(Revised!) Audiobooks of the Year List by Carrie Fancett Pagels

The Painter's Daughter by Julie Klassen

Whispers in the Reading Room by Shelley Gray

Whispers In The Reading Room AND The Painter's Daughter, TIED for Audiobook of the Year 2015 -- Stellar stories combined with wonderful narration. I had quite the conundrum because I had listened to Julie's book in 2015 and chose it for Audiobook of 2015 BUT then I listened to Shelley's book in January, but it released in 2015 and after much prayer I decided they were both tied.  That being said, the audiobooks that I include on my list are of such HIGH quality that it truly was hard to put them in order -- so next year I might not!!!

Audiobooks of the Year

Bibliotherapy Audiobook of the Year (Includes strong bibliotherapy elements as well as a wonderful book and narration.)

Until the Dawn by Elizabeth Camden

Most Romantic Audiobook

The Lost Heiress by Roseanna M. White

The Lost Heiress (Ladies of the Manor, Book #1)

by Roseanna M. White

Best Final Audiobook in a Series

A Refuge at Highland Hall by Carrie Turansky

Highly Memorable Audiobook of the Year 

Pattern for Romance by Carla Olson Gade

Contemporary Audiobook of the Year

A Healing Heart by Angela Breidenbach

Favorite Series on Audiobook 2015: Tracie Peterson's Bride's of Seattle (I am finishing the third book now.) All released in 2015 on audiobook.

(I accidentally left off Melanie Dickerson's and Kristi Ann Hunter's audiobooks in my original post  - these are both beautifully done audiobooks. I highly recommend and hope to post reviews of both very soon!!!)

My Backlist audiobook Series of the Year is by Jane Perrine: Tales from Butternut Creek! All wonderful!!! These released in 2012 and 2013 and are Women's Fiction with strong romantic

NOTE: I will have some books, available in audiobook, that I read rather than listened to, that are on my NEXT list, which release within the week! So if you are an author I love and weren't on here but have an audiobook, watch for those I read rather than listened to!

GIVEAWAY: Audiobook certificate for a book OR winner's choice of format.  Answer these questions: How many of these books were on your favorites list and which format do you prefer your books in - audiobook, Kindle, or paperback?  (Watch for my upcoming Kindle/paperback list of favorite books of the year, coming soon!)

Giveaway: The Painter's Daughter by Julie Klassen Audiobook Review by Carrie Fancett Pagels

The Painter's Daughter by Julie Klassen
Recorded Books Dec.3, 2015

Sigh Worthy Listen!

The narrator, James Gillies, could not have been more perfect for this wonderful novel! Julie was able to choose the actor she wanted to narrate the audiobook - a BBC actor and he is fabulous!  I fell in love with Captain Overby as personified by the fabulous narrator! (To LISTEN to a sample of the narration go to Audible.com  and press "Play Audio Sample" beneath the cover image at this link CLICK HERE

This Regency novel includes the trademark Julie Klassen style of secrets, a dashing hero, imperfect people whose spiritual arcs draw them to a deeper relationship with God, and cool architectural features in the settings that add to the ambiance and the plot.

Sophie Dupont has been her prominent artist father's assistant for years. But now her stepmother's relation, a young man, had begun to serve as his helper. And he has his own agenda - pursuing Sophie while wealthy "gentleman" Wesley Overby has made the lovely innocent young woman his "muse."  Apparently abandoned by him, Sophie faces grave consequences for her choices. In sweeps a gruff military man who is referred to as "Captain Black" by his carefree brother but Captain Stephen Overby is anything but a blackguard.  He saves young Sophie from an untenable situation. But, when his brother returns, and Captain Overby has been called to action, what will happen?

Sigh-worthy listen and one of Julie's best yet!  Brava, Julie! Well done! Definitely a candidate for my Best Novels of 2015!

GIVEAWAY: Winner's choice of ebook or audiobook format for The Painter's Daughter!

Diana Reviews THE PAINTER'S DAUGHTER By Julie Klassen

The Painter's Daughter by Julie Klassen
Bethany House, Dec.1, 2015

Reviewed By Diana Flowers
~5 stars~
(No Spoilers!)

A Picture Paints A Thousand Words

In The Painter's Daughter, author Julie Klassen pens a spellbinding Regency era novel that exudes an aura of mystery—sweeping the reader from the thatched cottages, cries of the seagulls, and dangerous slopes of the Devonshire coast—to the opulent beauty of Overtree Hall with its hidden rooms, secrets, and strange noises.

Sophia Margaretha Dupont, the daughter of a portrait and landscape painter, often sketches the picturesque cliffs of the north Devon coast—popular with many an artist—hiding her own talented work. It is there she meets the handsome artist, Wesley Overtree, who flatters Sophie with his many compliments and lovely portraits of her. At the end of his leave, Captain Stephen Overtree is sent to bring his brother back to Overtree Hall, but is shocked to learn Wesley has sailed to Italy leaving Sophie in dire straights. Feeling the need to recompense for past failures, Stephen's proposal "in name only" leaves Sophie terribly torn and conflicted. She barely knows this brooding man who has been nicknamed Captain Black, and what if her beloved Wesley should return for her? Should she wait for him or elope with Stephen?...a decision she could regret the rest of her life.

Julie Klassen has written a captivating regency with a delectable blend of Jane Eyre, Charlotte Bronte, and Jane Austen—filled with twists and turns and never a dull moment! Ms. Klassen is a master of descriptive imagery and in my mind's eye I could totally see the dangerous, but picturesque slopes and quaint cottages of Devonshire, the sheep dotting the meadows near the brothers' estate, and the ornate, but somewhat creepy Overtree Hall. Secrets abound as do mysterious, eerie characters and things that go bump in the night—making this a novel that is terribly hard to put down! The Painter's Daughter is definitely one of my favorite Julie Klassen novels ever...order your copy today!

Castle Rock Where Sophie Loved To Sketch And Watch The Sunset



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

GIVEAWAY: Julie Klassen has generously offered to give away a paperback copy to one blessed commenter. To be eligible for the drawing please leave your email address written (at) and (dot) to protect yourself from spammers.

Noela's Favorite Books of 2013

A HANDFUL OF MY FAVORITE BOOKS FROM 2013

There were so many amazing books released this year so it was impossible to list them all, so here are just a few of the many outstanding books that I've read and would love to recommend to everyone!
Click on the book title to be able to purchase any of these incredible books.

OUTSTANDING NOVELS

THE TUTOR'S DAUGHTER by Julie Klassen (Jan 1, 2013)

Julie Klassen has a true gift in delivering unforgettable stories.

Emma is the daughter of a tutor, but in a time when marrying within your own social class meant everything, could a simple tutor's daughter find love with a Baronet's son? Located on the wind-swept coast of Cornwall, The Tutor's Daughter is an enigmatic and captivating story with an intoxicating romance and a good dose of suspense. Including truly memorable characters and strikingly vivid images, this Regency era novel will be a lifetime favorite of mine!!

LOVE AT ANY COST by Julie Lessman (April 15, 2013) 

This is a romance that will take you to giddy heights and sorrowful depths. A journey of love and relationships that will spark hope and longing within you for the heroes of the story. And a tale of faith and the importance of integrity that will stir your heart as you become involved in the lives of the men and women of this charismatic and loving family. Cassidy McClare, a spunky 'cowgirl' arrives in San Francisco from Texas and is on the run from romeo's and heartache. Or has she just run right into it? Julie's stories will always seize you by the heart but leave you smiling!

BURNING SKY by Lori Benton (August 6, 2013)

Burning Sky takes you on a fascinating, yet heart-rendering journey to the New York frontier in 1784 during the aftermath of the Revolution. Now a beautiful young woman, Willa who spent nearly half her life with Indians after being abducted, is now a young woman caught between the white man's world and her Mohawk upbringing, and a man from either world. Charged with tension and danger, courage and love, 'Burning Sky' will abduct you as it did me with it's engaging story, allowing no escape until the final pages.

A PIONEER CHRISTMAS COLLECTION by Various Authors (September 1, 2013)

This is a compilation of nine original and inspiring historical romance novella's. These amazing authors all tell unique stories of breathtaking tales of pioneer life and love in untamed lands. And each story concludes with the new pioneer's celebrating Christmas in unconventional dwellings. I loved each and every story but I have to make special mention of one very talented author and close friend, Marcia Gruver, whose amazing novella 'A Badlands Christmas' included a character that happens to go by the name of Noela Nancarrow... and who spends Christmas in a soddie!

LOVE'S AWAKENING by Laura Frantz (September 15, 2013)

This is book 2 in the phenomenal Ballantyne Legacy series of Laura Frantz. In this sublime novel, we read of an exquisite love story within two powerful, feuding families of Pittsburgh. One family involved in whiskey dealing and slavery and the other secretly involved in the abolition movement... these are dangerous times and lives and love are at stake. As with all of Laura's novels, the historical detail is fascinating and flawless, a real treat for anyone who loves history AND a brilliant story!

REBELLIOUS HEART by Jody Hedlund (September 15, 2013)

Jody Hedlund consistently writes outstanding historical fiction stories - this here is yet another one! 'Rebellious Heart' is modeled after the inspiring true courtship of John and Abigail Adams. Pre-American Revolution, it's a volatile time in history, and the heroine Susanna struggles with her beliefs and values after Ben, the hero of the story, challenges her to consider God's higher laws of justice and mercy. This is a novel of love, courage, and faith. A fast-paced page-turner steeped in intrigue and danger, guaranteeing it'll keep you up late reading!! One of Jody's books will never disappoint!

TRACES OF MERCY by Michael Landon Jnr & Cindy Kelley (Oct 1, 2013)

'Traces of Mercy', the first in The Medallion Trilogy, is impossibly difficult to put down as you immerse yourself into this fascinating tale of a woman with amnesia and an enigmatic past. Set at the end of the civil war, 'Traces of Mercy' is a satisfying mixture of warmth and hope, of turmoil and drama, and of unabated intrigue. With the infusion of a charismatic and heart-rending romance, this is a unique story that will captivate you easily and swiftly! Highly recommended! I can hardly wait to dive into the next book of this series!!

GUNPOWDER TEA by Margaret Brownley (October 8, 2013)

Margaret Brownley brews a refreshing and stimulating historical romance with 'Gunpowder Tea', that's infused with clever wit, humor, a stirring romance, and is steeped in a baffling mystery! Join top Pinkerton detective Miranda Hunt and Wells Fargo detective Jeremy Taggert as they both aim to hunt down the 'Phantom'. Only thing is, they both suspect each other as working for this elusive criminal. So what do they do when they come to like each other a little too much?! This book has everything in it - a brilliant story, delightful and unique characters, a great spiritual message and words of wisdom, fascinating history, and even author notes on gunpowder tea!

ELUSIVE HOPE by MaryLu Tyndall (November 1, 2013)

This novel is as bursting with intrigue and fascinating storylines as the jungle is with life! Expect to be swept up in the drama and romance that MaryLu writes with such a skillfully expressive brush of the pen, that you'll suddenly find yourself totally immersed in the jungle along with the amazingly realistic characters that MaryLu has created. Unique to many of MaryLu's books, including this one, is a thrilling supernatural thread running through the story, reminding us of the importance of spiritual warfare. Join Hayden and Magnolia and the rest of the New Hope colony in Brazil for an adventure unlike any other!

THE CAPTIVE MAIDEN by Melanie Dickerson (November 19, 2013)

The Captive Maiden is an enchanting and inspiring re-telling of the classic and classic fairy-tale, Cinderella. This is a story for the adult, young or old, that is a romantic at heart and loves chivalry, knights, and damsel's in distress. Even so, The Captive Maiden is so much more than that. It will hold you captive from the very first page onward with Melanie's engaging writing as we watch the delightful romance between Gisela and Valten develop from early on in the story. You also glean a glimpse into history with the exciting tournament scenes and jousting. And if that's not all, there is a terrific message about finding your own purpose in life. This book is refreshing, unique, and entertaining!

OUTSTANDING NOVELLA'S

THE PAINTED SKY - VOL 1 - 8 by Murray Pura (March 11 - Nov 13, 2013)

Brimming with adventure, romance, and faith, this exciting series is unparalleled to anything you've read!

These 8 volumes will be released in 2014 as a complete paperback. Be sure to look out for your friends from OWG starring as widows in this hot as the Mexican desert tale!

RETURN TO SHIRLEY PLANTATION by Carrie Fancett Pagels (March 26, 2013)

Return to Shirley Plantation is a charming historical romance that steps back in time in history to the Civil War, and the part that the still-standing Shirley Plantation played in it. This wonderful debut novella of Carrie's also carries the ever crucial message of listening to and obeying God. A sweet, interesting, and  thought-provoking story!

HEAVEN IS NOT FAR by Marian Baay (September 21, 2013)

This is a beautiful love story that embraces the heart that's called to serve God, and the strength of a deep and passionate devotion between a man and the love of his life while enduring the anguish of the Civil War. Including an inspiring message about following your calling, this debut novel of Marian's was an absolute pleasure to read!

A HIGHLANDER FOR CHRISTMAS by Jamie Carie (Nov 3, 2013)

Last but certainly not least, is 'A Highlander for Christmas'. This was the first story I'd read of Jamie's, and honestly, after reading this small masterpiece, I'm now on a quest devouring every other book Jamie has written! Jamie writes her intriguing stories eloquently and descriptively, and the romance passionately. In 'A Highlander for Christmas', there are awe-inspiring images and if you listen close enough, I'm sure you'll hear the bagpipes as well! A wonderful story at any time of the year, but if you haven't read it yet, give yourself a treat this Christmas!

* * * * * * * * * * *

Thank you to these and sooo many other authors that I've had the great pleasure of reading and reviewing their books this year. I look forward to spending time with you all in the New Year!!

GIVEAWAY: And for a belated little Christmas pressie, I'm giving away a Kindle copy of Jamie Carie's 'A Highlander for Christmas' to one person who leaves behind a comment. I'd love you to share which of the above books you would most like to read? And if you've read them all, which was your favorite? :)

Noela Nancarrow Reviews The Tutor's Daughter by Julie Klassen

The Tutor's Daughter

The Tutor’s Daughter

By Julie Klassen

Bethany House, 2013

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow         

5 stars~*****

Traverse the continents to England and the windswept coast of Cornwall where you’ll find the sprawling Ebbington Manor upon the high cliff tops of North Cornwall. Peer over the cliffs of giddy heights and you’ll behold turquoise seas and pounding surf off the dramatic coastline. With this exquisite setting as a backdrop, ‘A tutor’s Daughter’ will fully engage your senses as you get lost in the Regency era of this outstanding story.

Emma Smallwood lives with and helps out her widowed father who is a tutor. However, his boarding school is failing and her father is feeling melancholy and unmotivated, which is not boding well for the future of the school. In the bid to acquire some new pupils, Emma drafts a letter to the Weston family whose older sons had previously attended, knowing they also had two younger boys. Emma receives a reply that Sir Giles Weston requests that her father consider coming to Ebbington Manor to teach his sons there for a year, and that Emma was welcome to come along. John Smallwood perks up at the prospect and is eager to go, longing for a change. On the other hand Emma, remembering one in particular of the two older Weston sons, is not so keen. Nevertheless, knowing her father needs her assistance, she accepts Sir Giles’ invitation and soon they are on their way by coach to Ebford, Cornwall.

When Emma and her father arrive they seem to be unexpected, and Lady Weston even upon discovering Sir Giles’ forgotten invitation to the Smallwood’s, still seems rather cool toward them. When tense words were heard behind doors between the hosts, Emma had the distinct impression they were not welcome.

The Manor in which the Weston family lived was a grand place that had expanded over the years, creating an awkward mixture of Medieval, Tudor, and Georgian architecture. With an ancient two-story hall that displayed crossed swords and shields on the darkly paneled walls, an off-limits north wing, and creaking stairs, the old Manor took on a mysterious ambience. The mysteries surrounding this place and the Weston’s, magnified when Emma began to hear strange happenings throughout the night, including high pitched wailing; hurried footsteps; and ghostly piano playing. What are the closely guarded secrets that surround this family?

The older sons of the Baronet, Phillip and Henry, have grown up quite a bit since Emma last saw them. While she is drawn to one of them by his gentle and helpful nature, she finds the other brother intimidates and perplexes her. But someone is playing pranks that are escalating in intensity and Emma doesn’t know who is responsible. At times, Emma’s heart is being pulled in two directions but as her feelings grow for one of them, will it be one who will hurt her? She knows only too well also, that any relationship has very little chance of working out as they are the sons of a Baron and she is simply a Tutor’s Daughter.

I enjoyed this historical journey to Cornwall and Ebbington Manor immensely. This adventure was just brimming with tangible atmosphere and characters of great depth and charisma. There were inspiring moments of faith renewed, along with heart-stopping suspense and danger. This was a page-turner edged in intrigue. Including a breathtaking romance, this story had it all!!

You can buy Julie's books at Amazon, CBD, and other bookstores.

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GIVEAWAY: A Kindle copy of The Tutor's Daughter for one commenter who answers the question. And don't forget to leave your email address as well. 

QUESTION: Have you ever been in a dangerous or scary situation and experienced the Lord rescuing you from that place? 

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!