Believe it or not, I had never read a book by Mary Connealy until her newest title was released from Bethany House. Now I regret having missed out on this talented author’s previous work, because her newest story was such a delight! “The Accidental Guardian” is the first book in the “High Sierra Sweethearts” series, with the second novel set to be released later this fall. Filled with nail-biting adventure, beautifully detailed setting, sweet romance, subtle humor, and heart-warming themes, this is truly Christian Historical Fiction at it’s best. Continue reading
Christian Historical Romance
A Beautiful Debut Novel by Rachel Fordham
It’s no secret that my favorite genre of reading material is Christian Historical Fiction. When I discover a new author who possesses a special gift for bringing this beautiful genre to life with strong writing skills, themes that whisper of biblical wisdom and truth, and realistic characters who leap off the pages, well… it’s exciting to say the least! After reading the description for a new debut novel published by Revell in the summer of 2018, I guessed this would be just such a story – and I was correct. “The Hope of Azure Springs” is the first published novel by Rachel Fordham, and is a sweet and memorable story that will instantly earn a place on your keeper bookshelf – and in your heart. Continue reading
A Sweet Historical Novella Collection By 3 Favorite Authors
When I saw a collection of historical romance novellas by three of my favorite authors, I knew it needed to be added to my reading list! “All My Tomorrows” was published by Bethany House in the summer of 2018, and includes:
- Karen Witemeyer’s “Worth the Wait” (a “Ladies of Harper Station” novella)
- Jody Hedlund’s “An Awakened Heart” (a prequel to her “Orphan Train” series)
- Elizabeth Camden’s “Toward the Sunrise” (joining her novel “Until the Dawn”)
Not Her Best Work, Unfortunately
Elizabeth Camden’s unique writing style, combined with fascinating and factual historical elements of scientific discoveries, always makes for can’t-put-it-down reading material. Her newest novel from Bethany House is “A Daring Venture”, and is the sequel to “A Dangerous Legacy” which released last year. Continue reading
How Long Until the Sequel Releases!!?
I was long overdue for my dose of a Karen Witemeyer story, and her newest novel was even better than I’d hoped! “More Than Meets the Eye” was published by Bethany House as the first of the “Patchwork Family” novels, and just like all of Karen’s books is the perfect combination of sweet and heart-pounding, witty and thought-provoking. Continue reading
A Compelling New Regency Series from Kristi Ann Hunter
Award-winning author Kristi Ann Hunter has released the first book in her brand-new “Haven Manor” series from Bethany House, entitled “A Defense of Honor”. Just like her previous novels, this new story is compelling, intriguing, and filled with endearing characters who walk right off the pages and into your imagination. I truly cannot wait for the next installment of “Haven Manor”, but first I must give you a word of caution about a major plot point that conservative readers (as I consider myself to be) should certainly be aware of. Continue reading
A Sweetly Irresistible Sequel
A question for readers: Isn’t it fun when you adore the first book in a new series, then you anticipate the next installment for months (hoping you won’t be disappointed) only to discover that book number two is even better than the first?! For me, Jody Hedlund’s “Orphan Train” series from Bethany House is the perfect example. “With You Always” was an excellent Christian Historical Novel, but “Together Forever” resonated with me even more… Perhaps because I could relate to the characters in big ways, and I loved the inclusion of the young orphans – in search of new families – who really added to the story with color, vivacity, and depth of emotion. Continue reading
A Charming Historical Series Continues
The “London Beginnings” historical series, written by Jennifer Delamere and published by Bethany House, began with the charming story of “The Captain’s Daughter” and now continues with “The Heart’s Appeal”. Set in 1881 England, this novel is quick to draw readers in and sweep them away into a captivating tale of courage and determination to follow God’s will – no matter what the cost. Continue reading
The Concluding Story in a Memorable Series
With the first two books in the “Teaville Moral Society” by Melissa Jagears, I came to expect well-written Christian Historical novels that weren’t afraid to tackle tough themes with grace and truth. The third and final novel in the series, “A Chance at Forever”, was released in the spring of 2018 and follows perfectly in step with these expectations.
While “A Chance at Forever” could certainly be a standalone story, it will make the most sense and bring the most enjoyment when read in sequence… After all, revisiting old “friends” from previous stories is always a delight! Continue reading
I Didn’t Want to Leave Ivy Hill!
It’s been a long wait, but the second novel in Julie Klassen’s delightfully charming “Tales From Ivy Hill” series has finally been released from Bethany House! “The Ladies of Ivy Cottage” begins right where “The Innkeeper of Ivy Hill” left off, and will be followed later this year with the conclusion to the trilogy, entitled “The Bride of Ivy Green”. Continue reading