Glittering Promises

by Lisa T. Bergren
3.5/5 stars
David C. Cook, 2013
311 pages
YA Historical Christian

Source: Received an e-ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Well, we have come to the conclusion of the Grand Tour series which began so promisingly in Glamorous Illusions and continued in Grave Consequences. I'll admit that there were times when I found myself bored and just waiting to finish so I could say it was done but I did like the ending, which left me with a fond impression of this book.

I think Glamorous Illusions impressed me by taking me into a glamorous world of touring Europe for months with that being your sole occupation. Can you image? Just going to fabulous museums, seeing incredible works of art and buildings that have stood for ages with nary a care about money or responsibilities. But this is the third book of their tour and I was kind of over the grand tour by this point. Luckily there are other plot lines like Cora's continued mostly commitment to their bear Will but also battling lingering feelings for the wealthy charming Pierre.

Something I really liked was the exploration of attitudes toward women in business and politics. Though there is a vile character who says some hateful things, most of the men are pretty supportive of Cora's aspirations. She's an heiress, yes, but she also wants to do work that matters and use her wealth for positive efforts. One arena might end up being women's suffrage, a cause I can certainly get behind! But either way she's not going to blindly follow a path laid down by her father, instead choosing to forge her own way and abide by the dictates of her conscience.

The best part for me though was the Christian faith aspect. These books are from a Christian imprint and I remember God playing a part in both of the preceding books. However here it really poured out and over. Cora is brought to her knees at several points: trying to discern about a husband, how to spend the money she has so suddenly been handed, coping with grief, and wrestling with her identity, for starters.

Overall: Though the last few chapters really made me smile, I ended up feeling like this was dragged out and may have been better served as a duology. I can certainly understand the desire to have three books but so many passages felt like filler to me. Still, if you started the series, you'll probably want to finish and this does continue in the style begun by the previous two.

Other Opinions:
Black 'n Gold Girl's Book Spot
Seasons of Humility

Gunpowder Tea

Gunpowder Tea by Margaret Brownley
4/5 stars
Thomas Nelson Publishers, 2013
324 pages
Adult Historical Romance Christian

Source: Received an e-ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

*Spoilers will be discussed.*

I've been a fan of Brownley's writing for a while now, including the first book in the Brides of Last Chance Ranch series, Dawn Comes Early.  The premise is that a female ranchowner is looking for an heiress; among her list of stipulations is that the woman will remain single forever. Though I missed the second book, I was easily able to dive back into this world for the exciting third book.

Our heroine here is Miranda Hunt posing as Annie Beckman in her service as a Pinkerton detective. This is her big chance to prove her capabilities and she is determined to be successful in ferreting out the Phantom, the ringleader of a train robbing gang. Opposing her efforts is "Branch" or rather Jeremy Taggert, a stablehand arrested for robbing a train but somehow let out to plague Miranda's footsteps as she attempts to fend off sparks and solve the case.

As I wrote this, I realized how hard it can be to write about a book when the main characters have multiple names. For the most part I thought of them as Annie and Branch so that is how I will continue to refer to them in my review. Additionally the publisher summary kind of gives away a big spoiler. Of course Branch is not a career criminal; he is a Wells Fargo detective and is there for the same reason as Annie. This isn't revealed until 100+ pages into the book though there are many clues beforehand, so many so that even I realized that he was on the side of the law (no I didn't read the summary-I saw Brownley's name and wanted to read it solely because of that.)

I really liked both characters. Annie is forever striving to prove herself, stung by her father's dismissal of her career path and attempting to live up to his life, which was tragically cut short. Jeremy also has pain in his past like a mysterious incident that sat him at a desk for two years. The two really clash with each other at first, before fighting and then succumbing to their feelings. They end the book in a really happy place.

Two things I really loved about this book were the small instances when Annie catches the wrongdoer (such as in the opening chapter) and the chance to check in with characters from previous books. Of course both of the couples from the other two books are represented as well as the flamboyant Bessie Adams whose quibbling with her sister amused me so in the first book and Ellie Walker who is probably never going to get her heiress to abide by her conditions.

Since this is marketed as a religious novel, I want to touch on that aspect, which I thought was very well-handled. Both leads seem to have a relationship with God and use that as a defining moral compass. Concerns about right and wrong ripple throughout the novel as Annie and Branch worry about the lies they're telling to suss out the thief as well as what they're keeping from each other.

Overall: A sweet fast easy to read romance that just hits all the right beats. If you like reading Christian historical romance (and especially if you have enjoyed previous Brownley writings), you will probably like this one too.

Made to Last

Made to Last by Melissa Tagg
4/5 stars
Bethany House Publishers, 2013
365 pages
Adult Contemporary Christian

Source: Received an e-ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Sometimes you just need to take a break from your main reading interest and read something else. In my case, that meant stepping back from YA, which has largely left me feeling dissatisfied of late, and slipping in to Christian romance such as this book. I've read this genre on and off over the years as can be seen when looking through my review archive. It's been a few months and it was fun to be back.

Miranda "Randi" Woodruff hosts a homebuilding show whose ratings are threatened. To try to save the show, it is suggested that she finally introduce her husband, the one who taught her everything she knows. The problem? Said husband actually left her before they married and she never admitted the truth, pretending instead that the marriage went through. So they round up a fake husband and allow their "marriage" to be documented by journalist with something to prove Matthew Knox. The complications mount though as the two start to fall for each other while she also maintains her sham marriage and he digs deep for a dishy scoop that could resurrect his career.

When I mention complications above, boy do I mean that! As the book progresses, Randi's lies and men become increasingly entangled. While I trusted in a resolved happily ever after, I wondered how Randi would have the courage to confess her vulnerability and take the consequences. It was interesting to follow that journey. I liked both Randi and Matthew so it was easy to root for them as a couple and to follow especially their professional struggles. I initially though Randi was going to fall for her fake husband Blaze but his personality was so not compatible with hers. Instead we get Matthew who has a huge axe to grind with his father but is also just about the sweetest uncle imaginable.

As for the religious part, I thought it was pretty muted. Both have had church lives but are estranged from God at the beginning. Other Christians in their lives and their own circumstances drive them to Christ and to begin the process of rebuilding that relationship. I'm Christian so I'm not always the best judge but I didn't think it was preachy and it definitely wasn't filled with scripture if that's a concern to you. The only one I can remember being referenced is in Psalm 138.

I was disappointed about a few unresolved threads. There is a light focus on a competitor to Randi's show that is briefly addressed but I feel like more could have been said in that arena. Additionally Blaze's past is hinted at but never looked into; I can only assume that he'll be getting his own book or that lack of resolution will rankle me.

Overall: A perfect palate cleanser for me-giving me something I don't regularly read in a light sweet package. If you tend to like contemporary romances, you'll probably enjoy this one.

Follow the Heart

Follow the Heart by Kaye Dacus
4/5 stars
B&H Publishing, 2013
321 pages
Adult Christian Historical Romance

Source: Received an e-ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Other books by this author:
Stand-In Groom
Menu for Romance
A Case for Love
Love Remains
The Art of Romance 
Turnabout's Fair Play
Ransome's Honor

As you can from the above list, I have read a lot of Dacus' writing and obviously I quite enjoy it. Thus I was pleased to see a new release from her, this time set in 1851 England around the Great Exhibition. It follows siblings Kate and Christopher Dearing, poor relations from Philadelphia come to marry money and save the family's fortunes but both are quickly captured by someone entirely unsuitable. Will they follow their head or follow their heart? (Hint: look at the book's title.)

I am a big Kaye Dacus fan and I liked this title a lot although it is not my favorite (that is probably Stand-In Groom or A Case for Love). For me, I was less than enthused about the dual love stories for the siblings as I didn't really feel we got enough time with Christopher. I feel quite certain that I know Kate's heart, inside and out but Christopher is more enigmatic. Similarly his love interest gets less page time than hers.

But it is the message of this book that I really love. In essence, Kate (re)discovers God's great love and how he brought her to England to give her happiness. It's the reason why one (I) reads/read Inspirational fiction-for just such these moments of clarity and understanding. I really appreciated the message about waiting and listening to the Lord instead of trying to force him into your own will-patience is not my strong suit and that is a discipline in which I need to grow. I feel like this book came across my path at an excellent time, reminding me of some things I needed to remember.

Cover: I do not like that dress but Kate does tend to eschew bright fabrics for more staid clothing.

Once Upon a Prince

Once Upon a Prince by Rachel Hauck
4/5 stars
Zondervan, 2013
343 pages
Adult Christian Contemporary Romance

Source: Received an e-ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

The premise for this book was right up my alley: ordinary young woman falls unwittingly for a prince mixed in with some inspirational words. Overall I was pretty pleased with how this romance unfolded.

Susanna has spent twelve years clinging to her relationship with a military man who eventually breaks up with her saying he found the right ring but not the right girl. Living on a small island, the news quickly spreads and Susanna is the object of pity. Except for the dashingly charming Nate Kenneth whose humble attitude speaks to her soul. As it turns out, Nate is Prince Nathaniel soon to be crowned king upon the death of his father and caught up in a complicated web of politics. Can these two go the distance?

Right off the bat, I am impressed with Susanna's caution. If I discovered I was seeing a prince, I think I'd end up jumping in feet first before looking. But due to coming off her previous relationship, she is much more caution and leans on God instead, waiting to get to know Nate inside and out. Meanwhile Nate is so mature and honorable as he struggles against seemingly insurmountable odds that would prevent a marriage between the two.

For me, the part I didn't really like was the political angle. I'm not going to get into all the details but I found it on the dull side and kind of tuned out, waiting to get back to the heart of the story. Lest you think it's all about romance, you should know that family plays an important role too as both Susanna and Nate have interfering but well-meaning family members with a lot of opinions.

Overall: A bit on the fantastical side with Nate coming from the kingdom of Brighton but it does hit that sweet spot of romance that I was anticipating.

ARC Review: Daughter of Jerusalem

Daughter of Jerusalem by Joan Wolf
3.5/5 stars
Worthy Publishing, 2013
320 pages
Adult Historical Inspirational

Source: Received an e-ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

After my negative experience with Between the Sinners and the Sea, I was very nervous about picking this up even though I had enjoyed the author's previous work A Reluctant Queen. Would it actually be inspirational? Happily, I can report that this book succeeds on that front. Although it has its weaknesses, I was moved to tears by one passage about Jesus (I honestly can't imagine a time in my life where thinking about the love demonstrated by Jesus doesn't move me to cry).

But I found this book's historical grounding to be sorely lacking. The language and writing style felt very contemporary to me. This is good in that it meant I read the book very quickly but bad because I didn't feel transported back in time. Even though the setting and customs were super different from our cultural norms, it still didn't feel historical to me.

I did love a lot of the plot decisions made by the author though. Our heroine is Mary of Magdala who falls in love with someone but is given in marriage to a much older and extremely wealthy man. Although Jewish, they partake in many Roman customs and Mary falls away from her religion, even taking a Roman lover (these are the decisions that lead to her being called a whore as she is sometimes considered). After she is widowed, she returns to her Jewish roots where she comes upon the Messiah. I loved when she hears Jesus and how we see that wealthy women are the ones who really helped support the ministry of Jesus. Mary is very sympathetic to Judas, whose betrayal is painted as done by one who craved a strong military leader to restore Jewish sovereignty, a popular interpretation I've seen.

However there was one decision made by the author that I really don't understand though. In this version, Mary Magdalene is also Mary, sister of Martha and Lazarus. I've always understood those Marys to be separate women and to be pleased with the many different women Jesus interacts with in the Gospels.

Overall: Although I found this book interesting and enjoyable, I didn't think it dipped much beyond the surface (except for brief moments with Jesus who always manages to touch my heart) and will not leave an impression on me.

Grave Consequences

Grave Consequences by Lisa T. Bergren
4/5 stars
David C. Cook, 2013
430 pages
YA Inspirational Historical

Source: Received an e-ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

I really loved first book Glamorous Illusions last year so I was thrilled to check out the second book in the series with a cover hinting at something darker happening (also if that guy is Will, well, I've imagined him to be hotter, just saying.)

We immediately jump back into the story, leaving me floundering as it's been almost a year since I read the first installment. Soon however I was back in the rhythm, aided by the fact that this story focuses much more closely on Cora and Will. I remember the first book introducing all the characters including Cora's new found siblings but I felt like they didn't play as much of a role this time, at least not til near the end. It felt much more narrowly focused on the love story of Cora and Will. She is struggling to reconcile her new role as the daughter of a wealthy man with her long-time dream of teaching and living a simple life in Montana. He is barely afloat financially with debts hanging over his head and dreaming of being an architect while also longing for Cora despite the punishment her father would dole out to him.

Speaking of Cora's father, he is such a jerk. I didn't like him much in book one but he just continues to be manipulative and frankly cruel in this book. I understand some of his objections but he seems to be motivated largely by selfishness so it is hard for me to sympathize with him. Most grievous is him pushing Pierre toward Cora despite her uncertainty of him (and my love of Will!)

As predicted this book does seem darker. Although they continue moving apace through Europe (thus making it a book I'd recommend to anyone craving some great descriptive passages of the sights), they are haunted by the foiled kidnapping attempt at the end of book one. Are they really out of danger? Or are the children of two very wealthy men just too tempting to resist? There is somewhat of a mystery element around this and I was proud of myself for piecing one part together.

Last to mention is the religious element as this book comes from a religious publishing house. I'm Christian so I enjoy books that reflect my faith. I think that Cora does a good job of relying on her faith and the knowledge that all this money and opulence won't make her happy. The ending is especially good for her decision to wait and trust in the Lord.

Overall: A good second book that does move the story forward while also allowing you time to luxuriate in pre-WWI Europe.

Other Opinions:
Booktalk & More
From the Heart of a Bookworm
Short and Sweet Reviews

Unrivaled

Unrivaled by Siri Mitchell
3.5/5 stars
Bethany House, 2013
391 pages
Adult Inspirational Historical Romance

Source: Received an e-ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

I read this author's She Walks in Beauty and I really enjoyed it so I was pleased to check out another title from her. My interest was further piqued about discovering that it was about candy makers in early twentieth century St. Louis. I don't think I've read many (any?) books set there so it would mean a new setting for me.

Lucy is the daughter of a brilliant confectioner but poor businessman who lost his candy company and has spent the intervening years trying to top his greatest success. Charlie is the son of the man who took over the candy company; long estranged from his father, he has the opportunity to rebuild those family ties. As Lucy frantically tries to save the family's fortune, she pushes against her mother's desire for a good marriage and wrestles with her own feelings for Charlie who she has dubbed the enemy. Meanwhile he wrestles with feelings of inadequacy as the dual narration takes us deep into both of their heads.

Favorite moment was definitely when sweet, nice Winnie Compton had a conversation about God with Charlie that poked at my thoughts about the God who Is versus the God I want. Charlie thinks that there should be more to the process of God forgiving him but Winnie teaches him that that's not how God works. Winnie later has a similar conversation with Lucy. I heard a sermon about that and then this book just magnified those thoughts. Regardless this book didn't feel very heavily Christian to me. Neither main character particularly likes attending church and although there is a pivotal scene of understanding in a church, I think non-Christian readers who like historical fiction would be fine with this book.

Second favorite moment would have to be reading about the actual history of candymakers, which was an intensely competitive field (see Charlie and the Chocolate Factory for a taste). The author's note at the end gives a little bit of insight in to this exciting time period.

Do you see what I don't mention? I didn't say anything about liking the main characters or their romance. That's because I didn't really like them. Lucy is incredibly obsessed with candy making and very naive about a couple of plot twists even as I yelled at her about what was occurring. Charlie wavers a lot on principles and what really matters (especially the lip service he pays to his mother and all her hard work while eagerly absorbing himself in his father's shady business practices). I found the writing and plot compelling enough but I really didn't like the characters and that dragged down the whole book.

Iscariot

Iscariot by Tosca Lee
4/5 stars
Howard Books, 2013
314 pages
Adult Christian Historical Fiction

Source: Received an e-copy via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

I read Lee's Havah previously, which focused on Eve and the Garden of Eden. I remember seeing at that time that Lee was working on a novel focusing on Judas Iscariot so I've been waiting for that to be released and it is finally here! Does Lee bring you to understand and/or sympathize with the traitor?

The beginning of the book certainly leads to empathy as young Judas' family is ripped apart in the face of Roman oppression. He lose his father and older brother while his mother turns to prostitution to keep them alive. As Judas grows up, he struggles with his feelings of guilt over his family's path. Then he hears about a mysterious Nazarene who with one look pierces Judas and brings him on an unforgettable journey.

By far my favorite part of this book was reading about Jesus (no surprise as my favorite biblical stories are also all about Jesus) in that Lee tells some of the familiar scriptural stories but as seen by Judas. The love that is Jesus brought me to tears several times-he heals leprosy, paralysis, and blindness. Judas' descriptions here bring home how revolutionary Jesus was and how he didn't meet the expectations of the Jewish leaders who were looking for a messiah. They wanted a man to take up arms and forcibly destroy Roman rule and instead they got a man who hangs out with lowly fishermen and the despised tax collectors and prostitutes, a man who talks in parables instead of learned language, and a man who does not bow down to them. Of course I already knew that I loved Jesus but I would say this helped me fall ever deeper.

What I didn't like about this book was the beginning focusing on the childhood of Judas just because I didn't really care. I can see how that was supposed to give Judas more depth and lay the foundation for why he eventually betrays Jesus but I really just wanted to read about Jesus' ministry.

Meanwhile I originally had disappointment about the ending, which I thought would force Judas to bear witness to Jesus' crucifixion (I might be a bit fuzzy on when he hung himself). When I read it for a second time, I was much more content. It is a meditative reflection with Judas recognizing that he will be remembered as a traitor but that Jesus still loves him. That Jesus does not conform to our pat assumptions and expectations but is instead so much more. That Jesus came for us.

Overall: A really fascinating book and recommended to read during the lead-up to Easter for Christians. What expectations of yours might be overturned?

Every Perfect Gift

Every Perfect Gift by Dorothy Love
4/5 stars
Thomas Nelson Books, 2012
320 pages
Christian Historical Romance
Book #3 in Hickory Ridge trilogy

Source: Received a free copy for review from the publisher via Booksneeze.

My reviews of Beyond All Measure and Beauty for Ashes

Well, I read the first two books in this series so I was certainly invested in returning. Our heroine this time is orphan Sophie Robillard, who was adopted by Ada and Wyatt at the end of the first book. She has now grown into a fine young woman who struggles with her lack of knowledge about her blood relations and the subsequent torments she endured. Her ambition is to return to Hickory Ridge and revitalize their newspaper in the wake of the building of Blue Smoke Resort.

One of the first people she encounters is Ethan Heyward, who is in charge of getting Blue Smoke built along with his wealthy senior partner Howard Blakely. Although the pair clash initially due to her willingness to report on the less than ideal living conditions, a mutual respect develops. But both have big family secrets that have left scars threatening their future.

Sophie is a lovely woman-she is strong and tenacious. I love her go-getting ways, feminism, and optimism (it's 1886 and she's sure woman's suffrage is only a matter of time-try 34 years away!) As a writer, she has a commitment to the truth and trying to help people, which does in a variety of ways. Ethan was a bit harder to get to know since Sophie is the focus but he is also an upstanding hard worker and the pair are well-matched.

As the two fall for each other, more obstacles crop up with some well-resolved and others less resolved to my taste. Still, I think this was my favorite of the series and if you've read the others, you'll certainly want to read this one.

Cover: I do really love this cover-the white is so striking and pretty although something with newspaper might have been more fitting.

The Irresistible Revolution

The Irresistible Revolution: Living as an Ordinary Radical by Shane Claiborne
5/5 stars
Zondervan, 2006
367 pages
Adult Christian Non-fiction

Source: B-day present :)

This is going to be a shorter review since it's Saturday, it's non-fiction, and it was just amazing so I don't have any nits to pick. My very good friend gifted this to me for my birthday since she knows what a reader I am but that I don't really read a lot of non-fiction. Claiborne is one of her favorite authors and I'm excited to have been introduced to him.

Favorite Quote: "I have pledged allegiance to a King who loved evildoers so much he died for them...teaching us that there is something worth dying for but nothing worth killing for." (pg 365)

Trying to decide where exactly to start is quite difficult as the book covers a lot of ground following Claiborne's life as a Christian, from his inauthentic conversion as a youth, accepting something he didn't fully understand and tracing his adult life searching for that authentic faith and disturbing his comfortable lifestyle for something Christlike. It's a history but it's also a calling to work and an inspiration for where to go. The overwhelming impression I have is of the fire in Shane as he reaches out to us, very personally, trying to shake us up especially good for me as I had become somewhat complacent in the waning days of 2012. Additionally I found his writing style just very smooth and engaging even when it made me uncomfortable, either because I knew he was calling me out in a way I needed to be challenged or because I didn't entirely agree with him.

The other theme I would like to touch on is the seeming contradiction in the subtitle "an ordinary radical." How do those seemingly opposite words fit together in Claiborne's vision? Well he traces the word "radical" back to its origins in "root" and sees it as utterly fitting that his lifestyle is now more in line with that of those in the early church. If it seems odd to contemporary Western Christians, then that's more a reflection of the culture in which we immerse ourselves; it would seem typical to disciples in the early church. There are lots of other educational passages in this book and all together it was an excellent read and very jolting.

Thank you very much Kim :)

The Tutor's Daughter

The Tutor's Daughter by Julie Klassen
4/5 stars
Bethany House, 2013
409 pages
Adult Historical Christian Romance

Source: Received an e-ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

I had read an earlier title by Klassen (The Girl in the Gatehouse) and was primed to enjoy another title from her, having liked her homages to Jane Austen. As an Austenite, I am always happy to read other books with references to the time and even events of Austen's plots. Additionally I liked the title's hint at something involving education while also including romance obviously.

Let's start with a wide view of this book. Emma, the titular tutor's daughter, wishes to help her widowed father regain a connection to the outside world. Thus she writes to the father of former pupils and he is contracted as a private tutor for his two youngest sons, bringing Emma along as an assistant. Before too long, all the sons of the family are at the manor in addition to the lord, lady, lady's ward, and servants. But there are many mysteries within this house...can Emma unravel them all, including which of the charming brothers is worth her heart?

Readers of the book will notice distinct plot plots akin to those of beloved novels Sense and Sensibility as well as Jane Eyre. Sure enough, Klassen references her love in the author's note at the end. Fear not-though on the surface, there are similarities but they play out vastly differently. I especially liked the plot that reminded me of Jane Eyre specifically because of the differences that helped to shake up this otherwise pretty predictable story. Sorry for not being more specific but I'm trying to avoid spoilers.

I guess there's also a bit of Pride and Prejudice as the tutor's daughter Emma had a very negative first impression of Henry that caused her to hold a grudge but this reunion allows him the opportunity to demonstrate maturity. I found Emma a little bit too perfect, lacking the rough edges that allow you to feel like you could be the character or like you know someone like her. I guess maybe she's a little rigid in her opinions but she doesn't have that indefinable spark for me.

One last element to mention is the Christian elements. I personally didn't find them to be very present at all but that is how it is classified and someone who is not Christian may find it to be too much. Emma does not have much faith but through some circumstances in the book, as well as her love interest, she does develop more faith.

Overall: Leisurely paced historical chaste-romance novel-definitely great for fans of Klassen's other work!

Lovelier Than Daylight

Lovelier Than Daylight by Rosslyn Elliott
4.5/5 stars
Thomas Nelson, 2012
350 pages
Adult Historical Christian Romance

Book 1: Fairer than Morning
Book 2: Sweeter Than Birdsong

Source: Received a copy through Booksneeze in exchange for an honest review.

Book 3 in this trilogy picks up in 1875 with the niece of book 1's couple. Susanna arrives to attend college at Otterbein only to discover her sister's kids have been dropped off at orphanages and her sister has disappeared. Additionally a man is attempting to open a tavern in the dry town much to the ire of the temperance movement there.

I loved that alcohol and temperance played such a big role here. I did think that it leaned a little heavily on the extreme pro-temperance side (since that is Susanna's belief and she is the main character); keep in mind, that aligns with my own beliefs and even I thought it was a little extreme. But we also have a strong voice arguing for the allowance of alcohol in the person of Johann Giere, son of a brewer who is an aspiring journalist and whose feelings for Susanna put them in constant contact. There are other voices on both sides but those are the most prominent. Another historical plot aspect was the power of journalism to effect social change. Although this isn't a major thread, newspaper stories provide important documentation about the battle over alcohol and other abuses. We're in a golden period of journalism here!

Johann is a good man and their romance was so sweet. I've read the previous books and this was definitely my favorite romance. I loved the short courtship and the way that sharing their first names was such an intimate act. Although I'm a modern woman, I have idealized some of the old-fashioned mores and this romance was a great example of that.  They both placed such value and caution on pursuing this relationship in contrast to some more casual treatments of relationships in some YA novels.

However what really got me and lifted up this book was near the end when Susanna is challenged in her faith. She realizes she was acting out of righteousness rather than with the love and mercy of Jesus. The example of her aunt Ann and uncle Will was pivotal in her recognition of this fact as were interactions with her sister and Johann. It moved me to tears and caused me to reflect-a great combination.

Overall: If you like these categories (Christian historical), I would highly recommend this. I hope if you've read the other books, you also enjoy this one. This can be read as a standalone but I think the rich historical background of the others would add to your reading experience.

Cover: I really like this cover-I think the pop of yellow makes this my favorite cover of the trilogy.

Strong and Stubborn

Strong and Stubborn by Kelly Eileen Hake
4/5 stars
Barbour, 2012
311 pages
Inspirational Historical Romance
Book #3

Source: Received an e-ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

After reading Rugged and Relentless and Tall, Dark, and Determined, of course I had to finish the trilogy! And I'm so glad I did as Naomi's story ended up being my favorite. I think this is because of my deep fondness for her as someone sensible who tries to hide in the background even though she shines.

This book again overlaps with the end of the previous book, quickly integrating the male romantic interest Michael Strode into the Hope Falls community as he steps up to help rescue Lacey and Dunstan from the mine cave-in. His dedication to helping out and skills in carpentry earn him a place and he quickly falls for Naomi, as who wouldn't? But both have secrets to hide.

Naomi has a tortured relationship with her sister that is further fractured when said sister shows up in town to drive a spike into her sister's heart (figuratively but I wouldn't put it past the girl to do so literally). Her malice was incredible and heart-breaking. Meanwhile Michael was essentially bought by his in-laws to give their fallen daughter the protection of his name and he is still fighting the guilt from this bad first marriage. The two have their secrets and they're aren't fully addressed in the book although I trust that the two will work it out behind the scenes as the ending is very rushed.

Another change that was rushed was Braden Lyman, who has been a HUGE jerk for the previous two books as well as for about 250 pages of this book. The last 50-ish pages finally show him starting to wise up but it was just not enough time to redeem him after the way he behaved like such a massive jerk earlier.

There also weren't enough scenes of all four ladies interacting, which was my favorite part of Rugged and Relentless but that's understandable as the ladies continue to put their efforts toward building the town as well as building lives with their chosen partners. The men who aren't chosen continue to be lovably adorable or jerks in need of reminding the score.

Overall: A sweet conclusion to the stories; very similar in structure to the other books (rushed resolution especially). I think it can be read out of order but is probably best enjoyed in order.

Dawn Comes Early

Dawn Comes Early by Margaret Brownley
4/5 stars
Thomas Nelson, 2012
341 pages
Adult Christian Historical Romance

Source: Received an ARC through Amazon Vine in exchange for an honest review.

Having read Brownley's previous series Rocky Creek Romance, I knew that I enjoyed her writing and was eager to pick up another romance set in the West. This time we journey to the Arizona Territory in 1895, getting a glimpse into ranch life.  Although I don't usually seek out non-Regency romances, I will admit to a fondness for these interconnected trilogies.

Our heroine is Boston-bred Kate Tenney, disgraced novelist whose latest book was banned by the prudish Boston watchdogs and who worked hard every day of her life to be able to afford an education. She travels out west for the opportunity to become an heiress to a cattle ranch; the main condition is to remain forever unmarried, something that does not sound difficult due to Kate's abysmal examples of parents. All that she has seen is bad marriages where the men don't stick around and why would she want that?

Upon arrival, Kate is assaulted by an outlaw, saved by the swoony hero, and begins her much more difficult than expected life at the ranch. But she has tenacity and is determined not to let anything get in the way. Not even the very upstanding Luke Adams, blacksmith and all-around good guy, who doesn't see why a lady of learning would be interested in a plainspoken man like him.

I would (and in fact did) categorize this as a romance and yet there isn't that much interaction between the two. Immediately there is a frisson between the two but they don't share many conversations. They barely get to know each other. We spend more time following Kate's rejuvenated writing career, a subplot with the aforementioned outlaw, and some focusing on Luke's aunts, who are admittedly a kick. One decides to put the passion in her marriage and ends up thinking her husband is two-timing her, which doesn't sound funny but it was.

Overall: Although I would have liked more romance and more discussion of faith, this book hit all the right beats for me. I'm very excited for second book Waiting for Morning.

 

A Lady in the Making

A Lady in the Making by Susan Page Davis
4/5 stars
Barbour Publishing, 2012
318 pages
Adult Christian Historical Romance

Source: Received an e-ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Although this is technically book 3 in the Prairie Dreams series, I felt very comfortable slipping into the world. Would my appreciation of the supporting characters have been deepened had I read the previous books? Certainly but I do not think my enjoyment of this book was hampered at all. Rather, I am now eager to go back and visit the earlier books especially to catch glimpses of the hero and heroine from this book. The book shifts perspectives among four characters, focusing primarily on Millie, striking out on her own, and David, a new earl who was previously conned by Millie posing as a woman named Charlotte.

One thing I didn't like amid the shifting perspectives was David's cousin's wife's pov. She is a grasping woman eager for social advancement even at the expense of David's life (apparently she tried to have him killed in a previous novel). Although her motives are partially to serve her son's interests and I do respect that, I was disgusted with the lady's malice, which it sounds like she has exercised across the three books. Although the ending serves to establish that she will never get to be countess nor will her son be earl, I wish she could have received more punishment for her cruel ways.

A related character is her weak-willed brother Peregrin Walmore (what a name, eh!), a less conniving person because oh so frequently distracted by drink and gaming but easily recruited into a plot against David after a night gone wrong. I did feel bad for him a little bit because he seems pretty passive . He actually kind of reminds me of Mr John Dashwood, who could be a good man if given support but is instead led astray. He'll get his just desserts.

I would have preferred if the antagonist had been Millie's brother and his gang who can't believe Millie is turning her back on them and who have no intention of reforming. However they disappear early in the book, never to return.

For me, one of the most satisfying aspects of the book is Millie's heart transformation. Formerly a conwoman and accomplice, Millie has truly reformed. The ways she proves this change and her new found relationship with Christ would especially please those who have read the earlier books and know the many reasons why she needs grace. Because they've been hurt before, Millie and David are both guarded people but I enjoyed seeing their defenses fall down and the last sections of their happiness were just excellent to me (they reminded me of my beloved Regency romances).

Overall: Just a sweet Christian historical fiction with a bit of a western tinge but also British society-an unusual merging but a cute one :)

Cover: I like the green and how it matches the previous covers.
 

This Scarlet Cord

This Scarlet Cord by Joan Wolf
2/5 stars
Thomas Nelson, 2012
303 pages
Inspirational Historical Romance

Source: Received an e-ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

After enjoying Wolf's retelling of the story of Esther in A Reluctant Queen, I eagerly anticipated her next book especially as I've read some other retellings of Rahab and enjoyed them. I really do love reading about the women who are listed in the genealogy of Jesus.

BUT. I really struggled with the first part, which is titled "First Meeting" and introduces Rahab and Sala (Salmon being a name that has unfortunate connotations for most modern readers as Wolf explains) as young people. I was not sure why this was included as it is never shown that the two had met before their story is told in Joshua and it seemed like a weird padding to the story. I also found it very slow-going, which meant it took me longer than usual to finish this book.

However despite my misgivings, I decided to plunge ahead only to dislike more and more. Now obviously there are going to be changes when taking a short story and expanding it to novel-length, adding elements to appeal to a contemporary audience. But I didn't like that Rahab and Sala already knew each other from childhood and basically had insta-love; I also didn't like that Rahab was not a prostitution but merely considered one due to her culture by the Hebrews. The other ding against this novel is how much I loved Pearl in the Sand, a different retelling of the story of Rahab. Because of the strong impression it left on me, I constantly compared this book and whenever something was different, thought it was "wrong."

I don't want to sound completely negative because there were some things I liked. First was the political maneuvering of Jericho's royal family and the presentation of their belief in Baal, deeply entwined. I found this fascinating to learn about. Second was that I really liked Rahab's sister-in-law whose longing for a child and pain over her barrenness sends her into the arms of Yahweh.

Overall: Shaky beginning and my mental comparison to a different retelling left me decidedly not in love with this book.

Beauty for Ashes

Beauty for Ashes by Dorothy Love
4/5 stars
Thomas Nelson, 2012
325 pages
Christian Historical Romance

Source: Received an ARC through the Amazon Vine program in exchange for an honest review.

Last year I read Beyond All Measure and enjoyed how faith was incorporated into the book while also mostly liking the historical setting of just post-Civil War. So I eagerly snapped up this next book, a companion novel set in the same small town but focusing on different characters. I feel like it could be read as a standalone but since I've read the first book, I'm not the best source.

It has been four more years, long and lonely ones for the widow Carrie Daly whose elder brother has recently decided to take a wife, the insufferable Mary, mother to two rambunctious boys. After repeated instances of disrespect, Carrie is fed up and leaves, attempting to make her own way in the struggling town of Hickory Ridge. Meanwhile she attempts to fight her feelings for charming Griff Rutledge, master horseman who has no intentions of settling down. Can these two people follow God's plan for their lives and find their way to each other?

This book actually follows a lot of physical movement on the part of Carrie in addition to her emotional changes. First she lives with her brother, then she moves out and ekes out a living through several odd jobs in town before returning to live with her new family. It is a hard life that is described, not just because of the historical time period, rural setting, and Depression-era economy. I felt so overwhelmingly grateful for my life after reading this. All the work that Carrie must do just to ensure that everyone has the basic necessities while their meager Christmas celebration especially brought home just how fortunate I am.

A large element of this book is the romance but there are many sections of the book where all Carrie and Griff do is stare after the other. I enjoyed the scenes when they were together as Griff has charm to spare and I was heavily invested in Carrie's well-being, which would be improved by a relationship with Griff. It just took a really long time for that to be the centerpiece. I think part of that is because both Carrie and Griff need to have their character changed in some ways before they are ready for each other. But it left me a bit disappointed.

Overall: Some beautiful lessons in faith but there are definitely some slow moments that may frustrate other readers.

Cover: I love the green dress, the hat, and the horse, the latter two which are plot elements of the book. I don't remember the green dress featuring but it doesn't really matter.

Sweeter Than Birdsong

Sweeter Than Birdsong by Rosslyn Elliott
4/5 stars
Thomas Nelson, 2012
378 pages
Christian Historical Romance

Source: Received a copy from Amazon Vine in exchange for an honest review.

Last year I read Fairer Than Morning and liked it so I was excited to give the second book a try. This time we jump ahead to 1855 in Ohio with the protagonists of that book still playing an important role in anti-slavery efforts including aiding fugitive slaves in defiance of the Fugitive Slave Act and writing an anti-slavery song that ends up being compared to Uncle Tom's Cabin in terms of impact. So it's pretty exciting for a history nerd to read about these events on the brink of the Civil War (including several characters predicting that the country can't hold).

My big disappointment with Fairer Than Morning was expecting more of a romance than I got. I only remembered that when I reread my review so I didn't really have expectations when reading this book. Happily I thought there was a bit more romance although it was definitely of a slow-burning quiet kind as both participants need to conduct themselves by the codes of society.  What we got was very sweet and made me very happy :)

The male is Ben Hanby, son of Fairer Than Morning's love story, musical genius, and committed to a future in the clergy.  The only thing dissuading him from that potential future is the lovely Kate Winter, one of the first female students at Otterbein College, whose society mama has higher expectations than a future pastor. Kate's shyness and awful family life, meanwhile, have her plotting escape until an encounter with a runaway slave jolts her from her plans.

I did think there could have been more about Kate's family life. Her father's a drunk, her mother regrets her decision to leave Philadelphia society, and her younger sister has been emotionally scarred by their toxic home but while the mother's thoughts and feelings are partially explained, the other two are not really talked about. Since Kate's home is so formative to her character, I think it would have been good to have more insight into it.

I thought the historical elements were very well done. I'm not too familiar with the time period but the way that slavery was woven into the story was fantastic. Some of the most exciting and tense passages revolved around fugitives and the simmering conflict among Americans is well-emphasized. I thought the Christian aspect was also well-done. I would definitely not describe it as preachy but instead it was very well-incorporated and sprang organically from the characters themselves.

Overall: An intense historical read about a time period that doesn't always get much attention.

Cover: Hmm, I don't know. I like the hoop skirt (crinolines get a good shout-out in the book) but it doesn't entirely click for me. It's not bad but it's not great to me.

A Path Toward Love

A Path Toward Love by Cara Lynn James
4/5 stars
Thomas Nelson, 2012
307 pages
Inspirational Historical Romance

Source: Received an e-ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

I wasn't sure about this book as the time period setting is not my usual (early twentieth-century America) and with a not pretty dress on the cover. But I decided to give it a try and I'm glad I did.

I found this book compulsively readable. I'd pick it up to read a chapter or two and then discover I had read a hundred pages or more. I just could not stop because I had to know more. This was a little odd as I found the characters flat and the story very predictable. But I could not put it down.

Katherine Osborne is a young widow whose husband's profligacy has left her struggling to manage her inherited orange groves. Her wealthy parents want her to return to New York, rejoin society, and make a brilliant match befitting their status. Katherine is wooed back for a summer by the promise of a loan to save her groves but is still intent on returning to Florida. Another persuasion is Andrew, an attorney who is socially beneath her and is in fact cousin to the man who has been earmarked to her. Yet Katherine has no interest in him, feeling drawn to Andrew despite the many obstacles placed in their way by her snobbish mother.

Obviously that is the main couple and their developing relationship takes up a great part of the book. I thought is was very sweet and I loved their cuteness. However I was less enthused about their conflicts which I found repetitive and tired. Katherine can't decide if she should pursue another romantic relationship after the mess of her first marriage; she's also still struggling with parental and societal expectations. Andrew did not seem to have much of a personality beyond his long-time love for Katherine and his faith in God, both qualities I like in a hero but I need someone with a bit more pizzazz. The other characters were similarly cookie-cutter and flat.

Still, rated highly for my inability to put the book down even as I listed the problems I had it with and the sweetness of the main romance.

Cover: I think it's really bleh-I like bright eye-catching colors but this one is so plain.