A Silken Thread by Kim Vogel Sawyer

A Silken Thread will be released April 2 and is available for pre-order HERE!

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Eighteen-year-old Laurel Millard, youngest of seven children, is expected to stay home and "take care of Mama" by her older siblings, but Laurel has dreams of starting her own family.

MY THOUGHTS:

It’s been quite a while since I read a KVS book, but she quickly reminded me why I like her so much!

The setting is the Atlanta Exposition in 1895, which I loved learning about! I googled several items of interest that I found in the story. I love when that happens and that’s why I enjoy historical fiction so much! A little - or a lot of! -learning in a story setting!

Laurel finds a job weaving silk in the Women's Building, which is not looked upon kindly by many locals who see it as a threat to their local cotton.

Add in Willie, a hard-working young man who desires to earn some extra money at the Exposition for his pa’s medical needs; Langdon, a rich boy who can’t please his father (and rightly so); Quincy, who has to learn that it’s not your outside that gives you respect; and a big, orange tabby (because anyone who knows even a little about KVS - she loves cats)!

This book was a little different - she gently wove in a bit more serious subject than some of her past books: racism. Luke 6:31, “As ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise.”

It was a perfect blend of characters and situations. I was both satisfied and challenged by A Silken Thread - and I think you will be, too!

Thank you to Kim and Waterbrook Multnomah through NetGalley for sending me a Kindle copy to read and review!

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**DISCLOSURE: I was given a complimentary product in exchange for an honest review. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

Engraved on the Heart by Tara Johnson

ABOUT THE BOOK:
Reluctant debutante Keziah Montgomery lives beneath the weighty expectations of her staunch Confederate family, forced to keep her epilepsy secret for fear of a scandal. As the tensions of the Civil War arrive on their doorstep in Savannah, Keziah sees little cause for balls and courting. Despite her discomfort, she cannot imagine an escape from her familial confines—until her old schoolmate Micah shows her a life-changing truth that sets her feet on a new path . . . as a conductor in the Underground Railroad.

MY THOUGHTS:
The last few months have been so very busy for me, and it has been hard to find time to read. When I am able to carve out some time to indulge in a book, I have found that the last few I have chosen haven't captured my attention from the get-go, and I plod the remaining way through the story.

Whoa! Not Engraved on the Heart! What an amazing debut novel by Tara!! I sat down to start the book, and I must have been interrupted by a child, but as I checked my Kindle, I was 29% through the book! By my criteria, that must mean a good 'un! I was totally captivated by Tara's descriptions and characters, and she swept me right into the heart of the story without any effort on my part.

Engraved on the Heart had everything I love in a Civil War setting: the conflict, the suspense, the fear, the courage, the love! Tara captured it all, and I would definitely pick up her next book...whatever it is!

I don't want to give spoilers, but the fight climax had some confusing issues. I couldn't quite figure out how it actually occurred (because of the disability of one of the characters) or was resolved...but, the rest of the book was too good to wonder about it for too very long.

Well done, Tara! I loved it!

Thank you to Tara and Tyndale Blog Network for sending me a copy to read and review!

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**DISCLOSURE: I was given a complimentary product in exchange for an honest review. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

Until We Find Home by Cathy Gohlke

ABOUT THE BOOK:

For American Claire Stewart, joining the French Resistance sounded as romantic as the storylines she hopes will one day grace the novels she wants to write. But when she finds herself stranded on English shores, with five French Jewish children she smuggled across the channel before Nazis stormed Paris, reality feels more akin to fear.

With nowhere to go, Claire throws herself on the mercy of an estranged aunt, begging Lady Miranda Langford to take the children into her magnificent estate. Heavily weighted with grief of her own, Miranda reluctantly agrees . . . if Claire will stay to help.

MY THOUGHTS:

I have really enjoyed Cathy's past books. I also love anything set in WWII. So, I jumped at the chance to read the story of Claire and her little French refugees.

Any avid reader knows that not all books written by a favorite author or set in a favorite era 'hit the spot.' Unfortunately, that was the case for me with Until We Find Home. That's not to say there weren't parts I enjoyed. The end accelerated into some excitement with the escaped Nazi soldier and some of the children. It was interesting to learn aspects of the Britain homefront I had not previously known.

But for me, the problem was Claire. I just couldn't relate or connect with her. And, again, any reader knows that if you don't like the main character...well, that makes it pretty difficult to like the book. I tried to like her. I tried by restarting the book three different times!! I got 1/3 of the way through the book, and just did not like her. Even Aunt Miranda didn't endear herself to me.

Ack!

So, the book is definitely worth a try. Just because Claire wasn't easy for me to understand, doesn't mean you won't love her. ;-) Especially if you already enjoy Cathy's books or WWII settings.

Thank you to Cathy and Tyndale through Tyndale Blog Network for sending me a copy to read and review!

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**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product in exchange for an honest review. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

An Inconvenient Beauty by Kristi Ann Hunter

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Griffith, Duke of Riverton, likes order, logic, and control, and he naturally applies this rational approach to his search for a bride. He's certain Miss Frederica St. Claire is the perfect wife for him, but while Frederica is strangely elusive, he can't seem to stop running into her stunningly beautiful cousin, Miss Isabella Breckenridge.

Isabella should be enjoying her society debut, but with her family in difficult circumstances, her uncle will only help them if she'll use her beauty to assist him in his political aims. Already uncomfortable with this agreement, the more she comes to know Griffith, the more she wishes to be free of her unfortunate obligation.

Will Griffith and Isabella be able to set aside their pride and face their fears in time to find their own happily-ever-after?

MY THOUGHTS:

I thoroughly enjoyed the whole Hawthorne House series. I've been waiting for this fourth book to see who would be good enough for Griffith, the Duke of Riverton, to marry.

It was refreshing that Frederica was not awed enough by a very eligible, pursuing duke to give up true love. I know that times were different back then, with such focus for young ladies to make worthy matches for financial and familial security, but I still felt badly for Isabella. Because of her uncle's intimidation, I had a difficult time connecting with her at first. But, by the time Bella 'visits the trees,' I liked her and could see a little more of the real Miss Breckenridge.

I was a little surprised at the manipulation by Griffith's family. Then again, I've seen close families do all they can to matchmake – with the best of intentions, of course! Obviously, in the fictitious Hawthorne House, it all worked to their advantage and showed Griffith just what they wanted to show him! That the other girls were wrong...and true love is the only right!

The book includes the rest of the family from the first three books: Miranda, Trent, Georgina and their spouses. Though you could probably read this book as a stand-a-lone, it is best if you read the entire series in order.

A satisfying conclusion to the series!

Thank you to Kristi and Bethany House through NetGalley for sending me a copy to read and review!

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**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product in exchange for an honest review. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

An Uncommon Protector by Shelley Shepard Gray

ABOUT THE BOOK:
Overwhelmed by the responsibilities of running a ranch on her own, Laurel Tracey decides to hire a convict—a man who’s just scary enough to take care of squatters and just desperate enough to agree to a one year post.

MY THOUGHTS:
I thought the idea behind this story was a great one -- single girl with a ranch in danger hires a jailbird to protect the property. Obviously, her surrounding neighbors and townspeople think this is a bad idea.

Lots of other things happen in the story: irritable step siblings who want Laurel to sell, a neighbor intent on marrying Laurel, sinister sabotage of the ranch and its animals... all make for a great story.

However, An Uncommon Protector read kind of slow for me. I also found it odd that for that time period, both Laurel and Thomas were ok with him sleeping in a guest room. The book was ok...it just wasn't a 'couldn't put down' kind of read for me, unfortunately.


Thank you to Shelley and Zondervan through NetGalley for sending me a copy to read and review!

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**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product in exchange for an honest review. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

An Uncommon Courtship by Kristi Ann Hunter

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Life for Lady Adelaide Bell was easier if she hid in her older sister's shadow--which worked until her sister got married. Even with thepressure of her socially ambitious mother, the last thing she expected was a marriage of convenience to save her previously spotless reputation.

Lord Trent Hawthorne couldn't be happier that he is not the duke in the family. He's free to manage his small estate and take his time discovering the life he wants to lead, which includes grand plans of wooing and falling in love with the woman of his choice. When he finds himself honor bound to marry a woman he doesn't know, his dream of a marriage like his parents' seems lost forever.

Already starting their marriage on shaky ground, can Adelaide and Trent's relationship survive the pressures of London society?

MY THOUGHTS:

Ahh, the third story of the Hawthorne siblings. This one is about Lord Trent and his new wife, and I enjoyed it as much as the other two books! (An Uncommon Courtship can be read alone, but it is better if you've read the other books and understand the other characters).

I just love a good Regency and reading about all the manners and customs of the times. A lady's reputation was held in such high esteem then...so very hard to imagine today!

Because of this belief, Lord Trent finds himself in a situation that can only be rectified by marriage. From the other books, I guess I got the impression that Trent was a bit spoiled and selfish, but he really isn't. I liked him a lot and thought he was the perfect guy for Adelaide.

And, poor Adelaide. How disheartening to come from a family like her's! What a great comparison to show the strong family ties that the Hawthornes have! Such fierce love and protection was foreign...then welcome...to Adelaide. I think everyone hopes for a close family like the Hawthornes!

An Uncommon Courtship is a story of a gentle, lasting love that can come despite difficult circumstances. I loved it, and am so looking forward to Kristi's next book...it has to be about Griffith! I can't wait to see who is good enough for the duke!

*NOTE: I would not recommend this book for unmarried young ladies. Some of the physical interactions (though between a married couple) were more descriptive than I would allow my daughter to read. Moms, use your own judgment! 

Thank you to Kristi Ann and Bethany House for sending me a copy to read and review!

Did you find my review helpful? Please rate it on Amazon and Christianbook.



**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product in exchange for an honest review. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

God Bless Us Every One by Eva Marie Everson

ABOUT THE BOOK:
A timeless classic can change the future.

Charlene Dixon—called Charlie by family and friends—is devastated at the recent loss of her job. For the last five years, the twenty-seven-year-old has blossomed as the activities director of an exclusive all-girls school. But when a misunderstanding with the head-mistress leads to a pink slip right before the holidays, Charlie packs up dreams and returns to Grandma Esther, who raised Charlie as her own.

When Charlie arrives—broken and confused—Esther immediately puts her granddaughter to work behind the scenes of the local school’s Christmas play, A Christmas Carol. When Charlie disapproves of having to work with Dustin Kennedy, the seventh-grade English teacher, Grandma Esther encourages her to take a deeper look at why the book by Charles Dickens had been written in the first place and what the book could teach Charlie about the needs of the children in their own community.

MY THOUGHTS:
This short Christmas novel was ok...but, not really my thing. Every so often a book blurb catches my eye, despite its contemporary setting (which I really don't care for), and I decide to read it anyway.

Well...God Bless Us Every One was pretty much as I expected...and everything I hoped it wasn't. Somehow, today's lingo and themes just aren't as charming to me as a historical setting. It's hard for me to feel warm and cozy with the mention of iPhones, pumpkin lattes, and (very) present-day artists belting out redone Christmas classics on the radio.

May not be my thing...but it might be yours!

I also thought the relationship between Charlie and Dustin moved too quickly. I mean, I know Charlie had been attracted to Dustin in high school, but on one page they were being reacquainted and by seemingly the next page, they were dating and smooching. Ok?! I just never felt the build-up of any romantic feelings (I know it was a short book, but still...).

So, if you enjoy reading short, Christmas themed stories during the holiday season, you'll probably like this one. I however, prefer jingle-bell-decked horses, pulling red sleighs full of warm, muffler-clad people.

Thank you to Eva and Abingdon Press through NetGalley for sending me a copy to read and review!

Did you find my review helpful? Please rate it on Amazon and Christianbook.



**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product in exchange for an honest review. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

An Elegant Façade by Kristi Ann Hunter

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Lady Georgina Hawthorne has worked tirelessly to seal her place as the Incomparable for her debut season. At her first London ball, she hopes to snag the attention of an earl.

With money and business connections, but without impeccable bloodlines, Colin McCrae is invited everywhere but accepted nowhere. When he first encounters the fashionable Lady Georgina, he's irritated by his attraction to a woman who concerns herself only with status and appearance.

What Colin doesn't know is that Georgina's desperate social aspirations are driven by the shameful secret she harbors. Association with Colin McCrae is not part of Georgina's plan, but as their paths continue to cross, they both must decide if the realization of their dreams is worth the sacrifices they must make.

MY THOUGHTS:

I really, really enjoyed this second story in Kristi Hunter's Hawthorne House series.

I must admit that it had been awhile since I read the first book, A Noble Masquerade...and at first I didn't remember Georgina. An Elegant Façade CAN be read as a standalone, but the two stories overlap for several chapters in the beginning (this was very unique -- I've never read a book with parts of the same story told from another's perspective). So...it's nice - and somewhat helpful - to read them both!

Georgina's 'flaw,' as she thinks it is, causes her to appear almost untouchable. I found Georgina's struggle with such a malady during that time period to be very interesting. As she is challenged by Mr. McCrae, a gentleman beneath her notice, I couldn't help but begin to like her more and more as I realized how her façade was just that. Her responses and mannerisms weren't really HER...but, my empathy and compassion grew during the fearful journey to find the real HER.

A very unique and enjoyable story that lends understanding to one of today's learning disabilities. I am hoping that Kristi will be writing next about the Hawthorne brothers! Because I'll certainly be reading them!

Thank you to Kristi and Bethany House through NetGalley for sending me a copy to read and review!

Did you find my review helpful? Please rate it on Amazon and Christianbook.



**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product in exchange for an honest review. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

The House on Windridge by Tracie Peterson *Bonus novella*

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Rediscover this classic romance from bestselling author Tracie Peterson.

Jessica is alone in the world except for her infant son. She returns to the ranch where her life began, but Jessica doesn't know whom she can trust. Will Windridge become the home she has always longed for, or will it be the scene of her final betrayal?

Also included is a bonus historical prairie romance from author Joyce Livingston.

MY THOUGHTS:

The prologue was actually my favorite part of The House on Windridge...and I wished the story had continued straight from there. It was good, had me hooked, and I was disappointed in the 20+ year gap that picked up the characters' lives. Oh well...

Still, the story was a nice prairie romance. Quite a twist to have a daughter come back 'home' to run a ranch she's never really been a part of. At times Jessica rubbed me the wrong way, but her insecurities, though not loveable, were understandable.

Devon, Buck, and Katie were the perfect characters to help a girl like Jessica along...and the romance was sweet.

Thank you to Tracie and Barbour through NetGalley for sending me a copy to read and review!

Did you find my review helpful? Please rate it on Amazon and Christianbook.



**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product in exchange for an honest review. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

Dawn at Emberwilde by Sarah E. Ladd

ABOUT THE BOOK:
Isabel Creston never dared to dream that love could be hers. Now, at the edge of a forest filled with dark secrets, she faces a fateful choice between love and duty.

MY THOUGHTS:
Don't you just love computer errors? I had a nice review all written and saved...and my laptop crashed. Apparently the crash corrupted my file, as OpenOffice can't seem to recover it. I hate when that happens! I can't ever remember everything I so eloquently said! ;-)

Well, let's just cut to the chase and say that Sarah's descriptions are rich and exciting. I love historical British Victorian/Regency kind of tales! Isabel is startled by her unknown family's summons, though she dearly longs for a home. However, it is quickly obvious that her aunt isn't welcoming to her niece or her younger sister. Isabel's uncle seems eager to marry her off, and the mysteries of the dark woods outside her window only add to the awkward and uneasy situation.

Dawn at Emberwilde will keep you reading to see if Isabel ever finds love and home.

Another lovely novel by Sarah! I loved it!

Thank you to Sarah and Thomas Nelson through NetGalley for sending me a copy to read and review!

Did you find my review helpful? Please rate it on Amazon and Christianbook.



**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product in exchange for an honest review. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

The Reluctant Duchess by Roseanna M. White

ABOUT THE BOOK:
Lady Rowena Kinnaird may be the heiress to a Highland earldom, but she has never felt good enough--not for her father, not for the man she thought she'd marry, not for God. But after a shocking attack, she's willing to be forever an outcast if it means escaping Loch Morar.

Brice Myerston, the Duke of Nottingham, has found himself in possession of a rare treasure his enemies are prepared to kill for. While Brice has never been one to shy away from manor-born ladies, the last thing he needs is the distraction of Lady Rowena, who finds herself in a desperate situation. But when Rowena's father tries to trap Brice into marrying his daughter, Brice makes a surprising decision.

Rowena wanted to escape the Highlands, but she's reluctant to marry a notorious flirt. And when she learns that Brice is mixed up in questionable business with a stolen treasure, she fears she's about to end up directly in the path of everything she was trying to avoid.

MY THOUGHTS:
It's been a long time since I read book one, The Lost Heiress, and at first I wasn't quite sure if I needed to remember that storyline. It would be helpful to remember Justin and Brook's story, though they are only barely mentioned in book 2...but, once the Fire Eyes were mentioned, most of what was important from Brook's story came back to me.

I loved Rowena and her Scottish brogue right away. And even Brice, though I found it odd he called Rowena 'darling' as soon as they were married, was easy to like – as he made a conscious choice to love.

Feelings eventually came, but Brice's choice to love Rowena, despite the circumstances, showed the true definition of love.

I found some of the physical descriptions of Rowena's attack tiring. It seemed to be mentioned more than necessary...and I did not like that Rowena's father just stopping short of vulgarity in reference to a woman near the end of the story.

Overall, I loved this honest look at true love.

Thank you to Roseanna and Bethany House through NetGalley for sending me a copy to read and review!

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**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product in exchange for an honest review. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

With This Ring: A Novella Collection of Proposals Gone Awry by Witemeyer, Jennings, Connealy, and Jagears

ABOUT THE BOOK:
Four top historical romance novelists team up in this new collection to offer stories of love and romance with a twist of humor that will delight readers.

MY THOUGHTS:
I don't normally reach for novellas unless I like the authors. With This Ring was written by 3 authors I have read and enjoyed, and as I needed some lighter reading while my dad was recovering from surgery, I requested the book for review.

4-1/2* - The Husband Maneuver by Karen Witemeyer: Karen starts the collection off with a bang in her story. For those of you who read A Worthy Pursuit, you'll love hearing what happens to Stone's friend, Daniel Barrett, or 'Dead-Eye Dan,' as he has been portrayed in action-packed dime novels which he despises.

I loved that each chapter started out with pages from the scorned dime novel...and followed up with the 'real life' Daniel.

And I loved Marietta. She loved Daniel, but wasn't pushy in her attempts to show him. Well, she wasn't subtle, exactly...but, she was sweet and respectful...and you could feel her extreme longing that Daniel would notice her. I loved watching their relationship unfold.

As for the other three short stories, they just didn't capture or hold my interest as much as Daniel and Marietta's story.

2-1/2*- Her Dearly Unintended by Regina Jennings: Unfortunately, this one was my least favorite. The beginning started out exciting with Mary Ellen, the cow, and the raging river, but as the story progressed, I didn't really like Mary Ellen. She was so...sharp. Disagreeable. Way too OCD (and I'm a bit OCD myself, so that's saying something). ;-) Josiah seemed like a nice guy, I really couldn't understand her dislike...but I guess that's the way some women react to past hurts without explanation. And, the stranger was so creepy...I never reconciled myself to what he ended up being and felt weird about him the whole time.

4* - Runaway Bride by Mary Connealy: I have only read a few of Mary's earlier books, and they weren't really my thing. So, I was surprised that Runaway Bride ranked second for me of these four stories. Carrie flees from an arranged marriage, and Big John Conroy is the one sent to bring her safely to her sister. Carrie can't leave her younger brother behind, and John finds himself really liking the spunk and courage of the two siblings. Of course, we rarely run unless something is chasing us, and Carrie's intended groom is hot on her trail.

As expected, John suggests that Carrie's only hope for safety is marriage...to him.

3* - Engaging the Competition by Melissa Jagears: I did like that Harrison wasn't perfect – was blind as a bat without his glasses – but I never really felt the attraction between him and Charlie (Charlotte), who didn't seem that dense to not realize her 'better than boys' attitude could be blocking true love. Reading of fuzzy faces, though sad reality, (as both my husband and I were once with eye wear before Lasik!), lacked the warmth and romance I enjoy.

So, With This Ring was mostly as I've come to expect of novellas – some of it I liked, some I didn't, and some surprised me! But, I would recommend picking it up, if just to read the story about Dead-Eye Dan (loved the last dime novel chapter that Daniel rewrote)!

Thank you to Karen, Regina, Mary, and Melissa and Bethany House through NetGalley for sending me a copy to read and review!

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**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product in exchange for an honest review. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

Beyond the Orphan Train series by Arleta Richardson

ABOUT THE BOOK:
In the tender style of Little House on the Prairie, the Beyond the Orphan Train series tells the story of the Cooper children who ride the orphan train to a new life.

These four charming books will engage young readers with a forgotten era in American history when thousands of homeless children were relocated from the East Coast to live with families in the Midwest.

Written for children ages 8 to 12, this fictional series captures the lives and adventures of Ethan, Alice, Simon, and Will Cooper as they travel from an orphanage in Pennsylvania to a farm in Nebraska to a new home in Mexico. Along the way, they encounter snakebites, dust storms, and other trials but ultimately learn that God will never leave them.

MY THOUGHTS:
I had hoped the Orphan Train series would appeal to my 9 year old daughter who is a voracious reader, but her interest just didn't go past the first few pages.

So, I read the four books, and I could see why it was difficult to get past the beginning. Ethan's story starts out pretty sadly and seriously. And, for the most part, the book continues to keep the somber theme.

The story felt like several small incidents that weren't tied in smoothly. I loved that Ethan was a real boy – and I loved knowing that these events really happened: like painting the pig, the circus train, and Pancho Villa! – but the overall flow of the story was a bit choppy.

Because Ethan's new family wasn't really loving, in a nurturing and compassionate way, I only felt sorry for him and his siblings, wishing for them the same tender care that his friend Bert received.

Eh, but that's life...and history. Like Mrs. Richardson, the orphan trains fascinate me...and I enjoyed hearing a true-to-life, less-than-glamorous tale.

Still, the Orphan Train series is worth the read. Just be aware it's a bit more serious than most children's books. Perhaps my daughter – or son – will prefer these books when they hit the higher end of the recommended age bracket (8-12).

Thank you to Arleta and David C. Cook through NetGalley for sending me a copy to read and review!

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**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product in exchange for an honest review. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

The Lost Heiress by Roseanna M. White

ABOUT THE BOOK:
When Brook's friend Justin discovers that she may be an English heiress, she travels to meet her alleged father. But will her journey end in tragedy?

MY THOUGHTS:
The Lost Heiress was a well written and very enjoyable Edwardian era story! I really liked Brook. I can be turned off by very strong protagonists, but Brook had just enough sweetness and vulnerability mixed with her independence that I couldn't help but like her. I also really liked Brook and Justin's relationship. Best friends that just weren't sure how, if, or when to go to the next step.

Sprawling estates, spirited horses, snooty and greedy gentry, deceptive maids, loyal friends...ahh, all made for a satisfying story that I wished continued!

Thank you to Roseanna and Bethany House through NetGalley for sending me a copy to read and review!

Did you find my review helpful? Please rate it on Amazon and Christianbook.



**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product in exchange for an honest review. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

A Noble Masquerade by Kristi Ann Hunter

ABOUT THE BOOK:
When Lady Miranda Hawthorne starts to develop affections for two men, she inadvertently uncovers secrets that will put more than her heart at risk.

MY THOUGHTS:
Oh! I just love a good Regency and A Noble Masquerade did not disappoint!

I'm not a mystery reader, per se, but the Regency genre naturally lends itself to intrigue and suspense, which I enjoy... and Kristi delivered it well - with plenty of romance to sweetly satisfy.

You'll love her characters, too. I wasn't sure if I'd like Miranda from the first few pages, but she quickly won me over with her journaling letters to Marsh.

And then there was Marlow, the handsome valet... and the mysterious, missing Duke – or is he? Ahh, and Ryland's loyal, unusual servants and greedy family will have you reading faster to see who prevails!

I can't wait to see what Kristi writes next!

Thank you to Kristi and Bethany House through NetGalley for sending me a copy to read and review!

Did you find my review helpful? Please rate it on Amazon and Christianbook.



**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product in exchange for an honest review. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

Not by Sight by Kate Breslin

ABOUT THE BOOK:
When a misguided suffragette hands a white feather of cowardice to an English spy, neither could have imagined the dangerous consequences that follow.

MY THOUGHTS:
Somehow I misread or misunderstood the blurb for this book. I thought it was a WWII book, which any of my regular readers know I love.

Well, I was off a war. ;-) Not by Sight is set during WWI...and I thought it was great! I don't want to give anything away that you will learn of within the first few chapters! But, I found it refreshing that Kate wrote about a love that dealt more with inner beauty than outward.

She also had me googling 'WWI splatter mask,' so that I could correctly picture the 'Tin Man.'

Not by Sight was a most riveting story filled with history, emotion, treason, true friendship, and true love.

Thank you to Kate and Bethany House through NetGalley for sending me a copy to read and review!

Did you find my review helpful? Please rate it on Amazon and Christianbook.



**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product in exchange for an honest review. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

The Curiosity Keeper by Sarah E. Ladd

ABOUT THE BOOK:
Camille Iverness can take care of herself. She's done so since the day her mother abandoned the family and left Camille to run their shabby curiosity shop on Blinkett Street. But when a violent betrayal leaves her injured with no place to hide, Camille has no choice but to accept help from the mysterious stranger who came to her aid.

Jonathan Gilchrist never wanted to inherit Kettering Hall. As a second son, he was content working as a village apothecary. But when his brother's death made him heir just as his father's foolish decisions put the estate at risk, only the sale of a priceless possession—a ruby called the Bevoy—can save the family from ruin. But the gem has disappeared. And all trails lead to Iverness Curiosity Shop—and the beautiful shop girl who may or may not be the answer to his questions.

Curious circumstance throws them together, and an intricate dance of need and suspicion leads the couple from the seedy backwaters of London to the elite neighborhoods of the wealthy to the lush, green Surrey countryside—all in the pursuit of a blood-red gem that collectors will sacrifice anything to possess.

Caught at the intersection of blessings and curses, greed and deceit, two determined souls must unite to protect what they hold dear. But when a passion that shines far brighter than any gem is ignited, each will have to decide how much they are willing to risk for their future, love, and happiness.

MY THOUGHTS:
The Curiosity Keeper had all the right elements for a story that kept me turning the pages. Perhaps it is because movies during this genre are so popular, but Mrs. Ladd's descriptions of a cluttered shop, dank and dirty back alleys of London, and verdant gardens of the British countryside made me feel as if I were right in the places she pictured.

I fully enjoy the polite and proper, yet dark and mysterious side of a Regency era tale. And, The Curiosity Keeper had all of that, showing that no matter your station, greed will corrupt all around you.

I loved the twist of Camille's mother. *spoiler alert: I guessed her role early on...but was still surprised at the depth of her involvement.*

Overall, great story!

Thank you to Sarah and Thomas Nelson through NetGalley for sending me a copy to read and review!

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**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product in exchange for an honest review. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

Irish Meadows by Susan Anne Mason

ABOUT THE BOOK:
At Irish Meadows horse farm, sisters Brianna and Colleen struggle to reconcile their own dreams with their father's demanding marriage expectations.

MY THOUGHTS:
This book didn't have as much of the 'Irish' element that I was expecting, though the religious aspect of Catholicism and works definitely fit that genre.

I enjoyed the overall theme of love beneath your station, thus familial tension, and the beautiful horse farm setting, but I was surprised that I didn't really like Brianna by the end of the book. Colleen really showed a changed attitude from beginning to end, but Brianna just got more and more shrewish. True, she admits that herself in the book and works on mending her relationships, but instead of endearing herself to me, I only found her less and less likeable as the pages turned. It's too bad, because I felt her and Gil's story was the main draw of the book.

Although good, Irish Meadows didn't make 'great' for me and doesn't fit a top favorite for the books I've read so far this year.

Thank you to Susan and Bethany House through NetGalley for sending me a copy to read and review!

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**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product in exchange for an honest review. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

The Flower Brides: A Collection by Grace Livingston Hill

The Flower Brides is a collection that tells about three different woman: Marigold wants to fit in with 'in' crowd; Diana struggles when her father marries her manipulative, wicked cousin; and Camilla accepts the help of a handsome stranger for her sick mother.

Though some may think GLH's books are dated, the lessons are timeless and biblical. Each moral conundrum that the main character faces is presented with truth from God's Word. The salvation message is almost always woven throughout her books, as well as clear verses on Christian living.

I enjoy almost every GLH book I read...and, though each 'flower bride' was engaging and entertaining, I liked Camilla's story best!

Thank you to Barbour Books through NetGalley for sending me a copy to read and review!

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**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product in exchange for an honest review. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

A Worthy Pursuit by Karen Witemeyer

ABOUT THE BOOK:
A teacher on the run. A tracker in pursuit. Can Charlotte and Stone learn to trust each other before they both lose what they hold most dear?

MY THOUGHTS:
Karen delivered, once again, a perfect blend of romance and drama with Charlotte and Stone's story. Stone, like all of her heroes, is rugged, handsome, and full of honor and integrity. Neither does her heroine disappoint. Charlotte is strong and brave in the face of obstacles and danger, but willingly surrenders her heart when protection – and ultimately love – is offered.

I loved 'Dead-Eye Dan' and 'Hammer Rockwell.' Dan and Stone's offense to these characters added a light touch of humor to the story. And the children were easy to love. The reader couldn't help but want them to find understanding, loving homes.

Karen's books are ones I always close with satisfaction and recommend – and I do so again with A Worthy Pursuit!

Thank you to Karen and Bethany House through NetGalley for sending me a copy to read and review!

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**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product in exchange for an honest review. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**