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14 June 2018

Giveaway: Andrea Stephens' review of "Shenandoah Hearts" by Carrie Fancett Pagels


"Shenandoah Hearts" by Carrie Fancett Pagels novella in The Backcountry Brides Collection (Barbour, May 2018)

Andrea Stephens' review of "Shenandoah Hearts"
First, I have to say I had the distinct pleasure of being a beta reader for this novella. I loved the story when I read it the first time. It was fun to see the subtle changes and final edits when I read this published version, making me love it even more. Carrie Fancett Pagels does not disappoint with this fictional telling of the beginnings of the French-Indian war.

The main story is about Magdalene and Jacob. They worked together in a shop in Philadelphia, each
having unspoken feelings for the other. Magda moved with her family to the Shenandoah Valley where three of her brothers have built a cabin for the entire family. Jacob is enticed by his brothers to join the same wagon train and move himself, ending up close to where Magda and her family have settled. I loved the back and forth flirting between Magda and Jacob. The family banter and teasing by both of their families. Magda's ailing mother even says to her “You and that Jacob are just alike in keeping your feelings too...too close...”

Magdalene was all to aware of their different stations in Philadelphia but “out here in the valley, by these blue mountains, those differences in status seemed to disappear.” No spoilers but just when I thought they would get together, the war begins and everyone from the surrounding settlements move within the walls of the fort. Despite the tension and all the hard work war brings, the romance develops and feelings grow. There are also some surprises for other family members as well.

I loved this story and was very satisfied with the epilogue. Honestly, a tear escaped my eye and fell onto the last page.

I highly recommend it to all.

You can read a clip of the collection by clicking here!

Blurb: Shenandoah Hearts by Carrie Fancett Pagels
1754 - Great Wagon Road, into the Shenandoah Valley (Virginia)
As the French-Indian War commences, Magda Sehler wonders if Jacob Owens lost his mind to have abandoned his Philadelphia business and moved to the Shenandoah Valley. Or has he lost his heart?

Check out the Christmas Anthology associated with Carrie's story on the Colonial Quills group blog (Click Here).

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GIVEAWAY: We're giving away a copy of The Backcountry Brides Collection this week -- leave a comment on today's review and on Carrie's post on having branches trimmed for two entries.

23 comments:

  1. I love collections and this one sure sounds great! mauback55 at gmail dot com

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    1. This is a great historical collection. I loved it!
      Thanks for stopping by, Melanie.

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  2. I want this book so bad I drool when I see it, lol. Thank you for the chance to win a copy.

    wfnren at aol dot com

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    1. I've drooled over wanting books a few times too.
      I hope you get a chance to read this one soon, Wendy.

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  3. Oh Andrea, your review of this book makes me want to run right out & buy it! I've been a fan of Carrie's for quite a while now & she never disappoints! Thanks so much for sharing with us!

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    1. Thanks, Robin. I loved each novella in this book. Carrie's was extra special to me.

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  4. Sounds like a great read.
    Marilyn

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    1. Sounds like a great read.
      MarilynDKC[at]AOL[dot]com

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    2. It is a great read, Marilyn. I hope you get to read it soon.

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  5. This is my kind of book.
    JoanEC128[at]AOL[dot]com

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  6. Any book written by Carrie Fancett Pagels is a winner.
    MarionMPC[at]AOL[dot]com

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    1. I agree! I've read all of Carrie's books and loved each one.

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  7. This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

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  8. Thanks for the review and giveaway. Can’t wait to read it!

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    1. You are welcome. I do hope you get a chance to read this wonderful collection soon.

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  9. Wonderful review, Andrea! These collections are a MUST read!

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    1. Hi, Caryl! I agree with you. These are a MUST read!
      Thanks for coming by.

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  10. Andrea, Nice review for Carrie's novella. I enjoy her stories. This is one collection I defnitely want to read and have on my bookshelf. Thank you for sharing.

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    1. Hi, Marilyn. This is a great historical collection, I'm sure you would enjoy reading.
      Thanks for stopping by.

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    2. Hi Marilyn! Per random.org you are our winner of a copy of Backcountry Brides! Congrats! Thanks for coming by OWG blog! Blessings and thanks for your kind words!

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  11. I'm so blessed and honored to win a copy of Backcountry Brides here on OWG. Blessings.

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