Tag Archives: Historical Fiction

#BookReview + #Giveaway: Sword of the Matchmaker by Debbie Lynne Costello

25 Jun

Sword of the Matchmaker is an enchanting tale! Filled with action and adventure, Debbie Lynne Costello captures the medieval times and brings the story of Penelope Beatty and Thomas Godfrey to life. I enjoyed Penelope’s strong, determined personality which contrasts with Sir Thomas’s protective nature and heroism. Their story delighted me, as did reuniting with Lord Royce and Lady Brithwin from Book 1, Sword of Forgiveness. I loved this beautifully written romance and am eager to continue the Winds of Change series!

I received a complimentary copy of this novella. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.

 

Thank you for visiting my blog on the Sword of the Matchmaker tour!  There are two more blog stops to look forward to!

June 28 ~ https://cherylbbookblog.wordpress.com/

June 30 ~ http://americanpatriotseries.blogspot.com/

 

GIVEAWAY DETAILS:

Debbie Lynne has graciously offered to give away a copy of Sword of the Matchmaker to one Buzzing About Books reader, provided we have at least 10 unique commenters.  (If you have already purchased this book, you can choose another one of Debbie Lynne’s books.)  

Leave a comment or ask Debbie a question to be entered!  The giveaway ends Friday, June 30 at midnight CDT. The winner will be chosen and announced on Saturday , July 1.

WAIT!  THERE ARE MORE WAYS TO BE A WINNER!!

Click here to enter the blog tour giveaway for your chance to win a Kindle Fire, Amazon gift card, and more!  

 

About the author:

Debbie Lynne Costello has enjoyed writing stories since she was eight years old. She raised her family and then embarked on her own career of writing the stories that had been begging to be told. She and her husband have four children and live in upstate South Carolina. She has worked in many capacities in her church and is currently the Children’s Director. Debbie Lynne has shown and raised Shetland Sheepdogs for eighteen years and still enjoys litters now and then. In their spare time, she and her husband take pleasure in camping and riding their Arabian and Tennessee Walking horses.

Media Links:

Website | The Sword and Spirit blog | Heroes, Heroines, and History blog | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Goodreads | Google+ | Amazon

 

About the book:

Penelope Beatty made up her mind long ago she would live and die a Scottish warrior not a wife. But when nearly all her clan is killed and she is betrayed, she loathes doing the unthinkable, but must seek the help of an Englishman who owed her father his life.

Thomas Godfrey never married, but when a Scottish warrior lass shows up needing his aid, he finds her both annoying and irresistible. But the last thing he wants is to marry a woman who fights alongside him. If he was going to marry—which he isn’t—it would be to a soft, submissive woman. But when the Lady Brithwin meets the Scottish lass, she’s sure she’s found the perfect match for Thomas and nothing is going to stop her from seeing a summer wedding.

Purchase a copy of Sword of the Matchmaker.

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#BookReview: Freedom’s Price by Christine Johnson

19 Jun

Freedom’s Price is a compelling tale! Christine Johnson writes with beautiful imagery, artfully transporting readers from the island of Key West to a Louisiana plantation. Catherine Haynes and Tom Worthington are strong, determined characters, and I delighted in the intrigue and romance of their tumultuous journey. Freedom’s Price is a wonderful addition to the Keys of Promise series, and while each one stands alone, all three novels are a pleasure to read!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.

 

About the book:

When Englishwoman Catherine Haynes loses both her parents and her home in 1856, she decides to cross the Atlantic to find her American mother’s family in Louisiana. She enlists the help of Tom Worthington, a dashing Key West man who makes his living salvaging wrecked ships, but whose real goal in life is to bring to justice the man who stole his father’s ship and caused his untimely death.

When Catherine finally arrives at her family’s plantation, she finds it in disarray and her family absent landowners. Torn between returning to Key West with Tom or beginning the hard work of restoring the plantation, Catherine soon finds herself snared in a plot to steal her inheritance. When an incredible secret comes to light, both she and Tom will face a choice. Can they relinquish the dreams that have been holding them captive in order to step forward in faith–even if it costs them everything?

Learn more about the book and the author.

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#BookReview: In His Eyes by Stephenia H. McGee

18 Jun

In His Eyes captivated me from beginning to end! The Civil War era is one of my favorites, so I relished the time period of this novel. Written with imagery and emotion, the historical events woven through the narrative bring Ella’s story to life. Brimming with drama and intrigue, I loved this wonderfully told romance and am eager to read more from Stephenia H. McGee!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.

 

About the book:

Ella Whitaker rescues a newborn from the dying arms of a woman of ill repute and at long last she has someone to love. In need of a wet nurse, she arrives at Belmont Plantation just as Federal soldiers demand to speak to the owner. Thinking quickly, Ella masquerades as a Yankee officer’s widow in order to have a roof over her head and a home for the child.

Major Westley Remington has dedicated his life to serving his country. The Civil War has divided his family, torn his thoughts of glory, and left him with a wound that may never heal. Westley returns home on medical furlough to settle his father’s estate at Belmont Plantation, only to find his home is being run by a fiery and independent woman—one many believe to be his wife. Now he is faced with a conflict he’s never been trained to fight, and one she has yet to conquer.

Learn more about the book and the author. 

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#BookReview: With You Always by Jody Hedlund

17 Jun

With You Always is a beautifully told tale of strength and survival! Jody Hedlund brings history to life in her novels, and I loved the lesser known details she highlights in this story. While familiar with the history of orphan trains, I was not aware of the women who also traveled on the trains seeking employment.

Elise Neumann is an endearing character, and my heart ached for her and her sisters. I delighted in Elise crossing paths with businessman Thornton Quincy, and their unexpected journey stirred my emotions. I loved this compelling story of history and romance and eagerly await the next book in the Orphan Train series!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.

 

 

About the book:

When a financial crisis in 1850s New York leaves three orphaned sisters nearly destitute, the oldest, Elise Neumann, knows she must take action. She’s had experience as a seamstress, and the New York Children’s Aid Society has established a special service: placing out seamstresses and trade girls. Even though Elise doesn’t want to leave her sisters for a job in Illinois, she realizes this may be their last chance.

The son of one of New York City’s wealthiest entrepreneurs, Thornton Quincy faces a dilemma. His father is dying, and in order to decide which of his sons will inherit everything, he is requiring them to do two things in six months: build a sustainable town along the Illinois Central Railroad, and get married. Thornton is tired of standing in his twin brother’s shadow and is determined to win his father’s challenge. He doesn’t plan on meeting a feisty young woman on his way west, though.

Learn more about the book and the author.

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#BookReview: My Heart Belongs in Ruby City, Idaho by Susanne Dietze

1 Jun

This mail-order mix-up charmed me right from the start! Filled with action and adventure, Rebecca’s Plight engaged and entertained with every turn of the page. I thoroughly enjoyed the suspense and romance of the story and am eager to read more from Susanne Dietze. My Heart Belongs in Ruby City, Idaho is a delightful tale and a recommended read!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.

 

About the book:

Is it possible to marry the wrong man? Rebecca Rice was looking forward to a quiet life and a full stomach by becoming mail-order bride to her shopkeeper intended, Mr. Fordham—until the justice of the peace calls him Thaddeus, not Theodore, proceeded by the title Deputy. Rebecca would never marry a lawman like her father, so an annulment seems in order—and fast, since Rebecca’s true intended is impatient to claim her as his own. But when the legalities take longer than expected, Rebecca wonders if Tad Fordham wasn’t the right husband for her all along. . . .

Purchase the book | Connect with Susanne

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#BookReview: Trusting Grace by Maggie Brendan

22 May

Trusting Grace is a touching and tender tale! Well-crafted and wonderfully characterized, I found Grace and Robert, along with their families, to be most endearing. Overcoming their pasts, they share a heartwarming journey toward a promising future. It was a pleasure to step back in time and visit Montana’s Gallatin Valley; the setting is a lovely part of the story’s charm. While Trusting Grace concludes the Virtues and Vices of the Old West series, it can also easily be enjoyed as a stand-alone story.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.

 

About the book:

All of her life, Grace Bidwell has longed for a loving husband and children, but now the chances of her dreams coming true are looking slim. Widowed and caring for her elderly father, she struggles to maintain her late husband’s ranch, until she places an ad for a hired hand.

Robert Frasier arrives in town with three pitiful, bedraggled children who have nothing but the tattered clothes on their backs and a load of hurt, pride, and anger. Believing this is divine intervention in her life, Grace welcomes them with open arms. As feelings grow between her and Robert, Grace will have to convince him that she is a woman who can be trusted with his heart.

Purchase a copy | Visit the author’s website

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#BookReview: The Chapel Car Bride by Judith Miller

20 May

The Chapel Car Bride is an engaging story! Offering a vivid glimpse into the past, I delighted in the details shared concerning chapel car ministry and coal mining. I love learning bits of history when I read! It was a pleasure to meet Hope Irvine and her father, endearing characters with hearts for service and helping others. With elements of drama, intrigue, and romance, I enjoyed this journey back in time and look forward to reading more from Judith Miller.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.

 

About the book:

With her penchant for seeing the best in everyone, Hope Irvine sees a world full of good people in hard places. When her father accepts a position traveling in a chapel car as an on-the-rail missionary, she is determined to join him in his efforts and put her musical skills to good use by serving the mining families of West Virginia, saving their souls, and bettering their lives.

Luke Hughes shares Hope’s love of music and her love of God, but as a poor miner he knows he can offer her no future. Still, the notes she sings resonate in his heart. When she begins to travel with a young mine manager to neighboring counties, Luke can hardly suppress his jealousy. It isn’t until he begins to suspect these missions of mercy might be the mine manager’s cover for illegal purposes, though, that Luke feels justified in speaking up. But how can he discover the truth without hurting Hope or, worse, putting her in danger?

Purchase a copy | Visit the author’s website

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#BookReview: Love’s Winter Hope by Naomi Rawlings

2 May

I love every moment I spend in Eagle Harbor! I always marvel at the strength of Rawlings’ characters and their resilience in times of trial, and Jessalyn and Thomas’s story is no exception. Inspiration is beautifully woven through their journey, and my heart was stirred for this couple and the struggles they endured. Love’s Winter Hope is a tender tale of faith and forgiveness and one I highly recommend!

Love’s Winter Hope is Book 5 of the Eagle Harbor series and can be read independently of its predecessors. However, reading the series in order has allowed me to come to know and love this historical Michigan town and its residents, and I delight in the opportunity to return with each release. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.

 

About the book:

When Jessalyn Dowrick’s husband left her and their three daughters to head west five years earlier, she had no choice but to pick up the pieces of her broken life and continue without him, eventually supporting herself as Eagle Harbor’s seamstress, and secretly hoping her husband would return. But days soon slipped into months, and months into years, all without word of Thomas or a cent of the money he’d promised to send.

While working day and night to build a new life that his wife would be proud of, Thomas wrote Jessalyn every week, asking her to come to South Dakota. But she never arrived. In fact, she never answered a single one of his letters. When he returns to Eagle Harbor in search of answers, he finds a woman who thought him dead . . . and soon regrets he didn’t come after her earlier.

As winter closes in and storms trap Thomas in town until the harbor opens in the spring, will he be able to convince his wife he’s worth a second chance?

Learn more about Love’s Winter Hope and purchase a copy.

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#BookReview: Long Time Gone by Mary Connealy

26 Apr

From the western setting to the strong characters, Connealy’s stories are always fun to read! Drama and danger continue for the Boden clan, and I enjoyed reading Justin and Angie’s story. Humor and hijinks abound amidst the mystery and mayhem, leaving me eager to know how the series will conclude. While reading this series in order is not necessary, it is recommended for a greater understanding of the ongoing storyline. Long Time Gone is a charming blend of action, adventure, and romance!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.

 

About the book:

The Boden clan thought their problems had ended with the death of a dangerous enemy, but have they truly uncovered the real plot to take their New Mexico ranch? Rancher Justin Boden is now in charge. He is normally an unshakable and rugged man, but with his brother, Cole, shot and in mortal danger, even a tough man faces doubts. And it doesn’t help that Angie DuPree, the assistant to the doctor trying to save Cole, is as distracting a woman as Justin ever laid eyes on.

With her and the doc’s timely skills, Cole looks to be on the mend, and Justin and the rest of the Bodens can turn their attention back to the dangers facing them. It’s clear now that everything that’s occurred is part of a much bigger plot that could date back to a decades-old secret. Can they uncover all the pieces before danger closes in on them, or is the threat to the ranch even bigger than any of the Bodens could imagine?

Purchase a copy | Visit the author’s website

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#BookReview: Her Motherhood Wish by Keli Gwyn

29 Mar

Her Motherhood Wish is a wonderful story! Callie embraces life and Chip is a “bit too regimented”, which leads to an engaging and entertaining journey. I loved their interactions with each other and the children at the Double T Orphanage, and I also enjoyed revisiting several beloved characters from Gwyn’s earlier books. Historical tidbits, inspirational messages, and tender romance are woven together to create a most delightful tale!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.

 

About the book:

En route to the Double T Orphanage to work on its expansion, carpenter Chip Evans and Caroline Hunt discover two orphaned children–and become their caregivers. But Chip’s determined not to let himself get too attached to the children who just lost their widowed father…or to the lovely woman helping him care for them. Especially since Callie and the little ones just don’t fit into his detailed plans for the future.

Callie can’t help but fall in love with the orphans, and despite her better judgment, she’s falling for Chip, too. Her dreams of being a wife and mother were not quite like this. But Callie believes a plan bigger than Chip’s brought them all together…and now she just has to help him see it, too.

Purchase a copy.

Visit the author’s website.

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