Pages

15 May 2014

Noela Nancarrow reviews CAUGHT IN THE MIDDLE by Regina Jennings

Caught in the Middle
Caught in the Middle
by Regina Jennings
Bethany House Publishers (April 1, 2014)

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow
5 Stars *****

Our life’s journey is rarely ever what we expect. Nicholas (Nick) Lovelace and Anne Tillerton both discover this truth in this fabulous historical romance. These two endearing characters suddenly find their lives propelled in completely different directions to the paths they were navigating their lives along. The unpredictability throughout this heartily entertaining novel will keep you guessing as you revel in watching this couple find each other, God, and their life’s purpose.

Anne, wrapped in her pistol-hiding loose green duster and wearing a floppy slouch hat, finishes off the ensemble with men’s britches and donning her smelly boots. She’d do whatever it takes to be invisible and cause people to keep their distance. With a harrowing past that has caused Anne to be untrusting of everybody and in particular men, her experiences have overshadowed every aspect of her life creating in it a lack of peace, relationships, and an often isolated, uneasy existence.
Anne was on the train to Garber, Texas, to hunt down the woman that was the cook for her buffalo-hunting friends back in Pushmatha, when an alarming incident happened that was the prelude to a life-changing series of events. I loved the character of Anne who was an exceptionally well-rounded character, hardened and feisty, yet with a vulnerability and innocence about her.

Nick, the hero of the story was a refreshing and charming character. He’s someone you’d love to know – being a man that listens and is forever patient whilst possessing a fantastic sense of humor as well! He’s also ambitious and driven but open to God’s leading. When he meets up with Anne on the train, he’s intrigued by her, finding other ladies of his acquaintance extremely dull in comparison. But when Nick steps onto the political trail, will this scruffily-dressed woman looking more like a man than a woman, hinder his chances of success? Nick is facing pressures from his employers and the corruption that raises its ugly head in the political arena. Suddenly his life isn’t so clear cut and Nick and Anne find themselves caught in the middle of their dreams, growing feelings, and a baby thrown in the mix! When Nick’s perfectly-orchestrated life gets messed up, will he still be willing to trust God? And will Anne ever come to the place where she can trust anyone, let alone God?

‘Caught in the Middle’ is immensely enjoyable and gratifying, with heart-rending moments that’ll have you in tears. It also delivers a timeless message of how easy it is to believe when things are going well, with the real test of our faith and trust in God unfolding when we go through difficult times. Highly recommended!
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * 

This book may be purchased through Amazon, CBD, Barnes & Noble and other great bookstores!

GIVEAWAY: This week we have two giveaways.  Regina is giving away a signed paperback (thank you, Regina!) and we are giving away winner's choice of any of Regina's books, choice of format. (USA only.)

QUESTION: Has your life ever taken a direction that was a surprise to you?


43 comments:

  1. I really do want to win one of Regina's book on here. I need it to go with my Sixty Acres and a Bride. Just maybe I will get lucky. You girls sure make it sound great. And, I'm sure it will be since Regina wrote it. Love to you OWG girls and to Regina. GOD bless each of you. Maxie mac262(at)me(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Regina's books just keep better and better Maxie, so if you loved that one you'll really love this! Don't forget Maxie there is a second book in the Ladies of Caldwell County series called Love In The Balance. But I'm pretty sure it'd be perfectly fine if you read them out of order. Love and hugs to you too Maxie!!

      Delete
  2. Thank you for sharing! I would love a chance to win a copy of one of Regina's books. Regina is a new author to me and would love to get to know her through her books. To answer your question, yes my life has taken a direction that was a surprise to me. I went through a hard time and could not see at the time why I was going through the trial but God showe me the blessing it could be to me and to others. ~ Blessings to you all! ~

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh hopefully you will win one of Regina's books LISA! But if you don't I highly recommend everyone puts them on their ToBeRead list! There are 2 others in this series, but they can be read as stand-alone's also.

      Isn't that just like God - often we only see what's in front of us but with God there is always more to it, and He will use everything we go through to strengthen us and serve His higher purposes! Thanks for sharing & God bless you also!

      Delete
  3. Such a lovely, descriptive review, NOELA, as always! My life has taken a different direction than I expected in 2014, but God is in control! The steps of a good man (or woman) are ordered by the Lord the Bible says... I'm so glad of that or I would be like a ship w/out a sail -- floundering to and fro...

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks dear DIANA for your kind words. We never do know what the year has in store for us do we, but I'm SO thankful that God is right there with us during all our trials! As He is with you during this difficult time. And as all of us who love you soooo much are as well. <3

      Delete
    2. My eyes just teared up. Thanks so much, Noela. I love you, too. You are a gem! <3

      Delete
  4. Wonderful review Sounds like a really interesting book What characters.
    Please have a terrific day
    God bless you
    Chris Granville
    granvilleATfrontiernetDOTnet

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you CHRIS, and didn't you just love the sound of Nick?!! I LOVED that man, er, character! ;) Anne was a real interesting one too!
      I'm heading off to bed now as it's just about midnight, but you have a fantastic day Chris. Blessings!!

      Delete
  5. Thanks for the review! This book sounds refreshingly unique. :)
    Many important events in my life have not been what I was expecting--but so far, it's all been good!
    The biggest surprise turn of my life was when my husband and I found out we were expecting. For years, we'd thought we couldn't have children and would someday adopt, and all of a sudden we were going to be parents. :)
    jennismith1983(at)gmail(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You're welcome JENNIFER! :) I do actually find Regina's books very refreshing in that they don't follow the common story-line of many historical romances. And with that comes an unpredictability that's exciting!

      Oh now that put a smile on my face Jennifer! I love babies, lol. What a wonderful surprise for you and your hubby!!! God bless!

      Delete
  6. Am entering a comment for VICKI MARNEY who is in Madrid, Spain right now, and can't seem to leave one on her ipad or PC! :(

    VICKI really enjoyed NOELA'S review (as did I!) and would love to be entered in the giveaway! We at OWG love your persistency, VICKI! Good luck in the drawing!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you for kindly helping out Vicki, DIANA! I see below that her hubby has been able to get it working again, yay! We need our technology working!! ;)

      Delete
  7. Thank you OWG. I finally got my internet to work on my laptop--Jon had to close out somethig he had tried on it and wasn't working and messed me up. ;-) There is good and bad about having a techie genius for a hubby sometimes. LOL

    Here is my answer to Noela's question. Two things popped into my head and the first was when I was diagnosed with breast cancer in Nov. 1994. That was a surprise that really changed my life for the following year and I pray God uses to minister to others, when I finish writing my Memoir.
    The 2nd would be the unexpected offer for a job change for my hubby, which gave us the opportunity to travel the world with his company (thus, why I am currently in Madrid). I never dreamed I would ever have the opportunity to go to Europe even once, not to mention multiple times this past 6 years. God has truly blessed us! It was also the travel with his company which allowed me to be able to reconnect with Diana after MANY years of not even knowing where each other was located--we were neighbors in S. California when we both had just one munchkin and then we both added our 2nd munchkin. Who would have ever thought that God would do such a small thing as reconnecting two friends?
    Vicki

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi VICKI, so glad you could 'connect' with us here again! I could tell by your msg how much you didn't want to miss out so immediately asked Diana to enter on your behalf. :)
      I can imagine how all those things would have been a huge shock, surprise, and even blessing... especially with the travel to Europe and being able to meet up with Diana again! Amazing the turns our lives take isn't it?! And I'm rejoicing with you on your 20th year of beating breast cancer. PTL!

      Delete
  8. So have wanted to read this book since I first saw it. A year ago if anyone would have told me that I would be reading and influencing for christian authors, I wouldn't have believed it, but here I am and it is wonderful. I also am doing products and homeschool reviews. God has used Christian Fiction in a mighty way in my life. Loved the review.
    Blessings
    Linda Finn
    Faithful Acres Books
    www.faithfulacres.net
    faithfulacresbooks@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It's the sorta book that really grabs your attention isn't it LINDA!! I was really keen to read it myself too, and wasn't disappointed when I did as it certainly lives up to the expectation you draw from the cover! :)
      I can so relate to you in the blessing AND surprise of being led into the field of reading and reviewing for Christian authors! For me it has also been a HUGE blessing to also gain some of the best friends I've ever had with these blog gals on OWG, some sweet author friends, and other beautiful people like yourself! God is good!! :)

      Delete
  9. My life has taken many surprising directions. I've learned to just go with it. God's in control and that's all that matters. Ü
    Cindi Altman
    cindialtman(at)gmail(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks for coming by CINDI to read about Regina's book.
      That's a pretty good attitude to have Cindi, lol, and isn't it so great to know that He IS in control and we don't have to stress!

      Delete
  10. Noela, I forgot to answer your question. Yes my life went in a different direction that totally surprised me. I married at 16 years and 1 week old fully expecting to stay in the small town where my folks lived. Then my asthma got much worse and the doctor suggested I move back to the part of Texas where I had moved from with my parents at 13. Well, I got pregnant right away, but had thought I would still be able to finish school with my mother babysitting my baby. BUT, it didn't happen when we had to move. My hubby made very little money and we only had one car and a baby, so that ended my schooling. I did have a sister living in the same town, but we lived across town and she didn't drive so she couldn't babysit either. It really did help tho that I had a sister in town. Also where we lived was near Houston, TX. and I had another sister and a brother living there, so GOD did know I wouldn't completely be without family. I was so thankful for that. But, sure missed my parents. Maxie

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you for sharing with us all MAXIE about that part of your life that took such a dramatic turn! You're an impressive gal Maxie and I so admire your strength! I was happy to hear you still had family around to help ease your separation from your parents because at that young age, I reckon we still need them, married or not. God bless you Maxie!!

      Delete
  11. Would love to win a copy of this book! Looks Awesome!
    I guess I would say yes to the question, but I can't really answer it in detail! :)
    God Bless!
    Thanks for the Giveaway!
    Abigail

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi ABIGAIL, well you are now in the draw to win a copy of this awesome book!! All the best with your entry and thanks so much for coming by to read about it! God bless you!

      Delete
  12. Thanks for the great review, Noela! I'm so glad you enjoyed Caught in the Middle! And it's so fun to be here with y'all again.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you REGINA, it was such a wonderful book to read. Hope you're enjoying reading everyone's comments!

      Delete
  13. Do you ever wonder what it would be like if our lives went as we planned? Life has it's interruptions :) Thank you for the great review, Noela. Regina, I pray great success on CAUGHT IN THE MIDDLE! Blessings to OWG!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi CARYL... I reckon it'd be way less interesting and whole lot more difficult! :) I'm more than grateful God especially interrupts our life's plans with a different one... His are always so much wiser!!

      Delete
  14. Thank you for sharing your lovely review, Noela! Life is certainly full of the unexpected, but it is wonderful to know that God is in control.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you BRITNEY! And yep, it sure is full of the unexpected, but it keeps us on our toes doesn't it?! We sometimes just need to remind ourselves that God's got the master-plan!

      Delete
  15. Wonderful review! I would love to read this!
    There has been many turns, surprises in my life. Some good and some not so good. But God is there even when we don't think he is. He knows what we need before we do.
    Thank you for the chance.
    Blessings to each of you!
    Wendy
    wendyshoults(at)gmail(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you WENDY, I hope you get the chance very soon! It's such an enjoyable book, as all of Regina's are.
      You're absolutely right - He is always there, on our good days and our bad ones! But wanting us to lean on Him too. God bless you Wendy from myself and the team!!

      Delete
  16. Yes I have , but it is good to know that God is always there for me . Love the interview . I have read Caught in The Middle
    And it is an awesome book . I would love to win one of Regina's books . Thanks
    lizd225(at)gmail(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi ELIZABETH, always love seeing you pop in to visit! I completely agree about Caught In the Middle, and her others are wonderful too. Hope you get to read them!
      Amen to how good it is to know that our Lord is there for us!! Hugs!

      Delete
  17. Has my life ever taken a direction that was a surprise to me, are you kidding?! When has it not?! From moving to Florida, at a time when I didn't know anyone living there but, I had to follow a very strong sense that God wanted me there to marrying and moving again to Washington State for the same reasons only to trust in God's direction, our faith in him....a surprise, that I did so...a surprise that I did a lot of what I love to do, places I saw giving me joy...not a surprise...a blessing!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks for coming by to share JUANITA! Indeed, how often these surprises turn out to be a great blessing!!

      Delete
  18. Oh my goodness, yes! When you've lived as long as I have, you've seen it happen many times. One example--When I was 18 and living in a small town, I was stopped at a stop sign. Two guys I was acquainted with hopped in my car. Neither were actually friends, so it was quite a surprise. A year and a half later, I was married to one of them. It was a funny way to "meet" my future husband.
    may_dayzee(at)yahoo(dot) com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. KAY, gosh when I began reading that I didn't know that two guys jumping in your car was going to turn out so good!! You had me going there for a bit! :) Thanks for sharing Kay!

      Delete
  19. I never thought that I would get laid off in March 2009, not finding another job. Then I went back to college to update my skills on the computer (from typing on an IBM typewriter Selectric, to word processor). : ) Than we almost lot our house, because I couldn't find work. Than I decided to put in GOD hands and them the bank (Chase) decide to work with us on home modification. That was two year ago. I still haven’t found a job in the field that I went back to college to do.

    As always, I put everything into God hands, and once again he led me to what I am doing now. Meeting and talking to people about health and fitness. I am a Beachbody Coach (health, fitness etc.), doing something that I love to do helping people. So I would say yes I was surprise at the director my life has gone. But without God, in my life where would I be now.

    Sorry, I got carry away, thank you for listening, and I would love to win a copy of Regina Jennings book.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. GAIL, thank you so much for coming by to share your inspiring story that just goes to show when all seems lost, God had been working on a plan all along!
      All the best with your entry to win Regina's wonderful book & God bless!

      Delete
  20. Wonderful review. I would love to win this book. It sounds like it's full of emotions.
    sonja.nishimoto at gmail dot com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you dear SONJA and I hope you get to read this wonderful book soon!!

      Delete
  21. I always love your beautifully descriptive reviews, Noela, - thank you!!

    I also love Regina's wonderfully unusual story lines!! I just received "Caught in the Middle" this week, I'm SO looking forward to reading it!! What a wonderful mix of story elements - humor, adventure, romance, and spiritual lessons learned!!

    As with other of the commenters - there have been many times my life has taken a direction that was a surprise to me!! I think that's truly what life is - a journey of unexpected surprises, some sad, yet ALL happy in the end (if we trust God's plans for us) - and I'm glad that it is!!

    I'm so blessed that God allowed me the second chance to follow His direction for me instead of the ones I chose - I made such a mess of my life doing things "my" way. But I'm also grateful that I don't know what direction His plans may take me in the future - it lets me avoid the chance of discouragement from the knowledge of future trials. However, despite the trials, there are always lessons God would have someone learn to draw him/her closer to Him. I have already witnessed some of the joys from His hand at work in my current recovery from a second cancer surgery. God is faithful - He never fails us!!

    Please enter my name to win another of Regina's books!!

    bonnieroof60(at)yahoo(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  22. Thank you dear BONNIE and thank you for always writing such thoughtful comments!!
    You hit the nail on the head when you wrote 'Regina's unusual storylines'... After reading Regina's novella today from 'A Match Made in Texas', I realized that's why I love her stories so! They always have the most interesting and unique story-lines!

    So glad you're now following His direction for your life Bonnie, it certainly makes life less complicated doesn't it?! And you're so right, there will always be trials but they can also be turned into blessings when we allow God to work through us. I'm so grateful you're going okay, I've been thinking about you, and I'll be keeping you in my prayers. God bless you!

    ReplyDelete

Google Analytics