Diana's Review Of A Worthy Heart By Susan Anne Mason

A Worthy Heart By Susan Anne Mason

Bethany House, Jan. 2016

Reviewed by Diana Flowers

~5 stars~

♫ When Irish Eyes Are Smiling ♫

Susan Anne Mason has penned a mesmerizing, impassioned Irish American saga of two families whose lives intertwine at the lovely and affluent estate—the O'Leary stables, Irish Meadows, in 1914 Long Island, New York.

Maggie Montgomery's dreams of coming to America and starting a new life are finally coming to fruition. She has escaped the unwanted advances of Neill Fitzgerald and has no plans of ever returning to the lush, verdant meadows of Ireland. Once in New York she is reunited with Rylan Montgomery, her beloved brother and his wife, the former Colleen O'Leary of Irish Meadows estate. While visiting Irish Meadows she meets Colleen's brother, Adam—handsome and intriguing, but totally off limits.

Adam O'Leary has recently been released from prison and though ostracized from his family, Maggie is inexorably drawn to him. Adam's main desire of heart is to earn back his family's trust, and the lovely Irish Maggie who was not a part of his plans quickly becomes a priority as well. However, their tight-knit bond begins to unravel as Adam stumbles upon a terrible family secret that threatens to completely destroy his already low self-esteem—and neither he nor Maggie realize their undeniable attraction to one another may cause unfathomable danger to themselves...and those they love.

Author Susan Anne Mason has quickly become one of my favorite new authors—beginning with her amazing debut novel Irish Meadows and totally enrapturing me with A Worthy Heart! With a smidgen of suspense, two toe curling, angst-filled romances in the O'Leary/Montgomery family for the price of one (sighhh...)—and memorable characters who will wrap themselves around your heart and not let go—this is a definite must read! Although not a requirement as this book does well as a stand alone, I highly recommend reading Irish Meadows first to become better acquainted with each fascinating character. A Worthy Heart is a fast-paced, exciting novel with never a dull moment, interspersed with a strong theme of forgiveness and redemption throughout. Be sure to order your copy today!



Disclosure: I was provided a copy of this novel from NetGalley and Bethany House. I was not required to give a positive review.

This novel may be purchased through Amazon, CBD, BAM, and your local bookstore!

GIVEWAY: Susan Anne Mason is generously offering a paperback copy of A Worthy Heart to one blessed commenter! To be eligible, please be sure to leave your email address for contact purposes written (at) and (dot) to protect yourself from spammers. US entrants only in this particular giveaway.



To Win Her Favor, Tamera Alexander's New Novel - Reviewed by Carrie Fancett Pagels

To Win Her Favor

To Win Her Favor

by Tamera Alexander

Zondervan (May, 2015)

Reviewed by Carrie Fancett Pagels

5 Stars *****

Once again, Tamera Alexander delivers an exceptionally good book. Although this story, which I received from NetGalley, begins slowly and with a heroine, Maggie, who is less than sympathetic, we quickly meet the wonderful Irish hero, Cullen. Tamara notes in the back of the book that her inspiration for the story was to address prejudice. The racial prejudice in the deep South is well known, particularly post-Civil War, during Reconstruction. But the  rejection of the Irish is less well known and although I have Irish ancestors, I've not read the the types of hateful epithets thrown at them. And I was surprised by the use of the "n" word in a CBA book. Wondering if that will be kept in the actual published book.

To Win Her Favor is set near Belle Meade plantation near Nashville, which the series revolves around and features the horse racing industry. Love the storyline and how the heroine, at the outset an immature 20-year-old, evolves into a more caring person. Lots of faith elements. One of the best heroes I've "met" in a while.

Belle Meade Carriage House

Make room in your schedule to finish this book. Even though you'll want to take your time to savor every one of Tamera's words, you'll end up having to finish the compelling story. One of my favorite characters was Gilbert, Maggie's father--he was an amazing and godly man--just loved him!

I read this before it went to print. Available in audiobook version, too, but I couldn't wait to read this book because this is one of my favorite authors. But I've now broken down and ordered To Win Her Favor from www.Audible.com and hope to listen to it while doing housework.

Bibliotherapy: Prejudice as mentioned - particularly against the Irish--this really interested me because one of my ancestors immigrated from Ireland into the south during this time frame and I have to wonder the prejudices he encountered.  Starting over. Spoiler alert - death of a parent and coping with loss.

Here's some lovely Irish music to enjoy!

Disclosure: I received my copy from NetGalley but am under no compulsion to post a positive review.

GIVEAWAY: We're giving away two copies of To Win Her Favor this week! Winner's choice of format. (International winners also unless prohibited by law, book is  available on Book Depository.)