Love's Escape (The Captive Bride's Collection) by Carrie Fancett Pagels

I really enjoy getting collections from Barbour Books.  They look so pretty.  I'm doing something a little different and splitting two stories so each writer gets their own post.  There were nine stories but I'm picking the two that I thought stood out in the book.

Love Brings Freedom in 9 Historical Romances


Journey along as nine historical women are about to make their escape from some of life's greatest challenges. Can their captive hearts be freed to dream, to dare, to love?

Love's Escape by Carrie Fancett Pagels - Virginia, 1850

With her life in peril, Lettie seeks escape from slavery. When Nathan offers to "conduct" her North via an unusual segment on the Underground Railroad, will his efforts help or do them both harm?

This story stood out from the group.  I don't read too many stories about the underground railroad and this was a nice change of pace.  Carrie Pagels is really great short story writer.  People will tell you that short stories are easy, but they aren't.  You have to cram a lot into a very small amount of pages.  Carrie Pagels is very good at this.  

I really enjoyed following along with Lettie and Nathan's journey.  The story was emotional and good clean read.  It moved at a nice pace and even though the ending was something easy to figure it it was a delightful read and I truly enjoyed it.  

So pick up your copy of The Captive Bride's Collection and enjoy some really great short stories!  Happy Reading!  

Disclaimer: *Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed 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 Celebration (Amish Cooking Class Book 3) by Wanda Brunstetter

In the final installment of the Amish Cooking Class series we are introduced once again to new and familiar faces in a sweet and endearing series.  

From the back: Return to Holmes County, Ohio, for Amish style cooking class. 

Lyle and Heidi Troyer have taken in a brother and sister, who were orphaned when their parents were killed in a car accident. Hoping to help the children adapt and make friends, Heidi decides to hold a series of cooking classes for kids. But kids are always accompanied by an adult—and that is where the trouble arises.

Miranda Cooper is living the life of a single mom to her two kids while separated from her husband, but Trent is trying to worm his way back into her heart.

Denise McGuire’s life as a wife, mom, and real estate broker is full and spilling over.

Darren Keller, single dad and firefighter, and Ellen Blackburn, single mom and nurse, find a few things in common.

Will hearts be healed over plates of Amish food?

I loved a lot of things about this series.  I felt that I met some unforgettable people and a unique take on Amish storylines by having a cooking class.   

Heidi is an old friend at this point and her struggles with infertility resonated deeply with me.  Wanda Brunstetter is a master storyteller when it comes to pulling your emotions and you share the joys, sorrows and frustrations of the characters.  Her characters are beautifully flawed and easily relatable.  

I did feel like I got lost a few times with the amount of characters in the book.  The story shifted often in character's perspectives and I had a harder time keeping pace with who was who.  I had to go back and retrace so I could keep up.  

As always, we end with yummy recipes.  The meatballs were a huge hit here!  I've enjoyed eating my way through this series as much as reading through it. 

So pick up your copy of The Celebration and enjoy the end of another great series!  Happy Reading!  

Disclaimer: *Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed 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 Gingerbread Bride (Heartland Christmas Brides) by Amy Lillard

I love Christmas stories all year round and I really love Christmas stories while everyone else is glued to the halftime show of the big game.  

Heartland Christmas Brides is the first book in 'The 12 Brides of Christmas' series. Four historical Christmas romances from the Heart of America take readers into the heartland of historic America and dish up a tasty reminder of Christmases past.

The Gingerbread Bride was a really fun read.  Super quick (I read it during halftime) and funny.  I was asked to leave the room due to the fact I was being "disruptive".    Anyway, this light fun read was the perfect evening escape for me. 

Maddie is in love with Harlan, but feels inferior to the charms of her sister Grace.  Instead of trusting in God's timing and provision she decides to takes matters into her own hands and bakes up lots of trouble!

I really enjoyed this story.  I really enjoyed how befuddled poor Harlan was through most of this while Maddie tried to cover her tracks and divert him.  Thankfully, God's plans are bigger than our messes.  

So pick up your copy of The Gingerbread Bride and enjoy a super fun read!  Happy Reading!  

Disclaimer: *Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed 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 Little Siren (Prequel to the Far Away Castle Series) by J.M. Stengl

I was excited to see another story on the continuing Far Away Castle series.  So I grabbed my book, son, and we settled in for another journey. 

In the newest prequel to the series (you can grab it here) we are introduced to more magical creatures and taken on a splashing adventure. 

A new series of fairy tales begins with this first adventure of Faraway Castle. Are you ready for the magic . . . and the romance?


When independent-minded Kamoana encounters a human boy in danger, she knows she should have nothing to do with him. As a siren, she is forbidden even to speak to humans, let alone rescue one. But how can Kamoana simply watch the boy die and do nothing to save him?

New life swims through the telling of this tail.  Here we meet Kammy, another independent and strong female.  She's a Siren with brains and beauty.  Following in her late father's footsteps she's interested in the natural world around her, not in luring men to their doom. 

Tor is a human and wrapped up in his studies.  He's awkward and a bit stilted.  As the book progresses we see more personality and the evolving relationship between him and Kammy. 

In Cinder Ellie, a lot of the story seemed to focus on magical animals and beings.  In this story, while we are introduced to the Turul and meet a few old friends from the last tale the focus is more on Kammy and Tor.  I enjoyed this and felt more of a personal connection with the characters. 

My son, of course, enjoyed the Turul.  Who wouldn't want a giant magical bird that could eat you hanging around?  He also decided that a Cinder Sprite could torch one so they are probably safe.  

The only downside is once again, it's a prequel and getting to the best part to see the dreaded words, "To be continued....."  makes you very sad!  I will be looking forward to the full story, The Siren and The Scholar, in the summer.  

So grab your copy (it's free!) and get ready to dive into another adventure!  Happy Reading!  

Disclaimer: *Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed 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.*

Judah's Wife: A Novel of the Maccabbees (The Silent Years) by Angela Hunt

There is a silence between the Old and New Testament.  What happens during those years?  

Angela Hunt offers a look at what may have happened. 

To Be Silent Would Be to Deny Their God, To Defy Would Bring the Wrath of the King.

Seeking quiet and safety after a hard childhood, Leah marries Judah, a strong and gentle man, and for the first time in her life Leah believes she'll have peace. But the very nation Judah was named for has been conquered by a cruel king, who decrees that all Jews are to conform to Syrian laws or risk death for following the laws of Moses.

Judah's father resists the decree, igniting a war that will cost him his life. But before dying, he commands Judah to pick up his sword and continue the fight--or bear responsibility for the obliteration of Israel. Leah, who wants nothing but peace, struggles with her husband's decision--what kind of God would destroy the peace she has sought for so long?

The miraculous story of the courageous Maccabees is told through the eyes of Judah's wife, who learns that love requires courage . . . and sacrifice.

This book is the second title in the series but stands alone with ease.  

Wow.  This book was crazy fantastic!  Weaving fiction in with the rich historical time period you felt like you were living and walking with the characters.  

Leah was abused and hurt.  You can see that through her actions in the story and the hard time she has trusting.  Her struggles make you hurt right along with her.  Leah's growth and journey in the book are wonderful and realistic.  

Judah was really stubborn and sometimes made me nuts.  I thought at times he could have been a little more gentle with Leah, but I enjoyed seeing their relationship progress.  Relationships take work no matter what time frame you are in.  They have ups and downs and I enjoyed how the author portrayed that.

Overall it was a good story.  I really love how it went in depth into a period that many wonder about.  It isn't an easy breeze through in a weekend read. This is an in depth story that has rich multiple layers in it.  I plan on reading the first book in the series ( Egypt's Sister) and hopefully there will be a third book as well. 

So pick up your copy (you can get it here) and enjoy an amazing story.  Happy reading! 

Disclaimer: *Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed 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.*

Cinder Ellie (A Prequel to the Faraway Castle Series) by J.M. Stengl

I'm a sucker for a good fairy tale and happily ever afters.  I've never outgrown my love for them.  

Cinder Ellie is a Prequel story to the Faraway Castle Series and a new to me author. 

Bestselling romance novelist J.M. Stengl steps into the realm of fairy tales with this sparkling new series of love, laughter, light, and—of course—magic.

Trained by an enchantress but obliged to work summers for her living, fifteen-year-old Ellie Calmer serves as a maid at a world-famous mountain resort. Her lowly rank keeps her always at a distance from the powerful, beautiful guests who spend their summers at Faraway Castle, yet Ellie dares to dream of one day exchanging even just a few words with shy Prince Omar of Khenifra.

But when rare magical creatures show up in Faraway Castle’s gardens, Ellie’s life is suddenly complicated. Cinder sprites are causing fires and potentially endangering the beautiful resort. The resort director has sent for an exterminator to deal with these so-called pests. Can Ellie find a way to use her humble magic to save the cinder sprites and Faraway Castle before disaster strikes?

CINDER ELLIE is a prequel novella to J.M. Stengl’s FARAWAY CASTLE series. Recommended for fans of Marissa Meyer, Melanie Dickerson, K.M. Shea, and Chanda Hahn.

I'm guessing I don't have to tell you what tale this is a remake of.  But if you are expecting a damsel in distress waiting to be rescued, this isn't the book for you.  

Ellie is a strong female character who has magical abilities.  She is surrounded by Brownies, Sprites, Pixies, and other magical creatures.  Despite being in a "lower rank" she shows quite a bit of talent.  Independent, resourceful, and smart Ellie shows that she doesn't need someone to rescue her.  

Omar, Ellie's crush is introduced in the book as well.  I didn't get as strong of a connection with him as I did Ellie, or many magical creatures in the story, but I think I'll get to know him better in their book.  

My son, who also read the book, wanted me to note that Cinder Sprites are radical and if they were real you would totally want one for a pet. 

All in all this was a nice easy read.  The only downer is we have to wait for the novel to delve into the rest of the story.  

So pick up your copy in February and enjoy a charming tale!  Happy Reading!  

Disclaimer: *Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed 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.*

A Plain Leaving by Leslie Gould (The Sister's of Lancaster County Book 1)

I know you can't judge a book by the cover, but honestly, that is what can draw me into a book and get me excited to pick it up!  

I was really drawn to this book, isn't it pretty!  I've read quite a few books from Leslie Gould and this is the start of her new series The Sister's of Lancaster County.  From the back: Leaving Was the Hardest Thing She'd Ever Done . . . Until She Had to Return
  
Three years ago, Jessica Bachmann walked away from everything: her family, their beloved farm, her Amish community, and Silas Kemp. After clashing with the new bishop and her brother about her role in her family and the future of the family farm, anger and restlessness wouldn't allow her to stay. 

When she is forced to return home because of her beloved father's death, her arrival stirs up all kinds of emotions--sorrow, grief, and yearning alike. Jessica knows things can't return to the way they were, but, especially upon seeing Silas again, she can't help wonder what might have been--and what still could be. The stakes grow higher when she learns that her brother, Arden, is still pursuing potentially hazardous fracking on the family's land.

As Jessica wrestles with her next step, she learns the cautionary tale of Ruby Bachmann, a Revolutionary War-era ancestor who faced similar struggles. Will Ruby's decisions motivate Jessica to leave her family, the land, and her community forever? Or is there healing, love, and belonging yet to come for her in Lancaster County?  

The things I liked about this book, is like in her previous books she weaves a nice storyline.  Two stories are placed together and Ruby's story and Jessica's.  It's sometimes difficult to jump between two stories and time periods but Gould was able to do that with ease.  The overall story line was enjoyable. 

There are a few things that weren't as great as I had hoped.  There was a bit of a heavy hand with explanations.  Fracking was one example.  There was also a song, How Great Thou Art, that I don't think the Amish would have used.  The story ended to quickly after a nice steady pace as well.  

Overall, the book was OK.  I'll be picking up the second book in the series to see what happens next and I'm hopeful that the bumps will even out.  Happy Reading!  

Disclaimer: *Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed 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.*