Noela Nancarrow reviews ASHTON PARK by Murray Pura

Ashton Park

Ashton Park

by Murray Pura
Harvest House Publishers (January 1, 2013)

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow
~5 Stars~ *****

This is an exceptional and exhilarating saga featuring a wealthy, large aristocratic family called the Danforth's of Lancashire, who reside in an ancient, grand manor on their Ashton Park Estate. There is nothing stuffy about this story however, considering it is replete with forbidden romances, and drama and action that's also intensified with an edge-of-your-seat suspense. Ashton Park carries a semblance of Downton Abbey but whether you're a fan or not, you can be sure this novel is definitely livelier and way more action-packed than the television series.

We are taken back to an era during World War One where the decline of the aristocrats and the breaking down of strict social rules has begun to take effect. Lord William and Lady Elizabeth Danforth struggle to come to terms with these changes when it directly touches their family with some of their children falling in love with those of a lower class. As a result, there are secret rendezvous', betrayals, and heartbreak. With the Great War also impacting upon the Danforth family due to the active service of three of the young Danforth sons and one of the Danforth daughters, this family of nobility goes through tremendous upheaval during the time span of this book which is from 1916 until 1923.

It is during this time; the great conflict between the British and the IRA (Irish Republican Army) was also transpiring and beginning to intensify. The youngest son Robbie Danforth, who was enlisted in the British Army, was serving in Ireland for this war and we see him wrestle for self-control when it becomes extremely personal to him. His brother Kipp, a pilot in the Royal Air Force, takes up in the air for an exciting battle with a German tri-plane and ends with a victory that then credits him with becoming an Ace. And Edward the eldest son is in the Royal Navy, and faces his own harrowing experiences. These and a few other portrayals of extremely intense battles are illustrated in this book, but all are absolutely thrilling without being verbose. The history is fascinating and interesting, and the author, proficient in his research.

There is not a dull moment to be found in Ashton Park amidst the trials and triumphs of the Danforth's and their loved ones. The romances dotted right throughout are delightful and smile-inducing. Their faith in God is often tested, and sometimes left wanting, while other times, inspiring. The births and weddings are joyous, but the dangers and deaths are heart-stopping and heart-rending. Ashton Park also delivers an important message of redemption and forgiveness. Overall, it captures you with its charm whilst whisking you on a fascinating journey back into history with its breathtaking scenes!

Find Murray’s books at Amazon, CBD, B&N, DeeperShopping, and other bookstores.

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GIVEAWAY: Winners choice of a copy of one of the books in The Danforths of Lancashire series; Ashton Park, Beneath the Dover Sky, or London Dawn—paperback or ebook.

Leave a comment and your email address to be entered in the contest.

Murray Pura's new release LONDON DAWN reviewed by Marian Baay

London Dawn

LONDON DAWN - The Danforths of Lancashire #3

By Murray Pura

Harvest House Publishers, 2014

Reviewed by Marian Baay

~5 stars ~*****

Oh, how I enjoyed this last book in The Danforths of Lancashire Series! I even think I enjoyed this one the most of all. I was hooked from the first page where I was back at Ashton Park in 1934 and from there I was thrown right into a tense political situation in Germany with Catherine and Albrecht…and that was just the beginning of the action. The many twists and turns in this book kept me glued to the pages as each time I learned something new about the Danforth family members—they never cease to amaze me.

Several of Lord William and Lady Elizabeth’s grandchildren have joined the Royal Air Force, Navy, and Army. When Hitler starts the air attack on Britain in 1940, Lord Preston cannot do much more than pray for his family while they are flying their Spitfires to defend Britain from the German fighters. But will his prayers be enough to keep them all alive?

This is one of the most powerful fiction books I have read this year. The story is realistic, vividly written, and has a strong plot.

This book touched my heart in many ways; it had my heart racing several times when I witnessed the air battles—I could almost hear the roaring of the Spitfires’ engines and hear the bullets whistle by. There was heart-pounding action in the sea battle—it was like watching a movie as I saw the white caps thrashing the battle ship and heard the seagulls cry. There was heartache when loved ones died, but also heart-stirring romance when grandchildren found new love.

London Dawn was a perfect conclusion of this trilogy, but I hate to say good-bye to the Danforths. I shared in their joy and sorrow and won’t forget them soon.

Praise to the author for writing such an excellent series. Well done, Mr. Pura!

*Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a review copy through NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.*

Find Murray’s books at Amazon, CBD, B&N, DeeperShopping, and other bookstores.

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GIVEAWAY: Winners choice of a copy of one of the books in The Danforths of Lancashire series; Ashton Park, Beneath the Dover Sky, or London Dawn—paperback or ebook.
Why would you like to win? 
Leave a comment and your email address to be entered in the contest.

Marian Baay reviews AN AMISH FAMILY CHRISTMAS by Murray Pura

An Amish Family Christmas

AN AMISH FAMILYCHRISTMAS

By Murray Pura

Harvest House Publishers, 2013

Reviewed by Marian Baay

~5 stars~*****

Naomi Bachman is grieving the passing of her parents and sister after a tragic accident. Her brother Luke was wounded in the accident and lost the control over his limbs and the ability to speak. Her husband Micah was gone on a tour of duty in Afghanistan while the tragedy occurred. Sister-in-law Rebecca is staying with Naomi and is doing her best to help and encourage her.

Naomi doesn’t know what to think of her husband. She doesn’t understand why he left her to go to war and broke the rules of the Ordnung by enlisting.

When Micah comes home, he is shunned and not allowed to speak or eat with other Amish. He is living under the same roof with his wife, but cannot speak to her, touch her, nor eat with her. The shunning will be lifted as soon as he repents of having gone to war, but Micah cannot repent because he felt it was God who sent him there to do the work of a medic and save people’s lives.

Christmas is nearing and letters and postcards from grateful family members of soldiers, whose lives Micah had saved, start to arrive. Naomi is beginning to see another side of her husband by reading the letters and notes and slowly she starts to understand some of the reasons why he enlisted. She takes the mail to the bishop, hoping that he will also be touched by reading the letters and will do something to stop the shunning. She prays that hearts and rules will be changed.

When an accident occurs in their community, and Micah rushes to offer his help, will it change the thinking of the Ministers of the Amish church, or will it only make Micah’s predicament worse?

Such a captivating and moving story! Once I started reading it, I had a hard time putting it down. I think the author beautifully portrayed that even if we don’t always understand the things that are happening around us, that doesn’t mean it’s not from God.

A wonderful novella for Christmas, or any time of the year!

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

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Find Murray's books at Amazon, CBD, Barnes & Noble, and other bookstores.

Diana Flowers Reviews An Amish Family Christmas by Murray Pura

An Amish Family Christmas

An Amish Family Christmas by Murray Pura

Harvest House Publishers, 0ct. 2013

Reviewed by Diana Flowers

5 stars*****

The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year!

In An Amish Family Christmas, author Murray Pura weaves a magical Yuletide tale, set amidst a beautiful, snow covered Amish community in Paradise, Pennsylvania—where Christmas "tis not the season to be jolly" for one grieving Amish family.

Naomi Bachman has lost everyone who matters most in her life and is seemingly without hope. Her parents and sister have been recently killed in a buggy accident which has also left her brother, Luke, in a catatonic state—unable to speak or care for himself. Her husband, Micah, may as well be dead also, for the Amish elders have placed him under the meindung, or shunning, for joining the military in Afghanistan. Naomi is not allowed any fellowship with him at all and cannot speak or partake of meals with him. 

Micah feels that God called him to serve in the war as a medic—to nurse the wounded back to health and those near death's door, back to life again. No one understands, not even Naomi who seeks to shut him out of her heart and life. But will a Christmas miracle occur during this most wonderful time of the year, bringing reconciliation and changing the minds of this strict community?…and will Naomi's heart open up to love once again?

As with all of Murray Pura's books I had major trouble putting this one down! Although a wonderful Christmas story filled with romance, miracles, and a beautiful, seasonal setting—this book also causes one to think deeply about man-made rules versus the Bible. Aren't we all called to obey God rather than man...to serve others in whatever capacity He lays upon our hearts? But what if that calling removes the people we love the most…furthest from our lives? Make sure to throw another log on the fire, grab a cup of hot chocolate, and snuggle up with this tender, heartwarming story of healing and God's faithfulness! Nicely done, Murray Pura! 

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Thanks to Net Galley for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion. 

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

GIVEAWAY! Murray Pura has graciously offered an autographed copy of An Amish Family Christmas to one blessed commenter!

 

Murray Pura's New Release "Beneath the Dover Sky" Reviewed by Marian Baay

Beneath the Dover Sky

BENEATH THE DOVER SKY

By Murray Pura

Harvest House Publishing, 2013

Reviewed by Marian Baay

~5 stars~*****

In Ashton Park we met the wealthy Danforth family; Lord William Danforth, his wife Lady Elizabeth, and their seven children. In Beneath the Dover Sky we see how their lives continue.

The Danforths worry about their daughter Catherine, who lost her husband two years ago and since that time has shown no interest in the opposite sex…but that will change soon. They also worry about Kipp’s wife, Christelle, who is dealing with some health issues. Then there’s Lady Caroline, Kipp’s former fiancée, who seems to be a dangerous temptation for him.

Libby and Michael are returning from America with a surprise, but not everyone is happy with this surprise. And something dramatic will occur that deeply affects Victoria’s and Libby’s lives.

The Danforths live in a restless time when Hitler is gaining more and more support in Germany. This also affects the political decisions that must be made in Great Britain and often is the subject of conversation between Edward and his father.

The Danforths are unique! I love them all—that doesn’t mean I agree with all their decisions, but it surely makes for a very interesting read.

I learned a lot about European history in the time between WW1 and WW2. Every time Mr. Pura amazes me with his excellent research. He certainly knows what he’s writing about and you can be sure that it’s accurate.

I very much enjoyed reading this book. There were several unexpected twists and turns that literally made me gasp, and of course that kept me turning the pages…

As always Pura’s writing touches something deep inside me. It doesn’t matter if he’s writing fiction or non-fiction—God is obviously blessing his writing.

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

Murray's books may be purchased through Amazon, CBD, Barnes & Noble, and other bookstores.

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GIVEAWAY: A book by Murray Pura of your choice and format. (International winners ebook only.) Answer the question to be entered in the contest and don't forget to leave your email address.

QUESTION: I asked Murray if he knew a nice question for the contest. So this is his question.
There is a scene in this book where the Nazis are burning books in 1933. Do you think they would have burned the book "Bambi" by Felix Salten? The book was actually written by an Austrian writer. The Disney movie came out in '42. 

Diana Flowers Reviews Whispers of a New Dawn by Murray Pura

Whispers of a New Dawn

Whispers of a New Dawn by Murray Pura
Harvest House Publishers, 2013

Reviewed by Diana Flowers
~5 stars*****

Powerful Historical Romance!

In Whispers of a New Dawn, author Murray Pura pens a powerful saga that begins in the farm laden fields of a peaceful Amish community in Lancaster County, to the white sands and turquoise waters of the exotic Hawaiian Islands.

Pilots Jude and Lyyndy Whetstone have arrived back in their Amish community with their daughter, Becky, wondering if it is finally time to settle down with their families once again. Becky received her flying license when she was sixteen years old and has flown in the Caribbean and Africa, a far cry from the little Amish farming community she begrudgingly agrees to visit.

Once settled in however, Becky meets Moses and quickly falls in love with the gentle spirited Amish man, whose words flow like poetry and beautiful dark green eyes that see deep into her soul. Just as she decides to be baptized into the Amish faith and become his wife, a terrible tragedy occurs -- and when the Whetstones are summoned to the beautiful island of Oahu to train fighter pilots for the Army, Becky goes with them.

Becky's newest student, Raven, is brash and they butt heads instantly, but both are driven together by a need for inward healing. On the turbulent road to the bombing of Pearl Harbor...will love come twice in a lifetime for Becky Whetstone? Or will it be snatched away by the war's consuming fire?

Murray Pura has once again written a novel that is guaranteed to take your breath away. Only the very best writers have the power to evoke such a gamut of raw emotions in a reader during those first few pages and I was immediately drawn in--hook, line, and sinker. In the poetic prose Mr. Pura is so well known for, the romance and storyline will sweep you off your feet and cause your heart to soar amongst the clouds...literally. A powerful story of healing and God's love with a dramatic, heart pounding conclusion, this is an absolute must read!
 

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

Giveaways: Murray has graciously offered to give away NINE sets of lovely 4x6 glossy bookmark postcards of his Harvest House book covers—one autographed card per set.  On every review this week we will draw 3 winners, so make sure you comment on all reviews this week!  And OWG is offering a copy of WHISPERS OF A NEW DAWN!  If you have posted any reviews on Murray’s books let us know which ones and you will get an extra entry for each one posted!

Question: I learned so much about the history leading up to the events of the bombing of Pearl Harbor in this book. Have you recently read a book that taught you something you didn't know before?


 

Whispers of a New Dawn by Murray Pura Reviewed by Marian Baay

Whispers of a New Dawn

Whispers of a New Dawn

by Murray Pura

Harvest House Publishers, 2013

Reviewed by Marian Baay

5 stars~*****

In Whisper of a New Dawn Murray Pura has penned a powerful story of healing and letting go of the past.

The story is set in 1941 shortly before the bombing of Pearl Harbor.

It is great to see several of the characters we have seen before in The Wings of Morning once again. Together with Jude, Lyyndaya, Becky, and her brother Nate, we visit their Amish family in Paradise, Pennsylvania before they leave for Oahu, Hawaii.

Becky has just suffered a great loss and has vowed to never love a man again. But that proves to be impossible when she meets the handsome army pilot Christian Raven.

Just like her parents, Becky is a flight instructor. She got the assignment to teach Raven stunt flying, but Becky finds him annoying and wants nothing more than to quit with his lessons.

Aunt Ruth—always being there for Becky with a listening ear—encourages her to tell Raven what is bothering her. After Becky has told him about her loss, he also shares his story. Both need healing and must learn to let go. Soon a friendship develops that grows into something more.

Then the bombing of Pearl Harbor takes place and their lives are turned upside down. It is a time of uncertainty, devastation, and loss…

Mr. Pura has proved himself to be a gifted writer. Every time I’m reading one of his books I’m amazed at how his stories touch my heart. Pura’s stories are refreshing, passionate, and smoothly written. Whispers of a New Dawn is no exception. This book is not only a story of healing but also a tender romance that will satisfy the romantic reader. And as usual the richly detailed historical descriptions are a delight to read. This is a moving story with a good Christian message, that will keep the reader turning the pages. Highly recommended!

*Thanks to the publisher for providing me with an ARC through NetGalley.*

Murray's books can be purchased through Amazon, CBD, Barnes & Noble, and other bookstores.

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GIVEAWAY: A book by Murray Pura - winner's choice. Answer the question to be entered in the contest. And leave your email address if we don't know you.

QUESTION: Have you ever needed God to heal a hurt from your past? Can you tell a bit about it?

A Quilt for Jenna by Patrick E. Craig Reviewed by Marian Baay

A Quilt for Jenna

A Quilt for Jenna 
by Patrick E. Craig

Harvest House, 2013

Reviewed by Marian Baay

Jerusha Springer is known for her excellent quilting skills in her Amish community. Her grandmother taught her how to quilt and often reminded her not to be proud of her work. 

About a year ago Jerusha has lost her little girl, Jenna. Shortly after that her husband, Reuben, disappeared and nobody knows where he went. She became bitter and is drowned in hate towards God. She decides to make a beautiful silk quilt, with which she hopes to win the first prize at a fair—and that would be her way out of the Amish community. A local Englisher, Henry, is going to drive her to the fair, but they end up in a horrible blizzard. The car hits a stray cow, gets into a ditch, and can’t get out. Henry leaves Jerusha in the car and goes out for help, but something happens to Henry and help doesn’t come…

While Jerusha is waiting in the car she’s thinking back to conversations she had with her grandmother when she was growing up—how she promised to never leave the Amish faith. This is the beginning of a spiritual battle.

When help doesn’t come and Jerusha is ready to give up, she finds someone who gives her determination to carry on. They must get out of the terrible weather before hypothermia sets in. Will she find a warm shelter in time?

This book also tells the story of Jerusha’s husband Reuben—from his best friend Bobby’s point of view. Reuben left Jerusha after their daughter died. Now that Jerusha is missing, Bobby feels that he must find her. While searching for her, he has also a lot of time to think. He remembers how he became friends with Reuben – how Reuben wasn’t sure about the Amish faith – how they served as Marines and fought against the Japanese in 1942 – how much Reuben was changed after the war – and what made him decide to leave Jerusha.

The author really surprised me with this book! It was so different from what I had expected it to be—and that is meant as a compliment!

After reading the blurb I had no idea the story would go into this direction and I was pleasantly surprised! This is an emotional story of loss and redemption. Be sure to have the tissues ready! Nicely done, Patrick!

*Thanks to the publisher for providing me an ARC through NetGalley.*

You can find Patrick's books at Amazon, CBD and other bookstores.

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GIVEAWAY: Patrick has graciously offered to give away two copies of A Quilt for Jenna. To enter the giveaway answer the question. This week, we are also giving away a copy of winner's choice of any of his books in choice of format.

QUESTION: Have you ever made a quilt, or would you like to do so? What is your favorite quilt pattern?

Interview with Patrick E. Craig

Patrick E. Craig

Patrick E. Craig is the author of A Quilt For Jenna and The Road Home and four other books.

Patrick, welcome to Overcoming Through Time – With God’s Help.  We appreciate your willingness to share your testimony of overcoming with our readers. 

Would you tell us about the most difficult thing in your life you have had to overcome, with God’s help?

When I first came to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ, I was in the music business.  I had been playing in Rock and & Roll bands for more than 25 years.  Along the way I had picked up many destructive habits and even addictions. On the day I was saved I was delivered completely from every one by the healing power of God.

What is your favorite bible verse and why?

I Corinthians 15:1-4 because it lays out the simple gospel of grace by which we are saved.  As Paul says "Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain.  For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures: And that he was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve:

I love this because it is the heart of my faith and as Paul also says, "It is the power of God unto salvation."

Disability friendliness: Is this latest release available in audio format or do you have any other works available on audio?  Do your e-books have audio capability? Do you have any in large print? 

The first book in the Apple Creek Dreams series was released February 1, so I don't think Harvest House has gotten so far as to put it into audio format.

A Quilt for Jenna

What has been the most important thing you hope your readers will get from your books and why?

In "A Quilt For Jenna," Jerusha has become proud and bitter because of what has happened to her little girl, and this has driven her far from God.  It is my hope that the reader will identify with Jerusha's journey back to forgiveness and redemption and see that in spite of the circumstances, God is always there to take us back when we have strayed.

Reuben, Jerusha's husband, has become a strict legalist because of his experiences in World War II.  He believes that he is saved by the Amish faith and its ordnung and he has never discovered that only a personal relationship with Jesus Christ will save you.  I believe that there are many Christians out there who need to learn this same lesson.

As you researched your books, did you learn anything that particularly touched your heart?

One thing I did not know before I started "A Quilt For Jenna" is that Amish fiction has been the best-selling Christian genre for a long time.  I wondered why this was so and as I looked into it, I discovered that people who read Amish fiction are looking for a simpler, purer way of life.  We are all so caught up in the technological age that I believe our hearts long to live a live that would free us from the rush, the clatter, the I-phones and computers, television and the violent and perverted fare we see there so much.  Studying the Amish has definitely set my heart longing for a simpler life.

In this latest work, do you have any topics useful for bibliotherapy, or therapeutic influence through reading about a disorder or situation?

In the back of the book is a study guide with several questions for the reader.  One of the questions concerns dealing with loss.

I. Dealing with Loss

In Chapter One Jerusha has experienced a deep personal tragedy in the death of her daughter, Jenna, and the disappearance of her husband, Reuben. She deals with it by letting a root of bitterness into her life that results in hatred toward God.

1.     Have you ever had a similar loss in your life? A similar situation?

2.     How did you deal with it?

3.     What was the outcome? Positive or negative?

Scripture References:  Philippians 3:8, Hebrews 12:12-15

Thank you Patrick, for agreeing to answer these questions.  Have a blessed day and keep on writing!!

Patrick's website

Author page on Harvest House Publisher's website

Patrick's Amazon page

Patrick E. Craig is a lifelong writer and musician who left a successful songwriting and performance career in the music industry to follow Christ in 1984. He spent the next 26 years as a worship leader, seminar speaker, and pastor in churches, and at retreats, seminars and conferences all across the western United States. After ministering for a number of years in music and worship to a circuit of small churches, he is now concentrating on writing and publishing both fiction and non-fiction books. Patrick and his wife Judy make their home in northern California and are the parents of two adult children and have five grandchildren.

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GIVEAWAY: Patrick has graciously offered to give away two copies of A Quilt for Jenna. To enter the giveaway answer the question. This week, we are also giving away a copy of winner's choice of any of his books in choice of format.

QUESTION: Did you ever suffer a loss in your life that made you bitter toward God? How did you deal with it?

Roseanna White's New Release Ring of Secrets Reviewed by Marian Baay

Ring of Secrets

Ring of Secrets

by Roseanna White

Harvest House, 2013

Reviewed by Marian Baay

5 stars~*****

Roseanna White pens an intriguing story set in the Revolutionary War, where we meet Winter Reeves—a young lady who lives with her wealthy grandparents in New York. Winter’s mother died and her father is serving in the Patriot army. Winter also believes in the cause her father is fighting for, but she must keep her convictions secret. Her best friend in New York is an agent in the Culper Ring and he asked for her help.

Winter is acting like an unintelligent girl, so that people will easily share secret information with her. People are convinced she’s stupid—a perfect cover to get important information. Colonel Fairchild of the British army is courting Winter. He likes how she is and he thinks it is harmless to share information about the British army with her…of course he has no idea that she actually is a Patriot spy.

Bennet Lane comes back to his childhood home in New York to search for the Patriot spy among the elite. He needs a cover to attend balls and parties and therefore starts courting Winter. He finds out that she is smarter than she let on. He finds her intriguing and mysterious. So he tries to find out what secret she hides. Will he be able to unravel the secrets about Winter?

Now Winter has two men courting her. Winter starts to like Bennet more than Fairchild…but she needs Fairchild for her spying activities. She knows very well that when she’d choose for Bennet then she must tell him where her loyalties lay, and then she’d probably loose him for good. So she decides it’s best to keep her feelings under control.

Can Winter keep her spying activities secret? And what choice will she make when her grandparents give her an ultimatum to get married within 6 months time, or else she must leave their house?

I really enjoyed this first book in the Culper Ring Series. I liked the clever plot, the enjoyable writing style, the suspense, romance, and historical detail. I actually learned a thing or two about American history. Good job, Roseanna!

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

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

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GIVEAWAY: "Ring of Secrets" by Roseanna White,  winner's choice of format.

TO DO: like Roseanna's author page on Facebook to enter the contest. Put RW in your comment and don't forget to leave your email address if you haven't won on our blog before.