Guest Post by Linda Weaver Clark (Women of Courage Series)

Understanding Holiday Traditions Little Known Facts by Linda Weaver Clarke

I really enjoyed reading the old and interesting traditions and beginnings of the various holidays we celebrate each year.  It's so fun to know and come to understand the events that led up to these becoming holidays and how each has a significant historical meaning.

I enjoyed reading of a holiday that as I grew up in Minnesota, was a holiday that was always celebrated there.  That was May Day.  I remember little baskets on my door step and giving some out as well.  Then when we moved to California, I was sad that there was no celebration of that particular day.  

I enjoyed the vintage cards and the mentions of how different countries celebrated these days as well. 

A nice way to share the meaning of holidays to family members and to learn of their true meanings.

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

A Mississippi Sunset: Women of Courage by Linda Weaver Clarke (Audible Version)

I really enjoyed this sweet and clean historical fiction and romance. It's part of a series of brave women who were not afraid to take a stand in what they believe needed to be changed and you will see some historical figures that appear in this book!  Loved that.  I enjoyed that the Willow Valley people return such as the owner of the hot chocolate shop and others familiar from an earlier book.  The characters are good people trying to make the best of the situations that they are in. However, it is not necessary to have read the previous books in order to be aware of what is happening in this, the third book.  It's a great stand alone story. The narrator was Elizabeth Schmidt, who I believe is a new narrator for the author's Audible books.  I enjoyed her expression and her story-telling abilities.  She was easy to listen to. 

This is a very enjoyable book and it was fun to listen to.  I received a complimentary Audible copy of this book form the author and was not required to post a review.  All thoughts are my own.

The Christmas Story & Other Beloved Stories of Jesus Guest Post by Linda Weaver Clarke

The Christmas Season - a Time to Rejoice!

Christmas is a wonderful time of year. A feeling of love and joy are in the air as we give gifts to family members and neighbors.

The Christmas season is a time to have compassion for others and to give from our hearts. If we find out that a family is in need, our hearts go out to them. We don’t want their children to be disappointed on Christmas Day so we’ll take gifts to them to put under their tree. That day will always stay etched in your mind, and your children will never forget the grateful faces of the family.

Some people give gifts in secret, by knocking at the door and hiding behind a bush. When we did this, my children saw the surprised neighbor calling his children to the door to see what was at their doorstep. My children remember those days with fond memories.

As we buy gifts for the family and listen to I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas and Jolly Old St. Nicholas, do we think about the real reason we celebrate Christmas? Do our children understand who Jesus Christ is? How about our teenagers? Do they comprehend what He did for them? This is the perfect time to help them understand why we celebrate Christmas. But what is the best way to explain who Jesus is and why He is so important on Christmas Day?

There are many children’s books about the stories of Jesus. Each one has cartoon-like drawings for young children and told in a simple way for them to understand. But how about our older children who can read and would much rather read something that fits their age? Is there something for them to read?

Thirteen years ago that very thought inspired me to write such a book for my grandchildren in narrative style so they could get to know Jesus. This style of writing brings the stories to life so they can understand the scriptures better. After much

thought, I realized it was time to share this book with others. These inspirational stories are for all ages to read… from eight years old to ninety-eight. The font is larger for easier reading, especially for children, teenagers, and grandparents.

In “The Christmas Story and Other beloved Stories of Jesus,” you will learn about the birth of Jesus, the angel who told the shepherds about His birth, and the star that led wise men miles upon miles away to visit the Christ child. How about the miracles that Jesus performed? From the healing of the sick to feeding the five thousand with five barley loaves and two small fishes… from calming the wind and the waves to walking on water. These stories help our children to realize that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God.

This book also includes inspirational paintings by Del Parson, the renowned artist. His paintings give us a feeling of reverence and peace. The colors are exquisite and the style of painting helps tell the stories of Jesus. You can actually feel the love that Jesus has for us as you gaze at each of the lovely paintings. To learn more about Del Parson and his inspirational paintings, visit http://www.delparson.com.

Have you noticed that more and more people are talking about Jesus and His ministry? There are movies on the Internet telling the stories of Jesus like The Chosen by Dallas Jenkins and a Christian website called Bible Videos: The Life of Jesus Christ.

After reading The Christmas Story and Other beloved Stories of Jesus, Sunnie Reviews wrote: “A beautiful book written in an easy to understand style for adults and young people alike. The words and the artwork are amazing. The art is from a renowned artist. This is a great gift idea for younger readers to help them realize the important events that are well explained in this book.”

Below is a sample to read:

Off in the distance, a group of shepherds were tending their sheep when they heard choirs of angels singing. At first, they were startled and confused, not sure what to think of it.

An angel stood before them and said, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you: Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.”

With that announcement, the angels sang: “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, good will toward men.”

After the angels left, one of the shepherds said, “Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.”

With haste, they traveled to the city of Bethlehem. It did not take long to arrive at the stable because the shepherds felt God directing them where to go and they soon found the babe lying in a manger just as the angel had announced.

With humble hearts, they knelt in reverence before the newborn babe. The happiness they felt was indescribable. They were grateful that God had sent the angels to them with a message about the Messiah. Why had they been so privileged to know about his birth? With great joy, the shepherds went about, making it known to everyone about the spiritual experience they had seen that night.

*To read the first 22 pages of The Christmas Story and Other beloved Stories of Jesus, visit the Amazon website and click on the cover. When the book opens up, scroll down and read each page. https://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Story-Other-Beloved-Stories/dp/B0BJYM9VDY

#birthofJesusChrist, #JesusChrist, #Christmas, #Christmasstories, #TheChosen

The Christmas Story & Other Beloved Stories of Jesus by Linda Weaver Clarke

A beautiful book written in an easy to understand style for adults and young people alike.  The book starts with the birth of Jesus and proceeds to his ministry and resurrection in a well written way. The words and the artwork are amazing.  The art is from a renowned artist.  This is a great gift idea for younger readers to help them realize the important events that are well explained in this book.

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

A Lady of Refinement by Linda Weaver Clarke (Audible Version)

Another sweet and clean and definitely enjoyable book by Linda Weaver Clarke.  I love the cover and have to admit, the look of a cover really influences my first thoughts of a book. The narrator was a talented speaker as she told the sweet story.

I love how the author weaves her ancestors' stories into her fiction.  What a wonderful way to preserve your ancestors' stories while writing an engaging and interesting story.  I loved the way the character of Jonathon grew throughout the story and how he learned to impress the woman he was hoping to court. I loved how Serenity was not as "refined" as her Welsh auntie had hoped for her to be.

It's a great story and I am so happy to have read it.  I enjoyed it so much!

I received an Audible copy from the author without being required to give a positive review..  All thoughts are my own.

Women of Courage Series by Linda Weaver Clarke (Author Guest Post)

 

Courageous Women Throughout History

 

The women of the past were brave and spirited ladies who knew what they wanted in life and wanted to make a difference in the community where they lived. There were many who spoke out on women’s rights. Elizabeth Stanton was one of them. She stood up and said that women should have the right to vote and receive equal education. She also was an abolitionist and fought adamantly against slavery, prejudice, and inequality but it was not readily accepted.

Frederick Douglass, who was a public speaker, author, and statesman, said: “When the true history of the antislavery cause shall be written, women will occupy a large space in its pages; for the cause of the slave has been peculiarly a woman’s cause.”

Susan B. Anthony was another. When she defied the laws and voted illegally on November 5, 1872 in a presidential election, she was arrested and fined $100. But she refused to pay it. She said, “Resistance to tyranny is obedience to God.”

These courageous women made a difference in history. They fought for equal education and wanted the right to vote. Did you know the first four states to give women the right to vote were Wyoming, Colorado, Utah, and Idaho? It did not take long until women began running for office in each of these states.

Do you have some courageous ancestors that were an influence on you? I had a great grandmother who stood up for her rights and would not allow anyone to intimidate her. She was told by a group of men that if she denounced her religion then they would not burn down her home. The leader of the mob was a large burly man and she had every right to be frightened. But Martha would not give in to fear. She was a devout Christian and would not deny her Faith. With strength and courage, she stomped her foot and said: “You may burn it and be damned.”

I had another great grandmother who was an influence on my life. When she saw some thieves stealing her grapes, she knew they would not be afraid of her if she tried to chase them off. An idea came to her. Frances put on her husband’s cavalry uniform, tucked her hair inside his hat, and grasped his sword from its scabbard. Bravely marching outside onto the porch, she brandished the weapon in a threatening manner and demanded in a loud voice “Leave or perish!” I’m sure she smiled inside when she saw them take off like scared rabbits.

My great grandmothers were an example to me. If I were in either of my grandmother’s shoes, I wonder if I would have had that much courage. After reading their biographies, I took their stories and created a series of novellas called Women of Courage.

In The Light at the End of the Tunnel, Hannah is a young single mother who has had some hardships since arriving in America. But the trials in her life only make her stronger. Wanting to be independent, she opens a hot chocolate shop. At first, it’s a struggle. But she will not give up.

In A Lady of Refinement, Serenity is an educated young woman from Wales. After arriving in America, she decides to teach adults how to read and write. She is determined to help the citizens learn the enjoyment of reading. One of her favorite books is Ivanhoe by Sir Walter Scott. No one seems to measure up to this valiant knight until Jonathan comes along.

In A Mississippi Sunset, Laura gives lectures regularly, encouraging women to fight for their beliefs and be heard. Equality is her message. But she soon finds out that women who speak publicly are looked down upon and criticized, saying it is unwomanly and unchristian to speak publicly. But she has faith in God and knows He will help her in the cause for justice.

 

https://vimeo.com/721762655

 

Women of Courage Series

The Light at the end of the Tunnel: When Thomas finds out that Hannah's shop is struggling, he comes to the rescue with a clever plan. Will she agree to such an unconventional idea? Can he convince her to find room in her heart for one more person?

https://www.amazon.com/Light-End-Tunnel-Women-Courage-ebook/dp/B09JHRQYF1  

 

A Lady of Refinement: When Jonathan meets Serenity, an educated and courageous woman from Wales, he becomes intrigued with her and wonders how he can win her heart. Her brother gives him some advice, but Jonathan begins to question his wisdom. Should he trust his friend or is he leading him astray?

https://www.amazon.com/Lady-Refinement-Women-Courage-ebook/dp/B09PHZK76M 

 

A Mississippi Sunset: When Deputy Davies meets Laura, he is intrigued with her independent nature. He admires her spunk and wonders if such a woman would be interested in a small town deputy like himself.

https://www.amazon.com/Mississippi-Sunset-Women-Courage-ebook/dp/B09SRDBHNX

 

The Light at the End of the Tunnel by Linda Weaver Clarke Audible Version

I enjoyed this sweet Audible version historical romance very much.  This story shows the western spirit of adventure in a young widow who has faced many hardships to come to this point.  This is a Christian book and a very engaging and enjoyable read.  The narrator was able to present interesting versions of the characters' voices making the book very enjoyable to listen to.  It's very well  done.

As a newcomer to town, she finds many men who wish to become her suitor but she is independent and hopes to find her own way.  Her special needs child is her first concern and she does all she can to provide and care for her.

You will enjoy this heartwarming story of a strong woman forging a new life.

I received a complimentary copy of this Audible book from the author and was under no obligation to post a positive review.  All thoughts are my own.

Amelia Moore Mysteries, Vol. 3 Audible Version, Compilation by Linda Weaver Clarke

I just recently finished listening to the Audible version of The Amelia Moore Mystery Series, Vol 3, Mystery on the Bayou.  I really enjoyed it.  As a young girl reading was my beloved pastime that my friends and I continued to do together through our elementary school years.  Mysteries were my favorite genre in those days, and I can see that my love for mysteries has not waned.

Linda writes a fun and interesting story line.  We find Amelia and Rick, two happy newlyweds in a cozy retreat for their honeymoon, only to be approached by a woman who asks Amelia to locate a son she gave up for adoption 16 years ago.  She has discovered she has a hereditary disease that she feels an urgent need to inform her son about.  Not knowing could be deadly for him.  Amelia takes on the case which leads her to Bayou country and a not so easy to resolve case. 

There are several twists and turns making lots of interesting listening. I enjoyed listening to the Audible version very much and if you enjoy cozy mysteries, with a little touch of romance, you will surely enjoy it as well! 

The narrator Carolyn Kashner has a great way of changing voices of each of the characters.  It's really enjoyable listening and relaxing to this fun Audible book after a long stressful day.  She is so full of expression and very talented!  I loved listening to someone "tell me a story".  I could listen as I drove to and from errands and even while fixing dinner.  It's a great way to "multi-task".

The second story in Vol 3, is The Lighthouse Mystery. It's a great cozy mystery and for me it was awesome because she often writes about places that I know.  This time her book took me to my old home in California, Palm Springs, and as she described it, I could totally visualize it!  Then they were headed to Ventura Harbor.  I used to live in Ojai which is very close by and trips to the beach in Ventura were a remembrance of years past for me!

But aside from this, the Audible book held my attention to the very end.  I loved this clean romance and the resolution to the mysteries.  I look forward to reading and listening to other books from this great author.

I received an Audible version of this book from the author for my honest review, which I have given.  All thoughts are my own.

A Mississippi Sunset by Linda Weaver Clarke (Women of Courage)

I really enjoyed this sweet and clean historical fiction and romance. It's part of a series of brave women who were not afraid to take a stand in what they believe needed to be changed and you will see some historical figures that appear in this book!  Loved that.  I enjoyed that the Willow Valley people return such as the owner of the hot chocolate shop and others familiar from an earlier book.  The characters are good people trying to make the best of the situations that they are in. However, yet it is not necessary to have read the previous books in order to be totally aware of what is happening in this, the third book.  It's a great stand alone story.

This is a very enjoyable book and it is well worth a read!

I received an ebook copy of this book from the author and was not required to post a review.  All thoughts are my own.

Guest Post by Linda Weaver Clarke, Seeking a Better Life: Women of Courage

 

Seeking a Better Life: Women of Courage

 

Some immigrants learned about America and its opportunities from the newspaper while others heard about it from traveling missionaries. Many were seeking relief from political and religious persecution but others were just following their hearts. They didn’t know what the future would bring to them. Frances Davies, my great grandmother, was one of them.

She left her beloved homeland of Wales to live in America, the land of opportunity. Frances had attended a private school and received an education that set her apart from other young women. She was referred to as a “lady of refinement.”

Her Aunt Susan didn’t want her to leave and begged her to stay in Wales. She said that Frances would inherit her fortune if she stayed but Frances stood firm and unyielding and wanted to join her brother who had immigrated to America a few years earlier. No matter how hard Aunt Susan tried, she could not influence her niece’s decision.

When I read about my great grandmother’s experiences written by my grandmother, I was impressed with her courage. She was only seventeen when she left for America. That would take a lot of bravery. So I decided to put together a series of novellas called “Women of Courage.” I took some of my great grandmother’s experiences and gave them to a fictional character named Serenity, bringing her story to life.

A Lady of Refinement is a historical romance set in 1844. Reading is Serenity’s favorite pastime, where she can go on one adventure after another. She wonders if anyone can measure up to the heroes in her books. But the adventures soon become real after arriving in America.

When Jonathan meets Serenity, an educated and courageous woman from Wales, he becomes intrigued with her and wonders how he can win her heart. Her brother gives him some advice, but Jonathan begins to question his wisdom. Should he trust his friend or is he leading him astray?

Louise Pledge, a reviewer, wrote: “How I enjoy finding a book that will not let me put it down until I'm done!  This was the case with A Lady of Refinement.  Linda Weaver Clarke used a true story of her ancestor’s as a base, and it rang familiar to me, as my ancestors also migrated to America from England during the same time period. The main character, Serenity, is the refined lady, and it was such a delight when she bested a few arrogant males.  My favorite character, however, was Jonathan, who was very taken with Serenity.  Time will tell if he is successful at capturing her attention.”

After arriving in America, Serenity found that many an adult could not read or write, so she set to work teaching an evening class especially for adults. Each night she teaches her students how to write their names so they wouldn’t have to put an X for their signature. When Jonathan joins her class, her world takes a new turn, one she didn’t expect. What was her reaction?

Author Gail Pallotta wrote: “At first she sees him as a quiet man, but when she witnesses some of his heroic actions she thinks of Ivanhoe, a character she admires in a book. Even though she’s drawn to Jonathan, she has a rule that won’t allow her to date a student, and she’s sticking to it. Jonathan’s infatuation leads him to try many approaches to get to know Serenity better, even to the extent of following her brother William’s sometimes bad advice.”

How did Jonathan react to William’s bad advice? There are some comical scenes in this story that will make you laugh out loud. Gail went on to say: “I enjoyed this sweet love story, especially Jonathan trying desperately to win over Serenity, while she hesitates to get to know him. Based on true events of the authors’ ancestors, the book takes the reader back to a gentler time when men were more chivalrous and a woman like Serenity more difficult to win over.”

This book or eBook is available on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/Lady-Refinement-Women-Courage-ebook/dp/B09PHZK76M

 

Author Links:

Linda’s Book Blog: https://lindaweaverclarke.wordpress.com

Historical Romance Blog: https://historicalromances.wordpress.com

Audiobook Blog: https://familyfriendlyaudiobooks.wordpress.com

Cozy Mystery Blog: https://cozymysteryseries.wordpress.com

A Lady of Refinement (Women of Courage) by Linda Weaver Clarke

Another sweet and clean and definitely enjoyable book by Linda Weaver Clarke.  I love the cover and have to admit, the look of a cover really influences my first thoughts of a book.  If I don't like the cover I don't read or buy the book.  

I love how the author weaves her ancestors' stories into her fiction.  What a wonderful way to preserve your ancestors' stories while writing an engaging and interesting story.  I loved the way the character of Jonathon grew throughout the story and how he learned to impress the woman he was hoping to court. I loved how Serenity was not as "refined" as her Welsh auntie had hoped for her to be.

It's a great story and I am so happy to have read it.  I enjoyed it so much!

I received an ebook copy from the author without being required to give a positive review..  All thoughts are my own.

Amidst Trials, is there a Light at the end of the Tunnel? Guest Post by Linda Weaver Clarke

 

All of us have challenges in our lives and we feel so alone. We sometimes wonder if we are the only ones who are experiencing difficulties. Have you ever felt that each trial you have endured was so difficult that you wondered where the “light at the end of the tunnel” was? Many times we try to solve our own problems and don’t bother talking to anyone or asking for help.

 “No matter our circumstances, no matter our challenges or trials, there is something in each day to embrace and cherish. There is something in each day that can bring gratitude and joy if only we will see and appreciate it.” ~ Dieter F. Uchtdorf

 This was Hannah’s attitude as she tried to search for the “light at the end of the tunnel.” How many times do we search for that light, wondering where it is and hoping that the trials in life will soon end? Is God watching over us? Is He there when we need some comfort? In our darkest moment, does Jesus Christ know how we feel? I believe He does.

Set in 1844, The Light at the End of the Tunnel is a historical romance. Book Reviewer and Author Gail Pallotta wrote: “This romance wrapped around my heart as it took me into the struggles of Hannah, such a brave woman. The characters come to life on the page as Thomas falls for Hannah. However, Hannah is caught up in her day-to-day trials, and with her independent streak she only thinks of making a life for her and her daughter. Can Thomas get her attention and change her mind?”

 After coming to America and enduring several challenges and trials, Hannah realizes she can make something of her life by opening a hot chocolate shop. She soon finds that starting her own business isn’t as easy as she thought.

 When Thomas finds out that Hannah's shop is struggling, he comes to the rescue with a clever plan. Will she agree to such an unconventional idea? Can he convince her to find room in her heart for one more person?

 “I enjoyed this sweet historical romance very much.  This story shows the western spirit of adventure in a young widow who has faced many hardships to come to this point.  This is a Christian book and a very engaging and enjoyable read. You will enjoy this heartwarming story of a strong woman forging a new life.” Sunnie Reviews

 To buy this book or eBook on Amazon, visit Amazon here!

Linda Weaver Clarke’s Author Blog: https://lindaweaverclarke.wordpress.com

    Linda’s Audiobook Blog: https://familyfriendlyaudiobooks.wordpress.com

    Linda’s Cozy Mystery Blog: https://cozymysteryseries.wordpress.com

    Linda’s Historical Romance Blog: https://historicalromances.wordpress.com

 

The Light At The End Of The Tunnel by Linda Weaver Clarke (Women of Courage)

 Book Blurb

After coming to America and enduring several trials, Hannah realizes she can make something of her life by opening a hot chocolate shop. She soon finds that starting her own business isn’t as easy as she thought.

When Thomas finds out that Hannah's shop is struggling, he comes to the rescue with a clever plan. Will she agree to such an unconventional idea? Can he convince her to find room in her heart for one more person?

My Review

I enjoyed this sweet historical romance very much.  This story shows the western spirit of adventure in a young widow who has faced many hardships to come to this point.  This is a Christian book and a very engaging and enjoyable read.  

As a newcomer to town, she finds many men who wish to become her suitor but she is independent and hopes to find her own way.  Her special needs child is her first concern and she does all she can to provide and care for her.

You will enjoy this heartwarming story of a strong woman forging a new life.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and was under no obligation to post a positive review.  All thoughts are my own.

The Amelia Moore Mysteries Volume 2 by Linda Weaver Clarke (Audible Version)

 

Recently I reviewed Volume 1 of The Amelia Moore Mysteries.   Now I have the good fortune to review Volume 2.

I was really happy to listen to The Amelia Moore Detective Mysteries, because I had really enjoyed the others which I had listened to.  This one did not disappoint.  Narrator Carolyn Kashner was an enjoyable narrator and very expressive.  She does a good job of keeping your interest.

Ms. Clarke's books are always a good and clean read.   It is a fun cozy mystery and I love how it brings in the area in St. George, Utah, which I am so familiar with.  The author always makes you feel as though you are right there enjoying the scenery and the surroundings.

I loved how Rick and Amelia work so well together, have their bucket lists, and seem to always get into a few tight fixes.  I really enjoyed the book, loved the fact that it was Audible and could listen without turning a page!

There are two mysteries in this volume.  In the second story, a porcelain doll turns up missing from a museum case.  The obvious culprit appears to be Sam, an engaged museum employee who suddenly turns up missing at the same time as the doll.

Sam's fiance hires Amelia and her partner Rick to find Sam and to prove his innocence.  Amelia and Rick are followed at every corner and try to dodge the men that always seem to be after them.  Will they be able to find Sam and prove that he was not guilty of the theft and also figure out why so many people seem to be inquiring about the doll?  Is the doll worth enough to be of such great interest to several people?  What is the real secret behind the mysterious doll?

These were fun to listen to and I enjoyed it very much.  I think you will enjoy the other books in this cozy mystery series, as well.  Amelia and Rick seem to be getting closer as the series continue and some romance is definitely in the air.

I was given a complimentary Audible version from the author for my review and was under no obligation to give a positive review.  All thoughts are my own.

Amelia Moore Mysteries V. 1 by Linda Weaver Clarke (Audible Version)

 

Book Blurb: 

Amelia Moore Mysteries, Volume 1:

A Romantic Mystery! Amelia Moore, founder of the Moore Detective Agency, specializes in missing persons. Along with her partner, Rick Bonito, they are sometimes put in dangerous situations when solving a case. In this volume, they travel to exotic places such as Bali Island in Indonesia, Ireland where she kisses the Blarney Stone, and Mexico where she experiences what a rain forest is really like.

I have just finished listening to a  romantic mystery audiobook called Amelia Moore Mysteries Volume 1. This Audible book has 3 stories in one volume.. The book is narrated by Carolyn Kashner.

It is always fun to listen to an Audible book while driving, or cleaning or just relaxing.  I find that this author has created a wonderful set of 3 cozy mysteries  the detective, Amelia Moore is in and works hard to resolve.  The stories take you to interesting and exotic places that will keep you captivated and enthralled. 

There are 16 hours of great listening as the talented narrator, Carolyn Kashner takes you to wonderful places and with excellent expressive dialog that will keep you listening till the very end.  I recommend this wonderful listening experience.

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

 

Intriguing Escapades by Linda Weaver Clarke (Audible Version)

Just finished Intriguing Escapades in the Audible version.  Loved it and always enjoy a great Audible book to listen to while driving  or working around the house.  The narrator, Carolyn Cashner is a great addition to the Audible version.  She is very easy to listen to and makes the listening very enjoyable.

Linda Weaver Clarke added this new book in her series "The Adventures of John and Julia Evans".  It's book 5 and a great addition to the continuing family saga.  It contains 4 short stories and if you have read or listened to  the previous books, you will see familiar and new characters to bring interest and excitement to her stories.  The stories are set in my fave places, Utah and a little in Texas.  She brings them up to our current time, during the Pandemic.  The stories are mysterious and interesting and you will surely enjoy the mystery and perhaps some romance to keep things very interesting!

These are clean and enjoyable stories and definitely entertaining!

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

Author Guest Post by Linda Weaver Clarke With a GIVEAWAY!

Hello Friends!  Linda Weaver Clarke is sharing about her books today and I hope that if you haven't read her books that you will definitely give them a try!  They are sweet, clean and wonderful! 

Never Too Late To Dream

 

I believe it’s never too late to accomplish one’s dreams. Some people have a bucket list that has daring things to do or something they longed to do for years. It is never too late and you are never too old to do something you have longed to do.

After raising six daughters and believing it is never too late to dream, I decided to go back to college. It was a scary thing to do and I don’t know why I was so worried. At the age of 50, I graduated from college with a Theatre and Arts Degree. After that, I performed for a concert series. It was unbelievably fun and enjoyable until I got reflux and lost my voice. Feeling discouraged, I didn’t know what to do with my life. But . . . when one door is closed, God opens another door for you to walk through. And that was exactly what He did for me. 

An interest in writing engulfed me. So I went to the library and studied every book available about writing. I wanted to write family friendly stories for all ages. So I sat down and wrote a few books until I was brave enough to send one to a publisher. At the age of 56, I became a published author and won an award for my first book, which surprised and delighted me. After writing five historical romances, I wrote 12 cozy mysteries and then wrote three swashbuckling romances. Since I was a fan of Robin Hood, Zorro, and the Scarlet Pimpernel, I couldn’t help it. I even wrote some non-fiction and a children’s book. Being an author has been an interesting path to travel. The most recent series that I just completed is a historical mystery romance series set in the 1830s. It is called A Willow Valley Historical Romance. Each romance has a mystery to solve. 

One Last Dance is the first book in this series, which will keep you guessing until the end of the book. When Felicity meets their charming new neighbor, she soon discovers that he is hiding his true identity. Nicholas Adams is on a quest. When she finds out that someone is after a valuable heirloom, a precious treasure found in her attic, her life takes a new turn.

 “This book has my favorite genres: historical, romance and mystery. Although I enjoyed the romance, what I liked most was the mystery. Intrigue and suspense kept me hooked and I loved the air of mystery behind a few of the characters. It kept me guessing to the end, and of course it had a sweet, happy ending. This is one of my favorite books by Linda Weaver Clarke.” –Inishowen Cailin, Book Reviewer

Book trailer:

https://vimeo.com/310912310

Angel’s Serenade is the second book in this series. Each day as Emmeline practices the piano, she doesn’t know the new doctor in town secretly sits on his porch to listen to her music. As Emmeline gets to know the charming doctor, they become intrigued by her neighbor’s mysterious behavior. Will they discover his secret? And who is the leader of the River Pirates, who is causing so much havoc?

 “Clarke has created a sweet romance that will warm the heart, and it’s wrapped up in fascinating yesteryear details of courting, medical practice and river pirates. I highly recommend the book to those who enjoy sweet romance with a bit of mystery.” –Author Gail Pallotta

 Book trailer:

https://vimeo.com/408058731

 In A Pleasant Rivalry, Angelica is surprised when she finds out that an old school chum has returned to Willow Valley. Since she writes articles for the Chronicle and Simon owns the Willow Valley News, they just happen to be rivals. The competition is on. Who will be the first to discover the identity of the jewel thief or the arsonist? To her surprise, Angelica realizes she is losing her heart to her rival.

 “I loved this book!  It was a great historical read and full of surprises.  I totally didn't expect what happened… to happen.  The time period was an interesting one and I love how the author intertwines historical events into the story.  It was a new and refreshing tale.” –Sunnie Reviews

 Book Trailer:

https://vimeo.com/427914575

 Holidays in Willow Valley is full of surprises. This book is a collection of six holiday stories, something that I hadn’t done before. What were the holidays like at Willow Valley in 1840? While writing this book, I learned to appreciate our holidays.

 

“This book contains six short stories of different holidays celebrated in the 1840 time period. These are enjoyable stories to read any time of year, not just in holiday times. The characters and the book carry Christian values, which I love. These are very entertaining stories!” --Sunnie Reviews

 Book Trailer:

https://vimeo.com/438375608

 

I soon realized that writing short stories was a pleasure and quite fun. So I decided to try it once again. So I wrote the fifth and last book in this series called Tales of Willow Valley. It is a collection of five “Love Stories.”

“If you are in the mood for some sweet, clean, historical, romantic short stories then look no further. I enjoyed each story and how the women are not sitting back waiting on a man, but are take-charge women that start their own businesses, aren’t afraid to face ruffians, and encourage women to fight for their rights. It is amazing what you can learn when an author does research into events in the past to make sure their works are as authentic as possible.” –Story Book Reviews

 As of today, I am the author of 32 books and 28 Audible audiobooks. You can order any of my books from Amazon and Audible Audiobooks at my websites below.

Meet the author: Linda Weaver Clarke

My Book Blog: https://lindaweaverclarke.wordpress.com

Audiobook Blog: https://familyfriendlyaudiobooks.wordpress.com

Cozy Mystery Blog: https://cozymysteryseries.wordpress.com

Historical Romance Blog: https://historicalromances.wordpress.com

Linda’s Website: www.lindaweaverclarke.com

Linda is also hosting a giveaway!    Linda will  give a Ebook copy of "One Last Dance" to a lucky commenter !

Never too Late to Dream by Linda Weaver Clarke Audible Version

I just finished listening to this wonderful autobiography by Linda Weaver Clarke that was narrated by Carolyn Kashner.  The story was a real joy to listen to.  It is an uplifting story of the life of Linda  Weaver Clark from childhood to adulthood.  It included hard times, good times and everything in between. 

The book is a Christian book with lots of good lessons to learn for anyone.  She tells about listening to the Still Small Voice as she comes to points in her life of decisions and even impending dangers.  

I was surprised to learn her major in college was basically the same as mine.  She had many trials to work through in her life, perhaps which would be enough to make others give up but Linda never gave up despite the troubles that gave her experiences in her life that probably made her the woman that she is today.

She writes about wanting to be a "normal" teenager.  And I think the experiences she writes about will help others in their trials that sometimes feel so unfair and unwanted.

This is a really interesting story to listen to as well as a good source for ideas in telling your own story for your children and their descendants.  Very enjoyable!

I received an Audible version of this book from the author.  All thoughts are my own.

  

Tales of Willow Valley by Linda Weaver Clarke Audible Version

I enjoyed the listening time spent on this very sweet book.  The narrator, Carolyn Kashner, did a very nice job, both with expression and the different characters that were portrayed.

This full length book entails five historical short love stories. The author is well-known for her sweet romances and these are stories of some of her ancestors and written into a sweet romance, with some excellent details of the time period, the struggles that the people of those days went through as well as everyday life. All with enjoyable storylines...

I am a genealogist, so the fact that she writes tales of her ancestors is a real plus for me as I try to think back and reflect on earlier years and how things change and yet how things also stay the same.

The stories are refreshing tales of good people working through life as do we today, as well. The title of one of the stories which gives me hope for the struggles we are going through now,  "The Light at the End of the Tunnel".  God is always watching out for us and there are good things yet to come.

I found these happy stories just what I needed in these trying days.  I recommend it!

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