Sophie Dupont, daughter of a portrait painter, assists her father in his studio, keeping her own artwork out of sight. She often walks the cliffside path along the north Devon coast, popular with artists and poets. It's where she met the handsome Wesley Overtree, the first man to tell her she's beautiful.

Captain Stephen Overtree is accustomed to taking on his brother's neglected duties. Home on leave, he's sent to find Wesley. Knowing his brother rented a cottage from a fellow painter, he travels to Devonshire and meets Miss Dupont, the painter's daughter. He's startled to recognize her from a miniature portrait he carries with him--one of Wesley's discarded works. But his happiness plummets when he realizes Wesley has left her with child and sailed away to Italy in search of a new muse.

Wanting to do something worthwhile with his life, Stephen proposes to Sophie. He does not offer love, or even a future together, but he can save her from scandal. If he dies in battle, as he believes he will, she'll be a respectable widow with the protection of his family.

Desperate for a way to escape her predicament, Sophie agrees to marry a stranger and travel to his family's estate. But at Overtree Hall, her problems are just beginning. Will she regret marrying Captain Overtree when a repentant Wesley returns? Or will she find herself torn between the father of her child and her growing affection for the husband she barely knows?

I really like reading Julie's books. I'm always anticipating her next novel.  Her books are always well researched as with any author whose books I read. The Secret of Pembroke Park is my favorite.

This story delights me because of how Stephen Overtree wound up taking over Wesley's mess like he's always done since they were children. 

I feel like he shouldn't have done that.  Wesley has always been jealous of Stephen no matter what Stephen did. 

 Stephen is what I call a man! He's all heart! I admire him because he stayed with his men during the battle with Napoleon Bonaparte. Not every Captain would do that I believe. He married Sophie on a whim to give her a home and wouldn't cause a scandal. It should not have been his job to do that . It should've been Wesley's job but he done run off.  He thought his painting in Paris was more important than taking up for his responsibilities. It's just like a man to run off.  Even Angela said that.  I do have to admit though, at least Wesley tried to grow up but it didn't work.  It seems like no matter how hard they try some men just never grow up!

I admire Sophie for her strength and determination to make a marriage of convince work. It is this leap of faith through God that Sophie comes to love Stephen. Sometimes it's not love at first sight. This comes slowly and maybe sometimes never. I'm very glad for Stephen and Sophie. 

The in laws really crack me up because they very much remind me of mine. When I first married my husband, I did it to get out of the house. My in laws were surprised that he went and done it as were Stephens. They didn't think I was right for their son but guess what? We've been married for 19 years going on 20. Something must be right! Yes, it does take work. Especially since the in laws like to interfere more times than once! But, we got through it with God's help. If things are meant to be, then it will happen. As always with my favorite saying " With God all things are possible" and " God is our refuge and strength in times of trouble." 

Winnie is a delight! Her predictions sometimes are confusing! Especially the one about Stephen. Boy, was I glad she was wrong on that account! She's the mysterious one! I believe that was why Wesley didn't really like her. She always sensed that he was up to something before he even done it. I liked the part where she thought her cat was a boy come to find out it was a girl! Cats are sometimes hard to tell if they're boys or girls. I even have a hard time telling. 

I was delighted for Winnie because she found time to spend with the Grandfather. The Grandfather often cracked me up too. At first, I thought he was  talking to himself the way older people do. Come to find out they were both spending time together! 

I'm so glad that even though there was tension, anxiety in the house it all worked out. I guess that comes from bringing in someone you don't know very well. I think it's wrong to judge people. You really don't know what they've been through in life or are going through. I say this because of the young man I want to mention in the story. Mr. Harrison.  

Mr. Harrison is a very lucky young man. Not all people want to bring up other people's children.  I love the vicar and his wife for doing this.  Stephen's parents have no right to judge him just because he's an orphan. I hate snobby people. I even get judged. If I don't measure up to someone's standards Oh well! God loves me no matter what. He knows what's in my heart and soul. He knows every hair on my head just because he made me the way He wanted. No one else! 

I give this book 5 stars because I loved it so much! I recommend this book and I would reread it again. Julie is a wonderful author and as I said before The Secret of Pembroke is my favorite but now, I have a new favorite! If these were real people, I would certainly love to congratulate them on a job well done!  I feel like I have made new friends. I love a book when I can do that. Make new friends. 

Thank you Julie for another wonderful story! 

Biography

Julie Klassen loves all things Jane--Jane Eyre and Jane Austen. She worked in publishing for sixteen years and now writes full time. Three of her novels have won the Christy Award for Historical Romance. Her book, The Silent Governess, was also a finalist in the Minnesota Book Awards, ForeWord Reviews Book of the Year Awards, and Romance Writers of America's RITA Awards. Julie is a graduate of the University of Illinois. She and her husband have two sons and live near St. Paul, Minnesota. Visit www.julieklassen.com for more information.

A story of love, hope, and healing set in the midst of the Civil War

Nineteen-year-old Carrie Ann Bell is independent and spirited. The only thing she really fears are the Union soldiers fighting against her Confederate friends. When her youngest sister runs away from home, brave Carrie Ann is determined to find her and bring her back. Disguised as a soldier, she sets off--only to find she's fallen into the hands of the enemy.

Her childhood friend Confederate Major Joshua Blevins has warned her against these Yankees: they're all devils, ready to inflict evil on unsuspecting young women. When Colonel Peyton Collier arrests her for her impersonation of an officer, it seems to confirm all her fears.

Soon, though, she finds herself drawn to the handsome, gallant colonel. He rescued her, protected her, and has been every inch the gentleman. Carrie Ann discovers that her foe has become her ally--and more than that, someone she could love. But the arrival of Joshua in the Union camp as a spy will test her loyalties. Will she protect someone who has been like family or be loyal to this stranger to whom she wants to offer her heart? When her world is being torn apart around her, whom should she trust?

Set against the backdrop of the American Civil War, A Thousand Shall Fall is framed around compelling characters and a very romantic setting in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley. Andrea Boeshaar’s extensive research guarantees historical accuracy and romance genre enthusiasts and Civil War buffs alike will enjoy the Christian perspectives on actual historical events. 

A Thousand Shall Fall
by Andrea Boasharr


I think that this is by far my favorite Civil War novel. I love how the author has thought out each perspective of her book.
The reason for this being my favorite is because I like this time period and it has been some time since I've read one of this authors books. She definitely keeps you spellbound! I was kept on the edge of my seat waiting to see what would happen next and she didn't disappoint!
 I can't imagine the turmoil and  loss each side has suffered especially at Gettysburg.
In my opinion I would have to side with the North. Slavery is wrong no matter how you look at it even though it wasn't what started the war. What started the war was when the South fired on Fort Sumter and succeeded from the Union. Slavery later became involved towards the end of the war.
Carrie Ann is my favorite character. She has strength and determination that I don't believe I could ever have. Her faith is even more amazing!!!
Carrie's journey has taken her on some amazing situations and it was always Colonel Peyton to the rescue! I had to laugh at some the of things she found herself in!
She's one lucky girl!  She has God on her side!!!  He was her strength and shield and folks prayer is very powerful!!!
As Carrie searches for her sister, she runs into the very thing that her childhood friend Joshua warns her about.  Though he has warned her she finds nothing but common courtesy from the Union Officers.  Colonel Peyton even offers to protect her and help her find her sister.
I liked Colonel Peyton from the start. Not only was he a gentleman, it seemed he was handsome as well. His aunt raised him right; but, it is a shame it takes something drastic to make a believer out of a person.  I think if times were different, it wouldn't matter if he was Carrie's friend or not.
One of the reasons I thought a lot of Peyton because he sent Carrie to safety. He sent her to his Aunt Ruth's.. I also thought it was sweet of him to want to be more than a friend. I think if the times were right and not in the middle of a war, maybe things would be different for both of them.
However; I didn't like Joshua's friend that he run around with. I thought he was rude and not very compassionate at all!!! He deserved what he got in the end. He always made  Carrie uneasy about being near him. I thought he was just downright mean! I think I'd  give him the what to four myself! Yea for Carrie!!!  I must admit though, I held my breath waiting to see if  Joshua would step in or not. I wasn't disappointed! He did the right thing by Carrie. Joshua also kept his promise to Carrie about helping her to find her sister. I thought that was real gentlemanly of him.
Even though war changes people it's a wonder that people can still remain friends. Especially if one is a Confederate soldier.
At least Carrie has someone on both sides to watch out for her and protect her. But, there is someone from above that can do much, much more!!! All you have to do is ask!!!!
For this reason I give this book a 5 star rating  and the author has generously given me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Thank you Andrea for a wonderful story and I am anxiously awaiting your next book!


A

Biography

Andrea Boeshaar has been married for nearly 40 years. She and her husband have 3 wonderful sons, 1 beautiful daughter-in-law, and 5 precious grandchildren.

Andrea's publishing career began in 1994 when her first novel was released by Heartsong Presents (Barbour Publishing). She went on to write numerous romances for the book club and was voted one of the line's "Favorite Authors" several times over.

Over the years, Andrea has written books for such publishers as Summerside Press, Guideposts, Charisma House/Realms, and Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. Andrea's latest novel--her 30th book--is titled A Thousand Shall Fall. Set in 1864 during the American Civil War. Through the efforts of the Seymour Agency, it is contracted with Kregel Publications and will be released in late 2015. Most recently Andrea was contracted with the Prism Book Group for a collection of 3 romantic novellas called Seasons of Love.

In 2000, Andrea co-founded ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) with author Lynn Coleman and served on the organization's advisory board for a number of years. Although no longer in leadership, Andrea maintains her membership in the organization and her local ACFW-WISE chapter.

Andrea worked as a literary agent under the tutelage of Joyce Hart and the Hartline Agency. Andrea saw much success. But in 2007, Andrea realized she was more of a coach than literary agent. She earned her certification in Christian life coaching. Now she is the purveyor of Steeple View Coaching for Writers. Recognizing one of her client's gifts and potential, Andrea wrote a novella with debut author Christina Miller called "One Way to the Altar" (Convenient Brides Collection). The anthology made its way to #15 on the ECPA's Bestseller List for August.

For a complete listing of Andrea's books, and information about her business, log onto: www.andreaboeshaar.com

A Shenandoah Family Christmas

A Shenandoah Family Christmas

by Lisa Belcastro

Where is Christmas?
Disease, freezing temperatures, and the Revolutionary War bring bitter reality to the Reed home in December 1777. Captain Benjamin Reed is ordered to sail a supply shipment south to General George Washington. Days before Shenandoah’s scheduled departure, Ben’s first mate succumbs to smallpox.

Rebecca Reed had never feared the dreaded disease until her one-year-old daughter Felicity breaks out in the telltale rash. In the cold, dark days of Advent, Rebecca, Ben, and the Reed family wait in prayerful hope as Felicity fights for her life and they wonder who could be next.

With the rest of the family at risk, they decide to obtain the forbidden cowpox vaccine. Ben's brother Jonah, his uncle Isaiah, and Shenandoah’s cook Adam Greene venture off in search of the outlawed vaccine. A blizzard hits. A tree crashes. Jonah crumbles to the ground. A woman with the face of an angel aids Jonah, but is it too late? And where are Adam and Isaiah?

As the death toll rises throughout the Colonies, the Reed family prays for more than one Christmas miracle.

Amazon Purchase Link: http://www.amazon.com/Shenandoah-Family-Christmas-Winds-Change/dp/0996794506/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1449168828&sr=8-1&keywords=lisa+belcastro

 A Shenandoah Family Christmas

By Lisa Belcastro

My thoughts about the book

When I first started this book I thought Oh boy a trip back to 1777! 

I was definitely in for a surprise! I have never read a time travel book before but

as I started reading it, it turned out better than I expected. 

I can't imagine going through a portal and end up exactly where I wanted. 

I think I would use a portal to travel back to Titanic. 

I also can't imagine having Small Pox.( If I remember correctly Small Pox is what wiped out half of the Indian nation). Wouldn't everyone wonder why Missy and Rebecca never contracted the disease? I know I would wonder.  It's a great idea that Rebecca made mittens to keep Felicity from scratching. It seemed to have worked. I guess being a small child you wouldn't think about it.  I can sympathize with Rebecca if my child ever got sick like that. I think that I'd definitely be down on my hands and knees praying to the one above. Miracles happen all the time. 

People are always wanting, wanting never content with what they have. I can relate to this.

It's a shame it takes a child to get sick and then Rebecca is content on what she already has. 

If we can look to God, he will take care of most of our needs. We need to only ask. 

I am happy that Felicity recovers and so does William. I held my breath all the way though this novella to see if Felicity would make it. Prayer is powerful my friends. God may not always answer the way we want him to. 

Blizzards can come out of nowhere. They can also kill if you're not prepared for them. I was happy that Jonah made it through his injury. It's amazing how they found him at all!

Rebecca is so very lucky to have a loving and devoted husband such as Ben. I know that she misses him when he takes off on his ship. I know I would! 

Missy and Isaiah are best friend with Ben and Rebecca. I think it's wonderful how they stayed friends even after they traveled through the portal. 

Lisa Belcastro lives with her family on Martha’s Vineyard.  She loves time with her family and friends, running, gardening, outdoor activities, cooking, chocolate, reading, traveling, a healthy dose of adventure, and her cat, Ben, who keeps her company while she creates fictional lives for the numerous characters living inside her head.

Lisa runs as an ambassador for TEAM 413 (www.team413.org), and has completed a marathon (26.2 miles) in all fifty states.

Lisa’s stories are set on the Vineyard amidst the magnificence of the ocean, the beauty of sandy beaches, rolling hills, and ancient cliffs, as well as the people and events that make the Island so very unique.

When she’s not at her desk, Lisa is living in paradise, volunteering at her daughter’s school, serving in her church community, planting and weeding her numerous gardens, training to run the Walt Disney World Dopey Challenge in January 2016, walking the beach looking for sea glass, or enjoying a great meal while she pens the cuisine column for Vineyard Style Magazine.

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December 16--Fiction, Faith, and Fun
December 17--Bookworm Lisa | Reading Is My SuperPower
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December 19--Crystal's Chaotic Confessions
December 20--Katie's Clean Book Collection
December 21--Mel's Shelves | Singing Librarian Books
December 22--Anna Weaver Hurtt, Inspirational Author | Red Headed Book Lady

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Heart's Journey by Kristen McKendry

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I made new friends and I especially loved Rachael. 

Rachael is of a strong spirit and when she sets her mind to it she doesn't back down.  

I.have to admit I did laugh at some of her attempts to do some things but eventually she learned along the way as we all do.

As she was learning to do these things I felt like I was doing it right along with her. 

Along her journey she made new friends and I am pretty sure on enemy who disliked her from the beginning but thankfully God sent her on her way in a different direction. 

Rachael found peace along her journey which is something I found as well. 

As a little girl I wanted to be a pioneer like Laura Ingalls.  In this book I got to be just that. 

The river part of it wasn't quite as fun.  It was dangerous and very scary.  I could hear the rushing waters. But, it was the only way to get to Rachael's father. 

When Rachael got there she found some very disturbing news.  A news she wasn't happy with but at least she got some disclosure. 

As she learned what happened to her father, she got some comfort in knowing he was happy. 

Rachael also.got another wonderful surprise at the end of her journey. 

But, my reader friends u will have to read the book to find out what the surprise is! 

I will recommend this book to anyone.  

This copy came from Netgalley for an honest review

Rising Darkness by Nancy Mehl

Wow!!!!! What a read!!! I read it until I couldn't put it down! I was even

satisfied with myself after I read it. It brought a wonderful feeling to know that our Lord Jesus never leaves us or forsakes us even in our times of trouble.  Jesus gave himself out of love for us so that our sins would be paid for. 

It took Sophie some time to learn this and that not everyone is bad, hurtful,  and whatever else the case may be. I'm so happy for Sophie that she made friends without meaning too. It is a small world after all! How weird it was to meet someone she one knew in another small town! 

God works in small wonders. I have always heard that he doesn't put more on our shoulders than we can handle.  Sometimes even I wonder about this.

Sophie asks in the story where was God when she needed Him? He was there always He was just carrying her. Reminds me of Footprints in the Sand. My favorite poem!!!! 

Too bad the bad guys didn't really see God's love for them also. They were too busy trying to get at the money that was lost years ago.  It seems even you can't trust your partner in crime.  How unfortunate!!!

I really enjoyed the book Nancy.  I felt like I was kept on the edge of my seat waiting to see what would happen next. I love stories like this. It makes it for an interning read. Unfortunately,  Nancy kept me guessing at who really did what. I can usually figure it out before I finish the mystery book and this time I couldn't! !!! Great job Nancy! !! It's the reason I love reading your books! !

MY Review on Luther and Katharina

By Jody Hedlund

What a fabulous read!!! I enjoyed this book from the beginning to 

end. I learned a lot about Martin Luther that I have not known about him before.  I did know that he had broken away from the Catholic Church and started reformation. Henceforth; I believe this is where the Lutheran doctrine started from. (Please correct me if I'm wrong). 

Jody did wonderful research in regarding this book. 

I grew up in the Lutheran Church.  I took catechism classes there as well. I enjoyed being Lutheran until my parents moved us away from Marysville and

we wound up Baptists because there weren't many Lutheran churches here in Kentucky.  I miss my old church.  

In some ways,  Katharina and Luther remind me of my husband and I always sparing with each other. But, in truth we really love each other. 

I'm happy Katherina finally got what she wanted. She wanted what any woman in her right mind wants. A family of her own.  

I'm glad she finally comes down off her high horse and realizes that she couldn't take matters into her own hands.  It takes a very special someone to help us through our daily lives.  Know that we can call on Jesus and he will be there for us. 

Thank u Jody for a wonderful read on Martin Luther

I will this book a 5 star rating

Oh by the way, Katharina is a lovely name.  Most unusual.  I believe I'd give my daughter that name if I had a daughter just because it's very unique

My review for After the Rain by Rita Gerlach

I'm very pleasantly surprised by this wonderful novel. 

The characters are so delightful and most of the hand of God is hard at work in these beloved people. 

I was sorry to say goodbye to my new friends after finishing it. 

Louisa is a sweet woman who didn't deserve to be treated as she was. I liked and admired Louisa for her quiet strength and determination and most of all her faith. It's this faith and belief that will bring Maximum the strength he needs to get through his trials and tribulations.  And there is definitely a surprise for Louisa towards the end of the story.  

Then there was Beatrice who thought only of herself.  She didn't care who she hurt or stepped on as long as she got her way. I felt sorry for her. I felt sorry for her because she didn't know Jesus or didn't  want to know him. I hope I don't become that old and bitter. I wonder whatever happened to her? 

Mr. Eastcott seemed like he was just like Beatrice.  No wonder they got on so well together. 

I'm so glad they disappeared when they did! !!

Maude and her sister made me crack up!

Two delightful elderly ladies who knew what they wanted in life and went  after it. Lol!

I think I would like to be more like them. Fun loving people.  

Jackson I thought was special so I saved him for last. How sweet to know you love someone at first sight!!!! I can picture him a great looking guy down to earth sort of fellow.  Very kind and thoughtful.  He was a man who thought of others before himself.  

I especially loved his sister Blossom. What an unusual name.  From reading about her you really couldn't tell there was anything wrong with her. I felt like she was just a normal child.  

When reading this book I actually felt like I was there. I love a book where I could disappear for awhile and nor have to worry about nothing  Rita is an awesome storyteller.  

I loved, loved it and I'm so looking forward to the next one. 

I do recommend this book to my friends and I will give this book a five star rating

The Mountain Midwife by Laurie Alice Eakes

Oh my such a fabulous tale by Laurie Alice Eakes yet. 

I loved, loved it!!!!  Very fast pa cedar from the beginning to end. 

Ashley Tolliver comes from a long line of midwives dating back to the 1800's. How fascinating this is to know your family history from the beginning of time!!!

I know I keep comparing some of these stories to my own circumstances.  I too am adopted.  But unlike Hunter, I have no idea who my birth parents are. I only know the ones who loved me and raised me. However; maybe in God's timing I'll someday meet my mom and real sisters.  What my reaction will be upon meeting them? Who knows? 

I think that the people who know their family history sometimes takes advantage to the ones who don't know like me. Maybe whoever will read my blogs might know something of my mom. I don't know

Anyway,  I really enjoyed the story. I was hoping that Laurie would continue with the Midwife series.  

I'm so glad that Ashley decided not to go away to medical school.  I'm equally glad she came of her high horse and listened to her parents and God To Let The Lord take more control of things instead of Ashley.  Hunter too. 

Hunter was brought down after seeing his mom and learning that he really did have a rich family history.  I'm so glad that he took the time to find the strange woman caller. 

I'm not too happy with what happened with his half siblings though but I guess everyone makes mistakes.  I'm glad they woke up in time to realize it before they wound up getting everyone killed. 

I do however think that Jase needs to be brought down a notch or too though.  I'm also thinking maybe Heather could've picked someone else to have an affair with which really shouldn't have happened at all. 

I do however love happy endings! 

Will there be a future for Ashley and Hunter? I sure hope so because they seem like they could be an awesome couple! !!

I love Laurie Alice Eakes and I hope she writes another book. I'd love to see if Mary Kate gets to better herself and learn what happens to Race Jean and Jeremiah. Does Sheila gets to see her two kids Laurie? 

Stay tuned for the next of Laurie's books

This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.  

I will give this book 5 stars and I recommend it to my friends who like to read!!!