The Pursuit of Elena Bradford by Ann H. Gabhart ~ a book review

 

I really like a story that includes actual places, occurrences and people. This one takes place at an actual place in the historic south, Graham Springs, a spa type hotel, owned by Dr. Graham, a prominent character in the story. There is also an actual historic mystery about a young woman who mysteriously shows up at the hotel, only to die that evening leaving no clue as to who she was or why she was there. The author calls her Vanessa.

Another thing I liked about this story was the manageable list of characters. Some stories have so many characters that it is hard to keep track of them all.

The story focuses on the Bradford family. The widowed mother and her two daughters. Mr. Bradford died, after having made some questionable financial dealings, leaving his family in dire circumstances. Mrs. Bradford decides their only salvation is for the eldest daughter, Elena to find a rich husband.

There are two gentlemen who are particularly interested in Elena. Andrew, is at the hotel to get over being jilted and the other, Kirby, is there to find a rich wife. He is an artist and needs funds to go out west to pursue his artist ambitions. Neither are aware of the financial circumstances of the Bradfords.

Elena has her heart set on marrying for love and is hoping she can find a wealthy man who she can love. Her younger sister, Ivy, is in love with a young farmer back home.

There is an exciting , run-a-way stagecoach ride, fancy nightly balls and gorgeous scenery. The author does a wonderful job of describing them all.

This is from the publisher’s web site:

“Nothing would please her family more than her securing an admirable match, but true love and loyalty are harder to come by than she imagined.

At twenty-two, Elena Bradford has never met a man who made her consider marriage. But when her father dies and leaves the family deeply in debt, Elena becomes their only hope. Her mother uses their last funds to take Elena and her younger sister to Graham Springs, Kentucky, where people find healing by drinking the mineral spring water and healthy recreation through the many daily activities--including dances almost every evening.

As her mother schemes to find Elena a wealthy husband, Elena finds herself drawn to two men her mother would never consider. Charming artist Kirby Frazier spends his days drawing and painting the guests, but his real mission is to find a wealthy bride to finance his dream to go west. Melancholy Andrew Harper has come to Graham Springs in need of healing after a broken heart.

When a beautiful young lady shows up at the Springs with no chaperone and a story that seems suspicious, nearly everyone is charmed and intrigued. But when an unexpected tragedy occurs, Elena, Kirby, and Andrew will all be faced with decisions of life, love, and loyalty. “

Go HERE to read an excerpt 

This is a clean historical romance. Christian faith is present but not at all “preachy” and the dialog is easy to follow and enjoyable. This was a pleasure to read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell and Netgalley through their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

 

 

Not Precisely Mr. Knightley by Carolyn Miller ~ a book review

 

This book reminds me of Jane Autin’s Emma, but very loosely. 

EJ and Jordon are best friends and partners in a Christian matchmaking company.  While EJ wants to see the company grow and expand, Jordan is concerned that they may lose the Christian aspect that it was founded on.  As the story progresses , Jordan realizes his feelings of friendship toward EJ are growing into something more serious.  However, EJ has become aquainted with a rich playboy, Eric, who is willing to invest in their company. Jordon fears that his motives are not honorable and that he wants to do away with the Christian premise of their company.  EJ is slowly becoming influenced by his flattery, attention and financial prospects.  Eventually EJ discovers that Eric is untrustworthy, but almost loses Jordan’s friendship.  Will EJ and Jordon be able to keep their friendship? Will their feelings grow?  Will they be able to continue their business?

EJ is not my favorite character. She seems too easily influenced and not worthy of Jordon’s feelings.  

This is from the publisher's website:

 "Can the Matchmaker Find True Love?
 Emma-Jane (EJ) Bennett and Jordan Knight are longtime best friends who codesigned the immensely successful dating app, Dream Match. Success starts to go to EJ’s head when she gets caught up in the famous and money-hungry social circles and starts dating the son of a TV mogul. But Jordan’s feelings have grown from friendship to more. He determines to protect her by exposing Eric Churchill for the two-timer he is, finally agreeing to attend a function with her at the Sydney Opera House. But his best intentions go awry when EJ is embarrassed and runs for the security of home, small-town roots, and The Silver Teapot Café, feeling like Jane Austen’s chastised Emma—only without her Mr. Knightley."

While this book is characterized as Christian , there are some inappropriate instances and slang that some might find offensive.

The premise of the story is interesting and if you want to read an updated version of Emma, you might enjoy this one. 

Go HERE to read an excerpt 

I received a complimentary copy of this book Barbour Publishing Group through their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Angel of Second Street, Enduring Hope Bk. 1 by Barbara Tifft Blakey ~ a book review

 

In California in 1884 prejudice and the class system are very evident. Ida, the “orphaned” niece of a wealthy family, finds this to be the opposite of what her Christian faith teaches her and determines to fix it. With the help of her best friend, she concocts a plan to visit the Chinese section of town and the ladies of the night on Second Street, in order to spread the Gospel and teach them about Jesus.

When Blaine first meets Ida he knows that she is the woman he has been praying for, but as the son of a wealthy shipowner, his father has different expectations for him. His father, without his knowledge, arranges for him to be sent away to work for a man with a daughter that he is expected to marry. Both Blaine and the daughter are not in agreement with their fathers because they both love someone else.

Blaine defies his father and returns home to court Ida.

Both Blaine and Ida are very strong in their Christian faith and while Blaine supports Ida’s efforts he is concerned for her safety. The community is very against both the Second Street residents and the Chinese community. They have forced the Chinese out of the main part of town and into Chinatown where feuding gangs rule. With the help of the local pastor, Ida makes a plan to minister to them.

Will her plan work?

Why are her Aunt and Uncle so opposed to her mission?

Why are Blaine’s parents so against his relationship with Ida?

Why is one particular Second Street lady so adamant about her staying away?

This is from the publisher’s website:

“How Can Compassion be Considered Wrong?

When life is weighed down by challenges, pillars of enduring hope and love are always waiting to be discovered.

Ida Dempsey has grown up in a privileged life of luxury thanks to her aunt and uncle. Although Second Street—where women of ill repute ply their wares—is off limits to respectable citizens, her heart of compassion compels her to frequent the area, hoping to make a difference in their lives. Ida has also befriended Qui Shau, a Chinese woman who keeps house for her family, but friendships between the whites and Chinese are taboo in Eureka. Ida tries to keep secret her forbidden compassion, but someone is watching and will use it against her.

When Blaine Prescott meets Ida at a church picnic, his parents warn him away from any relationship with the young lady who has been seen on Second Street in the company of a Chinese woman. But how could such a kindhearted, lovely young woman be anything but good? But when riots break out in Chinatown and Ida disappears, Blaine will do anything to find out where and why she has gone."

This is a wonderful faith based story of love, grace and forgiveness spun with mystery, secrets, overcoming prejudice and forbidden love.

There are historical notes in the back that are very interesting.

Go HERE to read an excerpt

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing through their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Bird of Bedford Manor by Michelle Griep ~ a book review 5 stars !

 

This story is set in England in 1820. Juliet Finch was once the daughter of a wealthy family but after her father suffers financial losses, she is now penniless and living with her disabled aunt in a run down, ramshackle cottage. Their only means of support is the meager sales of her aunts salves and tinctures and whatever Juliet can poach of the land of the neighboring landowner.

Her aunt begs her to stop fearing she will get caught. Poaching could be a death sentence. Unfortunately, she does get caught. Henry Russell, the landowner, gives her a job in exchange for her freedom. His sister, Charity, is being stalked and he hires Juliet to track the culprit.

This is an engaging and compelling story. Faith and Christian values are evident throughout.

Will Juliet be able to determine who is threatening his sister? Will Henry ever really trust Juliet?

This is from the publisher’s website:

“Bedfordshire, England, 1820: Ruined by the sins of her father, Juliet Finch is cast into a life of self-reliance. Survival is a harsh taskmaster, but she is a quick learner and excels at tracking and snaring wild game to feed herself. Juliet embraces her new identity until the day Henry Russell catches her poaching on his land—a crime punishable by death. Henry, however, has other offenses on his mind: namely, the troublesome stalker who’s making a misery of his sister’s life. To try to put a stop to her torment, Henry charges Juliet with tracking the elusive villain so he can be brought to justice. Using her skills, Juliet hunts down the rogue. . .but may just become the prey herself.“

This is a Story full of faith, love and mystery told by a master story teller.

Go HERE to read an excerpt

There are very informative historical notes at the back of the book which are very interesting and helpful.

I don’t very often give a 5 star rating, but this one gets 5 !

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing through their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Curious Inheritance of Blakely House by Joanna Davidson Politano ~ a book review

  

Set in Victorian England and based on a real place, this book is an interesting mix of mystery, suspense and adventure.  In 1901, Sydney Forrester is working in her aunt’s curiosity shop. Her specialty is repairing clocks and watches. She has an uncanny ability to know what needs to be tweeked or twisted in order to get them running smoothly. Unfortunately, because of the social restraints on Victorian women, she has to hide the fact that she is the workman.  One day, she has a mysterious visitor to the shop, who leaves her with a strange clock and a riddle and a promise of an inheritance.  In order to claim this inheritance, she must go to Blakely House.

At first, Blakely House seems a bit creepy with its newfangled electricity and lights that mysteriously come on by themselves.  As Sydney discovers more about the house, she is fascinated by all the gadgets and automation.

This is an intriguing story of mystery, suspense, humor, riddles, conspiracy, love and faith.  There is a long list of unusual and quirky characters that add a uniqueness to the story. When Sydney first arrives at the house, she discovers that there are more heirs that are trying to prove their right to the fortune. It seems that, in order to inherit, they must participate in a mysterious contest. Her skills enable her to accomplish the tests.  The other “cousins” are threatened by her.  She is often in dangerous situations but her spunkiness pulls her through. You are constantly guessing about who is doing what and why is it happening.  Who can Sydney trust to keep her safe?  And who is mysteriously helping her?

This is from the publisher’s website: 

“A clever young woman, a contested will, and an estate that does not easily give up its secrets.

It is 1901 when clockmaker and tinker Sydney Forrester receives a most unusual inheritance. Blakely House, the island estate of an estranged uncle she's never met, seems almost alive, revealing and hiding its secrets at will. It is filled with remarkable inventions, including an intriguing unfinished automaton Sydney is itching to get her skilled hands on.

The estate is also home to a number of peculiar people--including two men intent on removing this interloper from the island. Convinced that Sydney has something to do with their uncle's death, the late master's nephews contest the will and work against their cousin at every turn.

Sydney finds a sometimes-ally in the estate's butler, an ex-adventurer who ran aground on the island years ago. But when a mysterious man washes ashore with a stunning surprise that upsets everything, Sydney must prove she has inherited the late master's brilliance as well as his property--or someone else will.”

 The reader is kept guessing, through all the plot twist and turns and puzzles, to the very end.

Go HERE to read an excerpt 

There is a definite Christian salvation message but it is not overwhelming.

I really enjoyed this ‘steam-punk meets faith’ story.

 

I received a complimentary ARC copy of this book from Revell and Baker
Publishing Group through their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Red Cottage by Hannah Linder

 

This story begins in 1818 in Cornwall England. Maggie lives with her uncle and helps him run the local apothecary shop. Her uncle is very protective of her so when Tom and Maggie fall in love, he refuses to allow them to spend time together. She sneaks out to meet with Tom, often at night, taking walks by the Cornwall coast. One night, upon returning home she interrupts a break-in at her uncles shop. She is badly injured and loses her memory. She is rescued and is given refuge in the household of Lord Cunnigham.

Fearing that her life might be in danger, Lord Cunningham keeps a very close eye on her offers her protection.

There are several mysteries that may be connected. Why does he take her in and let her stay there while she recovers? Why is someone trying to kill her? Who can she trust? Will she ever remember her past life and the love she had for Tom? And why, if her life is in danger, is she frequently venturing out on her own so much? That was confusing to me.

This is a clean, suspenseful mystery with an interesting plot. It is not a fast read and has very little faith element.

This is from the publisher’s website:

“She forgot she loved him.
He would die to make her remember.

Meg Foxcroft has never minded the tattling village gossip or her uncle’s ill-tempered rebukes. After all, she has Tom McGwen—and one day, they will build their own cottage, paint it red, and live a wonderful life.

But then the unthinkable happens. Meg is attacked, her uncle’s apothecary shop goes up in flames, and when she wakes up in the arms of an eloquent lord, she remembers nothing. Not even her own name.

In a frantic race against time, Tom plunges into dangerous water, bent on sheltering Meg from harm and discovering who wants her dead. Even if she despises him. Even if it’s now the handsome lord she casts her smile upon.

As danger swells and truth comes crashing around them, Meg must confront the past and decide who she trusts—and loves—before the enemy makes the final strike.”

The author does a great job taking the reader into Regency England. You can almost smell the spray blowing off the Cornwall coast. If you love mystery and suspense, this book has it. If you prefer more of an element of faith, this might not be your cup of tea, but you wont find anything offensive or inappropriate either.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing through their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Some Like It Scot by Pepper Basham ~ a book review

This book is a witty, contemporary romance set in Scotland. It is not overly religious but faith does play an underlying role in the story. I particularly liked the Scottish touches included in the story. The author includes cultural, historical details and folklore as well as local dialect.

The story is told from both Katie’s and Graeme’s point of view. It switches back and forth and gets a bit confusing until you get used to it.

Katie is a third generation Scottish American and is tasked with writing a travel article involving a three week stay in a historic house, and participating in an “Edwardian Experience”. She must dress and behave as if she were living in the Edwardian age. Katie has the misfortune of finding herself in embarrassing situations which earns her the on line blog name of Miss Adventure. Almost immediately after arriving at the holiday house, she finds herself in one of those situations. She literally crashes into the owner of the home, Graeme.

Graeme and his mother own the estate and have rented it out to the Edwardian Experience. He is a bit of a grump and is not happy that finances necessitate having to rent it out. He lives in a small cottage and has custody of his young orphaned nephew.

Dispite the fact that they are both reluctant to develop a friendship, they find themselves drawn to each other. While they are alike in some ways, like their physically tall stature, they are different in that Graeme is content to stay settled in Scotland, while Katie loves to move around and find new adventures.

This is what the publisher’s website says:

“She lives her life on the fly. His heart is double-knotted to home. Can two different souls create a life together? Some Like It Scot is "a charming, comedic romance ideal for armchair travelers" (Publishers Weekly) set in Scotland, perfect for fans of Sarah Adams and Emma St. Clair.

Popular travel writer and podcaster Katie Campbell roams the world collecting other people's stories. She's built a career as "Miss Adventure," known for saying yes to anything new--country, food, or experience--and predictably finding those adventures taking a downward turn into misadventures.

Offered the chance to explore her ancestral roots through a three-week Edwardian experience, Katie finds herself immersed in the beauty and eccentricity of Scotland. In her period attire, with traditional foods and activities, the opportunities for misadventures are endless, especially with the presence of a maniacal macaw, a jealous co-worker, and an all-too-surly Scotsman.

Reclusive and protective Graeme MacKerrow doesn't venture far from his island home. A stoic Scotsman, Graeme's comfort zone has always been family, and after his sister's death, he's even more determined to save the MacKerrow ancestral home and keep those he loves close. The sudden intrusion of a six-foot-one American lass, famous for her traveling misfortunes, was far from his plan.

As this world of folklore, community, and woodworkers-in-kilts tempts Katie to discover her own story, could this one grand series of misadventures lead her directly to where she belongs? And would a settled-in-Scot ever risk loosening his grip on what's familiar to allow a wanderlust writer a home in his heart? How could their very different worlds share the same page of life's story when "home" is in two very different places? But maybe home--and the future--isn't quite what either one imagined it would be. Maybe home is less about a place . . . and more about a person.

Grab your wellies and step into Some Like It Scot--a heartfelt, hilarious, and clean grumpy/sunshine rom-com with a soft Scottish brogue, a mischievous macaw, Edwardian antics, and more than a few misadventures courtesy of one larger-than-life travel writer and one very guarded Highlander. This isn't just another "hot Scot" romance--though yes, Graeme MacKerrow does play the brooding hero perfectly--it's also a slow-building journey of healing, faith, and found family.”

You can go here to read an excerpt 

If you like entertaining, enjoyable, sometimes comical and witty stories that are not overly religious but have an underlying faith element, you will like this one. This author delivers cozy, sweet, clean romances that will have you chuckling from the first page to the last.

 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson
Fiction and Netgalley through their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”