Historical Fiction

Category: Historical Fiction

Always

by Jody Hedlund

What a wonderful novella to introduce a new YA series by Jody Hedlund! It remains true to what she always puts in her YA reads. The importance of inner beauty and strength, the truth that we can’t live all on our own, and the truth that love grows and happiness can be a choice.

I eagerly wait for the series to begin! This was a fantastic start, and I’m not a big fan of novellas. This one was very well done. I don’t usually review a novella that introduces a series, but I felt this one was vital to the series as a whole.

“…happiness is a choice we make no matter what life brings us, is it not?”

“God, I whispered as I stared unseeingly at the glowing coals. I haven’t wanted to rely upon anyone, have only leaned on my own strength and determination. But I have nothing left. I can do no more.”

I knew now as I’d known then that my father depended upon God for strength and guidance in a way I never had.”

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Evermore

by Jody Hedlund

Terrific YA fairytale read by Jody Hedlund. Though I’m no YA, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Wonderful characters, terrific story, suspense, and a fantastic backdrop with knights, kings, and queens the reader is drawn into an exciting tale of a Princess who needs to regain her kingdom and become queen.

Some surprising twists and turns make this an even better read. I love the important morals and choices that are made, and the message that is given to young readers through this story.

I definitely am looking forward to the rest of the series, and I do recommend the novella that sets up the story. I rarely say they are necessary, but to get a complete picture I highly recommend reading the novella “Always” before reading this one.

I bought the paperbacks, and they are gorgeous! Go get your ebook or paperback and be enchanted into another time and place!

The book Evermore and the novella that begins the series Always.

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Spice King

by Elizabeth Camden

“God led us here,” Annabelle whispered. “ He planted a hope in your heart that was strong enough to send us a thousand miles across the country. There is a reason, and we’ll keep going until we find it. We can’t falter now.”

There is so much fascinating history in this read which is why I really enjoy this author’s novels. I never really considered that at one time salt and pepper was spicing up a dish-because it’s what they had. In this book, I really could feel the joy Annabelle experienced as she tried so many new spices and fruits that were incredibly rare in the early 1900’s.

The historical information about foods, Department of Agriculture, Smithsonian Institute, and so many other things made for a terrific and unique book setting. The Department of Agriculture played a huge role in our food supply-a much larger one than i ever knew.The characters are incredibly well done. I’m hoping for more from these characters in the future. This book combines so many good elements: It’s historical information and backdrop, information about the blind, incredibly well written and developed characters, and a forgiveness faith theme. All of the intertwined to make for a superb and enjoyable read.

In this case you can judge the book by its cover, and the cover is magnificent!

I received this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

I never wanted to be blind, but if it’s the price I must pay to have found Walter Talbot…then I’m glad it happened.”

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Diamond in the Rough

by Jen Turano

Another just plain fun book from this author. I could sympathize with the main character. I’m a klutz…have been all my life. She gets involved in so many “catastrophes” that her grandmother is seeking help. Poppy is such a great main character, and I love the things that come into play from previous books…especially the mention of someone getting stuck because of an interesting bustle! This author is always sure to get giggles and outright laughter from her books. Reginald is wonderful opposite Poppy. The story, characters, and faith theme all combine for another winner of a read from Ms. Turano. No one in Christian Fiction produces a novel like hers. Go buy any of her reads…and have fun! This is one of her best yet.

I received this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

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Finding Lady Enderly

by Joanna Davidson Politano

BOOK BLURB

“Raina Bretton is a rag woman in London’s east end when a handsome stranger appears in a dank alley and offers her a glittering smile and a chance for adventure. Rothburne Abbey has a unique position for her, one that will take her away from her hardscrabble life and give her a chance to be a lady. Things she could only dream of might be coming true. But some dreams turn out to be nightmares.

Though Raina has traded squalor for silk and satin, something about the abbey is deeply unsettling. As she wrestles with her true identity, the ruin, decay, and secrets she finds at the heart of the old mansion tear at her confidence and threaten to reveal her for who she really is. Only one man stands between her and the danger that lurks within–and only if he decides to keep her biggest secret hidden. “

MY REVIEW

It’s another terrific read from Ms. Politano! Her books are terrific stories with vivid settings and wonderful characters. However, they are much more than that! The story the reader reads is a shadow of sorts of the true meaning of the words on paper. A type of allegory to get your mind thinking…what if this is me? Is this what I portray?

I love how this author can write the most fascinating tales with double meanings. This is another book by this author not to be missed. Don’t miss the deeper meaning either

I received this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own .

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Underestimating Miss Cecilia

by Carolyn Miller

“Perhaps this trial was yet another way God was trying to gain her attention,so she would focus more on Him, and not let the distractions of this world steal her thoughts and emotions.”

I enjoyed this read and the fun characters that really drive the plot. Cecilia and Ned are both flawed characters as Carolyn Miller’s usually are. If you are fond of the girl falling in love with the boy next door or the prodigal son returns home in a wonderful historical setting this book is for you.

I really like how well this author natural weaves a strong faith message into her books. This one is no different. It truly belongs in the genre of “Christian Fiction.” Throughout the book the reader sees how the faith of the characters affects their everyday decisions as well as those decisions that are going to affect their entire life.

It’s a lovely story with the characters learning as they grow giving the reader a chance to ponder if perhaps he could do a better job at putting the focus on God in our lives as well.

“Understand that God’s plans are for good, not to be a weighty burden. Remember that He is with us, in both good times and challenges, empowering us for His work.”

I received this book through the publisher. All opinions are my own.

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The Express Bride

by Kimberley Woodhouse

“…at twenty eight, he had nothing to show for himself except wealth. That thought in light of eternity didn’t make him feel like he’d accomplished much of anything.”

This is another terrific novel in the Mayflower Bride series! The characters are so well done and set in a fascinating historical setting. It had mystery, suspense, and a terrific faith theme. All the elements combine to make a book that I just wish had been longer.

I don’t want to say it’s my favorite in the series, but if it isn’t-it’s close! The authors notes on The Pony Express are interesting and not widely known so don’t miss those. Definitely do not miss this next book in the Daughters of the Mayflower series!

I received this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
“Why God had chosen to spare him when he’d been such an atrocious human being was beyond his comprehension. But he was grateful.”

“ Thank you, God. For forgiveness. For grace. For a wonderful mom and dad.”

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Where Dandelions Bloom

by Tara Johnson

“But whether I live or die is Gods decision. Not Yours.”

Where Dandelions Bloom brings the Civil War to life through several interesting characters. The reader gets to see the war through the eyes of a woman who chose to face war instead of the awful man she was goi g to be forced to marry, through the eyes of a photographer who wants to tell the story through pictures, and following a young lad who signs up as well.

The picture of war isn’t pretty, and it’s effect can be damaging. It is always life changing. The authors characters are based in history. Quite a few women did sign up and fight in the Civil War, and she uses her research to bring a realistic plot to readers.

Really liked the faith theme in this story. Various verses come to mind for Cassie as she strives to get through the difficulties that she faces. They give her perspective and strength. They even give her strength to do something she thought impossible.

The characters are well done, the story well told, and a faith theme that flows smoothly through the story and gives the characters an anchor. War isn’t pretty, and this book did a tremendous job of bringing out some of the real horrors that were faced….and the waste of lives that occurred. If you like historical fiction or love Civil War era reads, this is definitely for you. Ultimately, it’s a story of forgiveness and triumph through Christ and the love and forgiveness he offers.

“For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your Heavenly Father will also forgive you…
A hot tear escaped her lashes, tracing a warm path down her cheek. Yes, her father had abused her over and over again. He’d sliced her apart with his words, his fists…Forgiving him didn’t excuse him. But it would free her.”

I received this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

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No Ocean Too Wide

by Carrie Turansky

This was a fascinating piece of history about which I knew nothing. Taking children that aren’t wanted or are living on the streets, to a new world with parents waiting for them. It sounds like a wonderful idea, but with some involved it became a scary time for children and parents.

This book follows several characters in this backdrop of history. The characters are well done, and I enjoyed getting to learn about this time in history through their eyes. I found myself wondering what choices I would make in certain situations. It wasn’t exactly black and white for those who so very much wanted to right the wrongs that had occurred. The faith theme in this book is present and a good one! I always enjoy when Christian elements are present in Christian Fiction.

So take yourself on a journey through an interesting time in history…think of why your emotions, feelings, and mind would have suffered.

I received this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

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My Dearest Dietrich

by Amanda Barratt

MY REVIEW

I think every reader starts a book with certain expectations. I expected this book to be good because I knew about Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Haven’t most? This book wasn’t just good, it was unforgettable.

I found it amazing how enthralled I was with the story, knowing the outcome. It takes a special kind of writing to want to enjoy and savor a book where there really aren’t any spoilers. I knew the ending ; yet I so enjoyed the journey, the blessed journey of this couple..so beautifully written.

The scenes are painted with intricate detail…as they tried to visit in prison with others looking on, the reader can feel the tension and the hesitancy of the actors, the characters. They are alive…so real and vibrant. I knew the happily ever after would never come, that darkness was abundant. However, it doesn’t overtake the beautiful love story, and the love God gave these two for each other. This book makes Mr. Bonhoeffer more a man than a minister…more human, and more relatable.

The book has prose as beautiful as poetry, and tells of a beautiful love story…but in a way that I’ve never quite read before.

This book finds its place on my forever shelves, and I definitely plan on visiting Maria and Dietrich again!

I received this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

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