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: Halloween Freebie

I'm not really one for Halloween, since I have an overactive imagination and don't get into the creepy/ghoulish side of the holiday. But, I do like costumes and chocolate. lol. So, I think I will go with ten of my favorite covers that have costumes I would love.

1. Betrayal

I almost bought a dress like this one back when I was young and single, just because it was on sale and I loved how it looked on me. I talked myself out of it, since I didn't have a clue where I would wear it.;)

2. The Storyspinner

I've always loved the look of the corset over a white blouse!

3. The Door in the Hedge

Are you starting to see a theme? If I had been more of a seamstress when I was a teen, I would of had so many unusual dresses.;)

4. Luther and Katharina

I wish this cover showed the front of the dress, since it looks just gorgeous from the back! I love the different fabrics.

5. The Sandcastle Sister

If I could pull it off, I would totally were 1950's dresses all the time. Alas, I am not built like Audrey Hepburn.;)

6. The Emperor's Conspiracy

Why is it generally the back of the dress that is shown? I love the color contrast on this one!

7. Persuasion, Captain Wentworth, and Cracklin' Cornbread

I love the cheery color of this dress!

8. Eleanor and the Iron King

I love the color of this one, along with the sleeves and how it has a full skirt, but not too full.

9. A Heart Most Certain

I love the Edwardian style dresses, like this one!

10. Havencross

I love this style too! I guess it's obvious that I like historical style dresses.;)
What costumes should I have put? Or, what styles would of you have chosen?

A Name Unknown

Edwardian Romance and History Gains a Twist of Suspense

Rosemary Gresham has no family beyond the band of former urchins that helped her survive as a girl in the mean streets of London. Grown now, they concentrate on stealing high-value items and have learned how to blend into upper-class society. But when Rosemary must determine whether a certain wealthy gentleman is loyal to Britain or to Germany, she is in for the challenge of a lifetime. How does one steal a family's history, their very name?

Peter Holstein, given his family's German blood, writes his popular series of adventure novels under a pen name. With European politics boiling and his own neighbors suspicious of him, Peter debates whether it might be best to change his name for good. When Rosemary shows up at his door pretending to be a historian and offering to help him trace his family history, his question might be answered.

But as the two work together and Rosemary sees his gracious reaction to his neighbors' scornful attacks, she wonders if her assignment is going down the wrong path. Is it too late to help him prove that he's more than his name?

My thoughts: I have enjoyed each of Roseanne's books immensely, so I was thrilled to get a hold of a copy of this book! This series is off to a wonderful start, I enjoyed the characters and the intrigue surrounding the time of their story, which is set in 1914 when England was on the cusp of World War I. This book revealed some interesting history about the king of the time and how anyone with a German surname was under suspicion. This is an excellent story to pick up! I look forward to reading the rest of the books in the series, as Roseanne's characters are very realistic and go through a lot of growth through the course of the story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book.

Egyp'ts Sister

Five decades before the birth of Christ, Chava, daughter of the royal tutor, grows up with Urbi, a princess in Alexandria's royal palace. When Urbi becomes Queen Cleopatra, Chava vows to be a faithful friend no matter what--but after she and Cleopatra have an argument, she finds herself imprisoned and sold into slavery.

Torn from her family, her community, and her elevated place in Alexandrian society, Chava finds herself cast off and alone in Rome. Forced to learn difficult lessons, she struggles to trust a promise HaShem has given her. After experiencing the best and worst of Roman society, Chava must choose between love and honor, between her own desires and God's will for her life.

My thoughts: While I have enjoyed a wide variety of Angela's novels, I have to say that her historical fiction is where her talent as an author shines. I'm not sure why I even picked up this book, since Cleopatra is one of my least favorite women in history. I'm so glad that I decided to read this story regardless though! It was a wonderful blend of history and fiction. I enjoyed getting to know the main character and liked that there was so much to her story. I highly recommend this one and look forward to reading the other books in the series, as it gives a unique look into what was going on in the world before the birth of Jesus Christ.
I received this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.

Lies and Letters

After a season in London, Charlotte Lyons is still regrettably unattached. With her family’s finances in peril, she is sent away with her sister to a bleak coastal town where she is expected to pursue a wealthy Earl. Beautiful and talented, how could she possibly fail? But when her heart is captured by someone entirely unexpected, Charlotte finds herself caught up in a web of lies and intrigue. Between hardship and sorrow, she finds more than she bargained for, forced to choose between the life she once wanted and a new love she never imagined.

My thoughts: I have to admit, this story was a little harder to get into, since the heroine isn't much of a heroine in the beginning. Raised to make an advantageous match has left Charlotte shallow and cruel. When their fortunes change and she is sent to the country with her sister, she finds out that sometimes things are not as they seem, and that getting something other than what you thought your dreams were could be the best dream yet.
I received this book from Cedar Fort in exchange for my honest review.

Grounded Hearts

A brave midwife. A wounded pilot. A risky secret.

In the midst of World War II, Ireland has declared herself neutral. Troops found on Irish soil must be reported and interned, no matter which side they are fighting for. When midwife Nan O’Neil finds a wounded young Canadian pilot at her door, she knows she’s taking a huge risk by letting him in. Not only is she a widow living alone, but if caught harboring a combatant, she’ll face imprisonment.
​
Still, something compels Nan to take in “flyboy” Dutch Whitney, an RAF pilot whose bomber has just crashed over County Clare. While she tends to his wounds and gives him a secret place of refuge, the two begin to form a mutual affection—and an unbreakable bond.

But Nan has another secret, one that has racked her with guilt since her husband’s death and made her question ever loving again. As Nan and Dutch plan his escape, can he help restore her faith?

My thoughts: I wanted to like this one, I really did, since I love stories set in WWII. While the historical aspect of this story was fascinating, since I didn't know much about Ireland's stance, I have to say that I did not care for how steamy the romance side of the story was. I felt like it would of been a lot more enjoyable for me had Nan not been drooling all over the physical.
So, I'm afraid I cannot recommend this book unless you enjoy romances that go on and on about a physical attraction. I would give this one 3 out of 5 stars.
I received this book from Litfuse in exchange for my honest review.

Naomi's Hope

Despite growing pains in her 1846 Amish community in Indiana, Naomi Schrock has settled into a comfortable life in her parents' home with her adopted son, Davey. Surrounded by family and friends, she tries not to think about the fact that she's not at the top of any man's list of potential wives. Yet when Cap Stoltzfus moves into the area and befriends Davey, Naomi finds herself caught between the plans she has made for her future and the tantalizing thought that Cap might be part of a life she never dared to hope for.
When a couple shows up claiming to be Davey's true family, Naomi and Cap must unite to make the decision that will determine the boy's future as well as their own. How can she relinquish him to these unknown relatives? And can God somehow bring wholeness to her heart?

My thoughts: While I didn't read the first two books in this series, I felt like Naomi's story did an excellent job of standing alone. I do look forward to going back and reading the other books in this series, since I enjoyed the themes of this story, like struggling to see good when things are going wrong. I enjoyed my first visit to Pleasant Prairie and look forward to reading more of Jan's books!
I received this book from Revell in exchange for my honest review.

Freedom's Price

Without fortune or a future in England, a young woman travels to America in 1856 to find her mother's family. Will the handsome rogue she encounters help her chances of a new life--or destroy them?

My thoughts: While I enjoyed the other books in this series, I think I liked the different elements in this one the best. I enjoyed Catherine's character, as she stumbles upon family secrets hen she arrives at the plantation her mother was raised in. The villain is truly horrible in this story, though it does bring to light the terrible abuse that would go on. This story is an excellent historical novel!
I received this book from Revell in exchange for my honest review.

The Lost Girl of Astor Street

When her best friend vanishes without so much as a good-bye, eighteen-year-old Piper Sail takes on the role of amateur sleuth in an attempt to solve the mystery of Lydia’s disappearance. Given that Piper’s tendency has always been to butt heads with high-society’s expectations of her, it’s no surprise that she doesn’t give a second thought to searching for answers to Lydia’s abduction from their privileged neighborhood.

As Piper discovers that those answers might stem from the corruption strangling 1924 Chicago—and quite possibly lead back to the doors of her affluent neighborhood—she must decide how deep she’s willing to dig, how much she should reveal, and if she’s willing to risk her life of privilege for the sake of the truth.

Perfect for fans of Libba Bray and Anna Godbersen, Stephanie Morrill’s atmospheric, jazz-age mystery will take readers from the glitzy homes of the elite to the dark underbelly of 1920s Chicago.

“Downton Abbey in downtown Chicago—a must read!” —Allison Rushby, author of The Heiresses

My thoughts: In a lot of ways, this book was not at all what I expected! The story drew me in right away, and I love that there is so much going on with the mystery! I love how Piper develops as a character, as she is thrown out of her comfort zone and left without her best friend. She's a delightful heroine who is strong and feminine at the same time.
I'm hopeful that this one will turn into a series.;)
I received this title through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

Catching the Wind

What happened to Brigitte Berthold?

That question has haunted Daniel Knight since he was thirteen, when he and ten-year-old Brigitte escaped the Gestapo agents who arrested both their parents. They survived a harrowing journey from Germany to England, only to be separated upon their arrival. Daniel vowed to find Brigitte after the war, a promise he has fought to fulfill for more than seventy years.

Now a wealthy old man, Daniel's final hope in finding Brigitte rests with Quenby Vaughn, an American journalist working in London. He believes Quenby's tenacity to find missing people and her personal investment in a related WWII espionage story will help her succeed where previous investigators have failed. Though Quenby is wrestling her own demons--and wary at the idea of teaming up with Daniel's lawyer, Lucas Hough--the lure of Brigitte's story is too much to resist. Together, Quenby and Lucas delve deep into the past, following a trail of deception, sacrifice, and healing that could change all of their futures.

My thoughts: I love Melanie Dobson's stories, since she does such a wonderful job of bringing the characters and time period to life! I love how there is a lot going on with several different story lines. This is one of my favorite stories of 2017.:) The overall theme of the story, that God loves us and sometimes it takes a while for us to be able to see how His plan has worked out. (the whole, hind sight is 20/20 thing) If you are looking for a wonderful, historical tale that is hard to put down, then I highly recommend this one!
I received this book from Tyndale in exchange for my honest review.

How to become a Pirate Hunter

Not everyone is special. Or at least that's what Eric believes. But when the new girl Charlotte tells him he's a natural at hunting pirates, and offers to prove it, Eric can't resist the adventure. Thrown in the middle of the Spanish Main, Eric must quickly accept his skills, or else succumb to the horrors of the dreaded Willard Pirate Twins.

My thoughts: As Eric starts to think about going to college and where he sees his life going, he realizes that he doesn't seem to have any talents to help guide him to a career path. When the new girl shows up at his school, she turns his life upside down by revealing that he has an unusual gift, one that helps him hunt pirates. This is a fun story for pre-teens and teens! It's full of adventure and fun twists in the plot.
I received this book from Cedar Fort in exchange for my honest review.

Unexpected Love

Heather Chapman, Mandi Ellsworth, Paula Kremser, Ashtyn Newbold and Cedar Fort Publishing & Media are pleased to announce the “Unexpected Love” blog tour, which will run from March 14-31, 2017.

If you’re interested in participating in this blog tour, please email us or leave a comment below.

About the book:

Around the turn of the century, matches were made for all sorts of reasons–whether to keep a family together or simply to make ends meet. But love has a way of turning up in the most unexpected places! With four historical romance stories in one, this fun anthology will sweep you from the dance floors of aristocracy to the hearths of country living, leading to love through the most unusual circumstances.

My thoughts: I enjoyed this collection of stories about Marriages of convenience immensely! It was fun getting to know each of the couples as they strove to get to know one another. The different settings for the stories are fun, and I like that they are all quite different. I have read stories by Paula and Heather 9and enjoyed them), but this is the first time I have read anything by Mandi or Ashtyn. I look forward to reading more of their stories!
If you are looking for a delightful way to spend a couple of evenings, this book is a wonderful choice!
I received this book from Cedar Fort in exchange for my honest review.

Shine Like the Dawn review and giveaway

 

Click here to purchase your copy.

About the Book

 



Book: Shine Like the Dawn

 



Author: Carrie Turansky

 



Genre: Historical

In a quiet corner of northern Edwardian England, Margaret Lounsbury diligently works in her grandmother’s millinery shop, making hats and caring for her young sister. Several years earlier, a terrible tragedy reshaped their family, shattering an idyllic life and their future prospects. But Maggie is resilient and will do what she must to protect her sister Violet. Still, the loss of her parents weighs heavily on her heart and she begins to wonder if what happened that day on the lake…might not have been an accident.

When wealthy inventor and industrialist William Harcourt dies, his son Nathaniel, who is Maggie’s estranged childhood friend, returns from his time in the Royal Navy and inherits his father’s vast estate, Morningside Manor. He also assumes partial control of his father’s engineering company and the duty of repaying an old debt to the Lounsbury family. But years of separation between Nate and Maggie have taken a toll and Maggie struggles to trust her old friend.

Can Maggie let go of the resentment that keeps her from forgiving Nate—and reconciling with God? Will their search for the truth about her parents’ death draw them closer or will it leave them both with broken hearts?

My thoughts: This one is a delightful, Edwardian style story. I've enjoyed Carrie's previous series, so I was thrilled to have a chance to read this one! I liked that this novel wound up having so mystery in it, though it was so sad. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and enjoyed that there is a lot of historical detail to this story, like what it was like to own a small shop in the early 1900's and dealing with owning a factory. If you enjoy historical stories, I highly recommend this one!
I received this book from Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review.
About the Author

CARRIE TURANSKY is an award-winning author of more than a dozen novels and novellas. She has been the winner of the ACFW Carol Award, the Crystal Globe Award, and the International Digital Award, and a finalist for the Inspirational Readers Choice Award and the Maggie Award of Excellence. A prolific writer of contemporary and historical romance, women’s fiction, short stories, articles, and devotionals, Carrie lives in central New Jersey with her husband Scott. They have five adult children and four grandchildren.

Guest Post from Carrie Turansky

Hats, Glorious Hats!

 

By Carrie Turansky

 

One fun part of my research for Shine Like the Dawn was learning about hat making in the early 1900s. My heroine, Maggie Lounsbury is a milliner who designs women’s hats. She learned this skill from her grandmother who owns a small shop in the village of Heatherton. Maggie has an artistic eye and she enjoys making stylish hats, but she doesn’t like the overdone designs some of their customers request, so that creates some humorous conflict in the story.



Hats in the Edwardian era were large and often covered with feathers, flowers, lace, netting, berries and bows. The “bird nests,” as Coco Chanel called them, were held on with large hat pins stuck through piles of hair on the crown. These hats were called Gainsborough or Picture hats because of the way they framed a lady’s face. They often featured huge dried flower arrangements and sometimes included real leaves and twigs! No doubt the Garden hat was a fitting name.
1907 The Merry Window hat became very popular after the leading lady in the play by that same name wore a hat that was even taller and wider than usual. Some people complained these hats were too big and obtrusive in public places like the theater or picture shows. But English women loved them and wore them to all kinds of events.



The popularity of using large feathers and stuffed birds on hats caused concern for the welfare of birds. Many protective laws took effect and milliners had to use more ribbon and tulle and only large ostrich feathers to decorate hats. Those ostrich feathers came from birds that were raised on farms and their feathers were collected as they fell out naturally.
The movement toward smaller hats began around 1913 when hats still had high crowns but smaller brims. Straw boaters, small top hats, and mini versions of picture hats were very common.



Motion pictures had the greatest influence on Edwardian hat fashion. After the release of The Three Musketeers many ladies wanted to wear tricorne and bicorne shaped hats. They were still very large but now had shapes other than just round. Hat brims were folded up on the side, at an angle, or all around to create drama. Veils disappeared in the early 1900s only to come back again as a long scarf that wrapped over the hat and under the chin for the new sport called motoring.



I’ve had fun dressing Edwardian style for book launch tea parties and other book events. It made me feel very special to wear these lovely hats. What do you think of Edwardian Hats? Would you like to wear one?



Thanks to friends at the Vintage Dancer website for some of this information.

Stop by Carrie’s Facebook author page and view her live videos February 21 – 25, 3:00 pm Eastern. She’ll be talking about the story behind Shine Like the Dawn and giving away a fun prize each day to one person who leaves a comment. Even if you can’t catch the live video you can still enter for 24 hours after it’s posted. She is also hosting a book launch celebration and giveaway on her blog February 25 – March 6.

Like to my Facebook Author page: https://www.facebook.com/authorcarrieturansky/

Link to my Book Launch Blog Post: http://carrieturansky.com/index.php/blog/

Blog Stops

February 21: New Horizon Reviews

February 21: Bookworm Mama

February 21: Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses

February 22: Tell Tale Book Reviews

February 22: Book by Book

February 22: History, Mystery and Faith

February 23: Bibliophile Reviews

February 23: Smiling Book Reviews

February 23: A Readers Brain

February 23: Faithfully Bookish

February 23: Lane Hill House

February 24: Back Porch Reads

February 24: The Scribbler

February 24: I Hope You Dance

February 25: Stuff & Nonsense

February 25: The Power of Words

February 25: A Greater Yes

February 26: cherylbbookblog

February 26: Moments Dipped in Ink

February 26: Splashes of Joy

February 27: Genesis 5020

February 27: inklings and notions

February 27: D’S QUILTS & BOOKS

February 28: Karen Sue Hadley

February 28: A Simple Life, really?!

February 28: Neverending Stories

March 1: Daysong Reflections

March 1: Connie’s History Classroom

March 1: Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations

March 2: These Splendid Sentences

March 2: Singing Librarian Books

March 2: Blossoms and Blessings

March 3: Pause for Tales

March 3: blogging With Carol

March 3: Mary Hake

March 4: Radiant Light

March 4: For The Love of Books

March 5: Christian Bookaholic

March 5: Rachel Scott McDaniel

March 6: History, Hope, Laughter & Happily-ever-after

March 6: Baker Kella

Giveaway

[Insert Giveaway Picture Here]

To celebrate her tour, Carrie is giving away all 4 books: Shine Like the Dawn, The Governess of Highland Hall, The Daughter of Highland Hall, and A Refuge at Highland Hall.! Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries!

Two Suitors for Anna review and giveaway

 

Click here to purchase your copy.

About the Book

Book: Two Suitors for Anna

 



Author: Molly Jebber

 



Genre: Amish Historical Romance

 



Release Date: January 31, 2017

 



In 1903 Ohio, a young Amish woman must choose between the life she has long planned for and a new, very different future…



Since Anna Plank moved to Berlin, Ohio, with her widowed mamm and two schweschders, she’s found a real sense of belonging. As soon as her beloved Noah Schwartz proposes, they’ll begin a new chapter here together. But Noah has a surprise for Anna: once they’re married, he wants them to travel and live in other communities. Anna, who loves her home and her job at the quilt shop, is distraught when he takes her hesitation as rejection—and leaves.



Daniel Bontrager’s arrival adds to Anna’s confusion. Since taking over his late brother’s farm, the handsome roofer has offered friendship and gentle attentions. Yet the pull of first love is strong and deep, especially when Noah returns. Through each revelation, Anna must search her faith for guidance, knowing she is choosing not just a husband, but a life to nurture and to share…

 

My thoughts: This story was a delightful, charming tale of a young woman trying to figure out who to spend the rest of her life with. I enjoyed getting to know the main characters, as well as some of the secondary characters, since Molly does a wonderful job of bringing them all to life. This is a sweet tale!
I received this book from Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review.



Praise for Molly Jebber’s Change of Heart



“Endearing characters and a delightful story make this a keeper for fans of Amish romance.” –Emma Miller



“This is a wonderfully written historical romance with Amish and Englisch characters who are loveable and considerate of others. The storyline is believable and heartwarming. Jebber is a talented author.” –RT Book Reviews

 

About the Author

Molly Jebber’s books have been featured in Publisher’s Weekly, USA Today’s HEA, and Romantic Times has given them a near excellent rating. She’s on RWA’s Honor Roll. She’s a speaker for Women’s Christian Connection, and she offers presentations on writing, publishing, Amish lifestyle and traditions. She has received widespread media coverage, including live interviews, across the United States for her books and speaking engagements.



She’s just signed a new contract for four more Amish books! She loves interacting with her readers. She loves God, her husband, family and friends. She has a hard time saying no to cupcakes, swimming, nine holes of golf, and walks on the beach. Coconut, oatmeal, and onions, on the other hand, are not hard to say no to!

Guest Post from Molly Jebber

What prompted Two Suitors for Anna?

Have you had to choose between two men you love? Or maybe a friend? I gave Anna this dilemma and added to her turmoil by throwing in a bundle of twists and turns to the story.

Noah proposes to Anna, and he takes her rejection as hesitation and leaves town. Daniel moves to Berlin and offers her friendship which is blossoming into something more, when Noah returns and asks her forgiveness and another chance. I hope you enjoy it!

Blog Stops

January 31: cherylbbookblog

January 31: Giveaway Lady

January 31: Bibliophile Reviews

February 1: A Greater Yes

February 1: Blossoms and Blessings

February 2: Lane Hill House

February 2: D’S QUILTS & BOOKS

February 3: Just Commonly

February 3: Moments Dipped in Ink

February 4: Jeanette’s Thoughts

February 4: Bigreadersite

February 5: Quiet Quilter

February 6: Ashley’s Bookshelf

February 7: Book Bites, Bee Stings, and Butterfly Kisses

February 7: Pause for Tales

February 8: Splashes of Joy

February 8: Connie’s History Classroom

February 8: Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations

February 9: Christian Bookaholic

February 9: Eat, Read, Teach Blog

February 10: Singing Librarian Books

February 10: inklings and notions

February 11: Carpe Diem

February 11: Chas Ray’s Book Nerd Corner

February 12: Donna’s BookShelf

February 12: A Simple Life, really?!

February 13: autism mom

February 14: A Holland Reads

February 14: Through the Open Window

Giveaway

The Mark of the King

Sweeping Historical Fiction Set at the Edge of the Continent
After being imprisoned and branded for the death of her client, twenty-five-year-old midwife Julianne Chevalier trades her life sentence for exile to the fledgling 1720s French colony of Louisiana, where she hopes to be reunited with her brother, serving there as a soldier. To make the journey, though, women must be married, and Julianne is forced to wed a fellow convict.
When they arrive in New Orleans, there is no news of Benjamin, Julianne's brother, and searching for answers proves dangerous. What is behind the mystery, and does military officer Marc-Paul Girard know more than he is letting on?
With her dreams of a new life shattered, Julianne must find her way in this dangerous, rugged land, despite never being able to escape the king's mark on her shoulder that brands her a criminal beyond redemption.

My thoughts: I was really looking forward to this book, since I love the idea that the main character is a midwife who is wrongly accused of a crime in France, so she is sent to New Orleans as a prisoner to help settle the new land. While the attention to historical details is incredible, I found it hard to like some of the characters and really get to know them. I know it was a hard time to live during, but there is just so many hardships in this story. That said, I think that Jocelyn is a wonderful author who writes well and really researches her stories.
I received this book from Litfuse in exchange for my honest review.

Waves of Mercy

Austin Returns with a Multi-Generational Historical Novel

Geesje de Jonge crossed the ocean at age seventeen with her parents and a small group of immigrants from the Netherlands to settle in the Michigan wilderness. Fifty years later, in 1897, she's asked to write a memoir of her early experiences as the town celebrates its anniversary. Reluctant at first, she soon uncovers memories and emotions hidden all these years, including the story of her one true love.

At the nearby Hotel Ottawa Resort on the shore of Lake Michigan, twenty-three-year-old Anna Nicholson is trying to ease the pain of a broken engagement to a wealthy Chicago banker. But her time of introspection is disturbed after a violent storm aboard a steamship stirs up memories of a childhood nightmare. As more memories and dreams surface, Anna begins to question who she is and whether she wants to return to her wealthy life in Chicago. When she befriends a young seminary student who is working at the hotel for the summer, she finds herself asking him all the questions that have been troubling her.

Neither Geesje nor Anna, who are different in every possible way, can foresee the life-altering surprises awaiting them before the summer ends.

My thoughts: I love the way that these two heroines and their stories were woven together in this novel! Austen does a fantastic job of drawing the reader in when we meet Geesje and Anna. I love how Geesje is writing her story as one looking back, while Anna has come to a cross road in her life where she can discover who she is and what she wants to pursue. I feel like the end of the story was really the beginning of a new one for the characters and hope that there will be more to their story! The characters are enjoyable and I like stories like this one where there is a past and present story going on.
I received this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.

The Sound of Diamonds

In Reformation-era England, a converted rogue wants to restore his honor at whatever cost. Running from a tortured past, Dirk Godfrey knows he has only one chance at redemption.
An independent Catholic maiden seeking refuge in the Low Countries finds herself at the center of the Iconoclastic Fury. Jaded by tragedy, Gwyneth's only hope of getting home is to trust the man she hates, and she soon discovers her poor vision is not the only thing that has been blinding her.
But the home Gwyneth knew is not what she once thought. When a dark secret and a twisted plot for power collide in a castle masquerading as a haven, will the saint and the sinner hold to hope...or be overcome?

My thoughts: This book is excellent! It starts off at a fast pace from the get go, with Gwyneth in the middle of the Iconoclastic Fury and in need of rescue. I didn't know a whole lot about this particular turbulent time in the history of Europe (during Queen Elizabeth I reign), but I feel like Rachelle does a fabulous job of helping the reader not get lost. This story is a perfect blend of historic events and personal growth. I love how Gwyneth has been raised Catholic but suddenly has questions about why there is such a struggle between Catholicism and the Protestants. While these questions and soul searching will be explored more in the following stories (I am sure), I like that some things are concluded in this story. I'm not a fan of series that leave you hanging after every book, so I appreciated this.
If you are looking for a well written, adventure filled historical read, then I highly recommend this one!
I received this book from the author as part of a blog tour. All thoughts are my own.

Take Ten: favorites from a specific genre

I figured I would feature my very favorite Christian historical fiction, since I seem to read a fair bit of it.;)

1. A Haven on Orchard Lane


2. An Elegant Facade


4. Chivalrous


5. Harvest of Rubies


6. Anchor in the Storm


7. The Reluctant Duchess


8. A Refuge at Highland Hall


9. The Sea Keeper's Daughter


10. Maggie Bright

Starving Hearts

Since her assault, Miss Annette Chetwynd has been plagued by nightmares and worries about an arranged marriage.
She yearns to find her anonymous rescuer. Unfortunately, her health and intellect prevent it. Both repel suitors and cause Annette to doubt God’s existence, at least until He answers her prayers in an unusual way. . . .
Mr. Peter Adsley is joining the clergy, and he desires a godly wife by his side. After a failed attempt to obtain one, he engages in a clandestine meeting with the bewitching young woman who keeps crossing his path. But she is so unsettling.
Destined for disappointments, Peter and Annette both endure disgraceful situations. Will Peter’s faith sustain him through overwhelming setbacks? Can Annette overcome her doubts? Or will their starving hearts yield to the machinations of a mad man?

My thoughts: Don't let this book fool you into thinking it is just another Jane Austen knock off, since that would be a disservice to this wonderful debut novel! I thorally enjoyed getting to know the different characters, even having the chance to get inside the villa's head. The historical aspect of this story was wonderful as well. I look forward to reading more by this author!
I received this book from Litfusegroup.com in exchange for my honest review.

Honor Redeemed

Two Men Vie for Her Affection--Survival Will Depend on Choosing the Right One
Two years ago, Prosperity Jones waved farewell to her beloved David as the army sent him to faraway Key West. Now with her parents gone, she has but one prospect for the future: make the dangerous journey from Nantucket to Key West to reunite with David and secure a happier life. Arriving penniless in the South, Prosperity is dismayed to find David married to someone else. Scrambling to survive and nursing a broken heart, she gains the friendship--and the affection--of a kind doctor. Could he be the answer to her loneliness? Or will her life be upended by circumstance yet again?
With a deft hand, Christine Johnson fills the reader's senses with the sights, sounds, and smells of Key West in this heartwarming story of honor lost, honor redeemed, and a love forged in adversity.

My thoughts: This book wound up surprising me, since it had a lot of twists and turns in the story that I didn't see coming. I loved the history embedded in the story! It's a wonderful, rich story with a lot going on. I especially appreciated the attention bringing all the characters to life.
I received this book from Revell in exchange for my honest review.