Upon discovering an abandoned baby, Pastor Abe Merivale joins efforts with Zoe Hart, one of the newly arrived bride-ship women, to care for the infant. With mounting pressure to find the baby a home, Abe offers his hand as Zoe’s groom. But after a hasty wedding, they soon realize their marriage of convenience is not so convenient after all.
About Jody Hedlund:
Jody Hedlund is the author of over twenty historicals for both adults and teens and is the winner of numerous awards including the Christy, Carol, and Christian Book Award.
Jody lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy children, and five spoiled cats. Although Jody prefers to experience daring and dangerous adventures through her characters rather than in real life, she’s learned that a calm existence is simply not meant to be (at least in this phase of her life!).
When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.
My Rating: 4 Stars!
Jody Hedlund brings us the third book in her Bride Ships series and it’s so very good. One thing I enjoy about her writing is that she does wonderful historical research and it often spurs me on to do some research myself!
In this book, Pastor Abraham Merivale is on the island awaiting the time when he can send for his fiancé back in England to come and marry him. He misses her so much and watching the brides coming off the bride ships makes him miss her even more. In about a week, he unexpectedly finds himself married to one of those brides, not really even sure how it happened. An infant is left in their care when the widowed father of the babe dies and now he has a wife and a baby! And a fiancé in England.
Hedlund handles this situation so well, as she is wont to do in her books. Zoe doesn’t know what is expected of her and Abe doesn’t know what is expected of him. Zoe just wants to find her brother, who came to the island a few years earlier when he was angry with her. Then there is the danger of one man who seeks Zoe with the intent of destroying both her, her brother and Abe. I was captivated throughout the book as I watched everything unfold. The spiritual them is strong here and one that is relevant today for every believer. Sometimes out own plans are not what God plans. I loved every minute. Recommended.
*My thanks to Bethany House Publishers for a copy of this book via Net Galley. The opinions in this review are entirely my own.
Publisher: Bethany House Publication Date: June 30, 2020 Genre: Inspirational historical romance Length: 384 pages
Lacey O’Connor is finally a sure thing for the promotion she’s spent ten years working for. But when a scandal rocks her firm she finds herself on a collision course with the one person she has spent five years trying to forget. Only to discover he doesn’t even remember her…
Victor Carlisle has spent the last three years trying to convince his family he’s no longer the playboy alcoholic who tore their life apart. When a company merger is announced with a US sister firm, he’s presented with the perfect opportunity to prove he’s changed. Only to find himself falling for his competition and the one woman his family will never accept.
As the competition intensifies the choice looms between the professional and the personal. Can they find a way beyond their past decisions and present aspirations to take a chance on the one thing they’re not looking for?
About Kara Isaac
Kara Isaac lives in Wellington, New Zealand. When she’s not chasing three hobbit-sized little people, she spends her time writing horribly bad first drafts and wishing you could get Double Stuf Oreos in New Zealand. She is the author of the RITA Award-winning Then There Was You, along with four other contemporary romances. She loves to connect with readers on GoodReads, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and through her website.
My Rating: 5 Stars!
‘Living life only for himself had turned him into someone he didn’t like and hurt everyone he loved.’
It’s been a while since we’ve had a new Kara Isaac book to read and it felt SO good to bury myself in one again! I remember when I read her first book and realized I wanted to be a forever fan. My opinion has only solidified further with each book she writes.
‘How much stupid did she have to deal with before the sun had even gotten above the trees?’
Lacey O’Connor is banking on the promotion she’s spent a decade striving for when the company goes through some huge changes. Then she walks in her office and sees the one man she has never forgotten on her office sofa. He made a big impression on her five years ago; now he has no memory of her at all. Talk about hurt. Victor Carlisle isn’t trying to be forgetful, but he’s spend most of his life as a playboy alcoholic and has hurt nearly everyone he’s come in contact with. Now, with a company merger in the making, he finds himself in competition with Lacey for a promotion.
Of course, there’s much more at play here than this, but the way Isaac brings everything together is nothing short of absolute amazement. She delves into the emotions of these two people so deeply that I was stunned at their feelings. Truly. When I start reading one of her books, I just can barely bring myself to stop for necessary things. I stayed up well into the wee hours to finish this one and still the characters are deep in my heart.
Isaac probes well beneath the surface of all parts of these characters’ lives to bring to light things that have been hidden by each for their entire lives. Then they are there: laid out before them and waiting for a solution. I was completely captivated the entire time it took me to read this book. Seriously captivated. I was cheering for them, crying with them, and loving them, too. The spiritual aspect is quite good here: we see the wonderful mercies, grace and redemption of God. As well as His forgiveness. It brings to mind the verse that tells us all things work together for good to them that love the Lord. It doesn’t say there won’t be mountains to climb and many hurts to deal with. I loved this book so much. I already want another. Kara Isaac is a forever favorite of mine and always will be. And let me tell you this: the woman can write a pulse pounding, unforgettable ending! I have went back and reread her endings on previous books many times. I highly recommend this book.
*My thanks to the author and publisher for a copy of this book. The opinion stated in this review is expressly my own.
After her son goes missing, Joanna Watson enlists Isaac Bowen—a man she prays has enough experience in the rugged country—to help. As they press on against the elements, they find encouragement in the tentative trust that grows between them, but whether it can withstand the danger and coming confrontation is far from certain in this wild, unpredictable land.
Publication Date: June 30, 2020“ Publisher: Bethany House Genre: Historical Inspirational Pages: 285
About Misty Beller
Misty M. Beller is a USA Today bestselling author of romantic mountain stories, set on the 1800s frontier and woven with the truth of God’s love. For a limited time, you can get a free bestselling novel here: https://mistymbeller.com/freebook
She was raised on a farm in South Carolina, so her Southern roots run deep. Growing up, her family was close, and they continue to keep that priority today. Her husband and children now add another dimension to her life, keeping her both grounded and crazy.
God has placed a desire in Misty’s heart to combine her love for Christian fiction and the simpler ranch life, writing historical novels that display God’s abundant love through the twists and turns in the lives of her characters.
Writing is a dream come true for Misty. Her family—both immediate and extended—is the foundation that holds her secure in that dream.
‘She struggled to believe the Almighty heard her tiny cry.’
When Joanna Watson, a young widow, needs Isaac Bowen’s help to rescue her kidnapped son and friend, she finds she must also guard her heard from this quiet, strong man. Isaac just wants to live a quiet life after being delivered from a despicable past. But he is finding it very difficult to stay unaffected by the young widow.
‘He’d long ago stopped letting his past rise up to haunt him.’
Misty Beller takes us along on a dangerous trek through the mountains of Montana as Joanna and Isaac follow the kidnappers, men who form a dangerous and deadly gang. We also get glimpses into the outlaws’ camp as they terrorize the young son of Joanna and her friend. We feel every emotion as things go from bad to worse, with both hoping and praying for God’s protection and deliverance.
Both journeys are harrowing but these folks are relying on God at every turn to see them through. Beller’s writing just keeps getting better and better and I never miss a new release.
‘She struggled to believe the Almighty heard her tiny cry.’
When Joanna Watson, a young widow, needs Isaac Bowen’s help to rescue her kidnapped son and friend, she finds she must also guard her heard from this quiet, strong man. Isaac just wants to live a quiet life after being delivered from a despicable past. But he is finding it very difficult to stay unaffected by the young widow.
‘He’d long ago stopped letting his past rise up to haunt him.’
Misty Beller takes us along on a dangerous trek through the mountains of Montana as Joanna and Isaac follow the kidnappers, men who form a dangerous and deadly gang. We also get glimpses into the outlaws’ camp as they terrorize the young son of Joanna and her friend. We feel every emotion as things go from bad to worse, with both hoping and praying for God’s protection and deliverance.
Both journeys are harrowing but these folks are relying on God at every turn to see them through. Beller’s writing just keeps getting better and better and I never miss a new release.
*My thanks to Bethany House Publishers for a copy of this book via Net Galley. The opinions in this review are entirely my own.
Grace-by-the-Sea: Where romance and adventure come home.
Spunky artist and entrepreneur Abigail Archer is determined to see her friend, Jesslyn Denby, restored as director of the spa at Grace-by-the-Sea, even if that means ousting the news physician who took her place. A shame she was recently injured and requires him to dance attendance on her. But if he thinks she’ll meekly accept his orders, he’d better think again!
Doctor Linus Bennett came to the little coastal village with his young son to escape a troubled past. He’s not about to lose his post to some crusader, but the pretty painter awakens feelings he’d thought long buried. When it appears the French are about to invade, Abigail and Linus must work together to save the village. In doing so, the doctor may just find that falling in love with the outspoken Abigail is the best prescription to heal his wounded heart.
Grace-by-the-Sea: Where romance and adventure come home.
Spunky artist and entrepreneur Abigail Archer is determined to see her friend, Jesslyn Denby, restored as director of the spa at Grace-by-the-Sea, even if that means ousting the news physician who took her place. A shame she was recently injured and requires him to dance attendance on her. But if he thinks she’ll meekly accept his orders, he’d better think again!
Doctor Linus Bennett came to the little coastal village with his young son to escape a troubled past. He’s not about to lose his post to some crusader, but the pretty painter awakens feelings he’d thought long buried. When it appears the French are about to invade, Abigail and Linus must work together to save the village. In doing so, the doctor may just find that falling in love with the outspoken Abigail is the best prescription to heal his wounded heart.
This sweet, clean Regency is the sequel to The Heiress’s Convenient Husband.
How about a bit of an excerpt?
Here’s a taste: Abigail took particular pleasure from the look on Doctor Bennett’s face when he came to bring Ethan and check on her the next morning. As his son went to the dining room where her mother had hot chocolate waiting, the doctor stopped in the middle of the sitting room and narrowed his eyes at her.
“I distinctly recall saying we might consider you getting out of bed,” he said.
Abigail rose from the sofa, her burgundy-colored skirts falling about her feet. It had taken an hour of practice that had left her sweating, but she could stand without putting either hand on the seat to help her. “I did consider it, and then I attempted it, and you can see for yourself that I am fine.”
His gaze swept over her, as if he was examining every inch of her, and her cheeks heated.
“Your color is too high,” he said, bringing his gaze to meet hers. “You obviously overexerted yourself.”
Abigail shook her head. “Have you ever considered that my color has less to do with my health and more to do with your infuriating suggestions?”
He frowned. “I suppose that’s possible. And how am I to examine your arm now that you’re clothed?”
“Ha!” She twisted to show him the white satin lacing on the long full sleeves. “Eva Howland let me borrow the gown. You have only to untie the ribbons, and the fabric will fall aside.”
He looked skeptical, but he dropped his bag on the sofa and began loosening the ribbon to run it back through the embroidery-edged holes.
Abigail glanced toward the dining room. Her mother was sitting calmly, sipping at her cup and nodding to something Ethan was saying. She had explained the function of the gown to her mother, but surely the woman had some opinion on the fact that her daughter was being partially undressed less than twenty feet away.
Doctor Bennett, thankfully, seemed more fascinated by the gown than what was inside. “Ingenious,” he allowed as the bandage came into view. “I’ll have to suggest this to the next lady I treat who has had the misfortune to be shot in the arm.”
Was he teasing her? Abigail turned her head to watch him. He was busy unwrapping the bandage, large hands quick but gentle. The scent of mint caught her nose. His cologne, perhaps? Or the soap he used?
“Any pain?” he asked.
Abigail gathered her wits. “None. I haven’t used the laudanum either. And I ate an entire bowl of stew with no nausea. I’m ready to go about my day.”
“Not until the stitches have been removed,” he said, gaze on her wound.
“So, remove them.”
He turned to retrieve the new bandage. “In another ten days.”
“Ten days!” Abigail stared at him. “Jesslyn Chance walks down the aisle in four. Nothing will keep me from her side.”
Regina Scott started writing novels in the third grade. Thankfully for literature as we know it, she didn’t actually sell her first novel until she had learned a bit more about writing such as vocabulary, sentence structure, and plot. After numerous short stories and articles in magazines and trade journals, she got serious about her novel writing. The Unflappable Miss Fairchild was her first novel to be published (March 1998).
Besides her novels, Regina Scott has had published three Regency novellas (“The June Bride Conspiracy” in His Blushing Bride, “Sweeter Than Candy” in A Match for Mother, and “A Place by the Fire” in Mistletoe Kittens). Two of her novels, A Dangerous Dalliance and The Twelve Days of Christmas, have been translated into German. A Dangerous Dalliance and The Incomparable Miss Compton have been translated into Italian. Starstruck and Perfection have been translated into Dutch.
Regina Scott and her husband are the parents of two sons. They reside in the Tri-Cities of southeast Washington State and are members of the Church of the Nazarene. Born in 1959 and raised in the Seattle area, Regina Scott is a graduate of the University of Washington. She comes by her writing talent naturally–both her parents are excellent writers in their vocations as teacher and electrical technician. Her mother envisioned the plot for “Sweeter Than Candy,” the novella which was written as a tribute to her.
Regina Scott is a devout Christian and a decent fencer; owns a historical, fantasy, and science fiction costume collection that currently takes up over a third of her large closet; and has been known to impersonate an independent consultant specializing in risk communication.
My Rating: 4 Stars!
Once more Regina Scott takes us back to that delightful village of Grace-by-the-Sea in this third offering in her series. This time we get the story of the village’s new doctor and a wonderful shopkeeper. And we get to spend time with all the other wonderful and quirky characters in that village. How I love spending time here. These folks have earned a place in my heart. I can’t wait already for book four! I absolutely love Regina Scott’s books so much!
*My thanks to the author for a copy of this book. The opinion here is my own.
Publisher: Edwards and Williams Publication Date: June 29, 2020 Genre: Regency Length: 175 pages
Sometimes the hardest road we travel is the one that leads us home.Jake Rawlings knew he had been born for more than life in the sleepy rural town of Bluff Creek. Being naturally athletically gifted and the son of one of the most renowned high school football coaches in the South, Jake knew he was destined for the life of a professional athlete and he would not let anything or anyone get in his way. But a series of unfortunate events leads to the loss of Jake’s dream, leaving him bitter and angry. He distances himself from his family and his hometown; vowing that when and if he does return to Bluff Creek, he will once again be the envy of everyone. In his relentless chase for fame and fortune, he finds himself hitting rock bottom with his sports bar on the brink of bankruptcy. Desperate to keep his business afloat and its financial woes a secret from everyone, including his wealthy, albeit spoiled, fiance, Whitney Peterson, Jake makes decisions that could cost him more than just money. While his life seems to be unraveling before his very eyes, he is suddenly called home to attend the funeral of his once beloved grandfather. And he’s shocked to find that the answer to his troubles might actually lie in Bluff Creek. At the tender age of eight, Julie Wooten fell head over heels in love with Jake Rawlings, only to have her heart crushed by his singular pursuit of fame and fortune. Julie’s life has changed dramatically in the years since Jake left town. Her hopes and dreams put away in an effort to keep the secret that altered her path forever. She thought she could live a peaceful life in Bluff Creek running her grandmother’s diner, but when Jake is forced to spend more time in their hometown than either of them would like, Julie feels anything but peace. And while she is determined to avoid Jake at all cost, he seems to be everywhere she turns. The more she sees him around town, the more she is torn between remembering why she fell in love with him to begin with and keeping him out of her life completely. Forced to stay in town longer than he planned, Jake finds a quiet inner calm that he hasn’t felt in years. And while he and Julie seem to be at odds at every turn, he also can’t seem to stop thinking about her. Past choices made by each of them threaten to shatter any calm he may have found at home. Faced with decisions that will alter both of their lives completely, Jake and Julie must decide if they will trust God or continue to force their own way, causing pain for not only themselves but everyone around them.
About Amanda Mason Amanda Mason lives in rural Middle Tennessee with her husband and three children. She loves to write, read, sing when no one is listening and chase after her three active children. Mason is a high school teacher by day and a keyboard warrior by night.
‘Why did he have to get hurt and lose his dreams? Why were other people’s lives so easy and his so hard?’
I discovered Amanda Mason last year with her ‘A Mountain Worth Moving’ and fell in love with her writing. This book only solidified that decision. It was very emotionally deep and powerful. Jake Rawlings, once on a fast track to a star football career, injures himself out of that dream, and must return to his small hometown when his grandfather dies. Something he does not want to do. So back home he goes, accompanied by a whining, demanding fiancé, who is not even sure he loves anymore, and finds that his life is going to be forever changed. Forced to stay in Bluff Creek for six months, Jake is totally at odds with the happenings in his life.
Mason brings her readers into a seemingly impossible situation, yet proves that God is the master of those types of things. He can make a river in the desert. If only these characters will allow Him to take control instead of stubbornly trying to fix their lives themselves. Well written with wonderful characters, this is one book I can truly highly recommend. I eagerly look forward to more from this author.
Publisher: Independently published Publication Date: May 21, 2020
Sometimes it takes losing everything to find yourself again.
Lily Bishop wakes up one morning to find a good-bye note and divorce papers from her husband on the kitchen counter. Having moved to Alabama for his job only weeks before, Lily is devastated, but a flyer at the grocery store for a hair stylist position in a local retirement community provides a refuge while she contemplates her next steps.
Rose Carrigan built the small retirement village of Safe Harbor years ago—just before her husband ran off with his assistant. Now she runs a tight ship, making sure the residents follow her strict rules. Rose keeps everyone at arm’s length, including her own family. But when Lily shows up asking for a job and a place to live, Rose’s cold exterior begins to thaw.
Lily and Rose form an unlikely friendship, and Lily’s salon soon becomes the place where residents share town gossip, as well as a few secrets. Lily soon finds herself drawn to Rose’s nephew, Rawlins—a single dad and shrimper who’s had some practice at starting over—and one of the residents may be carrying a torch for Rose as well.
Neither Lily nor Rose is where she expected to be, but the summer makes them both wonder if there’s more to life and love than what they’ve experienced so far. The Summer House weaves Lauren K. Denton’s inviting Southern charm around a woman’s journey to find herself.
Lauren K. Denton is the USA Today, Wall Street Journal, and Amazon Charts bestselling author of THE HIDEAWAY, HURRICANE SEASON, and GLORY ROAD. Her fourth novel THE SUMMER HOUSE releases in June, 2020 and received a starred review from Publisher’s Weekly.
Her books have received widespread accolades, including…
*Southern Living’s 25 Beach Reads Perfect for Summer *Deep South Magazine’s 2018-2020 Spring/Summer Reading Lists *Woman’s World Book Club’s Week’s Best Fiction *BuzzBooks 2019 Spring/Summer Great Reads *Travel + Leisure Ten Spring Reads That Will Make Winter a Distant Memory *BuzzBooks 2018 Spring/Summer Reads *Southern Living Spring Break Reads *Bookpage 2018 Most Anticipated Books
Combining a love of Deep South settings, a generous dose of Southern flavor and humor, and heartwarming romance, Lauren pens stories that chronicle women’s journeys towards truth and love, hope and healing.
Born and raised in Mobile, Alabama, Lauren now lives with her husband and two daughters in Homewood, just outside Birmingham. In addition to her fiction, she writes a monthly newspaper column about life, faith, and how funny (and hard) it is to be a parent. Though her husband tries valiantly to turn her into a mountain girl, she’d still rather be at the beach with her family and a stack of books.
Lily wakes up one morning to a note from her husband, saying he can’t do this marriage anymore. So she must now make a life for herself. She applies for a job as a hair stylist in Safe Harbor, AL. Safe harbor is a retirement community, filled with loveable characters. Rose Carrigan is 68, divorced and unhappy. She tells herself she’s happy, but deep down she’s not. But the future might be beginning to brighten for both Lily and Rose. I loved the quaintness and preciousness of this book. I even wouldn’t mind a visit to Safe Harbor. These characters just wormed their way right into my heart.
*My thanks to Thomas Nelson Publishers for a copy of this book via Net Galley. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Publisher: Thomas Nelson Publication Date: June 7, 2020
When new evidence surfaces about a tragic boating accident that put her ex-boyfriend’s father in prison, private investigator Dory Winslow’s determined to look into it. But now someone’s dead set on silencing her. And working with Chad Jaggert—the father of her secret child—may be the only way to survive the treacherous truth about the tragedy that once tore them apart.
Dana Mentink is an award winning author of Christian fiction. She’s written more than twenty five mystery and suspense novels. She is honored to have received two ACFW Carol Awards, a Holt Medallion Award, and a Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice Award. Please visit her on the web at http://www.danamentink.com or find her on Twitter, Facebook or Pinterest. Dana hosts monthly contests at http://www.dmentink.wordpress.com and on her YouTube channel.
My Rating: 4 Stars!
‘He had to find out the truth. Lives hung in the balance. Lives that were beyond precious.’
Dana Mentink takes us back to the Roughwater Ranch for this fourth book in the series, featuring Chad and Dory. Chad Jaggert is the father of Dory’s child, but he doesn’t know that. Now Dory, a private investigator is back in the small town of Driftwood looking into a case that put Chad’s father in jail for five years. But someone doesn’t want the truth to get out and soon Dory’s life is in danger.
Dana Mentink again proves she is very talented at her suspenseful novels. In my opinion, this is the best in the series. I read it in less than a day. I loved every minute. Recommended
‘He had to find out the truth. Lives hung in the balance. Lives that were beyond precious.’
Dana Mentink takes us back to the Roughwater Ranch for this fourth book in the series, featuring Chad and Dory. Chad Jaggert is the father of Dory’s child, but he doesn’t know that. Now Dory, a private investigator is back in the small town of Driftwood looking into a case that put Chad’s father in jail for five years. But someone doesn’t want the truth to get out and soon Dory’s life is in danger.
Dana Mentink again proves she is very talented at her suspenseful novels. In my opinion, this is the best in the series. I read it in less than a day. I loved every minute. Recommended
*My thanks to the publisher and author for a copy of this book. The opinions here are entirely my own.
Publisher: Love Inspired Publication Date: June 2, 2020 Genre: Inspirational Suspense Buy Link: https://amzn.to/2Xo8SEt
When she discovers her worst nightmare… When Maya Glass—the Veritas Center’s toxicology/controlled substances expert—goes to check on her scientist friend after a cryptic phone message, Maya stumbles upon her worst nightmare. A deadly toxin has been released, her friend’s assistant has died in his secluded island lab, and her friend is missing. Worse yet, Maya is exposed to the deadly botulism toxin and she needs help. Fast. Problem is, the only person she can think of with the right contacts is her former love, FBI Agent Hunter Lane.
Will she let him help her or go it alone? Maya sets out on a hunt to find her friend and Hunter warns the feisty and tantalizing Maya to back down. But when it becomes clear that he needs Maya to locate her missing friend and find the killer, Hunter knows they must work together to stop the killing spree before the killer gets even and ends Maya’s life.
About Susan Sleeman SUSAN SLEEMAN is the bestselling author of over thirty-five novels with more than one million books sold. She writes romantic suspense novels that are clean with inspiring messages of faith. Readers love her series for the well-drawn characters and edge-of-your-seat action. She graduated from the FBI and local police citizen academies, so her research is spot-on and her characters are real. In addition to writing, Susan also hosts TheSuspenseZone.com. She has lived in nine states but now calls Oregon home. Her husband is a retired church music director, and they have two beautiful daughters, a very special son-in-law, and an adorable grandson. To learn more about Susan’s books sign up for her monthly email that includes exclusive excerpts, giveaways, and other goodies. http://www.susansleeman.com/susans-newsletter/
‘He didn’t have the faith he needed anymore to believe he deserved a family.’
I love Susan Sleeman’s books and she is my go-to for suspense. Her books are so detailed with great details of law enforcement and crime solving. It fascinates me to no end. This book gives us the last person’s story in her Truth Seekers series, Maya Glass. Maya reconnects with an ex flame, Hunter, and they discover they still hold feelings for each other, but Hunter is dealing with a great deal of fear. But now they must put aside all that and work together to try to stop a deadly toxin.
Sleeman brings us great suspense as always and the fast run to the finish was breathtaking! I am never disappointed in her good books. Highly recommended.
*My thanks to the author for a copy of this book. The opinion in this review is entirely my own.
Haunted by the horrors of war, ex-cavalry officer Matthew Hanger leads a band of mercenaries known as Hanger’s Horsemen who have become legends in 1890s Texas. They defend the innocent and obtain justice for the oppressed. But when a rustler’s bullet leaves one of them at death’s door, they’re the ones in need of saving.
Dr. Josephine Burkett is used to men taking one look at her skirts and discounting her medical skills. What she’s not used to is having a man change his mind in a heartbeat and offer to assist her in surgery. Matthew Hanger’s dedication to his friend during recovery earns Josephine’s respect, and when she hears of her brother’s abduction, he becomes her only hope for rescue.
Matt has stared down ruthless outlaws, betrayal, and injury, but when a bossy lady doctor crawls under his skin, his heart is tempted to surrender. And when she is caught in the crossfire, he may have to sacrifice everything–even his team–to save her.
I am so excited to have Karen come visit my blog today and answer some questions. I have read every single one of her books, and have been a fan since the very first. Karen, welcome! Thanks so much for joining me today.
When did you know you wanted to write?
I was always an avid reader but never really thought much about writing. Not until I graduated from college and started immersing myself in fiction again. After graduate school, I vowed to never read another textbook ever again. Ha! I started jotting story ideas down in a journal and thought, maybe someday I’d give writing a try. But it wasn’t until I was a stay-at-home mom with three preschool-aged kids and my husband came home to tell me his position had been cut that I decided to get serious about writing. At first, I thought I could help supplement the family income from home right away while he searched for work. I know . . . don’t choke on your snack while you laugh. I ended up going back to work a couple months later, but by then the writing bug had bitten hard. I haven’t looked back since.
How do you get ideas for your books?
My ideas come from many different places. Books, television shows, movies, historical research, even the Bible. No two books come together the same way. With some, I have a plot idea and I build the characters around it. With others, I have a character or set of characters in mind, and I have to dig around to find a plot to reveal their heroism. The characters came first with the Hanger’s Horsemen series.
At Love’s Command was inspired by three television series I watched as a teen and young adult back in the 1980’s and 1990’s. The A-Team inspired my team of four ex-military mercenaries and their determination to help the powerless fight against injustice. I gave them a Magnificent Seven spin to add the western flair, and then created a heroine inspired by Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman. Dr. Josephine Burkett was even mistaken for a man called Dr. Jo just like Michaela Quinn was confused as Michael when first hired.
This book has such a strong spiritual lesson. Does God deposit those ideas in your mind?
I pray over my writing every day, and I depend so heavily on the Lord for inspiration. Believe it or not, I am not a naturally creative person. I am a paint-by-numbers analytical thinker who rarely veers outside the lines. Yet when I write, I am constantly amazed by the plot ideas or spiritual twists that ignite in my mind. I know they are not my own. The master Creator is generously sparking something inside me and nurturing it into a flame. I love the verses from Psalm 18 where David readily admits that his prowess in battle is not due to his own ability. All the credit belongs to the Lord.
It is God who arms me with strength and keeps my way secure.
He makes my feet like the feet of a deer; he causes me to stand on the heights.
He trains my hands for battle; my arms can bend a bow of bronze.
You make your saving help my shield, and your right hand sustains me;
Your help has made me great.
I feel like I could easily make this my song:
It is God who arms me with creativity and keeps my stories on track.
He makes my mind nimble like a deer; he causes ideas to leap into consciousness.
He hones my craft for battle; my characters can grow and change me in the process.
You make your saving help my shield,
and your right hand sustains me when doubts and weariness strike;
Your help is what makes my stories great.
My characters often struggle with the same spiritual issues that I face in my own faith walk. So when Matthew and Josephine both struggle with surrendering control fully to the Lord, I’m on that journey with them.
How long does it take you to write a book?
I am a slow writer. I write one polished chapter a week. My books tend to be around 38-42 chapters, so in roughly 40 weeks, I have a completed manuscript. Because I constantly edit as I go, I write one painstakingly careful draft. My critique partners read and make suggestions along the way, and my editors will give me revisions and suggestions for changes after that first draft is turned in, but overall, I usually plan a full-length novel to take 40 weeks. Novellas take about 10 weeks. That is why I only write one full-length and one novella a year. That’s all I can squeeze in.
What does your writing day look like?
I still work an 8-5 day job, so writing is an exercise in flexibility. During a good week, I write about two pages a day, so that by the end of the week I have an 8-10 page chapter completed. During a harder week, I end up writing all weekend long to make up for the deficit earlier in the week. Thankfully, my husband and young adult children are very supportive. If I need to lock myself away in the bedroom all day on a Saturday, they respect the closed door and give me the time I need.
What do you want readers to take away from this book?
I want readers to enjoy a fun, adventurous story, but deeper than that, my prayer is that God will meet them within the pages. The overarching theme of this story is our need to live fully surrendered to God. Our independent natures want so badly to prove that we are self-sufficient. That we can fix what is broken and achieve our own greatness. Beyond the pride of those thoughts, there is the fear that if we completely surrender to God’s will, he will take us some place we don’t want to go. I admit that I struggle with this myself. In fact, as I was writing the scene where Josephine finally lets down her guard with God and becomes brutally honest in her prayer, I found myself admitting the same fears.
I’m afraid, Lord. Afraid to completely surrender. Afraid that if I have no control over the outcome, it won’t end the way I desire. . . Afraid you’ll take Matthew from me.
And then came God’s response to her spirit and to mine: Lean not unto thine own understanding.
Our understanding cannot see the full picture. It is limited. Small. Far better to surrender and trust completely the One who sees all and understands all, and who loves with a depth I cannot fathom. My character prayed the prayer of my soul. And the Lord gave me an answer that had far more impact in the real world than the fictional one. My desire is that the Lord will touch readers in the reality of their souls as well.
My Rating: 5 Stars!
‘Horsemen never quit. We find a way to achieve the mission and we protect our own.’
Karen Witemeyer begins a new series, ‘Hanger’s Horsemen’ with this book and she’s off to a fabulous start! Matthew Hanger, ex Calvary officer and three of his buddies forma band of mercenaries, bringing justice to those who are oppressed. He lands on Dr. Josephine Burkett’s doorstep when one of his men is wounded. Dr. Jo is sassy and not inclined to allow Matt’s idea of women doctor to deter her. Soon, though, Josie needs Matt’s and the Horsemen’s professional help.
‘God’s warriors had been outnumbered and outmatched before, and that hadn’t stopped them from facing their enemies and emerging victorious.’
I have never missed a Karen Witemeyer book and have enjoyed them all. But this one totally captivated me. From the opening sentence to the last, my interest never once waned. Not one bit. As soon as I saw the cover, I knew I would love this book. Just knew it. Very well written with a cast of characters that completely endeared themselves to me (except the bad guys), I thoroughly enjoyed every single minute of this book. And Witemeyer has included some deep spiritual truths here as well, lessons we could all take to heart.
Witemeyer’s portrayal of Hanger’s Horsemen had me loving these men–men of honor and integrity who never abandon a mission and fight for justice. And there are four horsemen, so there are more books coming!! Witemeyer truly shines here! I very highly recommend this book and author. This series is going to be awesome.
‘I might not know you well, Matthew Hanger, but I’ve seen your heart. The world would be a darker place without you in it.’
*My thanks to Bethany House Publishers for a copy of this book via Net Galley. The opinions expressed here in this review are completely my own.
Now…on to the giveaway. I am giving away a print copy of At Love’s Command. Sorry, but due to postage costs, it will only be available to those living in the 48 contiguous states. Details and rules below.
To enter to win, here’s what I need from you:
1. Your FULL name 2. Your email (non spammy formula, please) 3. Comment on the blog post.
Contest runs through June 11th. Winner will be notified via email. If no response in 48 hours, another winner will be chosen.
Worie Dressar is 17 years old when influenza and typhoid ravage her Appalachian Mountain community in 1877, leaving behind a growing number of orphaned children with no way to care for themselves. Worie’s mother has been secretly feeding a number of these little ones on Sourwood Mountain. But when she dies suddenly, Worie is left to figure out why and how she was caring for them.
Plagued with two good-for-nothing brothers–one greedy and the other a drunkard–Worie fights to save her home and the orphaned children now in her begrudging care. Along the way, she will discover the beauty of unconditional love and the power of forgiveness as she cares for all of Momma’s children.
Storyteller and popular speaker Cindy K. Sproles pens a tender novel full of sacrifice, heartache, and courage in the face of overwhelming obstacles.
About Cindy Sproles Cindy Sproles is an author and speaker. She has cofounded ChristianDevotions.us and serves as managing editor for SonRise Books and Straight Street Books, imprints of Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas/Iron Stream Media. Cindy teaches at Christian Writers Conferences and ladies retreats and ladies conferences across the country. Her devotions are heartfelt and honest. Edgy and inviting. Cindy serves as the executive editor of ChristianDevotions.us, a writing mentor, and life-coach.She shares mentoring with best-selling author, Yvonne Lehman at Write Right. Author of four non-fiction books, Cindy’s Fiction debut novel, Mercy’s Rain(Kregel Publishing), was book of the year and her second novel, Liar’s Winter won numerous awards. Cindy’s 3rd Appalachian Novel, Revell Publishing, What Momma Left Behind, releases June 2,2020 She is a contributing author to CBN.com and InspireaFire.com and serves as the director of the Asheville Christian Writers Conference. Visit her at http://www.cindysproles.com or contact her at cindyksproles@gmail.com
Cindy is available for speaking events by contacting her at cindyksproles@gmail.com.
My Rating: 5 Stars!
‘Life ain’t easy in these mountains. When the messes happen, you swallow the ache and do what has to be done.’
When you close the last page of a book weeping, you know you have been blessed and moved greatly. This is what happened as I finished reading ‘What Momma Left Behind.’
Worie Dressar is 17 in 1877 when typhoid and fever is spreading like wild fire through the Appalachian mountains where she lives. Many children are left orphaned on Sourwood Mountain and Worie’s momma has been feeding them. Then her momma is gone and Worie faces a tough decision. She has two sorry brothers, so if a decision must be made, it has to be hers.
‘Mountain women shoved their feelins over their shoulder and go on. It’s what they do. It was what I would do.’
Cindy Sproles brings Worie to life right before our eyes. Worie Dressar is hard-headed, strong-willed in both mind and body and thinks her way is the only way. She does not suffer fools gladly and is not hesitant to tell them so. She’s also pretty much mad at the world and tosses her words out not even seeing how much they hurt they cause.
Cindy Sproles’ last two novels touched me so deeply that I longed to read another from her, so when I saw this one coming, I was eager to read it. Sproles is the best at bringing the people and ways of Appalachia to life right before our eyes. Every word is a treasure to take into your heart as you read.
‘You know I always tried to do what was right. But hard times calls for hard measures.’
Sproles’ writing is a wonder to read as she gives her characters and their emotions a home in your heart, causing you to keep them there long after finishing the book. And there are wonderful spiritual lessons here too: forgiveness, restoration, grace, just to name a few.
Captivating from start to finish, this book is an absolute must read. It moved me deeply and transported me to those wonderful Appalachian mountains.
* My thanks to Revell Publishing and the author for a copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Publisher: Revell Publication Date: June 2, 2020 Buy it here: https;//amzn.to/2Mmxg39
Simply Susan 