Changes are in God's Hands -- and Reflect His Plans

Cameo Courtships from Barbour Publishing June 2019

You might be wondering what this cover form Cameo Courtships, by Susanne Dietze, Debra E. Marvin, Jennifer Uhlarik, and Kathleen Y'Barbo has to do with my topic of change. You see, this collection was originally pitched in a proposal that included me and several other authors. Barbour Publishing had been putting out amazing, and great value, collections with seven to nine novellas in each one. I've been in some of those collections, myself, and was blessed by it. You can imagine how expensive it must be to print those large (over 400 good-sized pages) with the beautiful deckle edges they had on them. Then things were changed up and the new collections were determined to have only four authors in them. So the leads for each proposal had to make adjustments. In this case, lovely Susie Dietze had to figure out how to go forward. This was not the only proposal that I was part of where the lead had to make corrections. I volunteered out of another, which will be published later this year. And I had one of my own (Lessons on Love) which will be published in October with three other authors including the fabulous Rita-finalist Susanne Dietze, who was the lead on the Cameo Courtship collection.

Change in life is inevitable, isn't it? Right now one of my author friends and I are working with four different possible proposals, multiple authors. We've already had two authors opt out of one of the collection ideas and another author join us. One thing that hasn't changed is that all of the authors serve God and all write for His glory. And that's what matters. Change will happen, but it's all in God's hands. We don't always like the changes that life brings, but when we trust God's provision, we'll be headed in the right direction.

Giveaway: I'm giving away a copy of this beautiful new release -- Cameo Courtship. Answer this question to enter: Are you surprised by changes or are you more likely to keep rolling on?

My Heart Belongs in Galveston, Texas: Madeline's Search by Kathleen Y'Barbo

My Heart Belongs in Galveston, Texas: Madeline's Search by Kathleen Y'Barbo

Barbour Publishing (2018)

Publisher Summary:

Journey now to Galveston, Texas, of 1880...

Where is Mrs. Smith's granddaughter? Who is the mysterious Mrs. Smith?

Pinkerton agent Jonah Cahill is hired by the mysterious widow to find her lost granddaughter, rumored to be living in Galveston, Texas. Though Jonah prefers to travel alone, Mrs. Smith insists that she and her companion accompany him. Madeline Latour, investigative reporter, has been acting as Mrs. Smith’s assistant for several months, and Madeline will not allow anyone—even a Pinkerton agent—to ruin the story of a lifetime. The pair forges an uneasy truce as the investigation grows dangerous.

Is there a bigger story beyond a missing girl to be revealed?

Andrea Stephens' Review

I don't think I'm spoiling anything if I say, “Yes. There is a bigger story beyond a missing girl!”

What a great story it is too! Kathleen Y'Barbo gives us an adventure-filled tale of a missing granddaughter, possible pirate treasure, mysteries and the reluctant reuniting of a formerly engaged couple. Will they be able to get over past betrayal and find love again? You will have to read the book yourself to find out!

Jonah Cahill grew up in a house built on top of land that famed pirate Jean Lafitte built and burned his house down, leaving behind the legacy of the possibly buried treasure. As a child, Jonah enjoyed digging holes in the basement but never found anything. Now grown, he is a Pinkerton Detective working a private case for Mrs. Smith, searching for her long lost granddaughter.

Madeline Latour, comes from a family of professional secret keepers. She works at a newspaper in New Orleans but is posing, undercover, as a writer working for Madame (Mrs. Smith) putting all her memories on paper, while secretly hoping to find a bigger story.

I liked how Jonah says, “Hello, Madeline.” when he sees her. The banter between the two is very entertaining. The two are not exactly happy about working with each other in the beginning, but do eventually remember that they once “made a good team.”  Once they overcome their past, they realize they still make a good team.

As Jonah and Madeline search for Madam's granddaughter, we meet many interesting characters, some with mysteries of their own that need solving.

It's very hard to write a review for this book without giving spoilers. There are many plot twists and several surprises. I will tell you that I loved it and did not want it to end.

The faith element is lightly sprinkled throughout the book and I really liked how Jonah listened to “that still small voice.”

This is another 5 Star book for me! I highly recommend it. If you are a history buff, Kathleen provides some very interesting author notes, telling us some real history and where she had to bend it a little for this fictional story.

The My Heart Belongs series is taking a summer break and will return in November with

My Heart Belongs in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania: Clarissa's Conflict by Murray Pura. I can't wait to read it!

Purchase: You can view ALL the My Heart Belongs books and find links to purchase at this link: http://www.myheartbelongs.com

Giveaway: A copy of My Heart Belongs in Galveston, Texas: Madeline's Search by Kathleen Y'Barbo. Answer this question: What is your "happy place" for vacation?

Noela reviews LONE STAR LOVE COLLECTION by 5 talented Authors!

Lone Star Love

LONE STAR LOVE - 5 Historical Romances set in the Lone Star State

May 18, 2016

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow 

5 Stars~ *****

Allow me to introduce you to 5 stories set deep in the heart of the Lone Star State, Texas. Each tale is a unique Texas treat on its own, highlighting the great state and bringing you adventure in spades as history comes to life. Meet up with some rugged cowboys, the local sheriff and the famed Rangers, loads of friendly folk and some downright inhospitable ones. Enjoy endearing romances, splashes of suspense, and the message of God’s immeasurable love weaved throughout as these talented authors share their outstanding stories!

SIGNED, SEALED, AND DELIGHTED by Crystal Barnes (Prequel Novella - Marriage & Mayhem)

 Joe (Joseph Mathews) might be honoring Sarah’s father’s dying request by marrying her in order to protect and care for her, but Sarah knows from her friends’ experience that husbands don’t always remain honorable.  So she simply has Joe sign away his husbandly rights before the vows are exchanged. Joe thinks he can do this…until he develops feeling for Sarah! This engaging story was an absolute joy to read, and reminds us that God is much bigger than our circumstances. A delightful new-to-me author that I’m extremely eager to read more from!

DIAMOND DUO by Marcia Gruver (Novel - August 15, 2009)

Wooded landscapes with wagon-rutted roads throughout the small community of Jefferson, along with the chilled waters of the murky bayou fringed by groves and towering oaks—combine to create a delightfully atmospheric setting for a captivating tale of drama, suspense, and romance!

The lives of a vibrant assortment of endearing characters entwine as they forge new friendships and deepen old. Bertha Biddie is sure Thad (Thaddeus Bloom) shares an unspoken love for her, leaving Bertha frustrated and impulsive enough to seek the advice of a beautiful but mysterious newcomer to the town. When she gets acquainted with this tormented visitor, it just might be that Bertha can offer the most help. Yet, it may come at a steep price for Bertha. As for Thad, he is torn between his father’s life-long college expectations and his love for the bare-foot loving Bertha. How can he possibly choose? Their friends Henry and Sarah, struggle with terrifying bigotry and the perilous price of pride. Together, these and other wonderful and unique characters, all experience a barrel of happiness, heartbreak, and healing, on the bumpy Texas roads of personal and spiritual growth.

Marcia Gruver’s articulate use of period appropriate dialogue and expressions, combined with vivid scenes flawlessly painted with words, and extensive historical research—delivers a memorable and realistic journey back to 1877. An outstanding story!

UNEXPECTED BLESSINGS by Vicki McDonough (2006 Novella - Lone Star Christmas Collection)

This is an enchanting small-town tale that reflects on how the changes in our lives can be massive when we challenge our pre-conceived ideas and beliefs in the face of reality and God’s truth.

Nanny to young Mark and Molly for the past couple years, Anna Campbell has come to love them as her own. But when they tragically lose their parents, Anna has to deliver them to their Uncle Erik in the small town of Cut Corners, Texas. What is Anna to do when Erik refuses the children, claiming his brother died eight years ago? Erik is charmed by Anna and the children but he refuses to be swindled. They’re at a standstill and Anna’s life is falling apart in the meantime!

Reading this story was an ‘unexpected blessing’ for me, for I was reminded that God’s own purposes in His perfect timing—can sometimes happen when our plans don’t pan out as expected. Anna’s story is a charming and heart-warming tale that demonstrates just that. A beautiful story!

LAST GROOM IN TOWN by Janice Thompson – (2015 Novel - Deep in the Heart of Texas, Book 3)

Set within the magnificent Texas Panhandle with its glorious wide-open spaces, grazing cattle, kaleidoscopic sunsets, and stars that seem within reach—is a cozy, romantic comedy that roped me in from the beginning and warmed me like the Texas sun.

Having recently lost both parents, Anne must secure a future for herself and her two young sisters. On the way to Dallas to live with a well-off but crotchety Uncle, a broken rail-road track has Anne, Emily and Kate, making an unexpected detour into Groom, Texas. Has this interruption derailed her plans, or could it be God’s detour? It seems too much to bear for the threesome when they fall in love with family of O’Farrell’s Honor ranch but will soon be back on board the train. Is there a way for them to stay in the place of their dreams?

Janice Thompson has surely written some of the most splendid characters I’ve ever had the pleasure to befriend. The benevolent and effervescent Maggie was a treat, but the highlight was pint-sized Emily, the little author in the making who had me in stitches with her wild imagination which knew neither bounds, nor boundaries. The sweet romance between Anna and Jake O’Farrell gave me plenty of sighs and smiles also. But with the lightness, there are moments of depth which include struggles with grief, overall providing a beautiful balance to this wonderfully entertaining tale. 

THE MARRYING KIND by Kathleen Y’Barbo (2006 Novella - Lone Star Christmas Collection)

 Too bad he wasn’t the marrying kind. Sheriff Rafe Wilson thinks only about leaving his boring no-crime town and joining the rangers. His dad however, a former ranger himself, made a secret promise to his dying wife that their son would never be a Texas Ranger. Eb Wilson and his meddling retired Ranger buddies come up with some crazy schemes to keep Rafe in Cut Creek, but it just may be the exasperating new feisty dressmaker that sews up Rafe’s destiny! I loved the characters in ‘The Marrying Kind’; they were so endearing and had a wonderful camaraderie. A very enjoyable read! 

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You can find this BARGAIN-PRICED book here: AMAZON

GIVEAWAY: Thanks to the generous authors of this collection we have 
5 GIVEAWAYS FOR 5 WINNERS!! 
The prizes are: 2 e-books of the 'Lone Star Love' collection; an e-book of 'Last Groom in Town' by Janice Thompson; an e-book of 'Signed, Sealed, and Delighted' by Crystal Barnes; AND one print copy of the novel 'Diamond Duo' by Marcia Gruver!! 

Please leave a comment to enter, and remember to leave your email for contact purposes should you win, using (at) and (dot) to protect against spammers!

Barbour's "The Valiant Hearts Romance Collection" Giveaway

Filled with some of your favorite authors' stories! MaryLu Tyndall, Kathleen Y'Barbo, Darlene Franklin, Pamela Griffin, and more!!!

Bayside Bride, Kristin Billerbeck (2001)
Home Fires Burning, JoAnn Grote (2001)
Dim and Flaring Lamps, Colleen Reece (2001)
Misprint,  Kathleen Y'Barbo (2005)
Dreamlight, Janet Spaeth (2006)
Beauty from Ashes, MaryLu Tyndall (2012)
Birth of a Dream, Pamela Griffin (2012)
Buttons for Birdie, Darlene Franklin (2013)
Black Widow, Jennifer Rogers Spinola (2013)

Barbour (June 1, 2016)

You can find Valiant Hearts collection at:
CBD

Barnes & Noble

Amazon

Google Play

Giveaway: I have a beautiful brand new gorgeous paperback of this release to give away to one of our commenters.  Have you read novella collections that have been repackaged (already previously published but put together in a new grouping)? "Yes" or "No" and why or why not?

Most Eligible Bachelor Collection Review by Carrie Fancett Pagels

The Most Eligible Bachelor Romance Collection

A WINNER!!!

WONDERFUL collection of nine Christian historic romance novellas! The earliest story is set in colonial times and the latests in the early 1900s.

I predict this will become a CBA Bestseller! This is one of the best collections from Barbour I have ever read. This will be on my Best of 2015 list on this blog!

*****

Love's Reward by Susanne Dietze

I absolutely loved this novella by debut author, Susie Dietze, who is also our featured author this week on OWG blog!!! 

When a rather mean-spirited "friend's" ad drives unmarried ladies to pursue talented architect, Daniel Blair, the San Franciscan's life takes a turn. I felt so badly for the young women who believed the advertisement was genuine. Life at the rooming house begins to sour as his landlady tires of the deliveries made by young women to her home. Meanwhile his longtime friend, a sweet and spunky young lady, finally seems to be realizing what a wonderful man Daniel is. Josie is definitely her own woman and a bit avant grade for the times. Her brother is a piece of work.

The scheming behind the scenes was especially well done. Even thought this was a novella, Susanne did a great job of working in the elements of a large architectural contest and also used that to show the competitive nature of various characters. Many characters, and their situations, aren't at all what you think they are. This is the kind of complex and layered novella that I love to read.

Lovely job of showing the whys and the why nots of Josie's and Daniel's relationship. I see Josie as rather adorable and ADHD and when... (never mind--I won't spoil that one scary scene for you!!!)

This was a darling story and Daniel was a sigh-worthy hero! Fantastic debut!

*****

The Highwayman by Shannon McNear

This lovely colonial story features a young wagon master who simply cannot get his tongue to work properly when he is around Long Tall Sally, the daughter of the main innkeeper on the Great Wagon Road in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia.  However, she's frustrated by his lack of communication, especially since she has known him for years. Her brothers constantly thrill over the adventures of "The Highwayman" a savior who swoops in and rescues people.  When Sally is rescued from a local miscreant, by the famed masked man, her heart thrills. But she doesn't know the wagon master is the one risking all for her. Shannon was a Rita nominee for her first colonial era novella and this new release is a great read!

Four Brides And A Bachelor by  Gabrielle Meyer

I love this story set in the 1800s in Minnesota. Being from upper Michigan myself, this particularly interested me.  In this novella, the your women teaching in a mission are told they MUST be married to continue in their jobs. One of the teachers was originally supposed to marry a minister from another mission. This eligible bachelor has been summoned forth but doesn't realize that NOW he has four young women to select from, which was decided by the directors of the mission as being most fair.  Very nicely done, especially with the little twist with the father at the end! 

Baker's Dozen by Gina Welborn

I had high expectations of this story, which were fulfilled. As per usual, Gina writes a compelling story which great characterization.  Set in the household of Duke, a wealthy widower whose daughter needs a mother, he has decided to bring in a bevy of young women to find a wife to be mother to his child.  Having grown up in the household,  Irie secretly was in love with Duke before she left for training school. Her mother is employed by his father. Duke's father asks her to help his son find the best woman to be his wife and mother to the granddaughter. This is one of the first stories I have read with a divorced heroine in it, so that was an interesting twist and far overdue. 

A Doctor's Agreement by Cynthia Hickey

I had the privilege of reading this excellent story as a Beta reader but then forgot I'd read it! Cynthia Hickey consistently writes great books and this is no exception. When the newspaper owner's daughter places an ad for a lottery to obtain a spouse for the single physician, she doesn't realize she'll be entered! 

The Final Baker Bride by Kathleen Y'Barbo

Determined that she can prove herself capable of being self-sufficient, heiress Octavia doesn't realize there are many forces at work. She finds a "taxi cab driver" in New Orleans, Merritt Baker who may be the antidote to her marriage avoidance. Charming tale.

The Most Ineligible Bachelor In Town by  Connie Stevens

Turn of the century Kansas is the setting for an unappreciated postmaster's fine traits to finally be noticed. But first it will take a visit from his flashy cousin, supposedly a Pinkerton agent, to have the pastor's daughter finally be able to see who the best man in town is. But when danger comes to town, will they survive to finally express their affection to one another?

"A Bride For A Bargain" by Amanda Barratt

Fired from her lousy job,  Ada McClane calls out to God to help her figure out how to pay for her younger brother's treatment for his lung ailment (t.b.).  Meanwhile the richest bachelor in the city, Geoffrey Buchanan wonders how he can get his mother off his back. The society matron has set up yet another weekend at their posh country home in which she'll parade more single women from the proper "set" in front of him. Geoffrey contracts with Ada to act as his fiance for this event and offers her too much to refuse. But when the farce ends, will Geoffrey be able to leave Ada behind?

Archeologist's Find- by Erica Vetsch

This is the most unique of the stories which made it just a little jarring although it was good.  A wealthy young lady, Ally, is given an ultimatum by her mother to either find herself a husband within three weeks or agree to be courted by someone her parents approve of. Egyptologist and archeologist Max falls for the young art student who has so beautifully captured the essence of his collection. But when he discovers her true identity can their relationship survive?

Giveaway: We're giving away another copy of Most Eligible Bachelor Collection choice of paperback or ebook.

Noela reviews The Most Eligible Bachelor Romance Collection

The Most Eligible Bachelor

The Most Eligible Bachelor Romance Collection

by Nine Various Authors

Barbour Publishing

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow

5 Stars *****

 A Bride for a Bargain

by Amanda Barratt

The intriguing premise for this story sparked my interest, but the story itself easily held me captive! When excessively wealthy Geoffrey Buchanan finally finds the woman he is to marry, he is determined for it to be a union of love and not a society woman who is only after his money. So when his mother arranges yet another house party with the intent to marry him off to a suitable woman, Geoffrey decides to ask Miss Ada McClane whom he has only just met in Central Park to come along as his fiancée. Finding herself unemployed and with a sick brother to care for, Ada takes up Geoffrey’s offer with the more than generous remuneration. Will this poor working girl measure up to high society’s magnifying glass to pull this masquerade off? And can Geoffrey find the happiness he seeks that his wealth doesn't provide?

The Highwayman by Shannon McNear

Unique, compelling, and exhilarating! Along the Great Wagon Road of lower Shenandoah Valley, Pennsylvania, Samuel Wheeler earned a living as wagon master. The country was on the verge of the American Revolution, and there was much tyranny afoot from both the redcoats and those in their pockets. Sam had taken to donning a mask and masquerading himself as the Highwayman, cracking his whip with perfect precision and helping the cause of freedom. Little did the normally shy and tongue-tied Sam expect to one day be saving the girl of his dreams from some brigands. But in his costume, he found new confidence with Sally. What will happen when she falls in love with his fake persona and where will that leave Sam? What will happen if the authorities or the brigands catch up with this vigilante?

The Final Baker Bride by Kathleen Y’Barbo

Although it was the last novella in this collection, it was by no means the least entertaining! The amusing and vibrant conversations and situations this enticing plot created throughout the story, was just as gratifying as the ending with its surprising twist. The wealthy Octavia Derby doesn’t want to marry and aims to prove to her father that she can take care of herself without his money. Determined to prove it, she accepts an opportunity to work as a typist for a month, although there is the little problem that her typing skills are non-existent. Octavia unknowingly meets her employer Merritt Baker upon arriving in New Orleans, Louisiana, and mistaking him for a taxi-cab driver; she situates herself in his buggy and proceeds to give him orders! The likewise wealthy Merritt Baker of Baker Shipping, is pressured from all sides to marry and is constantly fending off women who are after him only for his money. Can they both serve each other’s needs yet still meet their own?

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These, along with six other engaging novellas in this collection, tell the stories of some extremely eligible bachelors of yesteryear times. These stories by talented authors Erica Vetsch, Cynthia Hickey, Gabrielle Meyer, Connie Stevens, Susanne Dietze, and Gina Wellborn, are ALL thoroughly charming and entertaining! And all captivate the reader’s heart, as the women look for the true worth in these bachelors, and the men seek to marry for all the right reasons. 

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You can purchase 'The Most Eligible Bachelor Collection' at these places and others: Amazon; CBD; Barnes & Noble; BAM 

GIVEAWAY: We're giving away several copies of 'The Most Eligible Bachelor - Romance Collection' this week!!! Leave a comment to enter, and your email if we don't know you. E-book outside of US unless available to you through Book Depository.

The Homestead Brides Collection reviewed by Noela Nancarrow

The Homestead Brides Collection

The Homestead Brides Collection: 9 Pioneering CouplesRisk All for Love and Land

by Various Authors

Barbour Books (February 1, 2015)

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow - 5 Stars *****

Founding futures on America’s Great Plains

The Homestead Brides Collection is a gathering of nine inspiring tales telling of the adventurous pioneering folks of the bygone 1800’s. These brave pioneers battled the land and forces of nature in their quest to improve their land and build a secure future. When love came their way, often it was as unpredictable as the land. Ultimately, their lives were enriched far beyond their dreams. Each outstanding story in this collection gives its own reward to the reader. Highly recommended!

Homestead on the Range

by Mary Connealy

When the new homesteader Colin Samuelson meets Elle Winter, there is an immediate chemistry… that is until the father of three discovered this pretty woman had four children of her own! Considering himself a poor father of his own three, he was ready to run for the hills. That wasn't about to happen however because his land adjoined Elle’s, leaving them both fighting their attraction to each other along with the forces of nature, and their children’s antics. Absolutely loved this entertaining novella… It was amusing, romantic, informative, and beautifully illustrated how God is with us in the storms of life.

Priceless Pearl

by Darlene Franklin

What happens when an inexperienced family leaves the city to make the run for land in the Cherokee Strip in Oklahoma? Will this family survive the harsh winter with their inadequate knowledge and a tendency to be impractical from their days living comfortably in St. Louis?  Or might their neighbor who has his own deficiencies be able to trade off? This is a sweet story of hard work, hope, and love, with a future that promises to be as priceless as Grandma’s irreplaceable pearl!

Proving Up

by Carla Olsen Gade

Swedish Nils Svensson was ready to expand his lumber business and build a timber mill, and the property bordering his land was part of that plan. Discovering that the beautiful Elsa Lindstrom held the deed to the land he thought could become his, dispersed his dreams upon the prairie winds. Elsa had her own plans and when Nils despite himself, grew feelings for her, she accuses him of only wanting her land. Will it be possible for them to find a way to prove up on their land as well as their hearts? This is a wonderful story containing a fascinating forest of facts on the Timber Culture Act of 1873 that’s grafted into a blossoming love story!

Prairie Promises

by Ruth  Logan Herne

Philadelphia city boy Jack O’Donnell arrives at his widowed mothers Nebraska homestead, to a startling reception from a young pregnant woman that’s residing with his mother. He’s not sure whether to admire this pretty woman or be wary of her? Regardless, he means to take his mother home with him as he can’t leave her to this barren prairie and its harsh winter. How can he get his stubborn mother to agree to give up her land and more importantly, how will her plucky young widow friend that’s due to give birth soon, survive alone in a thatched soddy no less? A descriptive and beautifully told story that was refreshing, thoroughly engaging, and a delight to read!

This Land is our Land

by Pam Hillman

Mollie Jameson, orphaned and caring for a brood of siblings and a Grandpa with memory lapses, hasn't much time to spare to reach Lincoln, Nebraska if she wants to lay a claim to the land her father had homesteaded. They’ll all be homeless if she can’t make it in time, and when a blizzard sweeps in and slows them down, it seems that will be the case. Unless she can trust the cowpoke that they've only recently met who has no home or responsibility, to hightail it to the land office with their deed. Will the overburdened Mollie lose everything or gain more than she bargained for? This was a truly enjoyable and heart-warming story with endearing characters!

Flaming Starr

by DiAnn Mills

With anticipation swelling the closer Starr Matthews draws to her recently acquired homestead, she is relishing the thought of finally owning her own place to begin a new life. But her hopes were scattered like the tall grass prairie seeds when she discovers widower Aaron Conrad and his children have already claimed ownership. Although Aaron’s children would benefit from a mother and Starr’s soul heal from love and a new beginning, her pride and tainted past produce formidable barriers towards any happy outcome. Will Starr find her forever or the end in the town named Last Chance? Not too many novella’s touch me deeply enough to bring on tears, but this touching and memorable novella did. Loved it!

A Palace on the Plains

by Erica Vetsch

Hired as a seamstress for Walt Haskell’s upcoming wedding, Julie Farrington has arrived from the city to stay with Walt’s brother, Cyrus. The widowed Cyrus is none too happy having her and her ridiculous amount of luggage move into his tiny dugout that already houses his mother and two young sons. Julie wonders what she’s gotten herself into! She hadn't figured on encountering such a primitive dwelling with no space or privacy, or the gruff though admirable man she’s dwelling with. Julie’s true mettle is put to the test however, when she has to deal with sickness, arduous work, and extreme weather. Will Julie also find her happy ever after? I thoroughly enjoyed this absolute gem of a story, and found the incorporated information on building Soddy’s, completely fascinating!

Waiting on a Promise

by Becca Whitham

Marta Vogel is anxious that it’s taking so long for her fiancé to give her the go ahead to join him in Oklahoma. Ignoring his last letter again urging her to trust him and wait, she hops aboard the next train to Oklahoma Territory. But Karl Reinhardt had good reason to keep her away. He’s dealing with a land dispute and sabotage while trying to work on his land. When she arrives, he is fearful for her safety, especially when she makes friend with the enemy. Wow, what a great story! It’s not always easy to capture so much intrigue in a novella, but Becca manages to do that along with suspense, humor, and romance, in the talented strokes of her pen.

The Bogus Bride of Creed Creek

by Kathleen Y’Barbo

Iz McBride returns home to his Texas ranch in Creed Creek to discover a pregnant wife! Which is very strange seeing how he’s never met her before. And everyone in Creed Creek seems to love Cora McBride, even his traitorous dog. So does he evict her from his ranch or marry her proper? I loved the unique plot, and it was fun trying to figure out how this mixed-up tale of deceit and truths was going to unfold. The charming characters in this western tale strive to change past wrongs for future generations. A very sweet ending to this novella and to this wonderful book! 

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You will find this book at these places and others: Amazon; CBD; Barnes & Noble; Books-A-Million; Book Depository.

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GIVEAWAY: This gorgeous book is up for giveaway to one very blessed commentator who leaves a comment below! E-book if the winner is outside of the US.

Homestead Brides Reviewed by Carrie Fancett Pagels

The Homestead Brides Collection

Five Stars ***** for this collection!
The Homestead Brides "Nine Pioneering Couples Risk All for Love and Land" from Barbour Publishing (February, 2015)

Destined to be a BEST SELLER!!! Don't wait--go and BUY yourself a copy ASAP!!!

All of the novellas in this collection are wonderful. There wasn't a weak one in the bunch which is pretty unusual. The authors are: Carla Olson Gade, Darlene Franklin, Erica Vetsch, Pam Hillman, Mary Connealy, Ruth Logan Herne, Kathleen Y'Barbo, DiAnn Mills, and Becca Witham.

Our OWG blog guest this week, Carla Olson Gade, wrote "Proving Up", set in Swedeburg, Nebraska in 1885. Nils Svensson has worked hard for years to establish hardy trees. He's waited for his wife to return to Nebraska after she returned to a less-demanding life back home with her parents. Enter widowed Elsa Lindstrom, Swedish like Nils, and she has somehow procured land he'd expected to purchase. Instead, Elsa and her two younger brothers now occupy what he'd hoped to expand his orchards to. Elsa, too, plans to develop a tree nursery. Can these two like-minded Swedes work together? Lovely story and characterization and some sigh-worthy love scenes.  HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!

Watch for Noela Nancarrow's review on Thursday of ALL nine stories!!! She'll have a separate giveaway.

Giveaway: A copy to one of our commenters. I recommend the paperback version as it has the lovely deckle edges on the pages plus it has built in bookmark cover ends that bend into the cover's interior.