Teresa Mathews reviews FAIR PLAY by Deeanne Gist

Fair Play by Deeanne Gist

Howard Books

Reviewed by Teresa S. Mathews

5 Stars*****

Deeanne Gist has once again blown me out of the water with another magnificent story set during the exciting time of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. Here this beautiful story unfolds and we meet a young woman that has overcome many obstacles to graduate Cum Laude from the University of Michigan with a Doctorate of Medicine. You would think with such prestigious credentials Dr. Billy Jack Tate would have patients beating down her door; but once they find out that Dr. Tate is not a man, most refuse her help.

 Scott Hunter, a Texas Ranger had been chosen to be a guard at the World’s Fair, he knows it’s quite a privilege but it’s not the exciting work he is used to as a Ranger. Until he catches a frivolously clad lady entering a basement building backside first. The lady claimed to be the guest speaker of the meeting that day but that was a story that was hard to swallow finding her as he had. Goodness knows he had tried to catch a glimpse of her face but all he caught was a glimpse of a part he knows he shouldn't have seen.

Billy Jack was running late for her speaking engagement and could not believe the abrupt guard wouldn't let her in the building, after being threatened with arrest Billy Jack backed off. When a lady out of the crowd told Billy she could get her in, she never dreamed it would be through a window in the basement and directly in the path of a handsome guard.  

The next time Billy and Scott meet is even more embarrassing as Scott is in desperate need of a doctor and when Billy walks in poor Scott would rather die than tell her his problem. This is where the fun begins for these two stubborn, hardworking individuals and where it ends is so beautiful my words would fail to do it justice, so just grab a copy of it and jump right in. You will NOT be disappointed! I love how Deeanne dealt with some of the problems and prejudices of this era. I have enjoyed all of Deeanne’s books and I don’t think I have had a favorite until now. This one had me running the gamut of emotions from laughter to tears. Deeanne is a truly remarkable storyteller!! 

***Thanks to Howard Books and Net Galley for providing me a copy of this in exchange for my honest opinion.***

You can purchase this treasure at Amazon, CBD, Barnes and Noble and your local bookseller.

Giveaway: We are giving away one paperback or e-book, winners choice, to a commenter from the US. International winner e-book only. 

Noela Nancarrow reviews FAIR PLAY by Deeanne Gist

Fair Play

Fair Play

by Deeanne Gist

Howard Books (May 2, 2014)

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow

5 Stars *****

A Spirited Romance

I had an absolute blast reading the novel ‘Fair Play', which had me both entertained and spellbound! I went the full emotional gamut from laughing out loud at some of the funniest scenes I've ever read, to experiencing sorrow and shock at the depiction of other grimmer parts. Set in and around Chicago’s World Fair of 1893, we're treated to a photographic excursion by not only the enlightening and descriptive information about the fair, but the charming timeworn snapshots which are displayed in relation to the text.

It is at Columbus Hall we first see the forward-thinking woman doctor Billy Jack Tate being introduced to the masculine and rugged traditionalist Texas Ranger Hunter Scott, in a rather mortifying manner! The tables are soon turned however in a hilarious scene when Hunter is embarrassed beyond all measure before her. An unlikely friendship develops out of their encounters which leads Hunter to seek out Billy’s help when coming across an abandoned baby while on guard duty at the Fair. They team up to find him a place to live, but cannot bear it when his only likely home is in Chicago’s West Side and surrounded by debris and filth, no grass in sight, rats for companions, and saloons and the like being the only places of amusement. Just as troubling are the many street kids and gangs. Together they embark upon a mission to develop a type of playground, birthing America’s Playground Movement. But will the street gangs prove a greater threat than Hunter and Billy had credited them to be?

Hunter and his ‘Billy girl’ as he endearingly calls her, soon find their feelings developing and passion igniting. But with each of them staunchly dedicated to their work, do they even have a future? Billy’s desire to have a successful practice in Chicago majorly conflicts with Hunter’s plans to leave for Texas and get back to working with his fellow rangers as soon as the fair ends. And this conventional Ranger (loved his use of classic Texan catch-phrases!) is not about to let his woman be the wage-earner in 'his' home anyway!

A woman’s place in society isn't the only controversial topic of the era highlighted in 'Fair Play'. Other issues are also exposed, such as the rights of children, the underprivileged, housing conditions, immigrants, the drinking age, etc. On the lighter side, Hunter and Billy, who are both plenty stubborn, deliver an entertaining dialogue peppered with amusing arguments and sassy comebacks that are a real treat to read. The romance is written in true Deeanne Gist style-- wonderfully romantic and passionate. And while some may prefer more Christian elements to an inspirational story, 'Fair Play' is clean and there are many positive messages to take away, including learning how compromise is an essential part of a relationship. An unrushed and satisfying epilogue finishes off this extremely enjoyable book! 

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This book may be purchased from Amazon; CBD; Barnes & Noble; BAM etc.

GIVEAWAY: We are giving away one paperback to someone who leaves a comment on the reviews of 'Fair Play' this week!! (E-book option is available. Outside US, e-book only.)

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Carrie Fancett Pagels' Favorite Novellas and Short Stories of 2013

Novellas and short stories--This was the year of a wonderful assortment of both of these types of books and I was blessed to have published both a short story and a novella myself!!!

Here are my favorites for 2013

Short Stories

A Cup of Christmas Cheer collection--All the stories were wonderful. Carla Gade's story particularly moved me because it is set in Michigan's upper peninsula.  It was also beautifully done.  I enjoyed ALL of them!!! Very blessed to be in the company of Susan Page Davis, Julie Carobini, Johnnie Alexander Donley, Anita Mae Draper, Carla Gade, Ginger Kolbolba, Pam Andrews Hanson, Jennifer Collins Johnson, Ashley Clark, Jenness Walker, Marilyn Turk, Linda Clare.

A Cup of Christmas Cheer (Guideposts)

Heaven Is Not Far By Marian Baay. Lovely short story.

Heaven is Not Far by Marian 

Safe House by Kathi Macias, great short story. Sorry no pic yet!

Pioneer  Christmas: 9 Stories of Finding Shelter and Love in a Wintry Frontier by Kathleen Fuller, Vickie McDonough, Lauraine Snelling, Margaret Brownley, Marcia Gruver, Cynthia Hickey, Shannon McNear, Michelle Ule, Anna Carrie Urquhart. All stories were wonderful, and in particular I loved Shannon McNear's because forheaven'ssake it is COLONIAL!!!!  Of COURSE I would love that story!!! So my overall short story winner is Shannon McNear's!

A Pioneer Christmas Collection

NOVELLAS

Kathy Maher's "Bachelor Buttons" Civil War was a beautiful debut novella--she has a gorgeous lyrical voice and is an amazing story teller! My favorite historical (with strong romantic elements!) novella.

Kathleen L. Maher's "Bachelor Buttons"

Melissa Jagear's novella (Bethany) was my favorite romance novella with bibliotherapy element (dyslexia/reading disorder)  so of course I loved that!

Love by the Letter by Melissa Jagears

Available FREE on Kindle!!!



















Deeanne Gist's Tempest in the White City--great novella!

Tempest in the White City by Deeanne Gist

GIVEAWAY:  Kathy Maher's paperback or ebook to one winner. Pioneer Christmas collection to a second winner. Answer the question--What was your favorite short story or novella for 2013?

Carrie's Favorites of 2013

AUDIOBOOKS of 2013

Audiobooks are my primary source of reading. I have to keep up with comparable books/authors as an inspirational historical romance author myself.  Sometimes I don't wait for the audiobook to come out but these first set of books all have an audiobook available with them. I have some very short reviews I've posted on audible.com (click here for Carrie's audible reviews.)

The Letters by Suzanne Woods Fisher

The Letters and The Lesson by Suzanne Woods Fisher (Revell/Brilliance Audio). The Lesson is the most powerful story, personally, I've listen to all year because of the drug abuse component and how it affects families.  I think it would make an amazing bibliotherapy book for those doing drug and alcohol treatment with families. I hereby award this book my Bibliotherapy Book of the Year. This book is raw. It is real. It doesn't flinch at what addiction can do to someone.

The Lesson by Suzanne Woods Fisher

My Bibliotherapy Book of the Year

My Runner Up for Bibliotherapy Book of the Year is "It Happened at the Fair" which deals with deafness. Absolutely stunning audiobook (Tantor Audio.)

It Happened at the Fair by Deeanne Gist

Jennifer Dellamere's An Heiress At Heart. Lovely audiobook. (Recorded Books)

Jennifer Dellamere's An Heiress At Heart

Tracie Peterson - My
Author of the Year 2013.

All THREE of Tracie's Minnesota audiobook  releases in Land of Shining Water (Baker) were wonderful in this series: The Quarryman's Bride, The Icecutter's Daughter and The Miner's Lady. Tracie is a master crafter of words!

Once Upon A Prince

I don't normal read contemporary fiction but this audiobook was AMAZING!!!
Once Upon A Prince

By Rachel Hauck

Zondervan, 2013

PAPERBACK/EBOOK ONLY--No Audiobook (yet!)

Promise to Return by Elizabeth Byler Younts

Elizabeth Byler Younts novel Promise to Return (Howard) has "sticking" power and I  love the story, the voice especially, and characterization in this WWII Amish story. Beautifully done by a lovely lady.
















C.J. Chase's The Reluctant Earl.  LOVED this book. I know C.J. but even if I didn't, this book should be used as an example of HOW TO write tight and make every word count in an inspirational historical romance.  Published by Love Inspired Historical. Because of the bibliotherapy elements being so strong and the quality of this book, I am naming it my Paperback/ebook-only Book of the Year.

The Reluctant Earl by C.J. Chase --Carrie's Top choice for Paperback/Ebook Book of 2013

NOTE my ADDITIONAL AUTHORS:  If you've been reading the other OWG ladies' favorites, then you've also seen some of mine.  So Cheater Cheater Pumpkin Eater--I won't include them for pictures!

BUT I have on my 2013 favorites list the same as my OWG angels' lists:
Julie Lessman's* Love At Any Cost (Revell), Julie Klassen's* The Tutor's Daughter (Bethany), MaryLu Tyndall's (no audiobook) Forsaken Dreams (Barbour), and Karen Witemeyer's* Stealing the Preacher (Bethany). ENJOYED all these releases and they are ALSO on my list as are:

Debut authors: Lori Benton's BURNING SKY (Waterbrook) and Sarah Ladd's Heiress of Winterwood (Thomas Nelson). Both of these books will likely be up for debut book of the year for Christy or other awards.) Sarah Ladd's audiobook - Do NOT listen to the audiobook version.  It is awful.  But the book is not.  It is lovely. I had the privilege of being Sarah's critique partner a couple of years back when she was writing and editing this book, before it was picked up for publication. Lori Benton's book was not available in audiobook when I read it. Lori is a member of Colonial American Christian Writers and served on Colonial Quills. An amazing book and powerful debt. Lori has been writing for over twenty years and has completed numerous manuscripts and it shows in her story, voice, and characterization. Loved this book!!!

If you haven't read all these authors' 2013 releases BUY THEM NOW!!!


GIVEAWAY:  Gently used copy of Promise to Return. New copy of The Reluctant Earl. Answer the question--How many of Carrie's favorites are on your list, too?

Deeanne Gist's New Release 'It Happened at the Fair' Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow

It Happened At The Fair

It Happened At The Fair

By Deeanne Gist

Howard Books, 2013

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow

~5 stars~*****

Ever wondered what it would be like to have been a part of the very significant and famous 1893 Chicago World’s Fair? To be a part of the throng of millions that pervaded the massive grounds spread over 600 acres, featuring numerous mighty buildings of incredible architecture? To venture into these monumental buildings housing wonderfully innovative exhibits begging to be investigated? Or perhaps to experience and savor the fascinating international food and music? There are a myriad of surprises and adventures awaiting you, including the original gigantic Ferris Wheel built by George Ferris, and a visit with the notable Helen Keller. Then relax with a romantic gondola ride, gliding past the beautiful Wooded Island magnificently displaying nature’s splendor. If this appeals to you, then open up Deeanne Gist’s ‘It Happened at the Fair’ and you’ll be propelled to 1893 to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of an era that was on the cusp of discovering exciting new inventions and possibilities!

Cullen McNamara, a farmer on his family’s cotton farm, is unfortunately allergic to cotton seeds and suffers badly with swollen eyes, airways, and terribly tender and itchy skin. Which, simply put, is not a good thing when you’re a farmer! This unfortunate condition was the catalyst for his parents to ensure he received enough ‘book-learning’ that he might find other work. Cullen’s interests went in the direction of inventing which led to his creation of an automatic fire-sprinkler system. However, due to a flaw in an earlier design which had dire consequences, he shelved his invention and resigned himself to farming. His father had other ideas though, and before too long Cullen found himself right in the middle of the Chicago World’s Fair’s noisy Machinery Hall.

Della Wentworth, a beautiful, young but naïve woman, has been brought up by an overprotective father who taught her to be distrusting of men. So while Della is at the fair to teach deaf youngsters in the Children’s building, she cannot help but feel dubious of any man she meets, including Cullen who comes to request she teach him the art of lip-reading, so he may understand what people are saying in the incredibly noisy Machinery Hall. As they spend time together, their feelings secretly begin to grow toward each other, but in time they both find themselves up against issues of trust, betrayal, and unforgiveness. Can Cullen prove he is the man he says he is? More importantly, can he ever survive the seemingly impossible job of learning to lip-read by concentrating on the task without get mesmerized by her lips?

It Happened at the Fair by Deeanne Gist is not only a journey to a fascinating slice of history but allows you to dine on a memorable feast of delightful banter, commanding kisses, and exceptionally detailed and intriguing characters.  The historical research and input into this story is second to none and is a banquet of interesting information interwoven into a sweet and delectable romance, with a enticing dashes of drama and suspense along the way. An extra treat is the inclusion of actual pictures of the Fair which added a realism and presence to the story. Thank you Deeanne for this enthralling and irresistible story!

***** 

I received a free e-copy of this book from the publisher through Net Galley in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions stated are my own.

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GIVEAWAY: A book by Deeanne Gist of your choice (e-book only for international winners.) Answer the question to be entered in the contest.

QUESTION: At Fairs or Amusement Parks that you have been to in the past, what was your favorite ride or exhibit, and what was your worst?

***NOELA IS VERY SICK TODAY, WE ARE ASKING FOR PRAYERS FOR HER AND HER HUSBAND AND THEIR SON. SHE WANTS YOU ALL TO KNOW SHE APPRECIATES YOUR COMMENTS AND SHE WILL COMMENT BACK TO YOU AS SOON AS SHE IS FEELING BETTER. SO PLEASE LEAVE HER A WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT AND LET HER KNOW HOW MUCH WE LOVE AND MISS HER.***

It Happened at the Fair by Deeanne Gist

It Happened At the Fair
by Deeanne Gist

Howard Publishing

Reviewed by Teresa Mathews

5 Stars*****

In this exciting novel Deeane Gist takes us back in time to the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair where history is being made. There we get to see the sights, the sounds and the heavenly smells of the various foods being prepared and sold. Amidst this setting we are introduced to unknown inventor Mr. Cullen McNamara and the beautiful Miss Della Wentworth a teacher with the School for the Deaf.

Cullen McNamara from Charlotte, NC is the son of a farmer and even though he is highly allergic to most of the crops they raise, he is for all intents and purposes, a farmer too. Cullen has always had a special talent for repairing broken objects, and inventing various things to help out with the chores on the farm. But by far the most important thing he has invented came out of the pain of watching a building burn down and knowing his mother was inside and he could do nothing to save her. His father feels Cullen deserves a chance for the world to see his invention so he pays for everything Cullen will need to stay in Chicago for the six months of the fair. Cullen tries to back out because of his insecurity of a physical handicap and because he knows his father cannot afford the money but his Father insists he should go.

Della Wentworth is a beautiful young lady bent on helping unfortunate youngsters that have been born unable to hear. The School for the Deaf has come to the fair to be on display to show the visitors that lip reading is the way for all deaf children to be taught; no one is to be taught signing. Della has serious doubts that this is completely correct. While at the opening ceremony Della is trapped by the rushing crowd and almost crushed had it not be for a wonderfully handsome man that saw her dilemma and rescued her. Della desperately wants to believe the man is completely trustworthy but her father has drilled into her mind about the dangers of young men that are not trustworthy and how Della should not trust any man she meets in Chicago. So the first chance she gets she flees the scene as fast as she can.

Cullen’s booth is set up near some very loud printing presses so he is having difficulty explaining his invention to anyone that stops by so he takes the advice of a gentleman that stops to chat and searches out the School for the Deaf to see if anyone there would teach him to lip read. When he arrives to find the beautiful young lady he rescued he is delighted. When Della realizes who he is she is still very frightened of Cullen and thinks perhaps he is lying about needing the lip reading lessons because he has evil thoughts in mind for her. Will Della ever be able to let God relieve her of her fears? Is there more to this man than Della could ever dream possible?

I have read all of Deeanne’s books and this one could very well be my favorite. I love all the details that went into this, Deeanne makes you feel as though you are right there in the middle of an exciting time in the history of the US. The characters will tug at your heart and their stories will pull you in. The way the deaf were treated during this time was unfathomable; I love how Deeanne shows Della’s passion to help these kids. I could go on and on shouting the praises of this novel but I must stop, but I assure you I will be thinking about this for a very long time to come. Thank you Deeanne for this absolutely charming story.

You can find this great book at Amazon, Barnes and Noble and other bookstores.

GIVEAWAY: We are giving away a copy of this or any of Deeanne's books, winners choice of format. (International winners e-book only.)

DeeAnne Gist's "It Happened at the Fair" Audiobook Review by Carrie Fancett Pagels

It Happened at the Fair by Deeanne Gist

I ordered this book as an audiobook download through audible.com--I have a membership.  I would also like to thank NetGalley and Howard Publishing for making this book available to readers.  I did not read my NG copy however but listened to Deeanne's book instead.  Still, I appreciate that it was made available to me as a reviewer. Disclosure: I was not influenced by the free NG download in my review.

Narrator for Audiobook. Lovely narrator although she mispronounced a couple of words.  It wasn't distracting.  She had the perfect voice for the heroine.

He's losing his hearing and she's a teacher for the deaf.

My Thoughts:
Our farm boy hero is somewhat of an antihero at first because he asks another young woman to marry him at the beginning of the book.  This has to get processed through.  The country bumpkin girlfriend is so abrasive that it is somewhat difficult to see why he would continue to invest time with her.  Wanda is  annoying and pulls a stunt later in the book that was somewhat surprising.  I was really expecting the author to pull another twist out her her hat to deal with Wanda.  I'll leave that for you to find out if she does or not. (Having grown up in a totally rural area I hope you will forgive my use of bumpkin.  I am after all a former bumpkin myself and I don't mind saying so! I do think Deeanne overplayed that a little in this book, however.)

Editorial notes section from Dee!  Loved, loved, loved all the historical tidbits and that Deeanne included them in Editorial notes at the end of the book.  I totally get what she is talking about--it is hard to leave a story world that you love.  She takes the reader there beautifully.

Summary: Great voice as usual, fascinating characterization, unique storyline, bibliotherapy elements, and on audio--what more could I ask for?


Bibliotherapy: Deafness, controversy between lip-reading and signing, honesty, PTSD. Death of a parent by a fire traumatized our hero and influenced his decision to become an inventor of a fire-sprinkler device.  

Giveaway: A copy of this or any of Deeanne's books, choice of format (International winners-ebook only.)

Carrie's Summer Rxd Reads

Audiobooks

Threads of Grace by Kelly Long  2013 

It happened at the Fair by Deeanne Gist, Howard Books 2013  Lovely new release!!!



Julie Klassen, The Tutor's Daughter, Bethany, 2013  One to savor!!

Jennifer Delamere, Rita nominee and fabulous story!!!

Karen Witemeyer's Stealing the Preacher will be available in audiobook later this summer and will release in ebook and paperback formats in June.

Sarah E. Ladd's debut novel is available in audiobook but the narrator is so awful I'd recommend you read Heiress of Winterwood in ebook or paperback format.

On my list, too, available in paperback and ebook formats:

Melanie Dickerson The Fairest Beauty, Although a YA this crosses over to historical romance.



Love at Any Cost by Julie Lessman, Sigh..., It is by Julie--need I say more?  Amazing read!

Forsaken Dreams by MaryLu Tyndall, Mar. 2013, Marvelously Complex!

C.J. Chase The Reluctant Earl 2013,  A Sparkling Gem!!!

The Reluctant Earl

Novella
Bachelor Buttons by Kathleen L. Maher, 2013

Nonfiction

Cynthia Howerter and LaTan Murphy, releases in July, 2013. Wonderful wisdom and encouragement!

Noela's Summer Recommendations

Surfers Paradise Beach, Gold Coast, Australia

Here are some of my favorite books so far this year. 

They will make great Summer reading—or if you're from Australia great Winter reading!

Click on the titles to find the books on Amazon.

The list is in no particular order.

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Bachelor Buttons

by Kathleen L. Maher

An exquisitely written novella which takes place in Manhattan during the time of the Civil War. This fabulous historical romance is a must-read!

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The Tutor’s Daughter

by Julie Klassen

This is a page-turner doused in intrigue and drama and features a breath-taking romance. Highly recommended!

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It happened at the Fair

by Deeanne Gist

Experience the thrill of the famous 1893 Chicago’s World Fair along with an incredible and memorable story. Thoroughly enjoyable!

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Return to Shirley Plantation

by Carrie Fancett Pagels

A brilliant and powerful novella that is steeped in history and intrigue, and features how Shirley Plantation played a part in the Civil War. A wonderful and interesting read!

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A Noble Groom

by Jody Hedlund

A mesmerizing and captivating love story saturated in tangible atmosphere with irresistible characters and is an unforgettable story. One to read again and again! 

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Safe in His Arms

by Colleen Coble

This Texas tale is an historical romantic suspense with amazing characters, an exhilarating romance, and on edge suspense that will keep you turning the pages speedily. Inspirational and surprising!

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The Last Waltz

by Murray Pura

A gripping historical romance novella that takes place during the Civil War that will seize you by your heart and not let go until well after you put the story down. It packs a punch!

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Forsaken Dreams

by MaryLu Tyndall

A masterfully written and engaging story that is so replete with drama and romance that it will sweep you off your feet and lay bare your heart. A phenomenal story!

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Captured by Moonlight

by Christine Lindsay

Journey to the exotic land of India for an impeccable tale of intrigue, danger, and a stirring romance in a story with imagery that’s second to none. Unforgettable!

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Love at any Cost

by Julie Lessman

The first in a brand new series that offers jaw-dropping moments, the height of romantic tension, and an abundance of smiles and laughter. An exceptional read!

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The Painted Sky

by Murray Pura

Set in Mexico, this is a story of five young, beautiful widows and their exciting adventures fraught with danger, friendship, faith, and romance with preachers who pack guns. Noelle shows up in Vol. 2!

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Waiting for Morning

by Margaret Brownley

A romantic western that is inspiring and endearing, has well-developed characters, and is an extremely satisfying read.  You won’t want to wait until the morning to read this one!

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Majestic and Wild

by Murray Pura

Murray Pura writes about his fascinating and exciting real-life adventures, drawing inspired spiritual lessons from these life-lessons and sharing in an easy to read yet contemplative manner. Great Christmas gift idea!