Review of "Return to Shirley Plantation: A Civil War Romance" by Chris Granville and Giveaway

Return to Shirley Plantation by Carrie Fancett Pagels

Return to Shirley Plantation: A Civil War Romance By Carrie Fancett Pagels

In the book, Cry Of Freedom---The First Six novella's...

"A wonderful novella"

Review by Chris Granville

   

In a Country with lots of danger, not knowing what might happen next.

Where slavery is a very real thing. Where the Civil War is going on all around them.

Where people get abducted.....

A freed slave not wanting to leave without her niece and nephew.

Where there are dangers all around you. But the neatest part is that it shows that 

they knew Our Lord and he was there for them even as evil was all around.

An absolutely great novella that shows how real our Lord is.

Thank you, Chris!

Chris read the six novella compilation, which includes all six of the first stories in the Cry of Freedom Series.  Click here to purchase Volumes 1-6  on Amazon. Click here to purchase Carrie's ebook novella.

Giveaway:  Leave a comment as to why you read Christian fiction.  Winner will receive their choice of ebook or paperback copy of Return to Shirley Plantation: A Civil War Romance. Already read the novella--if you win you can gift it to a friend!

SWEET CHILD OF MINE by Murray and Micaela Pura reviewed by Marian Baay

Cry of Freedom – Volume 11

SWEET CHILD OF MINE

By Murray & Micaela Pura

Helping Hands Press, 2013

Reviewed by Marian Baay

~5 stars~*****

1863

Kitt is the almost eleven years old daughter of Jack Burns – a Canadian widower who is enlisting in the Union army to fight in the American Civil War. Kitt doesn’t really understand why her father is going to fight, but she trusts that God will bring her father home again after the war.

Jack frequently receives mail from his sweet child, Kitt. She sends him letters and beautiful poems, and adds some little things from home in the envelopes, like seagull feathers, or dried flowers. The letters are being read by all the men and boost the morale of the whole regiment. Soon Kitt is dubbed their mascot and known as ‘Sweet Child of Mine’ – as Jack often calls her.

Kitt understands that not everyone can survive the war, but she pleads with God to save her pappy and the men in his regiment. This young girl has a lot of faith that runs deep. Will her pappy return home to her after the war?

I really enjoyed this beautiful tale, and the poems throughout the story were a lovely treat. The characters were easy to love and difficult to say good-bye to.

Nicely done, Micaela and Murray! Dad must be so proud of his talented daughter!

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You can buy this story at Amazon.

And you can also find the other stories in the Cry of Freedom Series at Amazon.

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GIVEAWAY: Murray is giving away 6 pdf copies of this wonderful story. You can EARN 5 EXTRA ENTRIES if you promise to post a review on Amazon and GoodReads after you have read the story—let us know in your comment if you will post a review if you win. 
Of course you can also enter if you don't want to write a review.

And please don't forget to leave your email address!

A GETTYSBURG VIGNETTE by Patrick E. Craig reviewed by Marian Baay

A Gettysburg Vignette

Cry of Freedom – Volume 9

A GETTYSBURG VIGNETTE

By Patrick E. Craig

Helping Hands Press, 2013

Reviewed by Marian Baay

1863 – Jack Skelly, a wounded Union soldier, wrote a letter to his sweetheart Ginnie Wade. When he was wounded in June, he gave the letter to his friend Wesley Culp—a soldier from the South. Jack made Wesley swear to deliver the letter to Ginnie in Gettysburg. Wesley took the letter with him and was sincerely hoping to deliver it to Ginnie when the battle of Gettysburg was over . . . only Wesley did not survive the battle, neither did Ginnie.

2013 – Randy Culpepper is on his way to the 150^th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg. He is the great–great grandson of Wesley’s friend Jed Culpepper. He knows all about the Battle of Gettysburg from his grandfather—who told him everything there is to know on this historical event when he was growing up. He had heard of the letter Wesley Culp was supposed to deliver to Ginnie, but the letter got lost.

When Randy arrives in Gettysburg, he has a weird experience that could make him able to solve the mystery of the missing letter.

A story full historical detail – that brings the characters from the past to life – an unexpected twist and smart plot make this an enjoyable read.

Another great story in the Cry of Freedom series!

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You can buy this novella at Amazon.

And you can also find the other stories in the Cry of Freedom Series at Amazon.

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GIVEAWAY: FIVE pdf copies of this book. 
Like Patrick's author page on facebook and put PEC in a comment underneath my review to enter the contest. 
Don't forget to leave your email address as well.

Interview with Kathi Macias by Carrie Fancett Pagels

Kathi Macias

Kathi Macias is the author of (The Moses Quilt, Last Chance for Justice, and The Doctor’s Christmas Quilt) and of (Emma Jean Reborn and My Son John) of more than 30 other books.

Kathi, welcome to Overcoming With God.  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?

Wow, there’s been a lot, but probably the toughest was being a very young (19) wife and mom of one baby with another on the way when I was diagnosed with cancer. Doctors suggested I consider abortion, as I probably wouldn’t be able to carry my second child to term and they wanted to start aggressive treatment as soon as possible. I wasn’t a Christian then, but that’s what started me praying and seeking God. I wasn’t saved until nearly seven years later, but I refused to consider abortion and instead opted for surgery only, with no radiation or chemo treatments. Quite obviously I made it through, as did my second child, now a healthy man of 45 who is involved in law enforcement. God is faithful and had His hand on me even then, and I never cease to thank Him for that!

(CFP: Wow--PTL that God was there for you even when you weren't ready to turn to Him--and that when you did He was ready with open arms!!!)

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?  

One of my novels, Obsession (from B&H), is available in large print, though I am unaware of any being available in audio—yet. However, the books I’m publishing now with Helping Hands should be available in that format soon.

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

Almost all of my books (fiction and nonfiction) are issues-oriented and have discussion questions included in the book (or as free downloads from the publisher). All are biblically based. As a former biblical counselor on a large Southern California church staff, I make it a point to write from that perspective and to engage the readers in thought-provoking questions for their own lives.

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

We encourage readers to order Kathi's New Hope Christmas book which is available for pre-order (click here.)

Giveaway:  For the interview we will be giving away the winner's choice of any of Kathi's books, from OWG blog (ebook only for international winner.)  Later in the week, Kathi will give away a copy of her books reviewed by OWG so come back for each review and leave a comment, too.

You can connect with Kathi at www.kathimacias.com or on her blog at www.boldfiction.com .

The Rose of Lancaster County by Murray Pura Reviewed by Marian Baay

The Rose of Lancaster County

THE ROSE OF LANCASTER COUNTY – the complete series

By Murray Pura

Helping Hands Press, 2013

Reviewed by Marian Baay

~5 stars~*****

Rose Lantz and her family came to America to flee the persecution of the Amish people in Switzerland. Lydia Beiler is Rose’s best friend and together they are working on a lovely rose quilt. They often work in the rose garden where there’s peace and joy while quilting in the fragrance of blooming roses. But their happiness will soon come to an end when Lydia is accused of witchcraft and taken to jail.

Ethan Daniels is everything Rose despises—he lives like a wild man in the woods and spends a lot of time hunting in the forest. A man like that has to be avoided by her people. But after he rescued Rose and Lydia from the wrath of some Englishers in town, Rose must admit to herself he is not so bad after all. Indeed, his beautiful poetic words leave her confused and blushing—confused because she has promised to marry a young Amish farmer soon. She cannot help but enjoy all the attention Ethan is giving her, but…he is not Amish and she cannot believe he will ever change his ways and join the Amish. When her Amish fiancé gives her an ultimatum, she must make a very difficult decision.

During Lydia’s trial we witness a bit of how different court was handled in Colonial America. Rose speaks up for her friend and this is when the hatred of the English community shifts from Lydia to Rose. Soon Rose finds herself in trouble with no one to help her but God…

I enjoyed The Rose of Lancaster County immensely! What a fantastic story with great characters and…oh, the romance!! Mr. Pura knows what a woman wants in a romance story and he happily pens it down for us all to enjoy.

I love how he captures female feelings like no other male author I have read. He is a master in spinning a captivating tale and this story is proof of that—he had me on the edge of my seat several times. What more can I say? From the beginning to the end – it is all Pura Enjoyment! 

This book first released in 10 e-book volumes and is now available as a complete download. 

The paperback will be out soon. My review is of the complete book.

Buy Murray Pura's books at DeeperShopping, Amazon, CBD, Barnes & Noble, or other bookstores.

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GIVEAWAY: A book by Murray Pura of your choice and format. (International winners ebook only.) 

TO DO: Like Murray Pura Writing on Facebook and put MPW in your comment when you have done so - and don't forget to leave your email address.

EXTRA NOTE: Due to health issues Marian can't reply back to all of you, but you can be sure your comments will be read! Please don't take it personally!!

Marian Baay's Review for A Road Called Love by Murray Pura

A Road Called Love

A ROAD CALLED LOVE – the complete series

By Murray Pura

Helping Hands Press, 2013

Reviewed by Marian Baay

~5 stars~*****

You’ve just got to love the Amish sisters Michal and Tabitha Troyer—both in their rumspringa. On the day of Tabitha’s 16^th birthday her rumspringa starts. This is also the day she decides to take off on the back of a motorcycle with her Englisher friend Nick. Everyone expected them to come back by the end of the day, but they did not return. Tabitha and Nick want to explore America on a Harley. Their parents are worried sick, but they can’t force them to come home because they are of age. Then an unexpected request is asked of Michal and her friend Milwaukee—take Milwaukee’s motorcycle and go in search of Tabitha. This is the start of a journey full of adventure and danger. While they are traveling they try to figure out their feelings about joining the Amish church and also their feelings for each other.

A journey that started out as the hunt for Tabitha becomes life changing for both Michal and Milwaukee. While they are following Tabitha’s trail, they also take time to enjoy the beauty of America.

During their journey they meet several interesting people who will help them understand Tabitha and why she really left. They also help them to find their destiny in God.

The closer they get to Tabitha the more they realize she might be in great danger. Will they ever catch up with her in time?

Wow, what a thrilling and fabulous book!—one of Murray Pura’s best writings. I enjoyed this story immensely. There was a longing inside me to join Michal and Milwaukee on their road trip. How I would love to see all of the beauty they saw!

Yes, this book is about the Amish. No, you can’t compare it with anything you have read before. Murray Pura is known for his intriguing stories and original plots. When you start reading his work you will be glued to the pages and forget everything around you!

If I was not convinced before, I am now—Mr. Pura can write any genre and write it well! I honestly hope to see more contemporary books written by this brilliant author!

This book first released in 4 e-book volumes and is now available as a complete download. 

The paperback will be out soon. My review is of the complete book.

Buy Murray Pura's books at Amazon, CBD, Barnes & Noble, or other bookstores.

______________________________________________________________________

GIVEAWAY: A book by Murray Pura of your choice and format. (International winners ebook only.) 

TO DO: Like Murray Pura Writing on Facebook and put MPW in your comment when you have done so - and don't forget to leave your email address.

EXTRA NOTE: Due to health issues Marian can't reply back to all of you, but you can be sure your comments will be read! Please don't take it personally!!

Teresa S. Mathews Reviews The Moses Conspiracy by Susan J. Reinhardt

The Moses Conspiracy  
by Susan J. Reinhardt

Helping Hands Press

Reviewed by Teresa Mathews

5 Stars*****

In this futuristic chilling novel we are introduced to Ellie and John Zimmerman, a dedicated Christian couple from the small town of Bird-in-Hand Pennsylvania. Ellie is home schooling their eight year old son, Peter and she is going to take him on a field trip to Washington,DC. What unfolds on this trip will be a nightmare for the two of them and the start of a horrifying fight for their lives even after they return to quiet Bird-in-Hand.

As Ellie and Peter arrive in DC they are alarmed to find UN troops patrolling the streets. Ellie is terrified when she is stopped by the troops and ordered out of her van. When she is told she doesn’t have the proper paperwork she fears she will not allowed to enter DC. Thankfully the surly soldier gives her a temporary permit and lets her in with a warning she should not come back again without her paperwork being in order. 

While Ellie and Peter are in line for a tour of the White House they meet a distinguished gentleman that takes a liking to Peter. Little does Ellie know this man will be the person that will rescue her and Peter from a horrible fate that will happen in a few hours after their meeting. He will also be the one to stop a wicked plot in Bird-in-Hand that has been launched against the very people that founded America…..CHRISTIANS.  

When Ellie and Peter finally arrive back home John tells her of several Amish neighbors that have had mysterious accidents while out in their buggies. John feels he must help figure out what is going on and what he finds out could cost him his life. Could what happened to Ellie and Peter in DC be connected to what's happening in Bird-in-Hand?

Ms. Reinhardt has written a riveting story based on what I am sure most Christians have thought at one time or another; will we have to endure persecution before the End time? The America she portrays is very frightening. Armed UN troops in the streets and no one being able to travel from State to State without special permission or maybe not at all. It seems the freedoms our ancestors gave their lives for no longer exist. As frightening as it was to read this I found I was unable to put it down. This is Susan’s debut novel and it is simply wonderful. I can’t wait to read what comes next from the pen of this very talented author.

You can find this book at Amazon, B & N, Kobo Books.

Giveaway: We are giving away an e-book copy of  Susan's book. Don't forget to leave your email address!!

Marian Baay reviews GETTYSBURG'S CHOSEN SONS by Sarah Price

Gettysburg's Chosen Sons

Cry of Freedom – Volume 6

GETTYSBURG’S CHOSEN SONS

By Sarah Price

Helping Hands Press, 2013

Reviewed by Marian Baay

~5 stars~*****

Two Amish brothers wanting to fight in the war – but only one can go. Two Bibles – but only one with a white piece of paper in it. The brother who chooses the Bible with the piece of paper shall go to war.

Thomas is the one with the piece of paper in his Bible. He’s the younger of the two brothers. At eighteen, he is not only leaving his family but also his girlfriend. He makes his older brother promise to take care of her and – if he does not return – to marry her.

The next morning, Abram must tell Father that Thomas left to fight in the war. Shortly thereafter he must also tell the same news to Betsy—Thomas’ girlfriend.

The days that follow are filled with hope to hear something from Thomas, but no word comes. Then finally Abram decides to go to Gettysburg—where the battle took place—and bring Thomas home.

Will Abram find his brother? Or is he bound by his promise to marry Betsy?

A well-written, moving story that brought tears to my eyes. My only complaint is that it was so short—but although it was short it was still a satisfying read!

***

You can buy this story at Amazon.

And you can also find the other stories in the Cry of Freedom Series at Amazon.

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GIVEAWAY: A Kindle copy of this story to one lucky commenter. Leave a comment and your email address to enter.

The Last Waltz by Murray Pura Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow

The Last Waltz

Cry of Freedom – Volume 2

THE LAST WALTZ

By Murray Pura

HelpingHands Press, 2013

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow
5 stars~*****

The Civil War years were a brutal and bloody era in the chronicles of history. A period of horrendous suffering and deadly conflict that witnessed over 600,000 soldiers lose limb and life. During this turbulent time however, the sun still shone and the rays of God’s grace and love could be found in the pockets of people’s lives all over the tormented land. Murray Pura creates a fictional yet immensely stirring novella about a Confederate officer and his wife as one of those beautiful and touching accounts.

Charity Davis was going through the motions of an ordinary day of housework when in the distance she spied clouds of dust that was expanding as it was advancing. Realizing that this dust might clear to reveal troops which could include her husband Major Mitchell Davis, she makes her way toward the main road with hope alighting in her heart. Hours later she had almost given up when a couple of Officers brought her wounded husband to her side for a day of convalescing.

Mitchell Davis has been granted a gift from God. Because it can surely only be a miracle, that in the middle of the war an army officer gets to spend a day with his beautiful wife. And Mitchell intends to make the most of every single moment. This gallant and charming officer declares to his Southern belle that this is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Charity and Mitchell live every part of this day in a breathtakingly romantic style including dressing in their best clothes and waltzing the night away.

There were several moments during this extraordinary day that Charity strongly felt the presence of someone but each time she’d turned around they had vanished. What could be happening on this perfect day of theirs and what might this mean for the devoted couple? As dawn approaches, will Mitch have the strength to say farewell to his bride and return to his regiment? They lived a lifetime in a day but will this day have to last a lifetime?

Murray Pura writes historical romance with flair and a charm that draws you into the hearts and lives of his characters. The Last Waltz was a riveting story and I found myself inspired by Mitchell and Charity’s faith, enamored with the romance, and stunned by the drama! This is a story that kept me reading from start to finish without a pause and one that I know has fastened itself upon me for a long time to come.

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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!

* Extra GIVEAWAY today: Noela has graciously offered a Kindle copy of The Last Waltz to one lucky commenter!  
ANSWER THE QUESTION to be entered for a chance to win:
If you could have a romantic date with your beloved where money was no object, what would you love to do?

Noela Nancarrow Reviews Bachelor Buttons By Kathleen L. Maher

Bachelor Buttons

Cry of Freedom –Volume 3

Bachelor Buttons by Kathleen L. Maher

Helping Hands Press, 2013

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow

~ 5 stars*****

This is a gripping story that takes place during the Civil War in 1863 in Manhattan, New York, and is teeming with fascinating history while still managing to sweep you off your feet with an inspiring and stirring romance!

Rose Meehan the daughter of immigrants who fled the Irish Potato Famine, lives a tough and poverty-stricken life in the tenements of New York City with her sister Katherine and younger brother Thomas. Rose has won the affection of two men—Dr. Ian McGuiness with whom she was fond of and who represented material wealth for her future, and William Lee, a struggling violin teacher who happened to make her heart beat a little faster than the doctor. With both of them turning up on the same evening to take her out, she comes up with the idea of setting a footrace to settle the dilemma. The challenge took place up the street and back again but with the course being filled with all manner of obstacles, it creates a very entertaining race! Which suitor will win the race and be taken out on the arm of the lovely Rose?

Just days later, President Lincoln signs an Enrollment Act drafting eligible men with exceptions given to those married with children and those who could pay a large fee for a substitute. However, the immigrant Irish people were too poor to buy their way out and were angry that they were being drafted instead of the rich. They were also incensed at the unfairness that the black freedmen were exempt because they weren’t considered citizens. The murmurings and anger at the injustices against the immigrants that had been simmering then begins to boil over, with Manhattan exploding in devastating riots, out of control fires and murders. One of Rose’s suitors becomes a hero in her eyes delivering help and provision just when needed. God’s plan for Rose and those she loves is eventually revealed to all.

Kathleen Maher writes her wonderfully polished debut novella Bachelor Buttons with flair and such exquisite writing that I’m prompted to buy anything published by Kathleen in the future sight unseen! Kathleen is a brilliant story-teller that definitely knows how to write suspense and drama so well that your eyes fly over the page, right along with a sweet romance that is both believable and beautiful.

This book may be purchased through Amazon.

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GIVEAWAY: Noela has graciously offered A Kindle copy of Bachelor Buttons to one lucky commenter!

QUESTION: What challenge might you put to two suitors if you had affections for them both?