Book Review: Beneath a Prairie Moon by Kim Vogel Sawyer

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Title: Beneath a Prairie Moon

Author: Kim Vogel Sawyer

Series: Standalone

Genre: Historical

Audience: Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

Estelle Brantley grew up in affluence and knows exactly how to behave in high society. But when she is cast from the social registers due to her father's illegal dealings, she finds herself forced into a role she never imagined: tutoring rough Kansas ranchers in the subjects of manners and morals so they can "marry up" with their mail-order brides.

Mack Cleveland, whose uncle was swindled by a mail-order bride, wants no part of the scheme to bring Eastern women to Spiveyville, Kansas, and he's put off by the snooty airs and fastidious behavior of the "little city gal" in their midst. But as time goes by, his heart goes out to the teacher who tries so diligently to smooth the rough edges from the down-to-earth men. How can he teach her that perfection won't bring happiness?

~ MY REVIEW ~

**3 stars**

Beneath a Prairie Moon was a cute story. And it had a little twist, making it different from the average mail-ordered bride tale - our main female character is not a bride, but a tutor of the men ordering brides. She must teach uncivilized frontier men proper manners, etiquette, and other social rules.

I enjoyed this book for the most part. The romance. The danger. The unexpected happenings. I especially liked the little parts where the mistress of this particular mail-ordered brides organization spoke to men about how women wanted to be treated. How they need to be treated. How their hearts are things to be gently cherished. Ultimately, though, I didn't feel Beneath a Prairie Moon was quite what I was expecting/looking forward to. It had more of a humorous slant than an authentic western/frontier feel. The storyline and some of the characters weren't very believable, though entertaining. I don't mean to bash the book, it just seemed quite different than Kim Vogel Sawyer's previous two books I've read - which I really loved.

If one is looking for a fun, (with some drama and danger,) Christian romance set in the as-yet perfectly civilized prairie, they might give Beneath a Prairie Moon a try.

I received a copy of Beneath a Prairie Moon from bloggingforbooks review program in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review: Many Sparrows by Lori Benton

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Title: Many Sparrows

Author: Lori Benton

Series: Standalone

Genre: Historical

Audience: Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

When settler Clare Inglesby is widowed on a mountain crossing and her young son, Jacob, captured by Shawnees, she'll do everything in her power to get him back, including cross the Ohio River and march straight into the presence of her enemies deep in Indian country. Frontiersman and adopted Shawnee, Jeremiah Ring, promises to guide Clare through the wilderness and help her recover Jacob.

Once they reach the Shawnees and discover Jeremiah's own Shawnee sister, Rain Crow, has taken custody of Jacob - renaming him Many Sparrows - keeping his promise becomes far more complicated, the consequences more wrenching, than Jeremiah could have foreseen.

~ MY REVIEW ~

**4 stars**

I enjoyed Many Sparrows by Lori Benton! It moved slowly in many ways, but the storytelling was rich, and filled with grace and heartache and beauty.

Like this author's other amazing novels, Many Sparrows is set in 18th century America and focuses a lot on Native Americans.
Clare Inglesby is traveling deeper into the wilderness with her husband and young son, Jacob. And with a baby on the way. When the Shawnees take all that's important from her, she is desperate to get back what's hers at all costs.
Jeremiah Ring has many secrets and an unexpected connection with the Shawnees ... he may be the perfect guide for Clare as she seeks out the people she so fears.

Oh, my heart ached for Clare. The trials she endured. The agony she faced. In some ways, I could see myself in her - in the way she struggled to trust, was tormented with anxiety, tried to fix everything on her own. This story spoke to my soul and I learned some lessons through Clare's journey. *smiles*
I really liked Jeremiah, too. This solid and somewhat mysterious frontiersman ... adopted by the Shawnee Indians. The ways he helped and guided Clare were very heart-touching.
Jacob and Pippa! The dear, sweet little ones! <3

There was suspense, and some mystery. I'm still left wondering about one of Jeremiah's "brothers" and this brother's "son". I hope, in spite of all, that everything is well for them.

Some parts of Many Sparrows were hard. Difficult to read even. My heart was heavy ... torn for Clare. Couldn't understand Jeremiah. Could, even less, understand the Shawnees. But the way the tale unfolded and turned out - even through the heartache and pain and loss and bloodshed - was ultimately good and grace-filled and beautiful. That ending. It put my heart at rest! *smiles*

Another well-written and thoughtful read from Lori Benton. I can't wait for her next release!

I received a copy of Many Sparrows from BloggingforBooks in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review: Jane of Austin by Hillary Manton Lodge

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Title: Jane of Austin: A Novel of Sweet Tea and Sensibility

Author: Hillary Manton Lodge

Series: Standalone

Genre: Contemporary

Audience: Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

“Know your own happiness. You want nothing but patience - or give it a more fascinating name, call it hope.”―Jane Austen, Sense and Sensibility

Just a few years after their father’s business scandal shatters their lives, Jane and Celia Woodward find themselves forced out of their San Francisco tea shop. The last thing Jane wants is to leave their beloved shop on Valencia Street, but when Celia insists on a move to Austin, Texas, the sisters pack up their kid sister Margot and Jane’s tea plants, determined to start over yet again.

But life in Austin isn’t all sweet tea and breakfast tacos. Their unusual living situation is challenging and unspoken words begin to fester between Jane and Celia. When Jane meets and falls for up-and-coming musician Sean Willis, the chasm grows deeper.

While Sean seems to charm everyone in his path, one person is immune – retired Marine Captain Callum Beckett. Callum never meant to leave the military, but the twin losses of his father and his left leg have returned him to the place he least expected—Texas. 

In this modern spin on the Austen classic, Sense and Sensibility, the Woodward sisters must contend with new ingredients in unfamiliar kitchens, a dash of heartbreak, and the fragile hope that maybe home isn't so far away.

~ MY REVIEW ~

**4 stars**

Jane of Austin by Hillary Manton Lodge was a charming read. Fans of Jane Austen-esque novels, look no further! A retelling of Sense and Sensibility, this book was fun, sweet, bitter, and beautiful.

It's a contemporary, retelling a Regency tale of romance, heartache, and finding true love. I liked the sisters, Celia, Jane, and Margot. And it was fun getting it from Jane's (a.k.a. Marianne's) point of view. Truly, this was such a charming retelling of the beloved, classic tale, I didn't mind that it was set in modern days. It was neat to explore Texas. *smiles* The descriptions were lovely and the book, all around, had an old-fashioned feel. The aspect of teas and tea-making, baking and tea shops? I loved it! So, so fun and unique.

The characters were all great. But Callum was my favorite. I just really, really liked him. A war hero. A gentleman. A good man. Plus, his dog was just the best. This may be the only time I've so loved a dog in a book! ^_^ *hugs Dash*

A couple complaints. Well, it is contemporary ... and that probably means the romance isn't quite to my liking. Yes. Too much kissing, too fast. Way too much "dating without any intentions of marriage anytime soon". There was more intention and marriage-mindedness with Callum, but still the "making out" came way too soon. Save it for marriage, alright, folks?
Also, I thought this book was Christian fiction. There was no talk of faith except for one character's decision to go to seminary school. All in all, it was clean and old-fashioned, (like the Jane Austen movies) even with good morals and lessons, for the most part. So, of course I would have rather had a faith theme, but Jane of Austin was still a lovely read ... like watching a Jane Austen movie!

It was easy to read, interesting, different yet similar to the original Sense and Sensibility, and overall an enjoyable read.

I received a copy of Jane of Austin from BloggingforBooks in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review: Grace and the Preacher by Kim Vogel Sawyer

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Title: Grace and the Preacher

Author: Kim Vogel Sawyer

Series: Standalone

Genre: Historical

Audience: Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

The Kansas community of Fairland anticipates the arrival of their new minister and in recent months, late in 1882, postmistress Grace Cristler has communicated with Reverend Dille via letters, answering his questions about the little town, and developing affection for the man who pens thoughtful missives.

Theophil Garrison grew up under the loving influence of his saintly grandmother, but was roped into his cousins’ train-robbing plan. When they fail and are apprehended, Theo fled the scene, evading jail time. Now an angry cousin is out to avenge Theo's duplicity, and he’s on the run. He encounters a fatally ill traveler - a minister. Seeing a way to keep hidden, Theo trades identities with the man, dons his fine black suit, carries a Bible, and prays that he'll be accepted as Rufus Dille.

Once in Fairland, if Theo's true identity is uncovered, what will be left of the world he has built for himself, Grace, and those in the town who have come to love and accept him?

~ MY REVIEW ~

**5 stars**

Grace and the Preacher by Kim Vogel Sawyer was ... precious. Utterly precious. It tugged at my heart and nearly brought tears to my eyes. Because I saw some of myself in Grace Cristler, and I was able to go on a heartfelt journey with her.

Telling the story of Grace, a retiring pastor's niece, and Theo, a man masquerading as her preacher, this novel unfolds with beauty, laughter, love, and heart-searching. Lessons are learned, adventures gone on. Two romances blossom, which were so sweet to watch come about. These characters are quite lovable. Kim Vogel Sawyer's latest novels have just delighted me! Grace and the Preacher may have started a little slow, but you're soon wrapped up in the story and keeping wanting to return to its pages. The faith theme was so amazing. From Theo's blundering sermons to Grace's seeking of God. It was real and dug beneath the surface. Some of it spoke to heart issues that I've been working at. Reassured me of God's grace, and love, and ability to fulfill. It was beautiful.

I quite liked Theo. And Grace. Bess and Philemon were both so nice too. And I even came to enjoy Earl's part of the story. So much grace and redemption packed into this 336-page novel. And the ending was priceless. Perfection. ^_^

If you like Janette Oke type historical novels, with a rich faith theme, lovely characters, and meaningful romance, be sure to give Grace and the Preacher a try. This one is a keeper! *winks and huggles book*

I received a copy of Grace and the Preacher from bloggingforbooks.com

Book Review: Guide Me Home by Kim Vogel Sawyer

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Title: Guide Me Home

Author: Kim Vogel Sawyer

Series: Standalone

Genre: Historical

Audience: Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

Working in the massive cave might allow Rebekah the chance to bring joy back to her family.

But will it claim more than it gives?

After tragedy leaves its mark on Rebekah Hardin s family, she plans to help her parents and six siblings honor her beloved brother s memory and alleviate their poverty by working as a guide in the dangerous cave system. Kentucky's renowned Mammoth Cave presents profitable opportunities in for hardworking, capable "men." But Rebekah is determined and if it means presenting herself as a"himself," then she's up to the job.

Under the wing of experienced guide Tolly Sanford, Reb begins to learn the complexities of the cave and the two are joined by an aspiring young cartographer, Devlin Bale. The university student has traveled to the hill country to map tunnels not to fall for a girl in disguise. Can the God who designed miles of underground astonishment shape Devlin s ambitious plans and free Reb from the weight from the past?

~ MY REVIEW ~

**5 stars**

Guide Me Home by Kim Vogel Sawyer was such a wonderful novel! Faith, family, romance, and adventure deep in the belly of the Mammoth Caves of Kentucky ... 1907. I thoroughly enjoyed it! ^_^

Rebekah Hardin, oldest daughter in a family of nine, hopes to partially make up for a tragedy that befell her family two years back, by working as a tour guide through the Mammoth Caves. Along the way, she meets dear old Tully Sanford, and a handsome city boy named Devlin Bale. While she grows accustomed to her new job and makes friends, her sister Cissy is planning something that may well ruin Rebekah's plan for healing.

It was homey, thoughtful, and sweet ... an endearing historical tale about the Hardin family's lives and one young woman's journey to grace and love. I really enjoyed learning more about the history of the Mammoth Caves; some of my relatives have visited there before, so it was definitely cool reading about it, set in the year 1907!

It was fun to read the exchanges between Rebekah and all her younger sisters! So cute! I know a little bit about what that's like, being the oldest girl in my family. *smiles* Cissy was a piece of work, but by and by, you come to understand her a little more; and I was happy to get parts of her story! I really liked Tully; he was a superb character! *hugs him* And Devlin was wonderful too. These characters each had their own personalities and were real in my mind. I had a great time reading about them.

Guide Me Home had a little bit of slower pace, but that's perfectly alright. It suited the story. It's a little more along the lines of Janette Oke's novels. The romance was simply beautiful. I loved it. ^_^ And the family growing together, and the church, and ... yes. It was a simply, country, beautiful story. With a dash of suspense and action! *grins*

This is my first time reading by Kim Vogel Sawyer in quite awhile, and I must say, I so enjoyed this latest release of hers! ^_^

I received a copy of Guide Me Home from Blogging For Books review program in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review: A Flight of Arrows by Lori Benton

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Title: A Flight of Arrows

Author: Lori Benton

Series: The Pathfinders #2

Genre: Historical

Audience: Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

October 1776 - August 1777

It is said that what a man sows he will reap - and for such a harvest there is no set season. No one connected to Reginald Aubrey is untouched by the crime he committed twenty years ago.

Not William, the Oneida child Reginald stole and raised as his own. Identity shattered, enlisted in the British army, William trains with Loyalist refugees eager to annihilate the rebels who forced them into exile. Coming to terms with who and what he is proves impossible, but if he breaks his Loyalist oath, he'll be no better than the man who constructed his life of lies.

Not Anna, Reginald's adopted daughter, nor Two Hawks, William's twin, both who long for Reginald to accept their love despite the challenges they will face, building a marriage that bridges two cultures.

Not Good Voice and Stone Thrower, freed of bitterness by a courageous act of forgiveness, but still yearning for their firstborn son and fearful for the future of their Oneida people.

As the British prepare to attack frontier New York and Patriot regiments rally to defend it, two families separated by culture, united by love, will do all in their power to reclaim the son marching toward them in the ranks of their enemies. 

~ MY REVIEW ~

**4 stars**

How exciting it was to dive back into the thrilling world of Anna, Two Hawks, and their tangled families, in the year 1776. A Flight of Arrows, book two in THE PATHFINDERS series, continues from The Wood's Edge, to finish it's intriguing tale. Oh, how I love Lori Benton's novels, with their depth and richness, beauty and sorrow.

Amidst harrowing battles of the American colonies' War for Independence, two families struggle with forgiveness, bitterness, acceptance ... Torn asunder, they strive desperately to be reunited. For unity and healing. But can they bridge the gap between the white men and Native Americans?

     The journey to restore William, and to receive approval for Two Hawk's and Anna's love, has begun.

Lori Benton has a beautiful writing style - it just draws you in. I quite enjoyed this book, with its twists and turns, ups and downs. The theme of redemption and grace, so poignant and bittersweet! Anna's struggle to forgive and honor her father, pulled between him and Two Hawks as she is, was very real. A Flight of Arrows doesn't gloss over the trials and pain; characters do not get the easy way out, but are forced to deal with their mistakes, and also the sin of others. The faith aspect is deep here. God is near; you can see His hand weaving together the brokenness into something beautiful. I loved these journeys of faith! The mending of relationships! The choosing to do the hard thing, because it is the right thing. Very thoughtful and profound.

Two Hawks and Anna ... I love them!! I only wish there could have been more of them together! Often, in this book, came heartrending separations. So yes, I wish there could be another book for them!

     I so enjoyed getting to know William better. Loved his journey. Love where he is now. Also was so happy to see more of Good Voice, Stone Thrower, and Lydia. Reginald isn't my favorite character, I have to admit, but his story is an amazing one, a good one, as well.

    It's all so masterful, how their lives twine together. Heartbreaking and bitter in some ways, yet joy and such beauty come through!

I'm thrilled to have A Flight of Arrows on my bookshelf, and can't wait to get The Wood's Edge to sit beside it! So beautiful, these two! ^_^

     But I suppose the reason for rating A Flight of Arrows a star less than the first book is ... well, it was a hard book in some ways. The separation. The sacrifice. And though you see God's hand so powerfully in the circumstances, even the hard ones, I still felt there was so much tension and pain and fear, it was hard for me to relax in the end and enjoy the beauty of the Epilogue. I suppose I'll have to go back and read it again after I've had more time to take in everything that happened.

But overall, A Flight of Arrows concludes this dramatic tale in a thought-provoking, powerful, and lovely way. I love the history, the family aspect, the romance, and the faith themes of Lori Benton's novels. And absolutely can't wait to read more!

I received a copy of A Flight of Arrows from Blogging For Books program in exchange for my honest review.