Audiobook Review of The Lacemaker by Laura Frantz

I listened to The Lacemaker by Laura Frantz, Narrated by Aimee Lilly, via an Audible.com download. I almost didn't bother listening after hearing the atrocious accents, in particular the hero's. I'm a big audiobook fan. And I'd just had cataract surgery so I was desperate to listen as reading wasn't possible. What I did was cringe during the bad accents but try to focus on the story. Living in the area where the story was set (and where a number of my own books are set) and comparing with my own experiences was interesting. There were a few errors in what blooms when, here in Virginia, with coastal Virginia having early spring blooms so that in June far less can withstand the heat.

This book was an ECPA bestseller in paperback. I'd recommend you purchase it in that format rather than listening to the audiobook. If reading with your eyes isn't an option, be prepared to force yourself to overlook the truly awful accents used by the narrator. I was glad to have the book to listen to during my recovery. I think the reader would be far less distracted from the story and characters if reading via paperback, ebook, or hardcover large print copy -- all of which are available.

Giveaway: This week we're giving away a copy of The Backcountry Brides, which includes many other colonial-set stories. Leave a comment on the previous post to enter. Leave a comment here for an extra entry!

Diana's Review Of 'A Moonbow Night' By Laura Frantz

A Moonbow Night

A Moonbow Night By Laura Frantz
Revell Publishing, January 3, 2017

Reviewed By Diana Flowers
~5 stars!~

Synopsis:~ Her wilderness survival skills are without rival. But her greatest talent is keeping other people's secrets.

After fleeing Virginia, Temperance Tucker and her family established an inn along the Shawnee River. It's a welcome way station for settlers and frontiersman traveling the wild Cumberland region of Kentucke - men like Sion Morgan, a Virginia surveyor who arrives at the inn with his crew looking for an experienced guide.

Though he balks when Tempe is appointed to lead his team through the wilderness, it isn't long before Sion must admit that her abilities may outmatch his own. But can the tenuous tie they are forming survive the dangers waiting just around the bend?

With her signature sweeping style and ability to bring the distant past to vivid life, Laura Frantz beckons you to join her in a land of Indian ambushes, conflicting loyalties, and a tentative love that meanders like a cool mountain stream.

My Thoughts: Author Laura Frantz is a masterful artist who paints stunning pictures with words, and A Moonbow Night is a portrait that left me awestruck. This novel is an evocative, heartbreaking, and hauntingly beautiful tale with courageous, strong characters, and deliciously descriptive prose. The author's historical research is impeccable and well-detailed and her writing style is indescribably spectacular—quite possibly the best I have ever read by Ms. Frantz! The reader is immediately drawn in to the dangers and beauty of the early Kentucke wilderness—from the constant terrifying fear of savage Indian attacks to the dazzling allure of the moonbow o'er misty waterfalls.

Although I would love to have had more romantic tension between Sion and Tempe earlier on, I realize that they were both haunted by loss and heartbreak...and to rush things would have been unseemly and unrealistic. The waiting and anticipation was well worth it, however, and the romance was utterly breathtaking...and yes, might I add toe-curling!?😛As I read the last chapter with a lump in my throat and tears in my eyes, I knew that I had been someplace special—into the heart and mind of Laura Frantz and her beloved Kentucky. And what a beautifully captivating journey it was.

**Note to OWG viewers** This review is actually my tribute to Laura Frantz, whose first book The Frontiersman's Daughter, paved the way for me to begin writing reviews on OWG...which literally changed my life. Our mutual love of this fabulous book first drew Carrie Fancett Pagels, Marian Baay (one of our earlier reviewers), and I together as FB friends and we maintain a staunch friendship to this day. This in turn led Carrie to ask me to join OWG blog. I have read every book Laura Frantz has ever written and I urge you to as well. As I will soon be leaving OWG, I wanted to take this opportunity to tell Laura "thank you" for all the hours of reading pleasure (looking forward to many more!), and for helping me get through the death of my mother with Courting Morrow Little and her loving support. A Godly, humble lady, and a precious friend to all—may God bless you, dearest Laura!

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This novel may be purchased through Amazon, CBD, B&N, BAM, and your local Christian bookstore.

GIVEAWAY: A paperback copy of A Moonbow Night will be given away to one blessed commenter! US entrants only. To be eligible, please leave your email addy written (at) and (dot) to protect yourself from spammers. DRAWING SUNDAY!

Early Reviews & Giveaway of Saving the Marquise's Granddaughter by Carrie Fancett Pagels

Thank you to early readers and reviewers for these great reviews of Saving the Marquise's Granddaughter:

Endorsement from Author Laura Frantz:

With a unique European-American setting and characters inspired by a true historical couple, Saving the Marquise’s Daughter has romance and suspense in spades, all the while showcasing the author’s passion for the period. The lovely cover is just the beginning!  

Laura Frantz, author of The Mistress of Tall Acre

*****

Reviewer Betti Mace: Oh my goodness! Carrie Fancett Pagels has done it again. This story, set in the 1700's, had me sitting on the edge of my seat the whole time. From her position as 'noblesse ancienne', the ancient aristocracy of France, Suzanne had much to look forward to. Her hand in marriage to one of the same aristocracy was expected. Roman Catholicism was considered the only religion in France. Why then, did her parents have to believe differently? The Huguenots were to be killed - would there be any reprieve for her? After all, she had gone to mass with her Grand-mere and even had her rosary.... Would she ever learn that God had a plan for her, not for her family, but for herself? How much would it take and would the young German, Johann, have a part in her finally learning to believe?

Saving the Marquise's Granddaughter is available for pre-order in both ebook (June) and paperback (July) from Amazon, from Pelican Books, and Barnes and Noble.

Giveaway: An ebook copy of Saving the Marquise's Granddaughter. Leave a comment.

Diana's Review of THE MISTRESS OF TALL ACRE by Laura Frantz

The Mistress of Tall Acre by Laura Frantz

Revell, Sept. 2015

 

Reviewed by Diana Flowers

~5 stars~

(No spoilers!)

           Exquisitely Breathtaking!

In The Mistress of Tall Acre, author Laura Frantz pens a sweeping epic tale set after the American Revolution–poignant and evocative–beset with betrayal and secrets as twisted as the fragrant wisteria and lovely roses twined about the gardens of Tall Acre.

Sophie Menzies is on the verge of losing her plantation, Three Chimneys, after her beloved brother is declared missing and her father returns to Scotland. After eight long years of fighting, General Seamus Ogilvy–Sophie's handsome neighbor and owner of the plantation, Tall Acre, has returned home from the war. A widower with an adorable six-year-old daughter, Lily Cate, enlists Sophie's help with the child who doesn't even know him and cries bitterly for her mother every night. Sophie grows to love Lily Cate as her own and makes a rash decision to accept Seamus's proposal, knowing that he could never love again and that it would be a marriage of convenience only. Secrets unfold as Sophie finds an old diary rife with discontent and betrayal, and dangers ensue as someone wishes her gone from Tall Acre. Just as passions begin to ignite, a woman from the past appears at Tall Acre and all loyalties will be tested as the newly formed foundation that binds Seamus and Sophie begins to crumble.

Such exquisite torture as Laura Frantz, the master of romantic tension and angst, weaves her magic web once again and ensnares the reader from page one and will not let go. Be still my racing heart! I found myself lost in another place and time; simply amazed at the author's incredible research and talent of applying descriptive words and prose used exclusively in colonial times...such as a busk (I had to google that one–and when I did it set my heart to fluttering and skipping a beat or two!), types of colonial architecture and clothing, and "ayes", "nays", and "mayhaps." I could see the whole story playing out in my mind's eye as though I were watching a movie. A story rich in faith, obedience and sacrifice, as well as a riveting, tantalizing page turner with copious twists and turns, The Mistress of Tall Acre is sure to be at the top of my 2015 list of faves!



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

GIVEAWAY: Laura has generously offered a paperback copy of The Mistress of Tall Acre to one blessed commenter! To be eligible be sure to leave to leave your email written (at) and (dot) to prevent yourself against spammers. 

Noela Nancarrow reviews THE MISTRESS OF TALL ACRE by Laura Frantz

The Mistress of Tall Acre

The Mistress of Tall Acre

by Laura Frantz

Revell (September 8, 2015)

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow

5 Stars *****

The war is over but the battle has only begun..

Amidst the tensions of the Revolutionary War and post-war period, where men and women continue to struggle re-building lives shredded from hardship, persecution, and death itself, emerges a gripping tale birthed from those angst-filled days. Widower and war hero General Seamus Ogilvy came through this horrific battle alive but bearing the consequences of his time at war by having his family torn apart. And now he faces an onslaught of pain incomparable to even the battlefields he fought gallantly upon. Can there be hope and peace for this stalwart but anguished soldier? 

 

Sophie Menzies, although a Patriot herself, is living in the oft-cruel and oppressive shadows of her Loyalist father who left for Scotland after the war. Neighbor to General Seamus Ogilvy, Sophie meets his young daughter, the candid and guileless moppet Lily Cate, while out collecting chestnuts. They rapidly form an inseparable bond – meeting needs deep within them both. When the General becomes in desperate need of a mother for his beloved daughter, and the impoverished Sophie stands to lose her home, she agrees to marry him. But what is she to do when her affection continues to grow for this man? Dare she hope their tender connection evolves into something more? But will the woman who returns from Seamus’ past shatter this promising new family beyond repair?

The Mistress of Tall Acre is much more than a story… Rather, it is the exquisite telling of a heart-warming and heart-rending tale that has you not only reading with your eyes, but your soul. This tale unfolds as a mystery shrouded in intrigue, deception, and danger, but adorned with a romance that brings a quiver to your heart and a sheen to your eyes. Replete with lushness of prose, tangible characters of such depth you identify with them immediately, and a storyline that flawlessly weaves meticulous historical detail and plot surprises throughout… Makes this a must-read of Laura Frantz’s!

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The Mistress of Tall Acre may be found at these stores and others: Amazon, CBD, B&N, BAM 

GIVEAWAY: Laura Frantz has generously offered a paperback copy of The Mistress of Tall Acre for one blessed commenter! To be eligible, add your e-mail to your comment for contact purposes should you win. Be sure to use (at) and (dot) to protect yourself against spammers.
 

Diana Flowers Reviews Love's Fortune By Laura Frantz

Love's Fortune by Laura Frantz

Revell, Sept. 9, 2014

Reviewed By Diana Flowers
~5 stars~*****

 

 

 Fabulous Fiction By Frantz!

 

From the wooded, primitive hills of Kentucky to the industrial city of Pittsburgh comes a sweeping saga of the affluent Ballantynes -- and of the beloved Rowena "Wren" Ballantyne, who finds herself caught between both worlds.

 

Wren loves her simple life in Kentucky; crafting fiddles, dulcimers, and violins with her father, Ansel Ballantyne, and roaming the countryside in her mismatched clothing. But when Ansel receives a summons to return home to Pennsylvania because his father is ill, Wren's world is turned upside down. Entering high society means new dances to learn, ball gowns, corsets, and proper etiquette, and poor Wren longs for home. She is befriended by the rugged, James Sackett, a steamship pilot for Ballantyne Shipping, but it is the wealthy and irresistible, Malachi Cameron, who has his heart set on making Wren his bride. Will Wren choose her beloved Kentucky over the forbidden love of two handsome men? -- one of whom harbors a dangerous secret, and the other with a woman from his past waiting in the wings...

 

Laura Frantz has written another masterpiece -- destined to be an award winner! Not simply a story of balls and frippery, Ms. Frantz delves into the covert and dangerous world of aiding fugitive slaves, and seedy characters who will stop at nothing to obtain wealth. The romantic tension was exquisite torment (sigh), and the author's writing skills were unsurpassable. Wren was one of the most genuine "down to earth" young women, and I so fell in love with her character from page one. The only regret I have concerning this magnificent novel is saying "goodbye" to the Ballantynes...who leave behind a legacy of wealth, wisdom, and most of all -- love. 

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

TWO BOOK GIVEAWAY -- one from Laura and the other from OWG! A copy of any one of the Ballantyne Legacy books in your choice of format! Leave a comment to enter. 
*Leave your email or check back in winners column either Sunday or Monday to see if you have won!*

 

Noela Nancarrow reviews Love's Fortune by Laura Frantz

Love's Fortune

Love’s Fortune (The Ballantyne Legacy Book #3)

by Laura Frantz

Revell (September 9, 2014)

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow

~5 Stars~ *****

A tale you'll never want to leave..

Mesmerizing. Breathtaking. Sublime. Synonymous with all of author Laura Frantz’s novels; ‘Love’s Fortune’ is a story painted with eloquent, luscious prose. The haunting echoes of dulcet tones sweep throughout the pages, enticing the reader to savor every exquisite morsel. With such incomparable writing, and the richly crafted, enthralling characters within, I daresay you may find yourself wishing, like myself, that this book never arrives at the end.

The enchanting and innocent character of Wren Ballantyne infiltrates your heart almost as soon as you meet her. Innocent and devoid of pretentiousness, how will this flower of Cane Run, Kentucky with her southern drawl, calloused hands, and tanned skin, ever make it in the harsh and unforgiving world of the 1850’s Pennsylvania high society? Her wealthy and prominent Ballantyne relatives are mostly accepting, but the harsh appraisal and cold manner of others has Wren longing to flee back to the hills and hollows of Kentucky.

The dashing, perfectly-polished gentleman James Sackett, first meets the beautiful Ballantyne heir, Wren, aboard the steamship he was piloting as he transports her father and Wren to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Stalwart and serious, and committed in his job as the Ballantyne’s most valued river pilot, James’ unyielding veneer is almost undone by the guileless homespun charm of the enchanting Wren. This battle within continues as he is given the responsibility of being Wren’s escort in her coming out in society. He can never allow her to know of his secret affection; his questionable heritage is at odds with the Ballantyne name and the grim danger that pursues him because of his abolitionist dealings is something he won’t submit her to. Can he truly count on her being safe, and how will James’ heart endure watching her being courted by others?

The legacy that the patriarch Silas Ballantyne has established is vast and far-reaching. Though boasting an impressive line of steamships and an industry of ironworks that have made the Ballantyne’s incredibly wealthy and prominent in society, their most enduring legacy would have to be family, love, commitment to God, and their clandestine endeavors of aiding fugitive slaves. In this final installment of The Ballantyne Legacy, we unearth the layers that make up Silas’ granddaughter Wren, including her Nancarrow heritage; we meet the swarthy, rugged, and charismatic Malachi Cameron; and we regrettably close the chapter on one of the most enrapturing ‘book’ families I've ever read about! 

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You can purchase this wonderful book at these places: Amazon, CBD, BAM, Barnes & Noble, Book Depository, and your local bookstore.

GIVEAWAY: A copy of any of the Ballantyne Legacy books in your choice of format! Leave a comment to enter. 
Leave your email or check back in winners column either Sunday or Monday to see if you have won!

Diana's 2013 Favorites!

 Here's a list of my favorite 2013 books in no particular order! It was very difficult to choose as you authors totally outdid yourselves this year!

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Love's Awakening by Laura Frantz 

A beautifully written novel laden with secrecy, deceit, betrayal, and hidden passions. Laura Frantz is a master storyteller!

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Return To Shirley Plantation by Carrie Fancett Pagels

 This is a riveting, historical read you won't want to miss. Truly a memorable story of hope and obedience!

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Captured By Moonlight By Christine Lindsay

Christine Lindsay sweeps us away to the exotic, hauntingly beautiful land of India in this exciting story of romance, faith, and intrigue!  

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Forsaken Dreams By MaryLu Tyndall

A riveting novel that sweeps us away on a riveting, seafaring journey -- beginning in the ravaged, post civil war torn South to the lush beauty of Brazil!

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The Governess Of Highland Hall By Carrie Turansky

A wonderful Edwardian era novel set in England; replete with dashing lords and ladies, secrets, pain, and hidden passions! A must read!

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Heaven Is Not Far By Marian Baay

An emotive, soul-stirring short story of a love that transcends time, distance, and even the Civil War! Heartwarming debut!

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Love At Any Cost By Julie Lessman

A passion-filled, heartwarming journey to beautiful San Francisco...with its lush lawns of the very wealthy on Nob Hill to the poverty stricken streets of the Barbary Coast! One not to miss!

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Beyond The Valley By Rita Gerlach

A powerful, heartrending historical read, full of excitement and romance! You simply must put this one at the top of your TBR stack!

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Whispers Of A New Dawn By Murray Pura

A powerful story of love and healing on the turbulent road to the bombing of Pearl Harbor!

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My Hope Is Found By Joanne Bischof

A lovely, heartrending tale of sin's consequences, redemption, and unrequited love, that will keep you flipping those pages well into the night! I loved this entire series!

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Burning Sky By Lori Benton

A hauntingly beautiful, heartrending tale of a kidnapped white woman caught not only between two very different worlds, but also two handsome men from diverse cultures!





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            Unforeseeable and Unbreakable by Nancy Mehl

Exciting, suspense-filled sequels to Inescapable---set in the quaint, homey Mennonite town of Kingdom!  

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The Captive Maiden By Melanie Dickerson

An enchanting, captivating story of knights, castles, and romance; reminscent of the classic tale, Cinderella!

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The Painted Sky Volumes 1-8 by Murray Pura 

 An exciting story of adventure and romance on the sweltering, rugged plains of New Mexico! Will be released as a paperback soon and you may recognize some of the characters from OWG!

 

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A Highlander For Christmas by Jamie Carie

 

I loved this breathtaking Christmas novella set in the beautiful Scottish highlands...of castles set against the backdrop of misty, verdant hills---of kilts and colorful tartans, and the seemingly ill-fated romance between a brave clan chieftain and an English lady!



**Thank you to all of the wonderful Christian authors who provided me and so many others with hours of reading pleasure in 2013! See you next year!**

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Click on to book title to purchase any of these great novels!

 

Name a couple of your favorite books from 2013! Have you read any of the books on my list?

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!

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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? :)

Teresa S. Mathews' 2013 Favorite Books

This year has been filled with lots of amazing books; here is a list of some of my favorite ones.

A Most Peculiar Circumstance by Jen Turano

Jen Turano is a great writer with a fabulous sense of humor.

I fell in love with her books when I read the first one in this series, A Change of Fortune. These next two books in the series continue with characters we meet in the previous books. If you like Heroines that just can't seem to stay out of trouble, and of course they have to be rescued by a handsome Hero, then this is a series you MUST read! 

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A Talent for Trouble by Jen Turano

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Burning Sky by Lori Benton

In this outstanding novel by Lori Benton we are introduced to a beautiful girl named Willa Obenchain, who was captured by Indians and renamed Burning Sky. Forced by circumstances to return to her white family, will she find she no longer belongs there? This captivating story held me spellbound to the very end.

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Dance From Deep Within by Dina Sleiman
The only words I can use to describe this tremendous book is....it is a must-read.

Dina Sleiman weaves a story of three college-aged young ladies that are each searching for something deeper. One an all-american ballerina who is disillusioned by harsh religion. Another a beautiful Muslim girl that knows there has to be more than what she has been taught. The third a free-spirited "hippie" who is searching for more than the mundane life she has lived in her short years.

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Elusive Hope by MaryLu Tyndall

This is a new series by MaryLu Tyndall and what an amazing series this is! Not only did I love the characters and of course the descriptive writing MaryLu is famous for, I learned a history lesson. I have lived in South Carolina all my life and I had never heard of the exodus of hundreds of Southerners to Brazil after the Civil War. If you have or even if you haven't ever read a book by Ms. Tyndall this is the perfect series for you to read. It's like taking a mini-vacation to Brazil with a whole set of friends. The Second Book continues the story after they have established their new colony and I will tell you there is some many strange goings on in that jungle! 

You DO NOT want to miss this series!

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Forsaken Dreams by MaryLu Tyndall

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Heaven Is Not far by Marian Baay

This is our very own sweet Marian's debut novel and let me tell you I love her like a daughter and she really made "mom" proud. This is a heart stirring love story of a young couple barely married when the husband decides God has called him to fight in the Civil War. Has he made the right choice and will he survive to return to his true love that is waiting for him? 

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Love's Awakening by Laura Frantz

In this second book in the Ballantyne Series, we meet beautiful Ellie Ballantyne, youngest daughter of Silas and Eden, whom we met in book one Love's Reckoning.

Ellie leaves finishing school and is stranded by a storm with seemingly no way to get home when finds herself rescued by not none other than Jack Turlock, a member of the infamous Turlock clan! Could it be possible Jack has changed or is Ellie just dreaming of a love that can never happen? If you have ever read a book by Laura Frantz you know what a treasure it is and this one is no exception to that. I have never picked up one of Ms Frantz books and found myself bored with it after a few pages, she has a talent to bring the tale to life while you are reading it.

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Return to Shirley Plantation by Carrie Fancett Pagels

This debut story by our sweet Carrie is nothing short of fantastic!! It is the tale of a beautiful freed slave that could pass for white that has the chance to leave Shirley Plantation before the war comes to her doorstep but chooses to stay and try to free her niece and nephew so she can take them with her. After Shirley Plantation is taken over and used as a field hospital for the wounded Angelina meets Matthew Scott son of a Copperhead that was conscripted into the Confederate Army. Can they find happiness in the midst of war and will Matthew find the answers to questions he has about his family at Shirley Plantation?

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Stealing the Preacher by Karen Witemeyer

Oh my goodness what exciting books Karen Witemeyer writes! This is the sequel to Short-Straw Bride, and in it we learn more of the handsome brother Crocket, preacher man of the Archer clan! When he is kidnapped from a train by outlaws he has no idea he is to be introduced to a beautiful young lady, Joanna Robbins whose only birthday wish is a Preacher! Will Crockett be able to help make her dreams come true or will he continue on to the church interview he had been headed too?

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Strand of Deception by Robin Carrol

There is nothing I like better than a good suspense and Robin Caroll is a master of it! In this Justice Seeker book we find a prominent Tennessee politician's daughter has gone missing and later found dead. SAC Nick Hagar and Forensic Specialist in DNA; Maddie Baxter team up to find the killer. Maddie is horrified to think it could he the man that broke her heart! During the investigation Maddie finds she is being stalked by someone intent on harming and possibly killing her. Can Agent Hagar keep Maddie safe and can Maddie keep her heart safe from this handsome man?  If you need a little something to rev you up then grab this and sit back and hold on to the edge of your seat!

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Vanished by Irene Hannon

Irene Hannon is another master storyteller that will have you hanging on for dear life when reading her books and this one was no exception to that rule. Reporter Moira Harrisons is lost on a back road in the pouring rain (perfect scary beginning) when out of nowhere a woman is standing in the road in front of her. Trying to avoid hitting her Moira is forced to serve and ends up in a ditch and promptly passes out, When help arrives and she tells her story no one believes her because the young woman is no where to be found. Did Moira only think she saw someone? Moira is not convinced she imagined the woman so she hires a private investigator to help her sort out what happened. What they discover could cost Moira her life! What a wonderful story this was, Irene is a pro at snatching your attention from the first page until the very end! 

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Widow of Gettysburg by Jocelyn Green

Jocelyn Green certainly knows how to write a heart-wrenching book. This story will take you through the horrors of the Battle of Gettysburg and the days that followed as seen through the eyes of a young Union widow, Liberty Holloway. When the first shots of that horrific battle started Liberty had no clue before the day was over she would find herself caring for the wounded and dying Confederate Soldiers. Jocelyn's descriptions were so intense it was like you could almost hear the sounds of the gunfire and smell the smoke, it was a hard book to put down. If you like Civil War tales, then you shouldn't miss this one!

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Love at Any Cost by Julie Lessman

The amazing Julie Lessman once again has swept me off my feet with a brand new series set in San Francisco. I was so sad to tell the O'Connors goodbye but I knew Julie would make the transition to a new family I would fall in love with an easy one. Cassidy McClare trying to get over being jilted by a no-good fortune hunter, heads west to visit with family in California. As soon as she gets there she runs into Jamie McKenna, another man seeking to marry well but little does he know she is as poor as he is!! What a great tale this was...Julie had my heart pumping on more than one occasion, as only Julie can do!! The Second book in this series Dare to Love Again, is scheduled to release in January and I can't wait to get my hands on it!! 

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The Captive Maiden by Melanie Dickerson

If you love fairy tales and happy-ever-afters then you have to read Melanie's books. The Captive Maiden is Melanie's spin on Cinderella. What an amazing story it is; Gisela's life hasn't been the same since her dear father died and left her in the care of her wicked step-mother. Gisela has daydreamed since a little girl of being rescued by the handsome Lord Valten. After a chance meeting in the marketplace could it be possible Valten could care for her, or will the plans of her step-mother forever ruin her chances for happy-ever-after?

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GIVEAWAY: We are giving away a paperback copy of Karen Witemeyer's Stealing the Preacher to one lucky person who tells me THEIR favorite book for 2013. (US Residents Only). Don't forget to include your email address!