Noela reviews SARATOGA LETTERS by Elaine Marie Cooper

Saratoga Letters

SARATOGA LETTERS

by Elaine Marie Cooper

Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas (October 4, 2016)

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow

5 Stars *****

Enthralling, Edgy, Emotive - A Fascinating Historical Romance

Author Elaine Cooper has fashioned an enthralling novel around the historically significant Battle of Saratoga. Authentic and emotive, this story is creatively paralleled from two different eras—two hundred years apart. From the bloody battlefield of the Revolutionary War during 1777 to modern-day 1977 and the commemoration of the Battle of Saratoga, this two-part story is connected through the ages by not only ancestry and other interesting similarities, but also heartbreak, danger, and enchanting romances.

Flame-haired patriot Abigail Gillingham is forced by her abusive, loyalist uncle to tend to the wounded of the King’s army in their hospital marquee. Thrust into the middle of mayhem and anguish, Abigail has no choice but to help the enemy that has invaded her country whilst keeping her patriotism secret. Amongst the trauma and human misery, a wounded corporal with intense blue eyes and a sympathetic, gentle nature—becomes her anchor and stirs up feelings she shouldn’t have. Will Abigail’s deception be discovered? Will she find freedom from her situation, audacious admirers, and her uncle? And can love between a Corporal and patriot survive or be felled like so many of the soldiers?

Two-hundred years later, circumstances bring American Abby Carpenter and British constable Ian Thacker together for the bicentenary celebrations of the Battle of Saratoga. As Abby and Ian unravel mysteries of the past, and deal with ominous threats in the present, will it help them to find a deeper connection? Or will the real battle be in their hearts?

Raw. Edgy. Realistic. Powerful. ‘Saratoga Letters’ tells of the reality of war, along with the hope and promise that faith and love carry. I had tears by the end of the third chapter but there were also plenty of smiles throughout—especially from the amusing moments arising from the modern-day couple’s culture differences and shared history. This was one of those captivating stories that will likely frustrate you when life gets in the way of reading! Highly recommended!

I received a copy of this book in return for my honest opinion.

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This novel may be purchased through AMAZON; BAM; B&N

TWO GIVEAWAYS: Elaine Marie Cooper is generously giving away a signed paperback copy of Saratoga Letters (US only) AND a Kindle copy! For your chance to WIN one of these, leave a comment below, making sure to leave your email written (at) and (dot) to protect yourself from spammers. 

Noela reviews SAVING THE MARQUISE'S GRANDDAUGHTER by Carrie Fancett Pagels

Saving the Marquise's Granddaughter

Saving The Marquise’s Granddaughter

by Carrie Fancett Pagels

Pelican Book Group (July 1, 2016)

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow

5 Stars *****

A beautifully written Historical Romance

Set in 1742 during yet another wave of brutal religious persecution in France and the Palatinate, ‘Saving the Marquise’s Granddaughter’ vividly portrays the tale of an aristocrat’s granddaughter’s arduous survival of both body and heart as she flees from tremendous danger and terrible betrayal.

Suzanne and Guillame Richelieu’s parents were Huguenots (French Protestants) and therefore needed to keep their family beliefs a closely guarded secret, but when their father was captured, the remainder of the family needed to immediately flee. Suzanne winds up alone and it is the handsome German peasant Johan Rousch, who comes to her rescue by bringing her to his family’s farm. Danger surrounds them as Suzanne is hunted. Johan must take her to the American colonies but will they even make it to the ship, let alone survive the horrendous conditions in the dark and fetid belly of the vessel?

Having lost his heart to his charming companion, Johan is compelled to marry Suzanne when she becomes gravely ill during their journey. He prays she will recover but wonders how this beautiful woman from a noble family can endure being no more than a slave while paying off their indenture for their voyage? How can he even stomach that his beloved is to be purchased?! When they reach Philadelphia and it becomes apparent that Suzanne has temporary amnesia, Johann is distressed to realize she can’t recall the wedding vows and that the priest on the ship may only be a surveyor. When the past catches up with them, will Johann lose Suzanne forever? Will Suzanne ever have her freedom, faith, and a family ever again?

The exquisite descriptive prose in this novel was such a joy to read; the imagery projecting hues, sights, and sounds. Likewise, the author’s adept way with words was wonderfully inspiring, as exhibited in this quote: “Why couldn’t she be like that? Betrayal; that was why—its offspring devoured her trust in others.” Not only was this story beautifully written, but the author has brought to life an era long past, replete with fascinating historical detail. The reader is left with a stirring message of trusting God when all seems bleak and a reminder for all to seek that personal relationship with the Lord. A gorgeous story, Carrie Fancett Pagels!

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'Saving the Marquise's Granddaughter' may be purchased from here:
CBD
Barnes & Noble
AMAZON
Kobo
Apple

GIVEAWAY: Winner's choice of ebook or paperback (releasing in July) format.

Noela reviews ROAD TO DEER RUN by Elaine Cooper

Road to Deer Run

Road to Deer Run
by Elaine Marie Cooper
CrossRiver Media Group; 2 Edition (November 1, 2015)

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow
5 Stars *****

Healing of the spirit, soul, and body... Along the road to Deer Run

I was ecstatic to have the chance to read this re-release of ‘Road to Deer Run’! It is one of those extraordinarily rare stories that imparts an enduring and stirring impression upon the heart of the reader. With ever-present fears, dramatic moments, and exquisite love replete throughout, this book will have you foregoing everything else as you traverse the road to Deer Run.

American colonist Mary Thomsen, barely nineteen, is grieving deeply for the loss of her younger brother Asa—cruelly taken by the war between the American colonies and the mother country. When Mary is out collecting oak leaves in the woods on her widowed mother’s land, she stumbles across a grossly injured and near-dying King’s soldier. Does Mary possess the compassion and bravery needed to help the enemy?

British Lieutenant Daniel Lowe, a prisoner of war, was marching towards Boston with his starving, wounded, and exhausted men. Fearing he’ll never survive what’s ahead, he makes a daring escape into nearby woods. Partially hidden in bushes, Daniel lies there exhausted, freezing, and waiting for death to spirit him away from this hell on earth. Before that transpires, an angel or perhaps the enemy by the name of Mary Thomsen, appears by his side.

Incapacitated on enemy soil, Daniel has no option other than to trust his guardian angel, but is he placing Mary and her patriotic family at terrible risk? In danger of also being wounded are the hearts of Daniel and Mary as they unsuccessfully endeavor to quell their burgeoning affection. Will the hostilities of war destroy this union when secrets begin to surface? What will become of this former redcoat during the birth of this new nation?

Riveting and realistic, ‘Road to Deer Run’ effortlessly ferries the reader back to 1777 to a much simpler life in Massachusetts, during the Revolutionary war. Fascinating history and a storyline based on fact, as well as one of the greatest love stories I’ve ever had the pleasure to read—makes this a book you don’t want to miss! Late nights, smiles, and tears are guaranteed!


*Thank you to Elaine Cooper and CrossRiver Media Group for a copy of Road to Deer Run for review purposes. The review is entirely my own opinion.*

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Available for purchase at these places: Amazon; Barnes & Noble; CrossRiver Media

GIVEAWAY: Elaine Cooper is generously giving away a paperback copy of Road To Deer Run to one blessed commenter! **Outside of US e-book only.** Leave your email to be eligible using the words (at) and (dot) to protect yourself against spammers.

Noela Nancarrow reviews ANNA'S CROSSING by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Anna's Crossing

Anna’s Crossing: An Amish Beginnings Novel

by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Revell (March 3, 2015)

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow

5 Stars *****

A beautiful story on moving forward.. 

Setting sail from Germany to the New World, a close-knit Amish community crosses wild and unpredictable oceans in their quest for freedom from oppression. The faith and character of these early Amish is profoundly tested as they confront the most deplorable living conditions, ferocious seas, and a variety of unscrupulous men. I felt privileged to accompany Anna König and the other believers on this fascinating historical journey, especially in being able to observe their responses to a harsh confinement upon a ship with ‘outsiders.’

Aboard ‘The Charming Nancy,’ a hardy, albeit old and creaky ship, the lovely Anna serves as the translator for her group. Bairn, the crew’s tall, commanding, top boatswain, is reluctantly but helplessly drawn to Anna. Mutual admiration soon blossoms into forbidden, if not impossible, love. Bairn’s grand ambitions of wealth, his lack of faith, and haunted past conflicts with the thoughtful and serene Anna’s deep, abiding faith, causing an insurmountable chasm between them. When Anna’s convictions threaten her very life, will it be enough to soften Bairn’s hardened sailor’s heart and can it be possible for their two vastly different worlds to collide?

Whether you typically read Amish or not, you will love this engaging story and find it impossible to put down! The exceptionally descriptive imagery ignites all the senses and will have you living inside the pages. The characters are brilliantly crafted, their personalities unfolding in depth and layers. Aside from the charismatic heroes of the story, the young, red-haired Amish boy, Felix, completely captured my heart with his inquisitive and mischievous, yet charming nature. Each page throughout this intriguing voyage is a treat with surprising revelations, suspense, and romance. And the takeaway theme of trusting in God no matter the circumstances creates an altogether ‘not-to-be-missed’ read! Highly recommended!!  

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This book may be purchased from Amazon; CBD; Barnes & Noble; and other bookstores.

GIVEAWAY: A copy of 'Anna's Crossing' - your choice of format, to one blessed commenter! (International winners - ebook only)

Diana Reviews ANNA'S CROSSING By Suzanne Woods Fisher

Anna's Crossing By Suzanne Woods Fisher

Revell, 2015

Reviewed By Diana Flowers

~5 Stars*****

Absolutely Riveting!
 

Suzanne Woods Fisher has penned a powerfully moving, emotive tale -- that takes the reader from the peaceful, sheep grazing hills and valleys of Germany, to a dank, foul-smelling merchant ship traversing the Atlantic Ocean.
 

It is the year 1737 and lovely Anna Konig reluctantly sets sail on the Charming Nancy with her fellow Amish believers to the New World. Nothing could prepare her for the hardships she and the others have to endure during the long, arduous journey. Overcrowded, malodorous quarters, illness, and lack of good food and water test Anna's faith to the limit. Only the ship's carpenter, Bairn, makes the journey bearable for Anna, in spite of the fact that Bairn disdains her God and her people's way of life. Bairn is drawn to Anna's pure beauty, gentleness, and wisdom beyond her years, but knows he can never have her for his own. Will Bairn's shocking, secret discovery change everything...even the course of his well mapped out life? 
 

Suzanne Woods Fisher has truly established herself as an award winning author with this new fiction-based-on-fact release! I am amazed at the amount of historical research that went into writing this book...and how well the author transferred that research into a fiction story that will leave readers mesmerized! The addition of a tender, slowly simmering romance, and an ornery, mischievous secondary character, prevents the story from becoming too dark and depressing. Not only is this little guy a charmer, but he's bound to elicit a chuckle or two from you as well, I promise! Anna's Crossing is an awesome story of faith, hope, and redemption. Be sure to order your copy today!

 

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This book may be purchased through CBD, Amazon, and your local book stores.
 

 GIVEAWAY: A copy of Anna's Crossing (choice of format) to one blessed commenter! (International winners ebook only.)

Noela Nancarrow reviews SO TRUE A LOVE by Amber Lynn Perry

So True a Love

So True a Love

by Amber Lynn Perry

Liberty Publishing

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow

5 Stars *****

On the road to freedom..

Colonial America on the road to revolution was a period of great upheaval for the colonists, mattering not whether they were patriots or loyal to the King. The strained tensions and danger were escalating by the day. In ‘So True a Love’, during the year 1775, we obtain a glimpse of General Gage’s historical small but rapid strikes on the colonist’s ammunition reserves. While the hits were fairly minor and carried out covertly, the effects were major and affected the lives of all concerned. Amidst such turmoil, could liberty and love ever hope to prevail?

The sweet and charming Kitty Campbell who characteristically wears her emotions on her sleeve, is put to the test after witnessing a serious crime against the patriots. She’s blackmailed into not only remaining silent but is also forced to assist her fellow loyalist Tories in their grievous mission. Having only recently moved to Sandwich, Massachusetts to escape the growing danger in Boston, Kitty is thrilled to be back again with her sister and brother-in-law, even though they are staunch patriots. But with serious threats overhanging her, how will Kitty manage to contain these burdensome secrets when they are tearing her apart? To fail however, is something that she cannot permit.

Doctor Nathaniel Smith is passionate and fiercely loyal in his stance as a patriot, working as a committee chairman for the cause. Strikingly handsome with a fine physique and a magnetism that easily charms women, Nathaniel is torn when realizing he has deep affections for a Kitty, a Tory! Unable to reconcile the differences, Nathan must fight against his disloyal heart. Seeing Kitty tortured through her secrets however, batters his feelings and tears at his resolve. Will Nathaniel and Kitty ever get beyond their barriers to find liberty in life and in love? Or will they be robbed of everything as the danger mounts and secrets are revealed?

Amber Lynn Perry has written an exceptional novel that sings! The passion of love, fear, and strong belief that infused the pages of ‘So True a Love’ left me breathless and completely lost within the story. Flowing in action, drama, faith, and heart-rending emotion, you’ll have to remember to take a breath now and then. Highly recommended!!

(Note - Can definitely be read as a stand-alone, but may be enhanced by reading book one 'So Fair A Lady' first.) 

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You may purchase 'So True a Love' at Amazon!

GIVEAWAY: Amber Lynn Perry is generously giving away both a paperback and e-book copy of 'So True A Love'! If you would like to win one of these, leave a comment after the review, and please include your email if we don't know you!

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Teresa S Mathews reviews The Pursuit of Tamsen Littlejohn by Lori Benton

The Pursuit of Tamsen Littlejohn

By Lori Benton

Waterbrook Press 2014

Reviewed by Teresa S. Mathews

5 Stars*****

Lori Benton has once again woven a hauntingly beautiful love story that drew me in from the very beginning.Tamsen Littlejohn is not happy with the fact her cruel stepfather is pushing her into a marriage with a man she knows little about but for her mother's sake she agrees to meet the man.

Ambrose Kincaid was not at all what Tamsen was expecting; he was handsome, even if he did have fiery red hair, quite charming with his Virginia accent and he was completely smitten by Tamsen's exquisite beauty. Perhaps this arrangement could have worked out until Tamsen sees what she thinks is Mr. Kincaid's cruelty to his slaves. Thinking he must be made of the same cloth as her abusive step-father she abruptly leaves him in the restaurant and rushes back home.

Jesse Bird has heard the story of how he became part of the Shawnee tribe as a small boy but as hard as he tries he cannot remember what happened the day his parents were killed. After losing his adoptive Indian parents at the age of ten, Jesse Bird is taken in by Cade; a man with the blood of two completely different worlds flowing through his veins. Cade has loved Jesse like a son and shared a lot about his past but there is one secret he hasn't shared with Jesse, a secret that will change both of their lives should it come to light.

When Tamsen has a deadly altercation with her stepfather she runs to the stable in search of her mother's servants hoping they can help her escape only to run into Jesse Bird. When Tamsen explains what has happened Jesse makes a life changing decision; somehow he knows that God wants him to help this beautiful young woman. Too bad before this is all said and done he will be a man wanted for kidnapping and murder!!

Jesse and Tamsen head for his home in the beautiful mountains of western North Carolina only to be pursued by her stepfather and Amboise. It is during that journey Jesse and Tamsen realize that God has planned their destiny and if they keep the faith He will work everything out for their good; but oh the things they will have to endure before they get to live happily ever after!!

Last year when I read Lori's debut novel Burning Sky I was impressed with the beauty of her writing and I couldn't believe there was any way she could improve upon it. But when I started reading this latest treasure I was awestruck by the fact that what seemed impossible had happened. This book blew me away with how fast I was pulled into it; it was so engrossing I found I had read 63 pages before I even realized it. It has been quite a while since I read a book of this length in less than two days! Oh the emotions that were stirred while I was reading this; there was joy and amazement all the way to horror and unbelief and back again to laughter and satisfaction at the most enthralling ending! This should be at the top of everyone's wish list for 2014; I promise you will not be disappointed. Thanks Lori for a story that has forever found a special place in my heart.

UPDATE: Please congratulate Lori on being a finalist for two Christy Awards for her first book Burning Sky! Congrats Lori, excellent job!! 

You can purchase this treasure by Lori at Amazon, CBD, and Barnes and Noble and other bookstores.

GIVEAWAY: This week we will be giving away two copies of this wonderful book and a $10 Starbucks card! International Winners Ebook Only! Please like or follow Lori's Facebook Author Page and leave your email address in your comments. 

Teresa Mathews Reviews 'THE PROMISE OF DEER RUN' by Elaine Cooper

The Promise of Deer Run

The Promise of Deer Run

by Elaine Marie Cooper

iUniverse Publishing

Reviewed by Teresa S Mathews

5 Stars*****

In this stirring story set in 1790 America, we meet Nathaniel Stearns, a young man of nineteen. Nathaniel has seen way too much horror in the three years since he left home to join the fight against England. When the cheer goes up that the war is over, instead of being relieved or elated Nathaniel stops to think about some of the horrors he has seen. The most shocking is the death of his best friend, who one minute was alive and well then the next taken down by the enemy's fire. The sight of that still haunts him in his dreams some nights. When his father Sergeant Benjamin Stearns asks him to leave immediately for home, Nathaniel is more than excited to do so. His Father promises to follow as soon as possible.

When Nathaniel arrives back in Deer Run, he is shocked to find his mother and siblings are not there to greet him. It seems while he and his father were fighting a war his mother was home fighting to keep the farm going but after losing that battle and Nathaniel's younger brother she gives up and moves to Boston to live with her sister. After a quick visit to see his mother, Nathaniel goes home to Deer Run to await his Father's return; which seems is never going to happen.

For eight long years Nathaniel struggles to keep the faith that his Father will one day come home. During those years he has learned it is better to stay to himself than face the people that think he is mad to still hold onto the hope that his Father will return. Not Sarah Thomsen, she tells him it is important for one to hold onto faith. Will Sarah be the one to help bring Nathaniel out of his self imposed exile?

If you are looking for a beautiful tale that will touch your heart as you read it, this is for you. Elaine Cooper knows how to use her pen as a tool to draw you into the story and keep you engaged until the end. She has taken a time in the history of America that was pivotal to our obtaining freedom from England and painted a moving story of what our forefathers had to endure for us to possess our freedom today. 

You can find this book at Amazon, and Barnes and Noble and Books-a-Million

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GIVEAWAY: This week, Elaine will be giving away one each of the Deer Run Saga books to three winning recipients from the reviews featured this week. (Limited to USA winners) Overcoming With God will also be giving away a copy of winner's choice of Elaine's books in e-book format. (Open to International winners)

Marian Baay reviews A HEART DECEIVED by Michelle Griep

A Heart Deceived

A HEART DECEIVED

By Michelle Griep

David C. Cook, 2013

Reviewed by Marian Baay

~5 stars~*****

Publisher’s book description:

Miri Brayden teeters on a razor's edge between placating and enraging her brother, whom she depends upon for support. Yet if his anger is unleashed, so is his madness. Miri must keep his descent into lunacy a secret, or he'll be committed to an asylum—and she'll be sent to the poorhouse. 

Ethan Goodwin has been on the run all of his life—from family, from the law ... from God. After a heart-changing encounter with the gritty Reverand John Newton, Ethan would like nothing more than to become a man of integrity—an impossible feat for an opium addict charged with murder. 

When Ethan shows up on Miri's doorstep, her balancing act falls to pieces. Both Ethan and Miri are caught in a web of lies and deceit—fallacies that land Ethan in prison and Miri in the asylum with her brother. Only the truth will set them free.

My review:

A new-to-me-author, this was my first introduction with Michelle Griep’s writing. This woman really can write! Usually I’m not so much into books with a sort of ‘dark’ setting and that’s why I looked at this book for at least three times and every time decided not to request it for review, but then I did it anyway—and boy, am I glad I did!

The author has a unique way with words that drew me into the story right away—on the first page I sat next to Miri in church in 18th century England and reluctantly had to let my new friend go on the last.

The descriptions are so rich and full, I could almost feel, hear, smell, and touch them. The emotions splattered from the pages—fear, despair, unfairness, hope, love, romance!

Extremely well written, excellent research, and a brilliant plot!!

*Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a review copy through NetGalley.*

You can find Michelle's books at Amazon, CBD, B&N and other bookstores.

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GIVEAWAY: A book by Michelle Griep of your choice, and format—international winners ebook only.

TO DO: Like Michelle's author page on facebook and leave a comment here on Overcoming With God and put MG in your comment. Don't forget to leave your email address as well. 

Review of Lori Benton's Burning Sky by Carrie Fancett Pagels

Burning Sky

Burning Sky

By Lori Benton

Reviewed by Carrie Fancett Pagels
5 Stars *****

I received an ARC.  I cannot imagine what they could have changed from the ARC that would have improved the book. Nor am I under compulsion to give this book a positive review—but I'd dare them to stop me from doing so as I loved this story!

This book will or should win awards next year. Wilhemina “Willa” Obenchain was a 14-year-old girl living in a community in upstate NewYork when she was kidnapped and taken in by the Mohawks. She married and had two children but her family is now gone and she has walked all the way back to her family home only to find no one there—that is except a wounded man, and his dog.

What a beautiful tale that meanders at a perfect pace. The repercussions of war are felt by all. Willa’s Mohawk “brother” who has more than sibling affection for her still hunts deserters for the British and there is one hiding in Willa’s community.  Willa’s old sweetheart, Richard, who pursued the kidnapped girl for months, his hopes destroyed. Now an embittered man whose soul has been lost in his anger and bitterness at the loss of innocent Willa, the girl he loved, and now comes face-to-face with Willa the survivor, widow of a Mohawk and mother of two deceased metis children. Lori Benton also incorporated a special sweet character, a young man who may be autistic.

God brings Willa full circle.  While she has lost everything she regains much.

Bibliotherapy aspects: Almost all of the main characters suffers from Post Traumatic Disorder in some form but they all react differently.  Willa has withdrawn and is shell-shocked.  Richard is angry. Joseph seems a little perplexed and is possibly the most rational of the characters.  The hero not only is recovering from PTSD but he also has survived a scalping attempt that has left him with a brain injury causing him to be unable to read any more.   Neil MacGregor has had to reinvent himself, too, like Willa. When two metis orphans come into their lives you can’t help but root for the little group to become a family.

Excellent pacing and a book you’ll have a hard time putting down. And a very satisfying ending, which I love! While this lovely book has a strong literary feel to it, Lori Benton doesn’t pull any literary “gimmicks” that I’ve seen in other books that have off-put me from finishing the story.  Rather, she seamlessly weaves a literary book with a broad appeal to historical and romance readers in both inspirational and I believe in the secular market as well. Bravo, Lori!

GIVEAWAY:  Copy of Lori's novel in paperback or ebook (ebook only for international winners.)