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!

Liz Johnson's Where Two Hearts Meet - Reviewed by Carrie Fancett Pagels

Where Two Hearts Meet by Liz Johnson

After I finished reading Liz Johnson's The Red Door Inn, Book 1 in this Prince Edward Island Romances series from Revell, I immediately wanted to know more about what happened to the sweet baker/chef, Caden, who was in book 1 and the heroine of book 2. So I ordered Where Two Hearts Meet!

From the Publisher:

Evocative Contemporary Romance Set in a Charming Inn on Beautiful Prince Edward Island

In her kitchen at the Red Door Inn, executive chef Caden Holt is calm, collected, and competent. But when her boss asks her to show off their beautiful island to impress a visiting travel writer and save the inn, Caden is forced to face a world much bigger than her kitchen—and a man who makes her wish she was beautiful.

Journalist Adam Jacobs is on a forced sabbatical on Prince Edward Island. He's also on assignment to uncover a story. Instead he's falling in love with the island's red shores and Caden's sweets.  When Caden discovers Adam isn't who she thought he was, she realizes that the article he's writing could do more than ruin the inn's chances for survival—it might also break her heart.

Readers will discover hope for the hurting, joy for the broken, and romance for the lonely at the enchanting Red Door Inn.

"The Way to A Man's Heart"

Where Two Hearts Meet
by Liz Johnson (Baker Publishing, 2016)

Review by Carrie Fancett Pagels

I read this book as an ebook. What a delightful story!  I hesitated a little because I have a reporter in my own upcoming release, set on another island -- Mackinac Island -- albeit in 1895 and not 2016. I quickly got pulled into the story, though, and charmed thoroughly by the characters. Caden starts out being resistant to showing gorgeous Adam around the island. But a true friendship blossoms as they spend more time together.

There is an antagonist in the story who you'll "love to hate" and with a cool twist at the end of the story. The cooking contest is a really fun element in the story and gives good tension. But will Caden go off on a new path that God has planned for her? Will Adam? Can he turn in his assigned story? Will he find other truths?

The next book in the fantastic Prince Edward Island series comes out in summer, July, 2017! Can't wait to read it!

Bibliotherapy: Caden has some simmering self-esteem issues, some associated with her weight. She is, after all, a chef so we can't be too surprised she samples her food. She has to work through those feelings of self-worth. 

Do yourself a favor -- order a copy and read Liz Johnson's Where Two Hearts Meet. Click here to order from Barnes & Noble or here to purchase from Christian Book Distributors.

Review & Giveaway - The Red Door Inn by Liz Johnson

I had the privilege of working with Liz Johnson several years ago for the Guidepost Books' "A Cup of Christmas Cheer" collection. I loved Liz's short story! And as I have found with other authors and their stories, when I met her in person, she was just as lovely a person as her stories are! When I saw the cover of The Red Door Inn, I had to get the book. 

SPOILER ALERT: Because I do bibliotherapy reviews, I will be addressing a topic that is part of the book.  Skip to the bottom to the comments section if you just want to enter the giveaway!

Review: 
First of all -- I do not normally read contemporary fiction. I don't write contemporary fiction (other than as a favor for a friend for a recent serial.)  But I loved Liz's writing and love the idea of going to Prince Edward Island one day so I ordered the paperback. Then I had two deadlines to complete. Fast forward a few months -- both books turned in to Barbour. I wanted my escape and now I'd acquired the Kindle version of this book. 

The Red Door Inn
Book One in Prince Edward Island Dreams
By Liz Johnson
(Revell Publishing)
Reviewed by Carrie Fancett Pagels

LOVED LOVED LOVED this story!!!

Five Stars *****

Marie Carrington is one of the most fragile heroines I've seen lately, yet she has a subtle tungsten steel thread of strength, in her faith. God is drawing her back to Him after she's betrayed both by her father and by an old school mate. Ms. Johnson does a great job of drawing you into the story by revealing only just enough to hook you and propel you forward in reading.

Seth Sloane starts out as a jerk. But, again, Ms. Johnson infuses enough information about Seth that the reader quickly understands why he's acting so wounded -- because he is. But his reaction to that utter betrayal is to throw walls up. As the story goes on, both Seth and Marie seek to overcome their animosity toward each other and a true friendship and caring grows.

The next book in the series has released and I'm looking forward to reading it! And another book due out in summer, 2017!

Bibliotherapy: I was a psychologist for twenty-five years. Marie's reaction is pretty extreme, but given the rape and then her father's betrayal, and everything else Liz Johnson has set up, her flight to Prince Edward Island is understandable. As is Seth's. These two are shown God's mercy via a widower, Jack, who is setting up a bed and breakfast to fulfill his wife's wishes before she died.  This story would be a good bibliotherapy tool for: emotional abandonment, betrayal, rape, and manipulative relationships. 

Giveaway: A paperback copy of The Red Door Inn. Leave a comment! 

Lorna Seilstad's As Love Blooms - Reviewed by Carrie Fancett Pagels

As Love Blooms by Lorna Seilstad

FIVE STARS *****

Another sigh-worthy book, As Love Blooms (Revell, 2015), in the Gregory Girls Series by Lorna Seilstad.

LOVED all three of these books. I RECOMMEND them as a SUMMER READS COLLECTION and they are going into my favorites collection, too!

As Love Blooms is the youngest Gregory sister's story. Tessa Gregory is blessed with an abundance of imagination, talent, energy, and tenacity! She has spunk and personality plus! But what she wants, after completing two years of her Horticultural Science program, is to work in her profession and to help redesign the fabulous Como Park where she lives in Minnesota. Unfortunately, Mr. Nussbaum, the supervisor of the park will never hire a woman. Well, Tessa thinks like I do--never say never! So she finds a way to still do her work. That "way" involves a handsome gardner named Reese King who she talks into allowing her to masquerade (in male attire) as her assistant.

Tessa and Reese have a lot in common. They also have secrets that could tear their fledgling relationship apart. Set in the turn of the century in Minneapolis, Lorna Seilstad sets the stage perfectly against the backdrop of tension in political positions and relationships between men and women. The secondary romance between Tessa's "Aunt" and the senator was especially well done and bittersweet. Lovely layers to this story. Also enjoyed "catching up" with her sister's stories in those threads!

Como Park and Zoo, Conservatory, in Minneapolis

Highly recommend!!! As Love Blooms will be on my BEST of 2015 list!!!

Giveaway: We're giving away one paperback copy of this new release this week. Leave a comment to enter and also Follow my Turn of the Century Pinterest Page (click here) for an extra entry!

Julie Lessman - Surprised by Love Reviewed by Carrie Fancett Pagels

Surprised by Love, by Julie Lessman

Surprised by Love 
by Julie Lessman

Revell, (October, 2014)

Reviewed by Carrie Fancett Pagels

~5 stars~*****

Romance Galore!!!

Megan McClare has returned from France a literally changed young woman. She's not the sweet little best friend buddy that attorney Bram Hughes had known--instead Meg has blossomed into an alluring young woman. And her nemesis,  Devin Caldwell, doesn't even recognize her. But once he does--he seeks to make up for lost time and sweep Meg off her feet. Except that her heart already rests in the hands of Bram. But not quite. Because Bram is promised to marry someone else and Devin and Meg's relationship continues.

Meanwhile Meg's mother, Cait, and her Uncle Logan, need to finish off their ongoing and tempestuous relationship if Caitlyn is going to find any peace in her life. She's accepted a marriage proposal from Logan's rival. But in the midst of his despair, God moves his heart and mind to a new place, and he finally grasps the spiritual gifts God is offering him. 

Bibliotherapy elements: Forgiveness - strong in both romances, self esteem for Megan and poor eyesight (which she's had corrected by "brand new" contact lenses which I didn't know were even being attempted at that point in time), rivalries in both romances, and following God's will (all of the main characters).

I loved this book--it had some unique elements that made it fresh and Julie put a twist at the end that was brilliant! She had me guessing all the way through, which is difficult for a writer to do as I often know what is happening in a story. In fact in two other reviews I just did, for two authors whose work I really have enjoyed, I had to write that the stories were predictable. Not this one! 

Julie creates some lovable and quirky characters. She saves her heroine from being ridiculously naive by throwing in enough explanation to make her actions believable. Lovely voice, great tension, a real page turner! 

Highly recommend!!!

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Thanks to Revell for providing a copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. 

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

GIVEAWAY: Giveaway of a gently used copy of Julie's book to a commenter on this review (USA only).

Diana Flowers Reviews A Place In His Heart By Rebecca DeMarino

A Place in His Heart by Rebecca DeMarino

Revell Publishing, 2014

Reviewed by Diana Flowers

4.5 stars!

Intriguing Debut Novel!

Debut author, Rebecca DeMarino, has penned an intriguing, sweeping saga fraught with dangers on every hand, adventure, and unrequited love—spanning from mid-1600s England to the primitive colonies of the New World.

Mary Langton is disgraced in her hamlet when she is left at the altar by her fiancé, and is being pressured by her family to marry someone she detests. Desperate to marry for love, she hastily agrees to a proposal from Barnabas Horton, a handsome Puritan widower with two sons. Although in love with Barnabas, Mary holds no place in his heart…for that space is filled with broken memories of his dead wife.

Determined to be a good wife to Barnabas and mother to his children, a heartbroken Mary leaves her family and follows him to the New World. In this savage new land, Mary battles loneliness, fear of wild Indians, the harsh elements, and the insecurity of having no permanent place to call home. When all hope is gone and she plans a desperate move…will Barnabas finally find a place in his heart for Mary?

Rebecca DeMarino has written a fast-paced, never boring debut novel – with realistic characters facing some of the same challenges modern day couples deal with every day. The brokenness of infertility, living with a detached spouse, and an insecure future are among a few of the topics that are covered with finesse and compassion. You will fall in love with Mary and her kindheartedness…and wonder why Barnabas doesn't. And just when you feel like smacking him, he does something endearing that makes you love him in quite in spite of yourself! A Place in His Heart is an impeccably researched, expertly written colonial novel that is guaranteed to evoke powerful emotions from its readers! Ms. DeMarino has me anxiously awaiting the next book in this series from which I got a sneak peek at the end of this novel!

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

GIVEAWAY: Leave a comment for a chance to win a copy! An e-book will be available if the winner is international!

While Love Stirs by Lorna Seilstad, Reviewed by Carrie Fancett Pagels

While Love Stirs



Lorna Seilstad Cooks up a Great Read!!!

I received this book from Net Galley as a download and I'll be purchasing a copy, also. This would make a GREAT summer read! I did not read the first Gregory sisters book but did after I read this book.  I would recommend reading them in order. The first book was wonderful, too!

Charlotte is a Fanny Farmer Cooking School graduate who was previously in a relationship with an extremely controlling young man. She wants nothing to do with someone remotely like him.  Enter Dr. Joel, who is an alpha male all the way, with a dose of OCD thrown in. Reading this book was like enjoying a perfectly prepared banquet!

I am guessing younger sister, Tessa, might be getting her own book because she had a storyline in this one doing clerical work/actress/detective!

This is a turn of the century Christian historical romance set in Minnesota. There is not a huge spiritual arc for either of the main characters but I liked that their faith was strong and got them through their difficulties.

Bibliotherapy elements: Jealousy (by two competitors), danger from natural disasters and from manmade ones, not letting the past rule the future, some OCD elements with the doctor, nutrition, and I think in one of the jealous situations the heroine was using her head and not the Holy Spirit to guide her but I also think that antagonist had to stay in as a plot element, and that was used as a spiritual element to show just because you "think" something is the Christian thing to do it isn't always so.  Another bibliotherapy element well done was the heroine having two suitors, one who would have been "settling" for less than God's best for her.


Highly recommend! Don't plan on getting anything else done while you are reading this book--it is a real page turner!!!

Here's the link to purchase Volumes 1 and 2 of the Gregory Sisters on CBD.

Here's a link to my 5 star review of book 1 in this series on goodreads.


Giveaway: A Copy of While Love Stirs, Leave a comment.

Teresa S Mathews Reviews No One to Trust by Lynette Eason

No One To Trust By Lynette Eason

Revell Publishers

Reviewed by Teresa S. Mathews

5 Stars *****

When you fall in love and marry the love of your life there is nothing like it until the day you wake up to find three menacing men in your bedroom threatening to kill you, telling you your husband is NOT the man you think he is. Welcome to Summer Abernathy’s worst nightmare.

Summer has had trust issues since childhood courtesy of her abusive parents, now these evil men are telling her a crazy story that Kyle is really David Hackett a man with ties to organized crime. If this is true, Summer will NEVER forgive him, whoever he is! If only she could find him to get the answers she needs!

Kyle Abernathy knows someone is following him and if they catch him he knows he will die but he can't let that happen, he has to get to Summer before they do or his beautiful wife could die also. Kyle has to explain why he did the one thing Summer told him she would never forgive; lying to her. Will Kyle live long enough to explain to Summer what is really going and to beg her forgiveness?

What an exciting story this is, Lynette surely knows how to get your heart pumping with the thrill of a deadly chase and the excitement of explosions and gunfights. All her books have a high level of suspense but this one has topped them all. From the very first page you are pulled into a fast paced, intriguing story that will have you wondering who the good guys are and if there is anyone left Summer and Kyle can trust. Thank you Lynette for an outstanding read!!

***Thanks to Net Galley and Revel Publishers for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.***

You can find this great book by Lynette on Amazon, CBD, Barnes and Noble and your local bookstore.

GIVEAWAY: This week we are giving away ONE of the two reviewed suspense books. Enter on the review of the book you would like to win and we will pick one winner from all the comments on both reviews. For a chance to win NO ONE TO TRUST by Lynette Eason leave a comment and your email on THIS review. For a chance to win BEOWULF by Ronie Kendig you can enter on Marian's review from last Tuesday.

PLEASE REMEMBER TO LEAVE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS IN CASE YOU ARE THE WINNER SO WE CAN CONTACT YOU!!

Noela Nancarrow reviews DARE TO LOVE AGAIN by Julie Lessman

Dare to Love Again

Dare to Love Again
by Julie Lessman
Revell (January 7, 2014)

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

Brilliant right to the end!

This is one of those stories! The type of story that adheres you to its pages, shackling you as its willing captive. The type that invades your thoughts and your heart with its arresting characters, the rousing and invigorating plot, and  the faith-building, inspiring voices within. And the type that has you exclaiming upon reaching the end, “Wow, now THAT was an incredible story!”

High-spirited Allison (Alli) McClare is fighting two battles. She desperately wants her independence regardless of the neighbourhood dangers; and after having her heart utterly broken by a money-hungry fraud in the past, she’s been in a fight to guard her heart over the last two years. That is, until the handsome yet surly Nick Barone comes into her life and unintentionally into her heart. Nick has some monumental secrets however, so if Allison dares to love again, can she survive yet another heartbreak if these secrets were to unravel?

Dark-haired Nick Barone (must be said with a long 'e'!) is a grouchy detective that is holding a massive grudge for the rich socialites of the community. Allison seems to fit into this mold, so when Nick is forced to teach her self-defense and see to her safety that she may have some independence, he is furious! In time, Nick sees that there is much more to this little spit-fire than he originally thought and soon this begrudging relationship, sparks and all, grows into something much more intense. Nick has plenty to overcome for this to work. Will the secrets of this angry and vengeful detective kill their hope and future before it even begins?

This is a not-to-be missed Julie Lessman masterpiece! In this second book of the Heart of San Francisco series, the lively characters we all fell in love with in the first, are right there along with Alli and Nick, providing extra scintillating dialogue and a powerful heartfelt subplot. I’m truly in awe of the author’s ability to create not only the most engaging and animated conversations that have razor-sharp wit and discourse so raw and believable, but she also manages to generate romantic tension so passionate and spring-loaded that you’re left breathless!

My only grievance with this story was that it came to an end. I wanted more as I wasn't ready to give it up. The good news is – there'll be more coming in this amazing series. The bad news is – I will have to wait. However this highly recommended story is easily read again in the meantime and most likely will be!

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GIVEAWAY: We have a new paperback of Dare to Love Again, a gently used paperback and an e-book copy to give away this week!! 
Please include e-mail address for contact purposes.

DISCUSSION QUESTION: A lesson learned the hard way by some of the characters was that ‘fear distorts wisdom every single time’. Have you experienced this yourself and/or what are your thoughts on this phrase?

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Dare to Love Again can be purchased from Amazon, CBD, Bam, and your local bookstore.

Teresa S Mathews Reviews Julie Lessman's Dare to Love Again

Dare to Love Again 
by Julie Lessman

Revell Publishing 2014

Reviewed by Teresa S Mathews

5 Stars*****

Another Romantic Masterpiece by The Queen of Romance!

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In this book two of The Heart of San Francisco series Julie Lessman takes us on an exciting topsy-turvy adventure that mirrors the ups and downs of a cable car ride on those infamous San Fran hills.

Allison McClare, the beautiful and feisty oldest daughter of Caitlyn McClare is ready to put her broken heart behind her and spread her wings in this new chapter of her life. She is determined to be the best teacher possible to the dear underprivileged girls that are going to attend the new school her mother is opening on the Barbary Coast. Even though she was born into a life of riches, Allison has a servant's heart and wants to see these girls have a better life than the debauchery most have been exposed to. Her plan is going well until a handsome, ornery Detective shows up in her classroom, smelling of Bay Rum and animal crackers!!

Nick Barone, (long E) is a hardworking, ill- tempered Detective that hides a big heart underneath that gruff exterior. Nick has had his fill of spoiled little rich girls so he knows to keep his distance from Allison McClare. But all it takes is just one look into Allison McClare's eyes to know she is going to be hard to run from.

Allison will not be duped by a man again; Nick will not lose his heart to a "Snob"-Hill rich girl; but what happens between these two people that are carrying around hidden hurts will have you on the brink of tears one moment and laughing out loud the next. And in true Julie fashion she will have you mumbling under your breath wanting to shake some sense into at least one or two of the characters! Oh Wait...maybe that only happens to me!!  :-)

Julie Lessman is truly the Queen of Romance! She knows how to insert just the right amount of tension into a scene so that you are pulled in so far you will find yourself falling in love right along with the heroine. What rapture! What ecstasy! This story has it all! Julie has certainly left her mark on my heart with this story, and it wasn't just Allison and Nick's story either, it seems Caitlyn now has TWO men that want to catch her attention. Thanks Julie for giving me another sweet family to fall in love with!!

You may  purchase this book at Amazon, CBD, and BAM and your local bookstores.

QUESTION: To be entered in the drawing go to Julie's Facebook Author Page and "Like It" if you haven't already. Now just for fun let's see how many of you can tell me Julie's Tagline? I'll even make it easier, just fill in the missing word; _______With a Purpose! HINT: This is something ALL of Julie's books are filled with! Wink!! Wink!!

GIVEAWAY: We are giving away three books of this treasure, one gently used paperback, one new paperback and an e-book copy. E-book copy only to International winners. 

Noela Nancarrow reviews UNDER A BLACKBERRY MOON by Serena B. Miller

Under a Blackberry Moon

Under A Blackberry Moon

by Serena B. Miller

Revell (October 15, 2013)

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow

5 Stars *****

A Perilous Journey of the Wilderness and the Heart 

What an intriguing story! This is one that captures your attention right from the outset. RITA Award winner Serena B. Miller, has produced yet another stunning story of heart-warming romance, gripping adventure, and evolving faith, with ‘Under A Blackberry Moon’.

Within the first few pages, the reader will be absorbed immediately into the reality of the delightful Moon Song, a young Indian Chippewa widow, and her experiences in a town of white people, which unfortunately also included many roughened and immoral loggers. It becomes clear to those close to her that it is too dangerous for her to stay. Moon Song longs to return to her tribe with her baby anyway, and so the plan is set in place for her to travel back with Skypilot, a lumberjack friend of hers that she once nursed back to health.

Isaac Ross, aka Skypilot, a large and ruggedly handsome man who has been a lumberjack and also a minister, willingly takes this long journey with his valued friend, Moon Song. He’s been restless lately concerning his future and this trip seemed like a good idea… at first. However, his attitude changed after tragedy caused Skypilot and Moon Song to fight for their lives and work together to survive the dangerous and unforgiving wilderness of the Northwoods. Seeing his beautiful Indian friend work so capably in the untamed wilderness, compelled Skypilot to see her in a whole new light. As they are drawn to each other, it opens up the dilemmas of culture problems and whether either of them can walk away from their own world to join the other.

Under the Blackberry Moon was a genuinely memorable story… one that is articulated by an accomplished and skillful story-teller. Serena Miller brings to life the real Moon Song in a fictional story that’s interspersed with heart-rending yet true events of history, along with the phenomenal courage and strength of a brave Indian woman during a time when the Indians were being displaced and looked down upon as less than human. This was a thoroughly enjoyable read of an unusual love story between two unlikely people; full of surprises and surprising twists and turns, and one that will take a hold of your heart and thoughts!

This book may be purchased through Amazon, CBD and other bookstores.

Outside of the USA check out Book Depository for free postage!

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TWO GIVEAWAYS: A paperback copy of 'Under a Blackberry Moon' +  Winner's choice of ebook or paperback of the same!

QUESTION:  How do you think you'd go trekking through the wilderness for a week? Do you think you'd survive? 

*Please leave your email address for contact purposes*

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Serena Miller's "Under a Blackberry Moon" Reviewed by Carrie Fancett Pagels

Under a Blackberry Moon

By Serena Miller

Reviewed by Carrie Fancett Pagels

~5 stars~*****

Serena Miller told me at the 2013 ACFW conference that she had a story set in Michigan's Upper Peninsular, where I grew up.  My OWG "Angels" also told me there was a sequel book out to The Measure of Katie Calloway, which I loved.

Moon Song is a young metisse woman, half Anglo and half Chippewa, but she identifies herself as being of the Chippewa tribe. She has a baby and had spent the winter working at a lumber camp where she also nursed an axeman (who'd been a preacher) nicknamed "Skypilot" back to health. Moon Song has good reason to believe that a white man won't stay with a native woman long term--this was especially true in earlier times among the soldiers who came and went from the forts.

Enroute, via ship, to Lake Superior, tragedy strikes. Skypilot, Moon Song, her son, and an officer's wife, Isabella, end up stuck at what I believe is meant to be "Pictured Rocks" although it is referred to as Painted Rocks in the book.  Pictured Rocks are fabulous and are near modern day Munising. I've had many a wonderful trip there and my father enjoyed having picnics up at the top, where there is a park.  But I can't imagine trying to get to the top from the beach below!

Moon Song has been coached in the old ways by her grandmother. These methods assist the foursome as they make their way to Marquette.  I loved how Serena included a priest inspired by our own precious Bishop Baraga!  The love story is very sweet and beautifully portrayed.

I have relatives of Chippewa and other native American descent and I felt Serena was thoughtful in her depiction and probably pretty accurate. And it never dawned on me, what she has happen at the end, that this could have happened to any of my relatives' grandparents or great-grandparents. Nice twist.

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

Find Serena's books at Amazon, CBD, and other bookstores.

Giveaway: We have a paperback copy of "Under A Blackberry Moon" 

to give away this week and one option of either ebook/paperback of the same (so TWO chances to win this week!)

To enter you must "LIKE" Serena's Amazon page (click here), tell us you did, and tell us if you have EVER visited Michigan's beautiful upper peninsula!

Marian Baay reviews Under a Blackberry Moon by Serena Miller

Under a Blackberry Moon

By Serena Miller

Reviewed by Marian Baay

~5 stars~*****

When I heard that Serena Miller had written a story about the heroic character from The Measure of Katie Calloway – Skypilot – I knew I had to read this book. 

I loved Skypilot; his character, his hard-working nature, and how he was willing to sacrifice himself to save the life of Robert’s young daughter.

In Under a Blackberry Moon, Skypilot accompanies the native young woman, Moon Song, and her eight month old son from Jack’s lumber camp back to her tribe.

We were introduced to Moon Song in The Measure of Katie Calloway where she stumbled into Robert’s lumber camp. She was also the person who nursed Skypilot back to health. They developed a friendship during that time, but feelings are running a bit deeper than a mere friendship for Moon Song. She is trying to keep them under control, because she doesn’t believe that a white man will stay with a native woman over the long haul. She has seen that happen often enough in the tribes.

During their travel, tragedy strikes and lives are lost. Thankfully Skypilot, Moon Song, her son, and a white woman named Isabella survive. Stranded on a sandbank with no way to get off, Moon Song’s survival instinct kicks in. She leads Skypilot and Isabella to a safer place, meanwhile searching  and preparing food.

Skypilot—big and strong as he is—has to rely on Moon Song to survive their trek through the wilderness of Michigan. His admiration for the woman grows into something more, but Moon Song doesn’t hesitate to turn him down. Will Skypilot find a way to win her heart?

What a wonderful story! I really enjoyed reading Moon Song and Skypilot’s adventure. Moon Song turned out to be an interesting woman; sensitive but tough. She knows what she wants and what needs to be done. Skypilot already stole my heart in The Measure of Katie Calloway and it was a delight to get to know him better and see how he held onto his faith and believes.

To make the story even more interesting, there were some unexpected twists and turns that kept me glued to the pages. The unforeseen surprise at the end kept me smiling long after I finished the book.

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

Find Serena's books at Amazon, CBD, and other bookstores.

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GIVEAWAY: A copy of Under a Blackberry Moon--winners choice of paperback or Kindle copy..

* Please leave your email address for contact purposes. *

Teresa S Mathews Reviews Love's Awakening

Love's Awakening by Laura Frantz

Revell Publishing

Reviewed by Teresa S Mathews

~5 Stars *****

A year is a long time to wait for something you really, really want but I can tell you when it comes to a Laura Frantz novel it will be well worth the wait! So it was when I opened Love’s Awakening and was transported to Allegheny County, Pennsylvania 1822. There we meet the youngest daughter of Silas and Eden Ballantyne, Elinor “Ellie” Louise. After seeing an ad extolling her monetary value in a bulletin from The Matrimonial Society of Philadelphia; Ellie realizes that four years of finishing school is enough and she heads home. On the trip Ellie is waylaid by a horrific storm that robs her of all of her belongs, including her money and leaves her stranded in a tavern.

Jack Turlock, handsome to a fault and known for his roguish ways, is stopped by the same storm and helps to clear the debris. Afterward he heads to the tavern for some food and to his surprise he spots a much disheveled Ellie Ballantyne hiding in a corner. After speaking with her and realizing her plight Jack buys her something to eat and then offers to see her safely home to New Hope.

When Ellie returns home she finds her parents away on a trip and her brothers and sister are acting strangely, it's as though they don't want her there. There seems to be some mysterious goings on at New Hope. After trying to find something to do with her time she decides to start the Day School for young ladies she has always dreamed about. One of her first students is Chloe Turlock, thirteen year old sister of Jack. Ellie agrees to come to River Hill to teach Chloe, while there she spends enough time with Jack to realize he is not like the rest of the Turlock clan. It doesn't take long for Ellie and Jack to develop feelings for each other, but both know there is little hope for them. He comes from a family that owns slaves and makes whiskey; she comes from an upstanding family who are abolitionists. Will they be able to conquer these insurmountable circumstances? 

Laura Frantz is a storyteller extraordinaire and once again I found myself lost in the wonder of another one of her masterpieces. When you have characters that are so real you feel you know them and you have descriptions that are so in-depth you feel you are there you just don't want to put the book down until the last words have been consumed. This is the way I have felt with every book I have read written by Laura and this one was no different. Last year when I turned the last page in Love's Reckoning I felt as though I couldn't wait for this one, now I feel the same again. Laura I can't wait to see what beauty will again flow from your pen for this coming year, I only hope I have the patience to wait for it!

Thanks to the author for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

You can find this book and others by Laura at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Deeper Shopping and you local bookstore.

GIVEAWAY: We are giving away one copy of an e-book of this fantastic book! Leave a comment and don't forget your EMAIL ADDRESS so we can contact you should you be the winner!!

Diana Flowers Reviews 'Love's Awakening' By Laura Frantz

Love's Awakening

Love's Awakening by Laura Frantz

Revell Publishing, 2013

Reviewed by Diana Flowers

5 stars*****

(No Spoilers)

A Masterpiece Of A Novel!

Once again, author Laura Frantz has crafted a literary masterpiece that sweeps the reader along the banks of the weeping willow and poplar tree-lined Allegheny River—to the elegant surrounding plantations shrouded in secrecy, deceit, betrayal, and hidden passions.

The lovely Ellie Ballantyne decides it is high time to return to her family's plantation, New Hope, after spending time at a finishing school in Philadelphia. As she encounters a dangerous storm on her way home, who should offer to escort her home but the equally dangerous, Jack Turlock…the son of a wealthy whiskey magnate and sworn enemy to the Ballantyne family. As Ellie opens a school for girls, she finds herself traveling often to Jack's plantation, River Hill, to teach his 13 year old sister the fine art of becoming a lady.

Futile feelings begin to smolder between the two of them, as Ellie and Jack realize her family would never allow her to marry a Turlock…with their pro-slavery views and dealings in the whiskey industry. Ellie finds that things have changed at New Hope since she was away, discovering secrets that could endanger and destroy her entire family if discovered. As Jack prepares to leave River Hill to rid his heart and mind of Ellie Ballantyne forever, she receives crushing news concerning him, plunging her life into darkness and despair. Can she find love again with Daniel Cameron, a man who has been wooing her incessantly and surely more worthy of a Ballantyne?

Laura Frantz has done it again! She is truly a master storyteller who interweaves as many twists and turns in her stories as the Allegheny River. I was mesmerized as this story played out and although Jack Turlock was terribly and decidedly brooding, I instantly fell in love with him…as I do with all of Ms. Frantz's handsome heroes! This author is absolutely the best at creating romantic tension and I found myself catching my breath more than once while reading. With a spellbinding historical plot, this is one award-worthy, beautifully written novel you won't soon forget!

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Thanks to Revell Publishing for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

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

TWO GIVEAWAYS of paperback copies of Love’s Awakening!

Laura has graciously offered to give away a copy and OWG is also offering a copy!

Please be sure to leave an email addy for contact purposes.