might come at an enormous price for the tenderhearted Grace—and the entire town. Will Grace’s undeserved affection and God’s mercy make something beautiful from the ashes of Theo’s past?"
My review: I loved the idea that was implied in the description and knew that I had to read this book! It was exactly as I expected and made for a great plot. I don't want to include any spoilers in this review, but I will say that this is a book that will keep you turning pages and even chuckling some as you go. Grace is a bit unrealistic at times, but in this case it just seems to add to the story and make her even more lovable. The sub plot adds a whole other dimension to the book as well that compliments the rest of the story. This is a book I highly recommend! I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Theophil Garrison is on the run from his past. Ten years ago his outlaw cousins convinced him to take part in a train robbery, but Theo fled the scene, leaving his cousins to face imprisonment. Now they’ve finished their sentences, but the plan for vengeance has just begun. Branded a coward and running for his life, Theo has a chance encounter that could provide him with the escape he needs.
But the young man’s desperate con might come at an enormous price for the tenderhearted Grace—and the entire town. Will Grace’s undeserved affection and God’s mercy make something beautiful from the ashes of Theo’s past?"
My review: I loved the idea that was implied in the description and knew that I had to read this book! It was exactly as I expected and made for a great plot. I don't want to include any spoilers in this review, but I will say that this is a book that will keep you turning pages and even chuckling some as you go. Grace is a bit unrealistic at times, but in this case it just seems to add to the story and make her even more lovable. The sub plot adds a whole other dimension to the book as well that compliments the rest of the story. This is a book I highly recommend! I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
An Uncommon Protector by Shelley Shepard Gray
Book description: Overwhelmed by the responsibilities of running a ranch on her own, Laurel Tracey decides to hire a convict—a man who’s just scary enough to take care of squatters and just desperate enough to agree to a one year post.
The years following the war have been hard on Laurel Tracey. Both her brother and her father died in battle, and her mother passed away shortly after receiving word of their demise. Laurel has been trying to run her two hundred acre ranch as best she can.
When she discovers that squatters have settled in her north pasture and have no intention of leaving, Laurel decides to use the last of her money to free a prisoner from the local jail. If she agrees to offer him room and board for one year, he will have to work for her to pay off his debt.
Former soldier Thomas Baker knows he’s in trouble when he finds himself jailed because he couldn’t pay a few fines. Laurel’s offer might be his only ticket out. Though she’s everything he ever dreamed of in a woman—sweet and tender-hearted, yet strong—he’s determined to remain detached, work hard on her behalf, and count the days until he’s free again.
But when cattle start dying and Laurel’s life is threatened, Thomas realizes more than just his freedom is on the line. Laurel needs someone to believe in her and protect her property. And it isn’t long before Laurel realizes that Thomas Baker is far more than just a former soldier. He’s a trustworthy hero, and he needs more than just his freedom—he needs her love and care too.
My review: I enjoyed reading this book, but I wouldn't say that it is one of my favorites. I enjoyed the plot, but I think it could have been a little better developed. Laurel is one of those characters that you enjoy getting to know, and find yourself cheering for from the sidelines. I did really like the flashbacks in Thomas' life. I think it helped to develop and show his character better. The history that was included from the civil war time was very helpful and added to the story. I enjoy reading historical fiction and appreciate that aspect of this book. The story moved along, but I found that the ending seemed a bit rushed. It was as if all of a sudden the author decided to tie things up quickly and have the story finished. This book would not be my first recommendation, but I can still recommend it. I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Wednesday, February 8, 2017
A Note Yet Unsung by Tamera Alexander
Book description: "A master violinist trained in Vienna, Rebekah Carrington manages to wheedle her way into an audition with the maestro at the newly formed Nashville Philharmonic. But women are "far too fragile and frail" for the rigors of an orchestra, and Rebekah's hopes are swiftly dashed because the conductor--determined to leave his mark on the world of classical music--bows to public opinion. To make matters worse, Adelicia Acklen Cheatham, mistress of Belmont Mansion and Rebekah's new employer, agrees with him.
Nationally acclaimed conductor Nathaniel Tate Whitcomb is Nashville's new orchestra leader. And despite a reluctant muse--and a strange buzzing and recurring pain in his head--he must finish composing his symphony before the grand opening of the city's new opera hall. But far more pressing, he must finish it for the one who first inspired his love of music--his father, who is dying. As Tate's ailment worsens, he believes Rebekah can help him finish his symphony. But how do you win back a woman's trust when you've robbed her of her dream?
As music moves us to tears yet makes our hearts soar, A Note Yet Unsung captures the splendor of classical music at a time when women's hard-won strides in cultural issues changed not only world history--but the hearts of men."
My review: This is a beautifully written story! While the story was mainly about Rebekah living in a world that would not recognize her accomplishments as a woman, the simple mountain life also collides with a successful world. The parallel lives of Rebekah and Tate bring a new level to this story. The difference is that Tate could overcome his background much more easily than Rebekah could overcome her obstacle of being a woman. I appreciate the Biblical themes that run through the story as well. There were so many pieces to this story and Mrs. Alexander wove them together so wonderfully to make a beautiful story! I think this was my favorite book in this series. I hated to see this book come to an end as well as the series. I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers. This is my honest review and all opinions are my own.
Nationally acclaimed conductor Nathaniel Tate Whitcomb is Nashville's new orchestra leader. And despite a reluctant muse--and a strange buzzing and recurring pain in his head--he must finish composing his symphony before the grand opening of the city's new opera hall. But far more pressing, he must finish it for the one who first inspired his love of music--his father, who is dying. As Tate's ailment worsens, he believes Rebekah can help him finish his symphony. But how do you win back a woman's trust when you've robbed her of her dream?
As music moves us to tears yet makes our hearts soar, A Note Yet Unsung captures the splendor of classical music at a time when women's hard-won strides in cultural issues changed not only world history--but the hearts of men."
My review: This is a beautifully written story! While the story was mainly about Rebekah living in a world that would not recognize her accomplishments as a woman, the simple mountain life also collides with a successful world. The parallel lives of Rebekah and Tate bring a new level to this story. The difference is that Tate could overcome his background much more easily than Rebekah could overcome her obstacle of being a woman. I appreciate the Biblical themes that run through the story as well. There were so many pieces to this story and Mrs. Alexander wove them together so wonderfully to make a beautiful story! I think this was my favorite book in this series. I hated to see this book come to an end as well as the series. I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers. This is my honest review and all opinions are my own.
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