My Heart Belongs in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania: Clarissa's Conflict by Murray Pura

My Heart Belongs in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania: Clarissa's Conflict 

by Murray Pura

Barbour Books (2018)

Reviewed by Andrea Stephens

Publisher's Description

 Journey into Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, of 1863 where Clarissa Avery Ross lives a full life. By day she is the daughter of a respectable shoemaker being courted by seminary student Kyle Forrester. But by night she is a conductor on the Underground Railroad, working with a mysterious man called Liberty. She would like to share her work with Kyle, but he refuses to enlist when the war breaks out. How can she remain true to a man being labeled a coward? When the war comes to her back door in an epic battle, the greatest challenges to her faith and love are yet to come.

This novel is part of the My Heart Belongs series from Barbour. Click here to see all the books in the series! Andrea has reviewed most of the books here on OWG blog! Thank you Andrea!

Andrea's thoughts:

 This story opens on the Underground Railroad, December 1863. Clarissa, disguised as Joshua, is conducting passengers north of Gettysburg when she is pulled off the trail and ordered into the woods. Unsure if her captor is friend or foe, the “little scrap” of a thing is kicking and fighting until the secret code is spoken. Slave catchers are after them. After the immediate danger has passed, Liberty reveals himself to her. He is a well-known, famous even, operator on the Underground Railroad. Clarissa is not impressed. Her temper up, she snarls at him. “Don't call me an itty-bitty scrap of nothing ever again...” There's more but I won't spoil it for you.  I can tell you this is the first of many missions the two work together. They must overcome many obstacles to find trust and become friends. I found their squabbles to be very entertaining despite the dangerous situations they were in.

In Clarissa's everyday life, she is a strong-willed, fiery red-head, a little bit spoiled by her loving parents and extremely smart. She talks to herself a lot too. I love her garret bedroom! She spends time with Kyle Forrester, a seminary student. She is a bit forward in walking alone with him, unchaperoned. But he does not agree with her views on slavery or the Underground Railroad, he thinks the law and judges should handle it. Can they overcome their differences to have the courtship he desires?

Clarissa is grounded by her town, Gettysburg. She knows all its nooks and crannies, all the side streets and surrounding farms, fields and trees. She loves the people in it. Only her parents and the Reverend know her secret. She is safe in Gettysburg.

I cannot tell you more of Clarissa's conflict without spoilers.  I will say a deep love develops (but I won't say with who) and when war comes to Gettysburg, that love is battle tested.
There is a very moving passage near the end where Clarissa is asked what she is looking at. She says, “my Gettysburg...”  You must read the rest for yourselves, it would not be fair if I repeated the rest.
I do recommend this book. Especially if you are a fan of Civil War era stories. President Lincoln makes a brief appearance too. 

This book definitely has more grit and drama than other books in series. In the end, though, it is clear that Gettysburg is truly where Clarissa's heart belongs.

GIVEAWAY: A paperback copy of My Heart Belongs in Gettysburg. Leave a comment to enter.

Noela Nancarrow reviews ASHTON PARK by Murray Pura

Ashton Park

Ashton Park

by Murray Pura
Harvest House Publishers (January 1, 2013)

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow
~5 Stars~ *****

This is an exceptional and exhilarating saga featuring a wealthy, large aristocratic family called the Danforth's of Lancashire, who reside in an ancient, grand manor on their Ashton Park Estate. There is nothing stuffy about this story however, considering it is replete with forbidden romances, and drama and action that's also intensified with an edge-of-your-seat suspense. Ashton Park carries a semblance of Downton Abbey but whether you're a fan or not, you can be sure this novel is definitely livelier and way more action-packed than the television series.

We are taken back to an era during World War One where the decline of the aristocrats and the breaking down of strict social rules has begun to take effect. Lord William and Lady Elizabeth Danforth struggle to come to terms with these changes when it directly touches their family with some of their children falling in love with those of a lower class. As a result, there are secret rendezvous', betrayals, and heartbreak. With the Great War also impacting upon the Danforth family due to the active service of three of the young Danforth sons and one of the Danforth daughters, this family of nobility goes through tremendous upheaval during the time span of this book which is from 1916 until 1923.

It is during this time; the great conflict between the British and the IRA (Irish Republican Army) was also transpiring and beginning to intensify. The youngest son Robbie Danforth, who was enlisted in the British Army, was serving in Ireland for this war and we see him wrestle for self-control when it becomes extremely personal to him. His brother Kipp, a pilot in the Royal Air Force, takes up in the air for an exciting battle with a German tri-plane and ends with a victory that then credits him with becoming an Ace. And Edward the eldest son is in the Royal Navy, and faces his own harrowing experiences. These and a few other portrayals of extremely intense battles are illustrated in this book, but all are absolutely thrilling without being verbose. The history is fascinating and interesting, and the author, proficient in his research.

There is not a dull moment to be found in Ashton Park amidst the trials and triumphs of the Danforth's and their loved ones. The romances dotted right throughout are delightful and smile-inducing. Their faith in God is often tested, and sometimes left wanting, while other times, inspiring. The births and weddings are joyous, but the dangers and deaths are heart-stopping and heart-rending. Ashton Park also delivers an important message of redemption and forgiveness. Overall, it captures you with its charm whilst whisking you on a fascinating journey back into history with its breathtaking scenes!

Find Murray’s books at Amazon, CBD, B&N, DeeperShopping, and other bookstores.

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GIVEAWAY: Winners choice of a copy of one of the books in The Danforths of Lancashire series; Ashton Park, Beneath the Dover Sky, or London Dawn—paperback or ebook.

Leave a comment and your email address to be entered in the contest.

Murray Pura's new release LONDON DAWN reviewed by Marian Baay

London Dawn

LONDON DAWN - The Danforths of Lancashire #3

By Murray Pura

Harvest House Publishers, 2014

Reviewed by Marian Baay

~5 stars ~*****

Oh, how I enjoyed this last book in The Danforths of Lancashire Series! I even think I enjoyed this one the most of all. I was hooked from the first page where I was back at Ashton Park in 1934 and from there I was thrown right into a tense political situation in Germany with Catherine and Albrecht…and that was just the beginning of the action. The many twists and turns in this book kept me glued to the pages as each time I learned something new about the Danforth family members—they never cease to amaze me.

Several of Lord William and Lady Elizabeth’s grandchildren have joined the Royal Air Force, Navy, and Army. When Hitler starts the air attack on Britain in 1940, Lord Preston cannot do much more than pray for his family while they are flying their Spitfires to defend Britain from the German fighters. But will his prayers be enough to keep them all alive?

This is one of the most powerful fiction books I have read this year. The story is realistic, vividly written, and has a strong plot.

This book touched my heart in many ways; it had my heart racing several times when I witnessed the air battles—I could almost hear the roaring of the Spitfires’ engines and hear the bullets whistle by. There was heart-pounding action in the sea battle—it was like watching a movie as I saw the white caps thrashing the battle ship and heard the seagulls cry. There was heartache when loved ones died, but also heart-stirring romance when grandchildren found new love.

London Dawn was a perfect conclusion of this trilogy, but I hate to say good-bye to the Danforths. I shared in their joy and sorrow and won’t forget them soon.

Praise to the author for writing such an excellent series. Well done, Mr. Pura!

*Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a review copy through NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.*

Find Murray’s books at Amazon, CBD, B&N, DeeperShopping, and other bookstores.

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GIVEAWAY: Winners choice of a copy of one of the books in The Danforths of Lancashire series; Ashton Park, Beneath the Dover Sky, or London Dawn—paperback or ebook.
Why would you like to win? 
Leave a comment and your email address to be entered in the contest.

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?

Marian's Favorites of 2013

Favorite Novels

Whispers from the Shadows

by Roseanna M. White

Murder, spies, secrets, war, love, grief, forgiveness, faith... There’s so much to enjoy in this story. The characters and plot were very well developed and the writing is clear and exciting. 

The Heiress of Winterwood

by Sarah E. Ladd

I immediately fell in love with Amelia and Graham. Both are strong characters with flaws—which they must overcome. The storyline is strong and believable. The characters are real and likable. There was never a good time to stop reading—I kept turning the pages and the ending was satisfactory. I’m looking forward to Sarah Ladd’s next book!

The Rose of Lancaster County

by Murray Pura

A fantastic story with great characters and…oh, the romance!! Mr. Pura knows what a woman wants in a romance story and he happily pens it down for us all to enjoy.

Under a Blackberry Moon
by Serena B. Miller

Awesome story about two characters from Serena Miller's The Measure of Katie Calloway—Skypilot and Moon Song.

An interesting story with unexpected twists and turns that kept me glued to the pages.

When the Clouds Roll By
by Myra Johnson

The writing style is excellent! After having read the first pages, I was so drawn into the story that I knew this was going to be a great read…and I wasn’t disappointed! This book has an original storyline and kept me guessing till the end. Highly recommended!

Widow of Gettysburg 
by Jocelyn Green

A well written, heart wrenching story set during the Civil War. Very well done!

Promise to Return
by Elizabeth Byler Younts

This author knows how to keep the suspense high and keep the reader guessing. I have shed several tears while reading this fantastic book, so I advise keeping the tissues handy. I’m going to keep my eye on this author and I’m surely going to read the next book in this series.

Misery Loves Company

by Rene Gutteridge

As a blogger and reviewer I was drawn like a magnet to the storyline in this book. What more fun can there be than to read about the main character being a blogger and reviewer, and who is being kidnapped by her favorite author? :-)

Ashton Park 
by Murray Pura

A wonderful first book in a trilogy about the Danforths of Lancashire. I've read the complete series and loved all the books. If you like to read books with many characters and various plots, then this series is for you.

The Well

by Stephanie Landsem

I enjoyed this book immensely! The writing is excellent; the author has a pleasant voice, the plot is very well done, the characters are so real, easy to love, and easy to identify with. From the first till the last page this book is a pure delight. 

A Heart Deceived

by Michelle Griep

This author really can write!! She has an unique way with words that drew me into the story right away. The descriptions are so rich and full, I could almost feel, hear, smell, and touch them. The emotions splattered from the pages—fear, despair, unfairness, hope, love, romance! Extremely well written, excellent research, and a brilliant plot!! 

Stealing the Preacher
by Karen Witemeyer

Not only a lovely cover, but an enjoyable story as well. This was such a treat!

Forsaken Dreams
by MaryLu Tyndall

A wonderful first book in a new series—I enjoyed this book very much. I love the author's rich descriptions and she always creates the best characters!

Favorite novellas & short stories:

Return to Shirley Plantation

by Carrie Fancett Pagels

Our very own Carrie surprised me with her wonderful debut novella. I loved reading about Angelina and Matthew—how they met at Shirley Plantation and how the first sparks of chemistry filled the air. But this is not only a love story—it is war and there are secrets and a mystery to unravel.

Bachelor Buttons
by Kathleen L. Maher

Another wonderful novella by a debut author. This is a sweet love story set during the Civil War. Bachelor Buttons is a lovely story about regular people's lives during the Civil War. Kathleen Maher has a fresh and pleasant writing-style which makes this story an enjoyable read.

All the Pretty Little Ponies

by Murray Pura

This is one of the sweetest short stories I have read in a long time. It tugged at my heartstrings and I sniffled through the whole story. It's so touching, so warm, so sweet, and awesome.

The Painted Sky

by Murray Pura

Make sure to check out this  wonderful series with great characters based on your OWG friends! :-) In this series Mr. Pura has given us an unforgettable adventure in the eight volumes of The Painted Sky!

A cup of Christmas Cheer
by various authors, including our own CARRIE!

I haven't read all the stories in this volume yet, but I enjoyed Carrie's story so much, that I can honestly say it is one of my favorite Christmas stories I've read this year!!—and I've read plenty!

Favorite devotional:

Majestic and Wild

by Murray Pura

Our friend Murray has published many books this year and I loved them all—fiction and non-fiction as well. All his books are among my favorites this year, but his devotional Majestic and Wild has blessed me the most of all the books I've read in 2013! 

Christmas Blessings Continue - Giveaway of Murray Pura's "Majestic and Wild"

Majestic and Wild

Wild and Majestic

by Murray Pura

Baker Books (April 15, 2013)

Murray Pura is a brilliant man. I greatly enjoyed working with him on the Cry of Freedom series through Helping Hands Press, this past year.  If you get a chance, listen to him on one of his many interviews or read our OWG interview with Murray (click here), which was one of the most touching we've ever had.

Read Noela's review of this devotional (click here) or Marian's.

Giveaway:  You must be a Follower on OWG (just put OWG). Answer this question: Do you use a daily devotional and if so why?

Marian Baay reviews AN AMISH FAMILY CHRISTMAS by Murray Pura

An Amish Family Christmas

AN AMISH FAMILYCHRISTMAS

By Murray Pura

Harvest House Publishers, 2013

Reviewed by Marian Baay

~5 stars~*****

Naomi Bachman is grieving the passing of her parents and sister after a tragic accident. Her brother Luke was wounded in the accident and lost the control over his limbs and the ability to speak. Her husband Micah was gone on a tour of duty in Afghanistan while the tragedy occurred. Sister-in-law Rebecca is staying with Naomi and is doing her best to help and encourage her.

Naomi doesn’t know what to think of her husband. She doesn’t understand why he left her to go to war and broke the rules of the Ordnung by enlisting.

When Micah comes home, he is shunned and not allowed to speak or eat with other Amish. He is living under the same roof with his wife, but cannot speak to her, touch her, nor eat with her. The shunning will be lifted as soon as he repents of having gone to war, but Micah cannot repent because he felt it was God who sent him there to do the work of a medic and save people’s lives.

Christmas is nearing and letters and postcards from grateful family members of soldiers, whose lives Micah had saved, start to arrive. Naomi is beginning to see another side of her husband by reading the letters and notes and slowly she starts to understand some of the reasons why he enlisted. She takes the mail to the bishop, hoping that he will also be touched by reading the letters and will do something to stop the shunning. She prays that hearts and rules will be changed.

When an accident occurs in their community, and Micah rushes to offer his help, will it change the thinking of the Ministers of the Amish church, or will it only make Micah’s predicament worse?

Such a captivating and moving story! Once I started reading it, I had a hard time putting it down. I think the author beautifully portrayed that even if we don’t always understand the things that are happening around us, that doesn’t mean it’s not from God.

A wonderful novella for Christmas, or any time of the year!

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

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Find Murray's books at Amazon, CBD, Barnes & Noble, and other bookstores.

Diana Flowers Reviews An Amish Family Christmas by Murray Pura

An Amish Family Christmas

An Amish Family Christmas by Murray Pura

Harvest House Publishers, 0ct. 2013

Reviewed by Diana Flowers

5 stars*****

The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year!

In An Amish Family Christmas, author Murray Pura weaves a magical Yuletide tale, set amidst a beautiful, snow covered Amish community in Paradise, Pennsylvania—where Christmas "tis not the season to be jolly" for one grieving Amish family.

Naomi Bachman has lost everyone who matters most in her life and is seemingly without hope. Her parents and sister have been recently killed in a buggy accident which has also left her brother, Luke, in a catatonic state—unable to speak or care for himself. Her husband, Micah, may as well be dead also, for the Amish elders have placed him under the meindung, or shunning, for joining the military in Afghanistan. Naomi is not allowed any fellowship with him at all and cannot speak or partake of meals with him. 

Micah feels that God called him to serve in the war as a medic—to nurse the wounded back to health and those near death's door, back to life again. No one understands, not even Naomi who seeks to shut him out of her heart and life. But will a Christmas miracle occur during this most wonderful time of the year, bringing reconciliation and changing the minds of this strict community?…and will Naomi's heart open up to love once again?

As with all of Murray Pura's books I had major trouble putting this one down! Although a wonderful Christmas story filled with romance, miracles, and a beautiful, seasonal setting—this book also causes one to think deeply about man-made rules versus the Bible. Aren't we all called to obey God rather than man...to serve others in whatever capacity He lays upon our hearts? But what if that calling removes the people we love the most…furthest from our lives? Make sure to throw another log on the fire, grab a cup of hot chocolate, and snuggle up with this tender, heartwarming story of healing and God's faithfulness! Nicely done, Murray Pura! 

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Thanks to Net Galley for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion. 

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

GIVEAWAY! Murray Pura has graciously offered an autographed copy of An Amish Family Christmas to one blessed commenter!