Army widower romance with a lot of family ties and history... a great read!
923042
This is one of my favorite novels in the series, of which I have read them all.  It can be read as a stand alone novel or the series; but be aware that if you jump in mid series you will know what the previous sibling's "outcomes" are to a certain extent.

This one is focused on Bree, who is a widower to the family's son who was killed in the middle East (he was in the armed forces.)  It's been years since he has passed and Bree is struggling with feeling out of place in the family, which has evolved to be a lot of young families and babies.  She ends up having a couple of men to pick from, but contrary to the author thinking the one is a "Godly" choice, I thought he was a controlling, disrespectful jerk (considering they are dating and not even married, this guy has SERIOUS red flags towards a controlling, abusive spouse relationship later). To each their own.  Regardless, I was quite pulled into the story, maybe because I was so irritated with the one guy that I wanted to save the main lady. LOL  I took off a star because the author did not address this weird relationship between them other than making it out as okay; that's just a twisted way of looking at stuff if you ask me. LOL

Plot was very well paced and I loved the main characters struggles as she went along.  Dating and relationships are so complicated and the author did not gloss over this; but addressed it quite blatantly, which I appreciated.  Gives you a lot more understanding for those struggling through the dating scene.

Overall, it was a very enjoyable read!  Not my favorite book, but definitely one of the author's better books. Highly recommend!
4533880
In an attempt to help her sister Laura out of a pickle, Ellie signs up as a mail order bride. Together, the duo makes the long trek from Virginia to Texas to meet Ellie's groom. What they find at the end of their journey is not what they expected. Kage and his cousin Matt arrive in Texas a day earlier from Idaho to pick up some cattle to take back to their ranch. Fate throws those four wonderful people together and they are forced to deal with life changing situations. Oh the web we weave! I encourage you to read this lovely book, which I could not put down. Not only are the main characters intriguing and well thought out, but I also got a kick out of the secondary characters in this book. You will find adventure, humor and a real feel for the Old West where men were men and women were woman, forged in the fire of life. You get two books for the price of one, both interconnected with the same characters and story line. Authors Caroline Clemmons and Jacquie Rogers are onto a great writing partnership that really works for me! Well done!
3017338
A Flight of Arrows by Lori Benton is the second and final book in the Pathfinder series. You have to read these books in order since it's really one story broken into two books so be tempted to read the second book first! This book is full of historical facts during the Revolutionary War some of which I wasn't familiar with making this history loving gal happy. I especially love the author's realistic storytelling during difficult times in our past because it allows me to get so immersed in the story that I feel like I am there struggling along with them.

Reginald Aubrey is still reeling from meeting Stone Thrower and not dying from the encounter. Anna, his adopted daughter, wants him to recognize that Two Hawks loves her so they can be married, but Aubrey is still struggling from his past and isn't sure he wants them to. On the other hand, William, his stolen son, wants to be as far away from his birth and adopted family. Joining up with the Redcoats seemed like the right thing at the time, but now he's not so sure.

How will these two families be reconciled? You'll have to read the book to find out how it will end so get your tissues ready because this story puts you on a rollercoaster of emotions. The characters grew so much in the sequel and learned to rely on God through the good and bad times. I really liked how the author didn't let Anna be wrapped up in anger and bitterness throughout the book. Instead the author used close friends to speak truth into Anna, William, Two Hawks, and Aubrey during different times in the story and because of being encouraged to trust God and give Him all their fears and bitterness, they were able to let go and grow.

I thought this book was a satisfying conclusion to the series even though it wasn't without its sorrow. Everything didn't wrap up perfectly, but isn't that just like life? I admire the author's realistic writing and can't wait for more books from her.

I was given this book for free from Waterbrook Multnomah in exchange for an honest review.
4439587
Widow of Gettysburg is Jocelyn Green's second book in the Heroines Behind the Lines series.  This second book covers what happened in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania during the Civil War.

My Review:
I loved reading this book!!  The story helps you to really imagine what it was like and put yourself right into the story.  I loved reading the snippets included at the beginning of each new section from real women who lived through this horrendous period of our nation's history.  The author did a fabulous job bringing together the facts and weaving them into a story that can touch hearts.  The only issue I would have with this book is the mention of rape.  While I realize this is what really happened in history, I don't like the idea planted in my head.  Other than that, I really enjoyed reading all the history!  I would definitely recommend this book if you're looking for a great historical fiction book to read.

***I received this book free from Moody Publishers in exchange for a honest review.  All opinions are my own.
1572910
A Ripple Through Time was a book that I really enjoyed. It can be classified as being a romance, but one of the things I like the most was how the author created two separate stories, which were ultimately connected as far as the people involved. I also liked how a journal and a painting connected them through the years, from the present to the relatively recent past.

As far as main characters, I would say there are four. The first two are from the 1940's - Jianna and Derrick. Both are in their final year at the Naval Academy, and close to graduation before they go on to their assignments. What I thought was done well is how it seemed like they had an instant connection to one another when they met for the first time, and it was interesting to watch their relationship develop. I also liked the aspect of setting one part of the storyline during World War II. I thought integration of actual historical events was done well, and it gave me a new perspective on what had taken place during that era and the sacrifices our armed services made.

The second couple, which was more contemporary, are Natalie and Ryan. Natalie is a character that I grew to like instantly. She was funny, and obviously loved Ryan, and that love was reciprocated. I also need to mention Natalie's sister Dina. There were several times when Natalie's interaction with her brought a smile to my face.

What I can say is that the last 15-20% or so of the book had me saying "wow" on a number of occasions. This is the first book in a series, and I'm interested in reading the next.
2291672
I loved it! Anne Mateer is on my favorite author list! For starters, the setting was small town, patriotic America. I always connect with Americana and patriotism. The time period takes you to the turn-of-the-century, when people, as a whole, put others needs before there own. Their families, their neighbors and their country. I love that you can feel that in this story! Lula is a lovable character. Chet is brave and true. The side characters were also fun and lovable! The romance was sweet and innocent. I like that Mateer doesn't always put a feminist slant to her heroines, as it seems to me, most "Christian fiction" books have. Marriage and family is a wonderful life goal. I highly recommend this book! I would love to read a follow up of Lula and Chet's story.
405488
Age Appropriate For: 16 and up (for marital themes)

Best for ages: 18 and up

I was so excited when Rachel asked me to review this book. Although I have followed her blog and Facebook page, I had yet to read one of her books. After reading Duty, I can't wait to read another book by her.

This book kept me turning pages. From the opening line, I was hooked. It was fast paced but not dazzlingly so. I also instantly connected with Tomas and Brielle and loved getting to know them.

This story, though set in a fictional country, felt well researched. As a history buff whose favorite time period is the Middle Ages, I was very impressed with the historical aspects of this book. I especially liked the attitudes displayed by the women at the beginning of the book. To often, we put our 21st century ideas of love, and marriage into historical fiction. Women didn't expect to marry for love, or even marry someone they knew well. They may have wanted that, but it wasn't the expectation.

The romance was so sweet. I just loved how it unfolded. Because the characters are married for most of the book, and the romance comes after marriage, this book is for older audiences However, Rachel was very discreet and so a someone in their middle teens might like it.

I highly recommend this book for those who like romance.
4397866
This is a novel about my great grandparent's family during the Civil War.  I found it unexpectedly.  I have been doing genealogy research for several years and was impressed by the accuracy of the book.  The author did a great job!  This is an adventure story.  This is a romantic novel.  This is a story of a family under great duress.  An interesting multi-dimensional book about the civil war that anyone will find interesting.  The characters are real people.  The war is real.  The setting is real.  The large events are real.  The day-to-day hardship is real.
2365226
This is one of the best historical romances I've read in a long time. It's definitely a keeper, and I'm sure I'll read it again some day. Very touching love story between the dashing pilot and the war-nurse who has a very battered soul.  Love how Sundin resolves both characters' deepest fears. This book has a lot of information about WWII bomber pilots. Shortly afterward I watched the movie Red Tails, about the only African American fighter pilots, and it was like putting images to all Sundin had described in her novel: the Flying Fortresses with their bombs and the accompanying planes that escorted them to their missions. Perfect complement to the book!
4592793
I am not a frequent reader of western romance, but Colorado Promise is a beautifully written book that pulled me in and didn't let go. I felt seated within the two main characters, and greatly enjoyed watching their romance bloom from each point of view, and appreciated that the storyline offered a lot of different types of conflict, not just obstacles for the couple to overcome to be together. The historical aspects were spot on, and I really felt what it would be like for a woman trying to break free from the beliefs of that time and try to find her own path, yet feeling trapped because change has not quite evolved enough yet. I also liked seeing how social and family pressure affected men as well, especially Randall, who was equally under the yoke of his father as Emma was to her own family's wishes. Lucas made a fine male lead, and while his past left him broken in many ways, he didn't allow it to hold him prisoner. I appreciated the deft handling of characters by the author, and found Emma and Lucas unique, interesting and likable--two people who alone were incomplete, but together were made whole.
1366550
It's been a little while since I read a medieval romance, and I was definitely in the mood for one! I really enjoyed Knight of Grace, more than I thought I would, to be honest.

There's a lot going on behind the scenes in this book. It's a really turbulent time between England and Scotland, with a lot of people trying to take control of Scotland. Lady Grace Stanton is forced to marry Laird Lachlan Kerr....after his brother dies at her family home. Suffice to say, he is suspicious and not very pleased at having to marry her. But he does his duty, for his king.

Grace has suffered from itchy and dry skin all her life, and is laughed about at court. She has a pretty bad stammer, and is quite old at 26. She has a quiet strength and bravery, and does what she must to protect her family. I felt so much for Grace and was rooting her on through the whole book. She's thrust from her home, to a dangerous new home where she is most unwelcome. She bears everything with a quiet dignity, and it was a joy to watch her flourish throughout the story.

Lachlan's first wife was adulterous, so it was obviously a bad marriage. He's pretty bitter all around, and he believes that there was more to his brother's death than Grace's family is telling him. At first I didn't love Lachlan, because of his attitude towards Grace- but I guess I was already firmly on her side! He definitely grew on me quickly and by the end I loved him. He's very fierce and strong, a real Highland warrior...or Border warrior. There were times I wish he had trusted Grace more, especially towards the end.

There was plenty of intrigue in this book, and it kept me turning the pages (even after my bath water had gone very cold!). The romance blossomed slowly between them, although almost from the start there is a strong attraction between Grace and Lachlan. Over all, a great romance, with plenty of suspense and passion!
3307001
I know!  I was thrilled!  But that's another story....

I enjoy reading about Civil War history in the form of historical fiction.  I especially appreciate how Nancy Dane put a face on characters which  to me, prior to reading this book, were a bunch of dates and dead guys.  I didn't understand conscription before reading Where the Road Begins nor did I understand the hardship families faced beyond having the men in their families serve in the military.  The politics involved that would pit family against family, the heartbreak of loss, the deep hunger felt by both those in the battle and their families trying to scrape by, and the hope of new love amidst hardship are all brought to life by author Nancy Dane.  The dramatic escapes and fight sequences are necessary for realism and expertly written.  This book has some good humor, too, as I found myself chuckling at characterizations that surely may have been as normal during the Civil War as they are now.  I think this book would be as appropriate for middle schoolers as for adults, especially if you have a child who isn't enjoying school history but likes to read or listen to a book on CD. I look forward to reading the next in the series!

Maybe I can get the next book signed for a jar of my homemade grape jelly?
1039409
I was very excited when I saw this book took place during the civil war. It goes way back and explains how Victoria and Wesley first met and how they fell in love. I especially like that there's an actual reason why they keep finding each other and why their love is so strong, it's not just because 'love never dies'. A lot of good back story and more mystery. You don't want to miss this one!
288101
I received a free digital advance reader copy of "The Lady and the Officer" by Mary Ellis from netgalley in order for me to give my honest review.

I had requested "The Lady and the Officer" because I thought it sounded like I'd enjoy reading it, but it sat languishing on my tablet waiting for me to read it as other books came and went.  I'm not sure why I didn't read it sooner.  Once I did finally start to read it, I didn't want to put it down!

Madeline Howard lives outside Gettysburg trying to keep her late husband's horse breeding farm going when the War Between the States lands in her backyard, literally.  She has already lost her husband to the cause, so when she looses everything else, she goes to stay with the only family she has left.  The problem with that is that they live in Richmond, Virginia, the very heart of the Confederacy.  Her uncle even works for President Davis.

Madeline wasn't in Richmond long before she catches the eye of Confederate Colonel Elliot Hayward.  Madeline likes Elliot, but a couple of chance encounters in Pennsylvania have left her heart belonging to Union General James Downing.  When Madeline overhears some information about the Confederate Army's plans, what will she do with her new knowledge?

Mary Ellis has written characters that are true to life and believable.  There are twists and turns in the story to keep you in suspense as to what is going to happen next.  I do Civil War reenacting, so the Civil War history involved in the book was very interesting.  The characters weren't just static throughout the story, but grew and matured.  I wasn't sure if Madeline and James would get their happily ever after and I felt sorry for Colonel Hayward and wished that Ms. Ellis would have shared what came of him after the war.

I would recommend this book to those who enjoy historical romances with suspense thrown in.
659445
A great historical romance with lots of action, adventure, suspense and of course, romance.  The story line was unique; few books have an indian perspective for this time period.  I also liked that the adventures happened on a wagon train heading to California.  The author created strong characters for both the "good guys" and the "bad guys", and for all the supporting characters for the story; making you care about what happened to each one.  All of the problems that occured during this adventure seemed feasible for the time period and for being on a wagon train; it read almost as a true story from the old west.  Ms Nelson is a talented author and one I will be reading more of and following.

I received this book for free but voluntarily reviewed.
4537426
This is book 3 of the Edwardian Brides series.  The story begins in 1915 during World War I. Penny Ramsey has gone to London to assist her pregnant sister Kate and her husband Jon with the 8 orphaned children they have taken into their home.  Penny meets Lt. Alexander Goodwin, a Royal Naval Air Service pilot in training, at an outing for convalescing soldiers.  He is also a friend of Jon's and she sees him again when he visits at their home.  When zeppelins start bombing London, Penny and her family return to Highland Hall, her childhood home that is in the country.  Alex will return to the Royal Naval Air Service to complete his training and he will go on to fight in the war in France.  Penny and Alex correspond with letters and their affection for one another grows over time, but when tragedy strikes their friendship and love will be put to the test.  They will need the strength of family and their faith in God if they will be able to push through the problems and have any chance at a life together.

I don't want to give away too much of the story as it would contain spoilers.  I haven't read the other two books in this series but this book read just fine as a stand alone.  The author provided just enough background information on the other characters so I never felt lost or confused.  The story flowed very smoothly between the different characters.  I enjoyed reading the correspondence between Penny and Alex and watching their affection for each other grow.  There was also a secondary romance that was very sweet to see develop.  I liked how the family comes together to help one another and how they put their faith in God to see them through.  The ending was great and I hope to go back to read the other two books in this series so I can read Julia and Kate's stories.

I received this book free through GoodReads First Reads in exchange for my honest opinion.
1064448
Set in 1838, this historical romance about young Ruth Livingstone's life as Widow Malloy told quite a few history lessons along the way.  Things we take for granted in the 21st century were definitely not commonplace during this time.

Widow Malloy arrives in a small village in New Jersey with a toddler in arms, staying with some friends of her father.  After some tragic events transpire she's not really sure what she will do next, all the while trying to figure out the feelings she's starting to have for a new man in town.  But each of them are keeping secrets not only from each other, but in fact from the entire village.

While there some predictable parts to this novel it didn't take away from the reading enjoyment.  The author threw in enough plot twists that I looked forward to my reading time with this book each day.  I would definitely recommend it to anybody that enjoys historical romances.

** Thank you to Bethany House Publishers for providing me with a copy of this book to review.