First Love Forever -- More Reviews from Andrea Stephens

First Love Forever Romance Collection By Susanne Dietze, Cynthia Hickey, Marcia Gruver, Carrie Fancett Pagels, Martha Rogers, Lorna Seilstad, Connie Stevens, Jennifer Uhlarik, and Erica Vetsch

I was very touched by each of the novellas in this 5 Star book. Each story tells of a couple separated by time for varying reasons, being reunited in unique circumstances.

-Weeping Willow by Marcia Gruver

Willow, Julian, and Hiram. Childhood friends and semi-rivals Julian and Hiram both love Willow. Willow's heart belongs only to Julian. The men go off to fight in the Civil War. Hiram returns wounded. Julian is not heard from for two years. Willow is pressured by her mother to marry Hiram. Can Willow put her grief and love for Julian aside?

I admired Willow's faith and seriously disliked her mother n this story of true love and faith.

I loved the authors' way of saying things. Example: “freckles so dense they looked blasted on with a scattergun”

-After The Ball by Martha Rogers

Chase and Susannah have loved each other since childhood summers spent together on his grandfather's ranch. Chase is unhappy working for his father, he longs to be on the ranch with his grandfather and Susannah. Chases mother wants him to marry a Dallas society woman. He takes Susannah to the ball honoring his father some women say she is not good enough for Dallas, but the truth was Chase wanted her and that's all that mattered. Being true to yourself and what you want for your life is the heart of this sweet story.

-Lighter Than Air by Lorna Seilstad

Ella and Titus. For school principal Ella Mason there is nothing like having her first love literally drop out of the sky onto the school property. A difference of minds separated them six years prior to the crash landing. Titus is injured and must stay at the school to recuperate much to Ella's dismay. Eventually, Titus is allowed to give some science lessons to the girls during his recuperation. One snooty mother does not think it is appropriate to have a man at a girls boarding school. She threatens Ella. Ella sees changes in Titus and his beliefs. This is an action-packed, second chance at first love story. After a fire and tornado, the balloon gets repaired, does the relationship?

-In Due Season by Connie Stevens

Leah and Gareth. There is so much hurt to overcome. Gareth left Leah the day before their wedding. Fifteen years later, he returns to sell his late father's property. Holding on to hurts from the past, Leah struggles to forgive Gareth after he tells her the truth of why he left, not what his father told her and the town. She still loves him, he's never stopped loving her. My heart hurts for these two as they go back and forth searching for the path to forgiveness. Gareth leaves town again to care for his recently found mother, she is dying in a hospital. Can Leah and Gareth overcome all that has passed between them?

-A Most Reluctant Bride by Cynthia Hickey

Maggie and Zach. Maggie fell in love with Zach when she was a teen, too young for him. After her father dies, her mother wants to marry her off to the highest bidder and move back east. Maggie only wants to save her father's ranch. Trapped in a storm overnight, they return only to find Maggie's mother insisting they marry to save her reputation. They enter into a marriage of convenience. Zach sees Maggie as a feisty woman now and has feelings for her. Maggie loves him even more after seeing him take control of the ranch. The playful, teasing banter between the two is sweet. After Maggie is put in a dangerous situation, their feelings get real. For me, the message is trust and truth.

-Heartfelt Echos by Jennifer Uhlarik

Travis and Millie fell in love at the school for the deaf. They are separated by time and circumstance. Victoria, Millie's mother is very ill and sends for Travis to get and break a horse for Millie's birthday, (I think she wants him to be the real present). This is a very suspenseful story! Millie's step-father is not so nice. There is beating, kidnapping, a fire and more. There are also many surprises. Restoration, reuniting, and true love.

-Prescription for Love by Erica Vetsch

Natalie and Phin. Oh my, this is such a tragic story! Nurse Natalie Morrison, the almost fiancee of Dr. Phinias Mackenzie, has just recovered from Yellow Fever and is assigned to be his nurse in New Orleans. Natalie feels she is supposed to return to missionary work in Panama because it was her father's deathbed wish. Phin is drawn to New Orleans with his new mobile doctor office to reach those people that would never go to the doctor.

There is a deadly Yellow fever outbreak in the city. Natalie and Phin work very closely together, while the love they had for each other in the past simmers beneath the surface. Phin's brother Michael, sees it as he is being treated for the fever. He tells each of them they need to talk things out. Can Phin forgive Natalie for leaving him without explanation? Will Natalie realize her own calling for her life? Is there a chance for a happy ending?

This is such a wonderful, love filled collection. I highly recommend it to everyone.

We also have a Rafflecopter giveaway going on through April. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Be sure to enter to be one of the winners of the MANY great gifts we have!!!

Purchase links:

Christian Book Distributors  

Barnes & Noble   

Amazon 

Check at your local Christian bookstores, e.g., Lifeway, to see if they have copies, too! 

Giveaway: An autographed copy of First Love Forever. Leave a comment to enter. 

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!

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? :)

All Stories in A PIONEER CHRISTMAS COLLECTION Summarized by Noela Nancarrow

A Pioneer Christmas Collection

A Pioneer Christmas Collection

by Lauraine Snelling, Margaret Brownley, Kathleen Fuller, Marcia Gruver, Cynthia Hickey, Vickie McDonough, Shannon McNear, Michelle Ule, and Anna Urquhart.

Barbour Publishing, Inc. (September 1, 2013)

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow

5 STARS *****

A PIONEER CHRISTMAS COLLECTION

I love Christmas and I love Christmas reads! Throw in a whole bunch of exceptional authors and you’ve got a real treat! This compilation of original and inspiring historical romance novella’s will entertain you with their appealing and intriguing tales of pioneer life and love in untamed lands. Each story concludes with the new pioneers celebrating Christmas in unconventional dwellings.

 ‘Defending Truth’ by Shannon McNear, sees Truth, a young woman in western North Carolina, alone and responsible for her younger siblings after her father had left them to fight the British. What will she do when she comes across a half-starved militia man loyal to the Crown? This is an intriguing and heart-warming story reflecting the battle on King’s Mountain and of God’s grace.

‘The Calling’ by Kathleen Fuller centers around a tavern in Unionville, Ohio, that also doubles as a stagecoach stop. Elijah Montgomery is pushed by his parents to travel and preach. Is he just being obedient to his folks or hearing the calling himself? What part might Milly, the lovely tavern girl who works for her father, have in helping Elijah to find his destiny?

‘A Silent Night’ by Anna Urquhart illustrates the struggles of a mother and young child surviving on their own in the woodlands of Michigan Territory in 1830. Refusing a marriage of convenience that most women would have taken up leaves Lorna vulnerable and unprepared for winter. How can she possibly survive and will they get their Christmas miracle that 6 year old Afton is praying for?

'A Pony Express Christmas' by Margaret Brownley has the bloomer-clad Ellie-May Newman searching across the unforgiving Nebraska Territory for her missing brother who rode for the Pony Express. After saving a man, she informs him he’ll be helping her on her quest. There’s an interesting love triangle in this story and an unexpected outcome for Ellie at the end of the trail. Margaret Brownley is a brilliant storyteller and this tale is a hearty feast for a novella!

‘A Christmas Castle’ by Cynthia Hickey ambushes Annie Morgan with quite a few eye-popping revelations when she arrives at her ranch in Prescott, Arizona, to chase down her new husband who was supposed to meet her in town. This story by Cynthia was fast-moving, delightfully romantic, and especially captivating!

‘The Cowboy’s Angel’ by Lauraine Snelling has a very pregnant woman and her son living on the Dakota Territory plains in 1875 waiting for her husband to return home after leaving weeks earlier to purchase supplies. With a baby coming, a 4 yr. old son, animals to care for, and snowstorms, Belle is in much need of a Christmas miracle from God’s angels. What could have befallen her husband?

‘A Badlands Christmas’ by Marcia Gruver soon has Australian Jonathon Nancarrow journeying from sophisticated New York City along with his two daughters to the small town of Medora in the heart of the wilderness, still seeking peace and healing after the death of his wife. His eldest daughter Noela takes quite a while adjusting to the overwhelming differences, especially having to live in a house made of dirt and grass called a soddie! Will this little family survive a harsh Dakota winter here and can Noela find love in the wilderness? Marcia Gruver writes an immensely memorable and highly entertaining read, delivering an enchanting story with a very sweet romance.

‘Buckskin Bride’ by Vickie McDonough takes us to Oklahoma Territory in 1889 to where Mattie and her two sisters Milly and Jess are living in a tipi, which unknowingly happens to be on handsome Irishman Conall Donegan’s land. Their father hasn’t returned and Mattie having been left in charge feels a huge responsibility to keep her sisters safe, fed, and sheltered. When Jess is hurt and they are all discovered, Mattie feels like everything is falling apart. Can things come together for Christmas?

‘The Gold Rush Christmas’ by Michelle Ule delivers an interesting and unique story with twins Samantha and Peter Harris travelling to Skagway, Alaska with good friend Miles. What sets out as a search for the twins’ father ends up becoming so much more for all three of these ‘musketeers’. This takes place during the 1897 Gold Rush bringing many unsavoury characters to the region; however this story which is based on a true account ends with an extraordinary Christmas inspired conclusion.

*Thanks to the publisher for providing a review copy through NetGalley*

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This book may be purchased through Amazon; CBD; Deeper Shopping; Barnes or Noble; or your local bookstore.

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GIVEAWAY:  We have 2 books of 'A Pioneer Christmas Collection' for giveaway this week. Marcia Gruver has kindly donated a book with signatures from all nine authors, and Carrie Fancett Pagels will be giving away another copy of this book!

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QUESTION: There are wonderful Christmas miracles illustrated in the stories throughout this book. We'd love you to share a Christmas miracle of your own if you have one! Otherwise, tell us what is special about Christmas for you?





Noela Nancarrow reviews 'A PIONEER CHRISTMAS COLLECTION'



A Pioneer Christmas Collection

A Pioneer Christmas Collection

by Various Authors

Barbour Publishing, Inc. (September 1, 2013)

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow

~5 STARS~ *****

In ‘A PIONEER CHRISTMAS COLLECTION’, nine exceptional and esteemed authors share their stories of brave pioneers who face daunting challenges and danger as they travel to, and occupy untamed lands. When Christmas arrives, the pioneers find shelter in unexpected and unconventional forms, and learn it is not the place but the heart, that’s needed to celebrate love.

This exciting collection of original novella’s are penned from these outstanding authors: Kathleen Fuller; Vicki McDonough; LauraineSnelling; Margaret Brownley; Marcia Gruver; Cynthia M. Hickey; Shannon McNear; Michelle Ule; and Anna Carrie Urquhart.

A BADLAND’S CHRISTMAS by MARCIA GRUVER

‘A Badland’s’ Christmas’ is an aesthetically delightful story that will submerge your senses in its charm and beauty with the captivating and enchanting storyline, coupled with the incomparable scenery of the Badland’s of Western Dakota Territory.

Desperate to help himself and his family heal after the loss of his wife, Jonathan Nancarrow brings his two daughters Noela and her younger sister Beatrice from Queensland, Australia to New York to live. However, when Jonathan gets to speak to an up and coming politician named Theodore Roosevelt at a function, he is inspired to pack up his family and undertake homesteading at Medora, which is in the heart of the wilderness. Along the way they meet young Hiram McGregor, who when hearing of the Nancarrow’s plans and prospective accommodation, is gravely worried for their well-being and survival in their dilapidated dwelling, from the chilling Dakota winter. How will this completely unprepared little Australian family ever survive in this harsh but beautiful land, and will Hiram be the answers to all their prayers, especially Noela’s? With both pleasant and frightful surprises around each corner, can Jonathan and his girls persist in their struggles to discover happiness, love, and peace, in time for Christmas?

Marcia Gruver writes with flair, delivering a touching and sweet to the soul romance, outstanding humour, and rich, vivid characters, in this wonderful historical romance. An immensely memorable and highly entertaining read! Thank you Marcia!!

A PONY EXPRESS CHRISTMAS by MARGARET BROWNLEY

In ‘A Pony Express’, author Margaret Brownley takes us on a fascinating journey across the wild and sometimes unforgiving land of Nebraska Territory, as Ellie-May Newman seeks her beloved missing brother Andrew - a Pony Express rider that never returned after the company had shut down.

The delightful but headstrong Ellie-May, strikes an amusing sight with her unusual bloomers and floppy straw-hat, and draws laughter and raised eyebrows from everyone she encounters, including Michael Corbett, a ruggedly-handsome man with intense cobalt eyes. This unlikely couple met in rather disconcerting circumstances and Michael was immensely appreciative she came along when she did! Helping Ellie-May in her search for her missing brother, Michael wasn’t prepared for all she would put him through. It didn’t hurt however that he began to find her quite appealing, even with her ridiculous bloomers, or that he felt surges of protectiveness toward this gal. He wasn’t quite prepared though to find that another in their small traveling party had their sights on him. This little love triangle provided some of the cutest and most hilarious scenes because the third party was none other than Josie, one of the mules! Take a step back in history as you traverse the trails in Nebraska of the Pony Express riders, and search for clues along with Ellie-May and Michael in their quest to find her brother.

Margaret Brownley is a brilliant storyteller, harmoniously incorporating historical facts and interesting geographical landmarks in a novella that’s replete with humour, adventure, and a delightful romance. An inspiring message of trusting God our rock crowns this captivating tale.

DEFENDING TRUTH by SHANNON McNEAR

In ‘Defending Truth’, author Shannon McNear takes us back to 1781, to a misty forest on a mountain of the western North Carolina frontier, and to the small Bledsoe farm just below the slope of the mountain. The story is set during the American Revolutionary War and after the legendary fierce but swift battle at King’s Mountain that had became the turning point in this conflict.

Truth Bledsoe’s father had left her alone to care for her younger siblings when he’d gone off to fight the British and militia loyal to the Crown. While on the lookout for game at her favourite hunting spot, Truth comes face to face with a bedraggled, hollow-cheeked young man in tattered blood-stained clothes. Realizing he was a Tory, the very enemy her father was off fighting and had warned her about, she kept her long rifle trained on him although compassion prompted her to feed this half-starved man.

Micah Elliot, an escaped loyalist prisoner, was bone-weary and soul-weary and uncertain where his allegiance lay anymore after seeing the horror that neighbours and brothers had inflicted upon each other. He wasn’t even sure where he could call home. Micah was ashamed of running away but although he had fled capture, he couldn’t escape the nightmares. Will Micah ever find a place to call home and something that is worth laying down his life for? Where might he find his future or will he forever be considered the enemy?

Shannon McNear has created a gem with her first novella that is exciting, thought-provoking, and historically fascinating. This story is an outstanding testament to her remarkable skill as a writer, compelling me to read anything else that Shannon might set her hand to!

*****

*Thanks to the publisher for providing a review copy through NetGalley.*

This book is available at: DeeperShopping, Amazon, CBD and other bookstores.

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GIVEAWAY:  We have 2 copies of 'A Pioneer Christmas Collection' for giveaways! One from Marcia Gruver that be signed by all the authors and one from OWG!

QUESTION: What are some Christmas traditions unique to your family and/or your favorite Christmas food?

Teresa's Fantastic Favorites for 2012

My List in No Particular Order

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A Bride's Flight by Murray Pura

This book by Murray was a pleasant surprise.

It was the perfect story, it had the right amount of murder and mayhem and the perfect cowboy to take care of the lady in distress. It reminded me of the good ole days of watching cowboy movies with my dad on Saturday mornings.
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A Love Surrendered by Julie Lessman

Julie Lessman wows us once again with another sweet love story from the Winds of Change Series. To say this one was extra special is an understatement, all of Julie's books are that, but this one brings to a close the story of a family I have come to love...The O'Connors. 
I'm going to miss them all!    

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Before the Scarlet Dawn by Rita Gerlach

What a amazing book this was, Rita truly captured my heart with this story and kept me hanging on until the very end. It will take you through a gamut of emotions. This is book one in the Daughters of the Potomac Series, the second is Beside Two Rivers and it was also excellent. Please take time to read these, I promise you won't be sorry.

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Double Blind by Brandilyn Collins

This book by Brandilyn had me sitting on the edge of my seat the entire time I was reading it. 
If you like good old fashion suspense bordering on terror you will love this book.
I can't wait for her next book.

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Hunter's Prize by Marcia Gruver

I loved this story, it has a lot of mystery and what I really liked the most was how she dealt with a disorder that effects a lot of children. 
Her characters were charming and I really fell in love with Ceddy.

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Love’s Reckoning by Laura Frantz

Once again Laura takes you back in time to a beautiful place 
that will bring joy to your heart and a smile to your face. 
I came to love Laura's work when I read the Frontiersman's Daughter, 
and I have enjoyed everyone of her books since.

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The Yellow Packard by Ace Collins

This is the first book I have read by Ace Collins and hopefully it will be the first of many. This is the story of a beautiful custom made car that seems to be cursed from the moment it rolls off the production line. 
If you love mystery, suspense and a happy ending this is a tale for you.
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The Christmas Star by Ace Collins

When I read this beautiful story by Ace I was so excited. It's the perfect Christmas story that's destined to become a classic. As you can see I have read two stories by Ace this year and loved them both.

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Veil of Pearls by MaryLu Tyndall

Since the first book of MaryLu's I picked up in the library years ago to this one I have never been disappointed in any of them. This one will take you to the beautiful city of Charleston, SC during its ultimate heyday before the Civil War and it will lay bare the horrors of slavery. It will have you wiping tears of sorrow and joy before it's over.

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Injustice for All by Robin Caroll

Robin certainly knows how to write a wonderful suspense novel. From the first you know that the good guys aren't always good and then it just gets better from there. This one had me frantically flipping pages until the end. It was so good!

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A Change of Fortune by Jen Turano

Oh what a fun story! I enjoyed this book from the first page until the last. Jen had me hooked from the very beginning with the lovely Lady Eliza. Eliza will have you rolling with laughter with her antics, I could so appreciate how the harder she tries to do something the more difficult it becomes. Having lived through a few of those episodes myself, I can fully understand Eliza's dilemmas. 

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Lily, Song of the River Series

By Diane Ashley and Aaron McCarver

I loved this beautiful story of a young lady that loved the mighty Mississippi so much she doesn't let anything stop her dream of owning a riverboat, not even a handsome gambler.

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Saving Hope by Margaret Daley

Book one in The Men of the Texas Rangers series.

In this fast paced tale Margaret tackles the serious subject of human trafficking and the abuse of young girls. This was a book that was filled with things that make us uncomfortable to think about but the good part is there is a handsome Texas Ranger that will stop at nothing to rescue these girls. 

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A Light in the Window by Julie Lessman

This book by Julie is a story that truly is the epitome of what the Christmas spirit is all about. It explains the beginning of the O'Connor family, and what a family this is. ~sigh~  Thank you Julie for sharing with us how Marceline chooses the love of her life.