The Heart's Appeal review and giveaway

Book Title: The Heart’s Appeal

Author: Jennifer Delamere

Release Date: March 6, 2018

Genre: Inspirational Historical Romance

Strong-minded and independent, Julia Bernay has come to London to study medicine and become a doctor–a profession that has only just opened up to women. When she witnesses a serious accident, her quick action saves the life of an ambitious young barrister named Michael Stephenson. It’s only later that she learns he could be instrumental in destroying her dreams for the future.

Coming from a family that long ago lost its status, Michael Stephenson has achieved what many would have thought impossible. Hard work and an aptitude for the law have enabled him to regain the path to wealth and recognition. His latest case puts him in the middle of a debate over the future of a women’s medical school. He’s supposed to remain objective, but when the beguiling and determined Julia reappears with an unexpected entreaty, he begins to question what he’s made most important in his life. But Julia may be hiding her own motivations. As the two are tangled into spending more time together, will their own goals be too much to overcome?


My Review: While I enjoyed the first book in this series, that of Julia's older sister Rosayln, I think I enjoyed this one even more! I found the historical aspect of the story interesting and loved that Julia is dedicated to the medical field, serving others, and serving God. The book is well written and flows nicely. I look forward to reading more of Jennifer's books!
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.

Purchase a copy here:

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About the Author:
Jennifer Delamere’s debut Victorian romance, An Heiress at Heart, was a 2013 RITA Award finalist in the inspirational category. Her follow-up novel, A Lady Most Lovely, received a starred review from Publishers Weekly and the Maggie Award for Excellence from Georgia Romance Writers. Jennifer earned a BA in English from McGill University in Montreal, where she became fluent in French and developed an abiding passion for winter sports. She’s been an editor of nonfiction and educational materials for nearly two decades, and lives in North Carolina with her husband.

Guest post from Jennifer:
Power couples?

Perhaps that’s not a concept that initially comes to mind when one thinks of Victorian England! And yet, they did exist. I love to include real people from history in my books, and in The Heart’s Appeal, Julia Bernay meets two inspiring real-life couples who will make a positive impact in her life.

In 1865, Elizabeth Garrett Anderson became the first woman to qualify as a physician in Britain. She did this through a legal loophole, but soon the laws were changed to open the medical field to all women. In 1874, Dr. Anderson co-founded the London School of Medicine for Women. She remained involved in the school in various capacities for the rest of her life, even as she continued to run her own busy practice. In The Heart’s Appeal, she becomes a mentor for Julia, opening doors for her education and introducing Julia to people who can help her succeed in medical school.

Dr. Anderson’s husband, James Anderson (Jamie), was the joint-owner of a successful shipping line and also served on the boards of several organizations (including a children’s hospital). He was a handsome man, very much in love with his wife, and fervent in supporting her choice of a career.

In a letter he wrote to her while they were engaged, Jamie explained his vision for their future—how they could keep their professional and private lives separate, yet still give each other plenty of love and support:

“I think we had better lay it down once for all as a rule that I am under no circumstances to bring people ‘favorably under your notice’ or ‘exert any influence’ or anything of the sort. It will give people a wrong idea of you unless I take a decided line in this matter — and as I mean to be if I can a successful man of business, neither interfering with your pursuits nor being interfered with by you (but having our confidences on all feasible subjects at off times of the day and week and mutually advising and fortifying one another), I must let people know unmistakably not to come bothering me about your public affairs. Will you think about this, dearest?”

Who couldn’t love a man like that?

Jamie Anderson’s outlook on life comes into play later on in The Heart’s Appeal, when he provides advice and aid to Michael Stephenson, the book’s hero, at a critical time.

Julia also has an inspiring encounter with Dr. Anderson’s sister, Millicent Fawcett. Millicent was married to a Member of Parliament and actively supported her husband’s career in many ways, including acting as a scribe for him since he was blind. She is most remembered for her role in the women’s suffrage movement. In fact, a statue of her will be placed in Parliament Square in London this summer. She was not a militant suffragette, but rather campaigned for suffrage under the banner “Law-Abiding Suffragists.”

Both couples raised families, too, and their children’s successes in life show they were raised to have the same energetic and “can-do” attitudes that their parents had.

Julia initially believes she must remain single to achieve her life’s goals. But soon she finds her heart drawn to successful barrister Michael Stephenson, who admires Julia’s intelligence and ambition. She learns that love and the freedom to pursue her dreams do not have to be mutually exclusive. A meeting of minds to spark a true romance? Yes, please! I hope readers will agree this can be the most satisfying of all.

Blog Stops

To celebrate her tour, Jennifer is giving away a grand prize package of that includes All four March Bethany House historical releases (The Heart’s Appeal, plus A Most Noble Heir by Susan Anne Mason, A Chance at Forever by Melissa Jagears, In Places Hidden by Tracie Peterson) and a $20 Starbucks gift card!!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries!

Take ten: books that take place in another country

I do believe some of my most favorite stories take place in another country, so this is an easy list for me.;) If you would like to learn more about the book, just click the image to go to Amazon. This post does contain affiliate links (thanks for supporting my book habit!;))

1. Close to You

I loved this one! I mean, it's set in Hobbiton (in New Zealand, in cause you aren't a nerd married to a nerd. lol)and has a gorgeous romance, need I say more?;)

2. Then There Was You

I related a lot to Paige, and love that she travels to Australia, a country that has a piece of my heart.;)

3. Harvest of Rubies

This one is set in ancient Persia.

4. Garden of Madness

I loved the books I read in this series, since it is about the Seven ancient wonders of the world. This one featured Solomon's handing gardens.

5. Emma

Because my list isn't complete without an Austen on it.;)

6. The Bronte Plot

I loved that this one is not only set in England, but also has the characters go on a literary tour!

7. The Hawthorne House series

This one is just an excellent Regency series set in England. I could of made this more challenging and limited myself to one book per country, but I may not of been able to come up with 10.;)

8. The French Twist series

Granted, it has been a while since I read this series (and yes, the cover of this one is not set in another country, I realize that;)), but I really enjoyed the baker having a chance to live in France.

9. The Giftsnatcher

This one makes a lot of my lists, because it was so incredibly well written and totally out of my normal genre, with having elements of magic in with the story of Jack the Ripper.

10. There You'll Find Me

Set in Ireland, this is a humorous, yet deep, YA story.

Just because:
Harry Potter


The Chronicles of Narnia

They are kind of in England.;) I just had to fit them in!

So, that's my list for the week! I look forward to seeing what you all have on yours!

Growing Kids with Character

Through Hettie Brittz’s famous tree metaphors, parents will discover how to let their kids excel at being who they naturally are as they grow in their unique purpose in the world.

Author and speaker Hettie Brittz helps readers identify their kids’ natural bent and understand how that affects the parenting journey. Parents will learn how to:


Cultivate each of their kids’ unique way of encountering, following, and worshiping God
Disciple and discipline based on each child’s blueprint
Help their children celebrate God’s individualized design for others


Brittz offers tools to parents for recognizing their kids’ God-given personalities, guiding them on their spiritual journeys, and establishing their identity and purpose in Christ.

My thoughts: I love this book and it's unique approach to parenting. A lot of these thoughts have been on my mind lately, and I love that you are able to do a child profile report to help figure out what type of personality your child has. I also really appreciated Hettie's thoughts on being mindful to not let yours parents failures or successes define how you parent and that each personality is different. This is an excellent, real parenting book!
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

A Chance at Forever

In early 1900s Kansas, Mercy McClain, determined to protect Teaville's children from the bullying she experienced as a child, finds fulfillment working at the local orphanage and serving on the school board. When Aaron Firebrook, the classmate who bothered her more than any other, petitions the board for a teaching position, she's dead set against him getting the job.

Aaron knows he deserves every bit of Mercy's mistrust, but he's returned to his hometown a changed man and is seeking to earn forgiveness of those he wronged. He doesn't expect Mercy to like him, but surely he can prove he now has the best interests of the children at heart.

Will resentment and old wounds hold them back, or can Mercy and Aaron put the past behind them in time to face the unexpected threats to everything they're working for?

My thoughts: All the books in this series have been thought provoking and interesting reads, from the historical details to the character, to the moral issues they address. I thought that this book did an excellent job of taking the subject of bullying and looking at it a different way, that of a childhood bully who grew up to find grace and sets out to seek forgiveness from those he bullied. I love how Aaron took his horrible experiences that fueled his bullying to reach out to others and show them love when they weren't the most love able. It was a good reminder that, while we need to take responsibility of our actions and not lash out at others, there is usually more to the action than meets the eye.
I received this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.


This post contains affiliate links.

Number in the Bible and Colors in the Bible Review and Giveaway!

Colors in the Bible

In this energetic board book, children are taken on a colorful tour of beloved Bible stories. Little ones will learn about colors and be introduced to the world of the Bible as they read about the green Garden of Eden, the yellow deserts of Egypt, and the blue Jordan River. Created with fresh, modern illustrations, this colors primer is sure to captivate curious toddlers.

My thoughts: This book is so much fun! I love the bright colors and how it incorporates the colors into the Bible, showing how the flame of the burning bush was red or Samson's hair was black. My children are in love with this unique was to learn colors! It came at the perfect time, since we are working on colors with my son. This book is a fun way to learn many of the basic colors.

Numbers in the Bible

In this energetic counting primer, children are taken on a number-filled tour of beloved Bible stories. Little ones will learn their numbers and be introduced to the world of the Bible as they count the Ten Commandments, the seven days of Creation, and the three lions in the lions' den. Created with fresh, modern illustrations, this educational board book is sure to captivate curious toddlers.

My review: I love that both of these books have a scripture verse on each page, so it shows one ark or two brothers (Jacob and Esau). I feel like it has touched on some different stories than the Bible stories my children usually want read to them! I love that this one has "3 friends" with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. These books are delightful. I love that the illustrations are colorful without being too cartoonish.
I received these books from Worthy in exchange for my honest review. This post contains affiliate links.

Giveaway!
Worthy is graciously giving a copy of each of these books to a reader of my blog. To enter, let me know which book sounds like what your family would most enjoy. Please leave a way for me to contact you!

High Cotton

Some families are filled with so much love they can't help but drive each other crazy.

Shay Henke has mixed feelings about going to her family's next reunion. On the one hand, she'll get to see everyone in her mama's family--folks she loves unconditionally. On the other hand, she knows there'll be more drama than you can shake a stick at.

The days leading up to the event bring one surprise after another. First Shay must deal with her sister-in-law's deep, dark secret. Then she has to contend with the childish ways of her business-mogul twin cousins. And when her high school crush wants to be her date to the reunions . . . well, it may have been a dream come true for Shay's teen self, but the woman she's become doesn't know what to make of this.

Shay's contentment is challenged, and she's determined to shake things up a bit. But will she find the excitement she's looking for, or will Shay realize she prefers her quiet predictable life? One thing is certain: Life in the Bucklin family is never boring.

My thoughts: I love how this book is set up, with all the different stories going on! Shay was fun to get to know, and I liked that that a lot of the battles the characters went through were different from the norm (which pleasantly surprised me!). I love that the characters all have to work through their personal battles and grow closer as they learn to lean on one another. I could especially relate to the twin sisters, since I was close to my sister growing up, and we went through something similar with learning how to go in different directions while still being close. All in all, this is a great story and I look forward to reading more in the series!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

Purchase a copy here:

This post contains affiliate links.

The Innkeeper's Daughter

A London officer goes undercover to expose a plot against the Crown

Dover, England, 1808: Officer Alexander Moore goes undercover as a gambling gentleman to expose a high-stakes plot against the king—and he’s a master of disguise, for Johanna Langley believes him to be quite the rogue. . .until she can no longer fight against his unrelenting charm.

All Johanna wants is to keep the family inn afloat, but when the rent and the hearth payment are due at the same time, where will she find the extra funds? If she doesn’t come up with the money, there will be nowhere to go other than the workhouse—where she’ll be separated from her ailing mother and ten-year-old brother.

Alex desperately wants to help Johanna, especially when she confides in him, but his mission—finding and bringing to justice a traitor to the crown—must come first, or they could all end up dead.

My thoughts: I very much enjoyed the story of Johanna and Alex, as well as the plight of Johanna to try to do what is right by her family by helping them save their business. I loved the unique look at life in the early 1800's in a competitive industry. The struggle over how to go about doing the right thing is well written. This is the first book I have read by Michelle, so I look forward to reading more of her stories!
I received this book from Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review.

This post contains affiliate links.

About the Author:
Michelle Griep has been writing since she first discovered blank wall space and Crayolas. She seeks to glorify God in all that she writes—except for that graffiti phase she went through as a teenager. She resides in the frozen tundra of Minnesota, where she teaches history and writing classes for a local high school co-op. An Anglophile at heart, she runs away to England every chance she gets, under the guise of research. Really, though, she’s eating excessive amounts of scones while rambling around a castle. Michelle is a member of ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) and MCWG (Minnesota Christian Writers Guild). Keep up with her adventures at her blog “Writer off the Leash” or visit www.michellegriep.com.

Guest Post from Michelle:
Celebrating Oak Apple Day

Spring is just around the corner, or maybe it’s in full bloom in your neck of the woods. Regardless, by this time of year, everyone is ready to celebrate. . .and nothing new is under the sun. For centuries people have been eager to welcome budding greenery and warmth.

In my recent release, The Innkeeper’s Daughter, I incorporated a spring holiday that’s been around for over 500 years in England, one you may never heard of.

Oak Apple Day.

This ancient celebration dates back to the year 1651. At the time, Charles II escaped the Roundhead army by taking cover in an oak tree. Everyone loved ol’ Charlie and was glad he lived, so in his honor, a new national holiday was born—one that in some parts of England is still celebrated today.

Another name for this annual event is Royal Oak Day and the festivities occur every May 29th. Celebration traditions vary from parades to the ringing of bells, but one thing that is standard is that it’s a day to pin an oak leaf on your lapel. If you fail to wear one, you could end up getting pinched.

The hero in my latest release is kind enough to remind the heroine that she forgot to pin on her leaf, thus saving her from untoward pinches. Interested in hearing more about this gallant fellow and the forgetful miss? Here’s a blurb about The Innkeeper’s Daughter…

Tension is high with the threat of a Napoleonic attack in Regency England, but risk from abroad means nothing when there’s danger at home.

Officer Alexander Moore goes undercover as a gambling gentleman to expose a high-stakes plot against the crown—and he’s a master of disguise, for Johanna Langley believes him to be quite the rogue . . . until she can no longer fight against his unrelenting charm.

All Johanna wants is to keep the family inn afloat, but when the rent and the hearth payment are due at the same time, where will she find the extra funds? If she doesn’t come up with the money, there will be nowhere to go other than the workhouse—where she’ll be separated from her ailing mother and ten-year-old brother.

Alex desperately wants to help Johanna, especially when she confides in him, but his mission—finding and bringing to justice a traitor to the crown—must come first, or they could all end up dead.

It’s a race against time for them both.

Blog Stops
Go here for a complete list of blog stops.

Giveaway!
To celebrate her tour, Michelle is giving away a grand prize of a signed copy of The Innkeeper’s Daughter and a $25 gift card from Barnes & Noble!!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries!

Top ten books on my Spring TBR list

Click on the image to go to Amazon to find out more about the books (if any) that interest you.

1. Sons of Blackbird Mountain

I actually had this on my wishlist, and then I noticed that Netgalley is offering it. I just found out I was approved! So excited to read this one.

2. Storm Front

While I enjoy Susan May's stories, I've found myself losing some interest in this series. That said, the ongoing story will probably make me pick this one up.;)

3. The Theory of Happily Ever After

I can't say I know a lot about this book, other than that it looks and sounds cute.;) I know, super shallow here. lol.

4. The Wounded Shadow

I'm super excited about this book, since I have been reading the series as it comes out. I hope to finally get some answers! (if you enjoy fantasy, Carr's books are excellent!)

5.True to You

I should of read this one soon, since it's been on my Kindle for a while.

6. Falling for You

Becky's books are always delightful.

7. Unbreakable

Another fantasy series, this one I am looking forward to finding out how the conclusion comes about.

8. With Love, Mom

Even though I have one of each, I still like books about the relationship I have with each of them individually.

9. Blind Betrayal

I always love how Nancy's stories are more than just a mystery, since they leaven me thinking long after I finish them.

10. Becoming Mom Strong

We will be doing this one in our women's group, so I am looking forward to it!

What books are on your list this week? I think the seasonal TBR lists are always the easiest for me to come up with, though I could of added a bunch more to this list!
The links are affiliated. Thank you for supporting my hobby.;)