Review ~ The Blizzard Bride (Daughters of the Mayflower #11) by Susanne Dietze

A Blizzard Changes Everything

Abigail Bracey arrives in Nebraska in January 1888 to teach school…and to execute a task for the government: to identify a student as the hidden son of a murderous counterfeiter—the man who killed her father.

Agent Dashiell Lassiter doesn’t want his childhood sweetheart Abby on this dangerous job, especially when he learns the counterfeiter is now searching for his son, too, and he’ll destroy anyone in his way. Now Dash must follow Abby to Nebraska to protect her…if she’ll let him within two feet of her. She’s still angry he didn’t fight to marry her six years ago, and he never told her the real reason he left her.

All Dash wants is to protect Abby, but when a horrifying blizzard sweeps over them, can Abby and Dash set aside the pain from their pasts and work together to catch a counterfeiter and protect his son—if they survive the storm?


Purchase:
Amazon
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Isn't that just the most beautiful cover??? 

Barbour Publishing has produced some exquisite covers for this series 

and I have to say this is my favorite, by far!!

My Review

4 STARS!!!

The Blizzard Bride is a winsome historical novel in The Daughters of the Mayflower series. I loved Dash! He's a great guy and has a super protective streak that I found romantic. His sense of humor was something I especially enjoyed too. Abigail tended to be a bit obstinate but that just made Dash shine all the more in my book. :-)

Dietze's fans are sure to find lots to like in this story filled with intrigue, mystery, romance and faith. I received a copy from the author and publisher. All views are my own. 

Leave a comment and let me know if you've read any of the books in this series. I've read several and Susie's book is definitely one of my favs.

Review ~ Lessons on Love: 4 Schoolteachers Find More Than They Bargained for in Their Contracts by Susanne Dietze, Rita Gerlach, Kathleen L. Maher, Carrie Fancett Pagels

Paperback, 448 pages

Published October 1st 2019 by Barbour Books

Something Old, Something New by Kathleen L. Maher

New York, 1840s

Her father’s sudden death makes Gilda Jacobs the new schoolmaster, but to teach Christian curriculum she partners with fire-and-brimstone revivalist Joshua Blake, who learns a lesson in love.

Love in Any Language by Susanne Dietze

Kansas, 1870

Mary Clarence teaches English to the children of Swedish immigrants, but when her favorite students’ widowed father, Kristofer Nilsson, is accused of robbery, she’s determined to clear his name.

In Desperate Straits by Carrie Fancett Pagels

Mackinac Island, Michigan, 1894

Desperate for work, Margaret Hadley dresses as a young man to secure a dray driver’s position. When soldiers at the fort threaten her, Mackinac Island’s newest teacher, Jesse Huntington, intervenes.

A Song in the Night by Rita Gerlach

Virginia, 1904

Karin Wiles longs to share the uplifting power of music with children. But when she seeks to improve a poorly run school and include orphans, Nathaniel Archer delivers harsh words of opposition from the school board.

My Review

4 STARS!!!

If you enjoy inspirational historical romance then you’re sure to find a few pleasurable hours spent with these four school teachers while they address and work through challenges faced in and out of the classroom. With four unique writing styles, readers are sure to be entertained and encouraged by one or more of these courageous young teachers. 

I have to mention the gorgeous cover. Between the embossing and the cutout, it’s one of the prettiest covers on my book shelf this year! 

I was gifted a copy of the book. No review was required. 

Review ~ Cameo Courtships: 4 Stories of Women Whose Lives Are Touched by a Legendary Gift

ABOUT THE BOOK

 Cameo Courtships: 4 Stories of Women Whose Lives Are Touched by a Legendary Gift
Author: Susanne Dietze, Debra E. Marvin, Jennifer Uhlarik, Kathleen Y’Barbo
Publisher: Barbour Books
Genre: Inspirational Historical Romance
Release Date: June 1, 2019

A Family Heirloom Inspires Romance

In 1851, a special cameo is gifted by Queen Victoria to Letitia Newton, who though considered an old maid, meets the perfect gentleman minutes after donning. Told by the Queen the cameo is to be shared, Letitia gifts the "Victoria Cameo" to a woman in her family, hoping adventure and romance will follow each of its subsequent wearers. 

 

PINNED ABOVE HER HEART by Susanne Dietze

1851 – Pittsburgh, PA

After receiving the Victoria Cameo, aspiring journalist Clara Newton works to expose a smuggler, but reporter Byron Breaux must break the story first or lose his job. Working together is out of the question until they learn secrets that threaten Clara’s father. . .and her heart.

 

TAMING PETRA by Jennifer Uhlarik

1875 – Colorado Territory

Trouser-wearing frontierswoman Petra Jayne Hollingsworth has no intention of donning the heirloom cameo, but when a crooked brothel owner steals the treasure, securing its return becomes Petra’s highest priority. Assisting her, Reverend Dustin Owens is appalled to learn the price of its ransom is that Petra must work in the brothel. He may save the woman’s virtue, but can he help Petra regain her cameo and rediscover her faith?

 

MEET ME AT THE FAIR by Kathleen Y’Barbo

Spring 1885 – New Orleans during the 1884 World’s Fair and Cotton Exposition

It takes a Pinkerton to find a Pinkerton, and Ethan Butler has been charged with finding Elizabeth Newton. Just when he locates her, the cameo he is to deliver is stolen. It appears his previous case has discovered his presence in New Orleans, but he can’t return to that case until the cameo is found. With Miss Newton as a reluctant partner in crime fighting, can Ethan Butler locate the cameo and its thieves without losing his heart?

 

LENDING MY HEART by Debra E. Marvin

1895 – Pittsburgh, PA

The arrival of a handsome Scottish administrator ruins Miss Bertie Hart’s dream to oversee the new Carnegie Library children’s department. Yet bristly Mr. Russell Smart’s working-class determination and his love of books make him the perfect partner to better the lives of Pittsburgh’s poor. As for a partner in life? Not even her Victoria Cameo can narrow the social chasm he and her father keep between them.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N | Book Depository | Christian Book

My Review

4 STARS

Compilations like Cameo Courtships are fun to read and a great way to pass a couple of relaxing hours in the summer. Passing down an heirloom cameo makes for a wonderful premise for these four historical romances.

All of the stories are enjoyable and show each author’s unique gifts but Pinned Above Her Heart stood out to me the most. It showcases Dietze’s sweet way of writing that always draws me deep into the story. The characters, plot, and setting are so interesting. I loved the faith elements too. This was my favorite in the collection.

I received a digital copy of this from NetGalley in conjunction with Just Read Publicity Tours. All opinions in this review are my own.

Review ~ The Victorian Christmas Brides Collection + Giveaway Link

443 Pages / Barbour Publishing / 2018

About the Collection

Experience a Dickens of a Christmas

Faced with the daily extremes of gluttony and want in the Victorian Era, nine women seek to create the perfect Christmas celebrations. But will expectations and pride cause them to overlook imperfect men who offer true love?

Paper Snowflake Christmas by Vanessa Riley
1837 Framlingham, England
How can widow Ophelia Hanover give her son a perfect Christmas when his guardian, the Earl of Litton, arrives early to take permeant custody of the boy?

One Golden Ring by C.J. Chase
1855 Devonshire, England
Wounded soldier Tristram Nowell returns home to indulge his mother’s wish for a family Christmas—and encounters Marianna Granville. Can he forgive the former heiress who jilted him years before?

Love Brick by Brick by Kathleen L. Maher
1857 Elmira, New York
SarahAnn Winnifred overcomes orphanhood apprenticing with pioneering doctors. Rufus Sedgwick, relocating his English estate, seeks help for his ailing Mum. Christmas reveals the secret wish of both hearts—for love.

The Sugarplum Ladies by Carrie Fancett Pagels
1867 Windsor, Ontario, Canada and Detroit, Michigan
When Canadian barrister Percy Gladstone finds his aristocratic British family unexpectedly descending upon him for Christmas, he turns to American social reformer Eugenie Mott and her fledgling catering crew for help.

Star of Wonder by Susanne Dietze
1875 County Durham, England
This Yuletide, Bennet Hett, Viscount Harwood, offers Lady Celeste Sidwell matrimony and the Star of Wonder diamond necklace, as their fathers arranged. When the diamond disappears, will they find a greater treasure?

Father Christmas by Lorna Seilstad
Chicago, Christmas 1880
Widowed harpist Beatrix Kent believes love can only come once in a lifetime, but this Christmas, carpenter Hugo Sherman hopes to pull on the musician’s heartstrings and prove her wrong.

The Perfect Christmas by Erica Vetsch
1880s London
Melisande Verity might be in over her head trying to create the perfect Christmas window display, but if she succeeds, will she finally attract the attention of her boss, Gray Garamond?

A Christmas Vow by Gabrielle Meyer
London, England, Christmas 1899?
Lady Ashleigh Pendleton is hosting a houseful of guests for Christmas when railroad executive Christopher Campbell unexpectedly arrives from America with a mysterious agreement signed by their fathers before their birth.

The Holly and the Ivy by Rita Gerlach
1900. Small town along the Potomac near Washington DC
A glass ornament. Love letters tied in red Christmas ribbon. Lily Morningstar and British antiquities expert Andrew Stapleton are drawn into a family secret that binds their hearts together.

Purchase:

CBD (paperback $10.99)

CBD (E-book $9.69)

Always check the price before you buy!

*I am not affiliated with CBD and make NO money if you use the link to purchase. I only post it for your convenience and to support a Christian business.

My Review

(I don't see the need to individually describe the stories in my review as you can see above the synopsis of each one.)

Easy-to-read, these nine novellas drew me into days gone by, leaving me contented and looking forward to the traditions of Christmas. Some of the stories were super quick to read and a couple others I wanted to savor a bit more.  I enjoyed each author’s individual writing style and the way the characters were portrayed.

Reading these collections are a good way to be introduced to an author you may not have read before. I actually discovered a couple of new-to-me authors in this one. I recommend this novella collection to anyone who enjoys historical Christmas themed inspirational stories. The Victorian Christmas Brides collection is perfect for short reading stints or a long, lazy afternoon in front of the fire while sipping a relaxing cup of your favorite beverage.

I was gifted a copy of the book by one of the authors. No review required. No compensation received. 

CLICK BELOW FOR THE LINK TO THE AUTHOR INTERVIEW AND GIVEAWAY --

Author Interview with Kathleen Maher, The Victorian Christmas Brides Collection Blog Tour

 

 

Review ~ The Regency Brides Collection: 7 Romances Set in England during the Early Nineteenth Century

Paperback, 448 pages

Published November 1st 2017 by Barbour Books

Romance is a delicate dance bound by rules and expectations in Regency England...
Seven couples must navigate society’s gauntlet to secure the hand of true love....

Charity and Luke are strangers who were forced to marry three years ago.
Adelaide and Walter share a love of music and disdain for elitism.
Caroline and Henry are thrown together by three orphans.
Helen and Isaac harbor his unlikely secret.
Esther is empowered to choose between two men.
Sophia is determined not to choose a man like Nash.
Jamie and William face a daunting London season together.

Will their faith grow and love prevail in a time when both were considered luxuries the elite could not afford?

Purchase link

CBD 

 

 My Review

 

Popular authors Amanda Barratt, Susanne Dietze, Michelle Griep, Nancy Moser, MaryLu Tyndall, Erica Vetsch, and Angela Bell have written seven Regency romance novellas that provide several hours of delightful entertainment. My favorite stories were from Susie Dietze and Michelle Griep. They have a way with mystery and I enjoy their distinct writing voices. I love a good Regency Era story and six of the seven did not disappoint. That is a win in my book! 

I was provided an ecopy of this book through Netgalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. Opinions are my own. No compensation has been received. 

~Happy Reading, Y'all~

 

Anne's Top Reads of 2017

2017….What a busy year! I would like to say I had unlimited time to sit and read every day but that was not the way it was. I didn’t do much with my photography during the year either, as you probably noticed if you’re a regular around here. What I did do was a lot of traveling (driving, not flying); two trips to MO to see our son, and numerous trips to NC, one in which was in order to help care for my FIL in his last two weeks of life. I also devoted many hours to my women’s Bible study group, church prayer group, and was available to fellowship with and offer help to friends who needed assistance. Reading was a pleasure and privilege but not a priority this past year. I let the ball drop on a couple of books but I’m determined to do better in 2018, Lord willing and life doesn’t swoop down and throw me for a loop.

That being said, I did read some mighty fine books last year. I stepped out and read a few new-to-me authors and was pleasantly surprised by their stories, enough to include them in my Top Reads of 2017. And then there are the familiar authors, that you know when you pick up their book it’s going to be like coming home. They’re on here too!

In no particular order, these are some of my favorites that I requested or was offered a copy from the author or publisher in exchange for a review. I'm doing 12 because Rebecca started it! :-)

Just the Way You Are by Pepper Basham

Basham’s writing talent is simply amazing! It’s been a while since I sat with a book in my hand and just pondered on profound thoughts filling the page.  

Catching the Wind by Melanie Dobson

This story has it all. It encompasses complicated relationships, crafty and cunning characters, and a gentle and beloved faith in God that will lead to forgiveness and reconciliation.  

Maybe It’s You by Candace Calvert

Working together like a well-oiled machine, the compliment of characters is simply amazing. 

The House on Foster Hill by Jaime Jo Wright
(debut novel and a new-to-me writer/author)

If you enjoy stories that make you think twice before turning off the lights, then you will like this book.  

Crown of Souls by Ronie Kendig

Crown of Souls is a global thrill ride suffused with heart pounding, adrenaline driven moments. 

The Captivating Lady Charlotte by Carolyn  Miller

I thought William embodied Colossians 3:12 ~ So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience...  
What's not to love?!     

True to You by Becky Wade

True to You is fabulous! Packed with surprises, the emotional elements in this story stirred my heart and soul and held me spellbound with their rawness and intensity. 

An Uncommon Courtship by Kristi Ann Hunter
I relished my reading time curled up with a hot cup of tea or cocoa, separated from distractions so I could engage deeply with these fabulous characters.    

Heart on the Line by Karen Witemeyer
Fans of historical fiction with strong Christian values, mystery, and romance will enjoy this book.  

Summer on Sunset Ridge by Sharlene MacLaren

MacLaren has long been a must-read author for me. With eloquent strokes of her pen or keyboard, the people of picturesque Sunset Ridge come alive, revealing a community that is far from ordinary. My time spent there was one of learning and wonder and blessing. 

A Mother for His Family by Susanne Dietze
(new-to-me author)

Restoration is a prevalent theme in this story, brought about in a tender way. 

Shine Like the Dawn by Carrie Turansky

Shine Like the Dawn is a beautiful depiction of faith and family and love, radiating a sunburst of emotions that swept this reader deep into the story, making it difficult to come up for air. 

There you have it. These were all wonderfully written narratives that moved my heart and soul!

I'm anticipating equally extraordinary stories in 2018. I hope you'll follow along with Rebecca and I as we share our love of good Christian fiction. 

Have you read any of my Top Reads of 2017? If so, what did you think? Or share a favorite of your own! 
We love book recommendations. :-)

~Happy Reading~

Note: Blogging is a might frustrating at times, especially when I cannot get all the formatting to look the same! I'm the type of person that those 'minor' inconsistencies in spacing and/or sizing drives nuts but I am posting anyway. I am not too HTML savvy, worked on this for hours and just could not figure it out. So please forgive the lousy formatting. TY!
 

A Mother for His Family by Susanne Dietze

Coming January 2, 2018

 A Convenient Arrangement

Lady Helena Stanhope’s reputation is in tatters…and she’s lost any hope for a “respectable” ton marriage. An arranged union is the only solution. But once Helena weds formidable Scottish widower John Gordon, Lord Ardoch, and encounters his four mischievous children, she’s determined to help her new, ever-surprising family. Even if she’s sure love is too much to ask for.

All John needs is someone to mother his admittedly unruly brood. He never imagined that beautiful Lady Helena would be a woman of irresistible spirit, caring and warmth. Or that facing down their pasts would give them so much in common. Now, as danger threatens, John will do whatever it takes to convince Helena their future together—and his love—are for always.

Susanne Dietze began writing love stories in high school, casting her friends in the starring roles. Today, she's the author of several historical romances who's seen her work on the ECPA and Publisher's Weekly Bestseller Lists for Inspirational Fiction. Married to a pastor and the mom of two, Susanne lives in California and loves fancy-schmancy tea parties, the beach, and curling up on the couch with a costume drama and a plate of nachos. You can visit her on her website, www.susannedietze.com.

 

: : :

Purchase Link

CBD

My Review

5 STARS!!!

Lady Helena Stanhope is victim of a horrific crime and receives not a stitch of emotional support from her family. In fact, they have convinced her she is at fault. In order to avoid any hint of scandal amid the ton, her parents arrange for a hurried marriage to the imposing John Gordon, aka Lord Ardoch, a Scottish widower with four rascally children, ages 13 to 5.

For such a small book it sure packs a punch. Dietze has cultivated an enchanting tale of love between Helena and John and the children. It does not so astonish what kindness, gentleness, and perseverance can accomplish over time. Restoration is a prevalent theme in this story, brought about in a tender way.

I recommend this book to fans of historical Inspirational romance because there is much more to the story that will bring warmth to your heart and leave you with a pleasant sense of satisfaction in this well-written narrative. And it never hurts that the hero is Scottish! :-)

The author provided a complimentary copy of the book. I was not required to write a review. All opinions are my own. No compensation has been received.

 ~Happy Reading~

Review ~ Austen in Austin, Volume 1 by Susanne Dietze, Anita Mae Draper, Debra E. Marvin, Gina Welborn

Published January 15th 2016 by WhiteFire Publishing

Discover four heroines in historical Austin, TX, as they find love--Jane Austen style. 

Volume 1 includes:

If I Loved You Less by Gina Welborn, based on Emma
A prideful matchmaker examines her own heart when her protégé falls for the wrong suitor.

Refinements by Anita Mae Draper, based on Sense and Sensibility
A misguided academy graduate spends the summer falling in love . . . twice.

One Word from You by Susanne Dietze, based on Pride and Prejudice
A down-on-her-luck journalist finds the story of her dreams, but her prejudice may cost her true love . . . and her career.

Alarmingly Charming by Debra E. Marvin, based on Northanger Abbey
A timid gothic dime-novel enthusiast tries to solve the mystery of a haunted cemetery and, even more shocking, why two equally charming suitors compete for her attentions.

Four more exciting novellas will follow in volume 2!

Anne's Review

 4 STARS!!!

Based on Jane Austen’s novels—Emma, Pride & Prejudice, Sense & Sensibility, and Northanger Abbey— these four novellas are set in the late 1800s and their distinctive Austen flavor is quite palatable. The authors connected the stories together by having the principle characters from each previous novella mentioned in the next one. I found this to be a delightful addition! The narratives are easily read and contain humorous dialogue, as well as pleasantly descriptive settings. 

Reading adaptations of classic novels isn’t something I usually do—but I was intrigued by the premise of Austen in Austin—and I’m glad I did. I thoroughly enjoyed being diverted from life’s cares for a couple of hours. I would definitely recommend this collection to fans of Historical fiction. I accepted an electronic copy from one of the authors in exchange for my review. No compensation has been received.

~Happy Reading~