The Song of Sourwood Mountain by Ann H. Gabhart

I loved this book from the very start.  When that happens I read fast, wanting to see how things develop in the book.  I loved the Christian aspects in the book which is very heart-warming to me.  I love this type of book, so much!  It kind of reminds me of my husband's grandmother whose husband settled in Hawaii and sent for what was called a "picture bride" who he married after 3 days of their meeting.  Well Mira wants to be a wife and mother, but when she is surprised to be told by preacher Gordon Covington that he was called by God to preach and that he should marry Mira, she was not happy about this turn in her life.  She was a schoolteacher with a good job and a place to live.  But does God also have plans for her and causing a little redirection in her life?  

Such a good read.  I am so glad I was able to read this book and I wouldn't have wanted to miss it.  This author has definitely become a favorite of mine and I don't want to pass by any of her books!

I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Fields of Promise by Tracy Schuldt Helixon

I read this wonderful book last night.  It was such a nice and very Christian book.  I loved the book because of the neighbors helping each other, being there for each other at times of need.  Immigrant from Ireland, Katherine Murphy, takes over the family home and property after the death of father.  I loved how they faced problems and dealt with them. And how they all worked together to do what needed to be done.

The descriptions of the homestead and of Jonathan's experiences working in his father's business were very clearly defined and you felt the feelings they were feeling.  This book won't disappoint!

I received an ebook copy from the author.  All thoughts are my own.

Bride by Blackmail by Debbie Lynne Costello Moonlight & Magnolias Series Book 1

Loved this book!  It was very engaging and kept my interest throughout.  I loved the characters and Duncan's Scottish brogue!  I enjoyed the conflict, the romance, and also the cunning and creative ways Duncan came up with to try to win his bride.

Charlotte had a captivating personality who definitely wants nothing to do with Duncan.  It's a fun book to read and hard to put down.  Loved it!

There is also intrigue to add a bit of mystery to the book.  It's a clean romance with Christian values which expresses a beautiful trust in the Lord to guide us in our daily lives.

I highly recommend this very well written book!

I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts are my own.

The Oregon Trail Romance Collection by various Authors

This book is a very sweet and entertaining set of nine stories of hardships and happiness.  I have read books from several of the authors and a few were new to me and I enjoyed them all.  Very nice and enjoyable book!

I would love to see more of these types of collections!

I received an ebook copy from NetGalley.  All thoughts are my own.

One Last Dance Audible Version by Linda Weaver Clarke

This is such a good book and the Audible version is so enjoyable.  It is very well narrated by Carolyn Kashner, who has done many of Linda Weaver Clarke's Audible books.  It is really fun and relaxing to just listen and enjoy while cooking, cleaning, walking or whatever you choose.  And even when driving to work.  I really enjoyed it and am sure you will also!  It is a sweet, clean and Christian romance.  

When Felicity arrives at home after her father's passing, she finds her mother's new and somewhat mysterious neighbor who her mother has befriended and seems to have plans for. 

This book has some romance, and some mystery and is a historical novel, starting out in the 1830's.  I enjoyed this book and the characters very much.  It's a sweet and clean book and is a great read.  I am sure you will love it, too!

I received an Audible Version from the author.  All thoughts are my own.

More Than Words Can Say by Karen Witemeyer

This was the first book I have read from this author, although I have seen many of her books.  I really liked it although it was interesting that the character Abigail, felt she was heavy and yet the cover picture certainly doesn't indicate that. 

It was an entertaining read and this marriage of convenience seemed to be a good decision for both as they worked through their pasts and their concerns about them.  Each needed to work those things out before their marriage of convenience could go to the next level.  There may have been a little too much mention of the "marital relations".  Although the book was clean, it seemed to dwell on that a bit more than I would want it to. 

But it was a good read, longer than many books I have read lately, but enjoyable.

I received an ebook copy from NetGalley.  All thoughts are my own.

Together Forever by Jody Hedlund

I think that this is my first book from Jody Hedlund.  I got this book at the local library for my mother who is a voracious reader.  After she finished, she mentioned that I should read it too.  She said it was really good.  So I did.  And she was right. 

This historical fiction book was about a man, Drew, and woman, Marianne that were taking a train with 31 orphaned children out to the west to find new families.  I had heard a bit about the orphan trains and this book was very well researched and the stories of the children were sometimes based on actual orphan train experiences. There was romance and a bit of mystery and it was very, very good. It was really a captivating read. It totally held my interest till the last page.  It apparently was book 2 of a series.  I will have to hunt for book 1! I highly recommend this book and this author!

Woman of Courage

Woman of Courage

This  book by Wanda E. Brunstetter was absolutely wonderful!  I have read most of her Amish books and I would say this is my favorite book so far from this author.  It wasn’t Amish, it was about a Quaker woman, Amanda Pearson, who after being left by her fiance, decides to become a missionary in the frontier bringing Indians to Christ.  She begins her 3,000 mile trek in 1837 during the time of frightening Indian attacks and many other hardships common to pioneering people of the early to mid1800’s.  

Her trials begin to seem unsurmountable but she forges on till she finds help and friendship.  She is relentless in her missionary goal.  She meets Buck McFadden, a non-believer who she finds herself attracted to.  But her strong Christian convictions will not allow more than a friendly relationship.

Amanda endures many hardships and experiences things she had never imagined she would experience.  The trials are continual and she surely must wonder if her decisions had been right or not.
The title of this book is very appropriate for Amanda as well as other women she encounters.  You really have to admire the women that helped to forge our country.  This was a 5 star book!  Very well done, Wanda!

The Story of Little Fawn (Sequel)

Little Fawn is the Indian daughter  found by Amanda.  This is her story.  It was wonderful.  Little Fawn has some adventures of her own.   This is a story of faith, trust in God and family and love.  It was a great addition to the book!  So happy to have read this as well.  Loved finding out what happens and it was so worth the read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

Wedding at Rocking S Ranch by Kathryn Albright

This was the first book I have read from this author.  It won't be the last.  Kathryn Albright was a very engaging and entertaining author.  I really enjoyed this book and it was hard to put down.  The story line was good and the progression was well-paced and developed. 

As Cassandra Stewart fulfills her late husband's last request, she finds a new adventure and many unexpected surprises.  Nice story, clean and well-written!

I received a copy of this book from the author.  All thoughts are my own.

Historical Romance: Stories of Rebels, Adventure, and Mystery Guest Post by Linda Weaver Clarke

Historical Romance: Stories of Rebels,

Adventure, and Mystery

My favorite time period is historical because it’s during a time when men defended a lady’s honor and treated women with respect. The women, on the other hand, were not frail by any means. I love strong women characters who fight for what they believe. I love to write stories with a mixture of romance and adventure. My favorite loves stories are about a man and woman who know they are meant for one another, even though there are trials along the way.

The Rebel Series is a Historical Mystery/Adventure Romance set in the 1700s. Many people have asked me why I wrote a story about rebels. Simple! I love a rogue who fights for justice and for the people. It was a bunch of rebels who fought for their freedom in America. They wanted to be free from the dictatorship of a king. How about Robin Hood? He and a bunch of men did the same thing as they helped the needy and poor. Liberty is something that I cherish. So I decided to write about a small country that struggles to be free.

THE REBELS OF CORDOVIA: “This creative take on a Robin Hood-like story is charming and touching, and teaches some great morals about agency and choice. It reminded me of childhood fairytales of good versus evil, with a nice romance weaved into it.” --Author Charissa Stastny

In The Rebels of Cordovia, Robin’s Rebels realize they must fight against the tyranny of a wicked king and help the people survive the oppression. In this battle for freedom, a tender love story begins to blossom. Daniel, a rogue and a leader of the Freemen, doesn’t realize that the sweet feminine woman he has met and is falling for happens to be the leader of Robin’s Rebels. Realizing the importance of uniting all the rebel groups, Daniel tries to recruit Robin’s Rebels but they refuse. Now he has to find a way to convince them. When he finds out the leader is actually a woman, what will his reaction be?

To watch a Book Trailer for The Rebels of Cordovia, click on the link below:

https://youtu.be/-Nd2vqNYqSA

THE HIGHWAYMAN OF CORDOVIA: “Austin and Christine had been friends, as youth, and separated through the years. As their paths cross again after many years, things spark up between them. Yet their lives do not appear to be headed in the same direction. The twists and turns will keep you turning the pages.” --Sunnie Reivews

In book 2, The Highwayman of Cordovia, the people enjoy their new-found liberty, but all is not well. A group of powerful men plan to take over the small country and replace the leader with a king. With the help of a bold highwayman and a pastor’s daughter, they try to save their country from being taken over by a power-hungry leader. As they strive to stop the Kingmen and thwart their plans, Christine finds herself falling in love with Austin Knight. The only problem with their relationship is that she thinks he is her knight in shining armor instead of a highwayman. If she finds out his trade, what will her reaction be? As a pastor’s daughter, will love override her values?

To watch a Book Trailer for The Highwayman of Cordovia, click on the link below:

https://youtu.be/UtHY-DPjfFE

THE FOX OF CORDOVIA: “I loved this book. It is full of adventure, drama, intrigue and suspense. We've got kidnapping plots, pirate ships, daring rescues and romance. The author weaves an exciting tale and a sweet romance together in a way that will appeal to all readers.” --Inishowen Cailín

In book 3, The Fox of Cordovia, a sinister plot has just been uncovered and its up to a former patriot and a young nurse to discover who is behind it. Caroline is engaged to the future mayor of Laketown, a man of influence and greatly respected. But all that changes when she overhears a conspiracy behind closed doors. After being discovered, she runs for her life. Caroline needs to report her findings, but whom can she trust? When she asks Jesse Conover for help, the adventure begins.

To watch a Book Trailer for The Fox of Cordovia, click on the link below:

https://youtu.be/mCgwRF5nzQ8

I love research. When I did some research about the “waltz” for The Highwayman of Cordovia, I was surprised at what I found. The peasants were the first to dance the waltz. It was such fun that bored noblemen would sneak out and go to the country-dances. The Oxford English Dictionary back then called the waltz “riotous and indecent.”

In a 1771 German novel, someone complains about the “newly-introduced waltz” among the aristocrats. He wrote: “When he put his arm around her, pressed her to his breast, cavorted with her in the shameless, indecent whirling-dance of the Germans and engaged in a familiarity that broke all the bounds of good breeding—then my silent misery turned into burning rage.” I was so intrigued by this description. The waltz finally became fashionable when the wife of a Russian ambassador endorsed it.

To read a sample chapter from each of my books in The Rebel Series, go to http://www.lindaweaverclarke.com/historicalromance.html and click on the TITLE.

To purchase a book from Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or Audible Audiobooks, go to http://www.lindaweaverclarke.com/purchasebook.html.

About Author: Linda Weaver Clarke was raised among the Rocky Mountains of southern Idaho and now lives among the red mountains of southern Utah. Linda is the mother of six daughters and the author of 23 books. She has written in several different genres, which include: historical romances, romantic cozy mysteries, a mystery suspense series, a children’s book, and non-fiction. All her books are family friendly. She has also traveled throughout the U.S. and taught audiences how to write their family history, giving more than 500 workshops.

The Innkeeper's Daughter by Michelle Griep

This is an English historical novel set in 1808.  Johanna runs the inn, helping her widowed mother.

Alex, goes undercover to uncover a plot against the British crown.  He and Johanna are clearly drawn to each other, but circumstances are not such that it is a smooth relationship as Alex becomes engaged to another.

I saw the story as one that they had to grow in their faith and trust in God to see them through their troubles.  There were several side stories that developed and I did see the growth in the characters as the story progressed.  The end became exciting with lots of action going on that keeps you reading it without wanting to stop.

I enjoyed this book and recommend it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

This Treacherous Journey by Misty M. Beller

This new book by Misty M. Beller was so exciting to read! There is literally not one boring page.  You won't be finding yourself skimming through this book, you will not want to miss any of it!  So good.

This historical fiction is really heartwarming and shows the pioneering spirit of the people in this time period.  Also you will see the need for self-sufficiency as they face their many trials, as well as needing the help of others, as well.  This was truly a treacherous journey.  You won't want to miss this one!

I received an ebook copy of this book from the author.  All thoughts are my own.

My Heart Belongs in the Shenandoah Valley by Andrea Boeschaar

Another wonderful addition to the "My Heart Belongs" books.  It's the first book that I've read by this author and I have to say, it's really good and I will keep my eyes open for more of her works.

In this story, Lily, realizes that the man who is the executor of her father's estate does not have her best interest in mind.  Is the only way to keep what's rightfully hers to enter into a loveless marriage with a much older man?

This is a page-turning book.  I really enjoyed it, but I won't tell you her decision!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

The Chapel Car Bride by Judith Miller

This is the first book that I have read by this author.  I was so delighted with it, that I hope that I will find more great books from this author.  It was a good Christian read, interesting, entertaining and hard to put down.

Hope Irvine and her preacher father, travel in a train car which is both the home and the "chapel".  The traveling duo have an assignment in Finch and find themselves in a mine company town that has a little more than mining going on.  This book is captivating.  I loved how Hope and hero, Luke, work to make this little town a better place for all.  Their Christian beliefs keep them working on good projects that sometimes are entangled with a little bit more, without realizing it.

Great book and story.  I enjoyed it very much!
I received an ebook copy from NetGalley for my honest review, which I have given.

This book releases April 4, 2017.

Teacup Courtships: 5 novellas of romance over tea by multiple authors and giveaway!

This sweet collection by multiple authors, Carrie Fancett Pagels, Cynthia Hickey, Teresa Ives Lilly, Darlene Franklin, and Patty Smith Hall, was a collection of enjoyable historical settings in the untamed West.  Different women trying to find their lives and become an integral part of their new communities, opening their Tea Rooms, and adding sweet womens' touches to an otherwise rough and rugged new community.  Although the men are hard working and somewhat rough around the edges, the women that enter their lives seem to bring out the best in them.

I enjoyed these stories very much and have read other writings of all of these authors.  They are always good Christian reads and have a common thread that carefully brings the book together, although the stories are unique and different from each other.

I received an ebook from the author.  The thoughts expressed here are my own.

Carrie Fancett Pagels is sponsoring a giveaway!  

The winner has the option of choosing either the Ebook collection or the paperback version of Carrie's contribution entitled "Tea Shop Folly".  

Contest Rules:  Please leave a comment in the comments section stating which option you would choose and your email address stated in a safe method.  Without your email, I may not be able to contact you, should you be the winner.  Contest ends on Sunday Oct.30th at 6:00 pm MDT.

For extra chances to win,
1. please share the link to this post on Facebook.

To gain yet another chance,
2. Sign up for updates on my blog.

Let me know in your comment that you have done so and which option(s) you did.

To Soar With Eagles by Gerald Lund

This conclusion to the series was another great LDS historical novel by Gerald Lund.  I could feel the emotions as their trials beset these early settlers in the in Southern Utah area of Monticello.  The Indians, rogue cowboys and other trials that caused these newcomers to surely wonder if this is where they should settle.

I really enjoyed this book and especially the historical notes and how he entertwined fiction and actual history to bring out a very captivating storyline.  I hope to continue reading his works!

The Rebels of Cordovia

I so enjoyed this fun book!  It has adventure, romance, a little mystery, history and action.  No boring moments here.  Linda Weaver Clarke's book is really entertaining and enjoyable. And it has a great ending!  Which I won't tell you about because you really need to read this book.

Rebels for the cause of the people, Robin and her rebels have to decide whether or not to join forces to protect the rights of the people. Placed back in the days of wicked and oppressive kings, the rebels work together for the freedoms of the common people.  Will they succeed against the governing forces?

The romance is sweet and the action is plenty.  I highly recommend this entertaining book!
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book for my honest review, which I have given.

The Orphan Bride by Brandi Gabriel

This book by Brandi Gabriel was the first I have actually read about orphan trains.  I found it quite interesting.  In fact I felt like I would like to find out more about this and searched it on the internet and found some interesting facts at this link.

This was a really nice historical novella which held my interest throughout.  The characters are interesting and you instantly like most of them.  It is an enjoyable Christian and clean read.

Lucy and Travis, twins, are separated when Travis was adopted and she remained with the orphan train.  Their paths moved in different directions and with different results.  Lucy cares for Joan on the train and takes on a mother role to her.  But neither knows what their future holds.

I really enjoyed the story and wouldn't mind reading a continuation of this book.  Very nice read!  I highly recommend it.

Melinda and the Wild West. An Audible book by Linda Weaver Clarke

I just finished listening to this very interesting book by Linda Weaver Clarke.  It was certainly my favorite of all the books from this author.  I guess this could be because it deals with times and places that I could really relate to, especially living in Utah and being familiar with Idaho and Bear Lake.  I really enjoyed her narrator, Joanna Riley who did a wonderful job interpreting the various characters.  I enjoyed the fact that I had this Audible book on my cell phone and could stick my phone in my pocket with my ear buds and listen while I worked, rested, and "multi-tasked".  It was really enjoyable.

As easterner Melinda heads west to Idaho to teach school, she finds a most exciting beginning to her new life, a bank robbery.  This book has many events that were of actual history of the places that she writes about.  I love how she wove fiction and history together to keep the reader involved with the characters, times and places.  This book was written about some of the events and places in the lives of her ancestors.  This also has a special appeal to me as a genealogist.  And there is always something special about bringing real events out in your reading.  Much more believable!

This is a very family friendly romance set in a difficult but fascinating time in history, as the doors to the west were opened to those seeking a better life for themselves.

I really enjoyed the book and hope to be able to read the remaining books of this series.  I recommend it!

You can find this book at the following link.

The author, Linda Weaver Clarke 

Tea Shop Folly (A Teacup Courtship Novella) by Carrie Fancett Pagels

This sweet romance novella by Carrie Fancett Pagels did not disappoint.  The author has a wonderful descriptive way with words that makes you feel you are actually experiencing what you are reading in her stories.

This is a part of what appears to me as a 4 part series, with the other parts written by other authors.  I love historical romance and enjoyed the time period set in 1895 in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Lilly inherits a house full of beautiful teacups and Theo is the customer that seems to become enamored with Lilly or is it the teacups that interest him?

It was a sweet romance and I enjoyed the story very much.

I received an ebook copy from the author in exchange for my review.