To Choose the Longshot (Kentucky Debutantes of the Gilded Age Book 2)

 

Delightfully interesting. As Delia runs from the altar at the beginning of the book, it becomes rather obvious that he is the wrong guy for her, and the unravelling is quite the story. Even if it seems somewhat obvious it is wonderfully written and quite entertaining to read. You can't help but fall in love with her, Jake and his nieces. The high fashion and building danger make the story flow. Even though Delia is raised with the social set, they're down to earth. Good read.

I received this book free from the author, publisher and CelebrateLit book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

#ToChooseTheLongshot #LisaMPrysock #BooksYouCanFeelGoodAbout #CelebrateLit #ChristianHistoricalRomance #WildHeartBooks

About the Book

Book: To Choose the Longshot

Author: Lisa M. Prysock

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: November 5, 2024

In a world where wealth and status reign, can true love prevail?

Miss Delia Lyndon, a young woman born into the prestigious Spencer-Lyndon family, is initially enamored with Thaddeus, the son of a prominent local stable owner, when he begins vying for her hand in marriage. She is keenly aware of how a union between the two families would seal their status as one of the most beloved couples from Lexington. However, when Jake, a handsome and charming newcomer, arrives on the scene, he catches her attention, casting doubts and fears in Delia’s heart. Torn between two suitors, Delia must navigate societal expectations, family pressure, and her own desires. Will she choose the man who seemingly has it all – wealth, charm, and a shared background in Kentucky’s elite circles – or will she follow her heart to the humble yet captivating Jake?

Jake Williams is determined to prove his worth in the competitive world of horse racing. Despite his humble beginnings as a farmer, he refuses to be intimidated by his rival’s malicious attempts to sabotage his chances, both on the racetrack and in winning Delia’s affections. With his trusted steed, Horizon, by his side, Jake faces each challenge head-on, guided by his unwavering faith.

When mysterious events begin occurring leading up to the annual Phoenix Stakes horse race, Delia must look beyond appearances and uncover the truth that lies beneath.

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About the Author

Lisa M. Prysock is a USA Today Bestselling Author who writes both Christian Historical Romance and Contemporary Christian Romance books—”Romance with a Dash of Food, Fashion, Faith, & Fun.” She writes both traditionally and indie published novels.

Kentucky inspires her writing and is home. Happily married to her husband of more than 24 years, she homeschooled two of their five children, now grown. When she isn’t writing, she likes to cross stitch, crochet, sew, scrapbook, read, swim, dance, take walks, travel, explore historical homes, garden, cook for her family, learn to play the piano and violin, and read great books.

 

More from Lisa

Hello Celebrate Lit Friends and Readers! I’m back to share a looksie at Book 2 from Kentucky Debutantes of the Gilded Age. I’ve really enjoyed my deep dive into all things Kentucky Derby and the world of horseracing in To Choose the Longshot.

Most of us have heard of Churchill Downs and Lexington’s Keeneland. But before Keeneland was the Lexington Association Racetrack. The annual spring race generally opened each year on that course with a featured race known as the Phoenix Stakes. It dates as far back in history as 1831! You can take a peek at the fascinating horse names of all the winners from 1831 to 2012, here. Of course, I’ve fictionalized names of winners and many events around the races in my series, but it’s fun to peek at real-life history when crafting our stories.

Leading up to and through the Gilded Age, the time period and setting of this series, the Phoenix race was generally sponsored by the Phoenix Hotel in Lexington. And more than Kentucky horseracing history, in Book 2, readers will get to come along for a glimpse at another course located in Baltimore, Maryland when the story takes our main characters to Pimlico. They referred to this track as the Old Hilltop in the early days of American horseracing history.

And atop Pimlico sits the famed weathervane. Did you know that painting the Preakness Stakes weathervane is a grand Pimlico tradition dating to 1909? The vane style is unique, commissioned by the Maryland Jockey Club, bearing the shape of a thoroughbred and jockey ever since the original arrow-shaped one was struck down by lightning. The new vane was christened by the colors of the silks carried by that year’s winner, Effendi.

I had a great deal of fun writing To Choose the Longshot starting with the very first page. The novel opens with a runaway bride! It’s always a wonder what makes a bride runaway, and my imagination went to work at once creating the situation that causes this bride so much consternation.

Readers get to learn more about Veronica’s sister in Book 2, Miss Delaney Lyndon. Everyone calls the shy and demure middle sister, Delia. And all of Lexington expects one of the Lyndon sisters to marry into the Sullivan family, since these two families are “Kentucky horseracing royalty.” But who will Delia choose to marry? Will she marry her handsome, wealthy, and daring beau, Thaddeus Sullivan, or will a rugged newcomer and underdog in their midst from the Adirondacks, Jake Williams, turn her head?

I cannot fail to mention that the beloved character of Aunt Mae from Book 1 makes an appearance in Book 2. She certainly has her hands full attempting to help Delia reach a decision about who she should marry, knowing it will impact the future of Velvet Brooks Farm for generations to come. But if anyone can help steer Delia to a decision, it’s Aunt Mae. As our heroine grapples with perceptions and tries to balance expectations with what’s in her heart, find out what happens next with a deeper look at the world of horseracing, sure to give horse enthusiasts plenty to cheer about.

Happy reading!

Blessings!

Lisa

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, November 19
lakesdielivingsite, November 20
Holly’s Book Corner, November 20
For Him and My Family, November 21
Texas Book-aholic, November 22
Locks, Hooks and Books, November 23
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 24
Labor Not in Vain, November 25
Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, November 26
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 27
Stories By Gina, November 28 (Author Interview)
Devoted To Hope, November 28
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 29
Books You Can Feel Good About, November 30
Simple Harvest Reads, December 1 (Guest Review from Donna)
Pause for Tales, December 2
Leslie’s Library Escape, December 2

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Lisa is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54102

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The Socialite by J'nell Ciesielski

This author has a special talent for weaving history and romance together in special characters. That special ability to bring people to life, and show what it was like to live back in time. This time WW2 in Paris, after the German occupation. Kat's sister got herself into Paris and was being kept by a German officer. She was an official organizer of parties for the social elite, a Brit bringing her social talents to the party and living it up to the hilt. Their father sent Kat to bring her home, his wealth and connections getting her into the area. He also hired Barrett to keep them safe, without her knowledge. The story is a balance of the horrors of Hitler and his elite officers and every day life in high social circles, until the shine started coming off, revealing the evil beneath. I don't think I breathed much for the entire last half of the book. I was on edge the whole time. Fabulous story, completely engaging!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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The Queen's Fortune by Allison Pataki

"It was a rotten time to be alive in France, a time of fear so thick you could smell it in the streets, you could see it in the faces of those who passed . . ."

Very interesting story of someone you've probably never heard of before - I know I hadn't. Desiree Clary as a young girl during the French revolution met Napoleon and his brother. In fact they saved her brother. The Clarys were a wealthy family at a time when that was a death sentence in France. The Bonapart family was not wealthy, but Napoleon felt called to greatness even at that early age. Desiree is a meek, beautiful girl whose life becomes entangled with Napoleon and his whole family as he rises to power and after. Her life is woven along with theirs and she holds great importance, then and now, through her dependents, yet her name is not a well known one. The history you remember comes to life - the author tells the story in amazing detail and the story is highly interesting right to the end. Not a quick read; one to savor. A strong woman who had to learn how to be strong. Strength and character need to be built sometimes.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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The Inn At Hidden Run by Olivia Newport

“Always happy to share my wisdom that the work will always be there later, but the moment is only here now.”

The first of a new series, skillfully written as always by Olivia Newport, expertly blending the present with past events. In smooth transitions, Mari fled her family and stops at the Inn in Colorado, where Jillian and her father Nolan connect with her. He is a lawyer and expert mediator, Jillian is a skilled genealogist who dives through history, going the extra mile to make a truly complete result for her customers. The back story of Eliza in Memphis in 1878, a wealthy socialite caught up in a yellow fever outbreak, is gently unfolded throughout. The significance of this is gradually revealed. A master of time transitions with an interesting current setting, including a search for the perfect coffee cup. Easy five star rating.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher and NetGalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have 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.”
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With You Always by Jody Hedlund

Part 1 of the Orphan Train series – Christian Historical Romance
This is another book that I can relate to because of my German and Irish heritage. You don’t usually hear as much about the German immigrants though. I know that my relatives were all bright and resourceful with a lot of talent. I can’t imagine how hard it was for them to get a start in this country, but I am grateful for them that they didn’t stay in New York City long, which is where this story is rooted. So few jobs and so much competition. Even the most talented were sometimes left to live on the streets. This is a heartrending story of immigrants in the 1850s – the poor just trying to stay alive and the rich building their fortunes. The characters are very endearing and most lifelike. The kind that become part of you and you want to continue reading about even after the story ends.

Elise can remember the old country where their family had to leave because of the local Baron who ruined their family baking business. In America, her father dies and they have to live with her Uncle, working as seamstresses. He cheats them and after her mother dies they are forced out on the street with nothing.  From there follows her journey, that of her siblings, friends and a wealthy socialite who gives up everything to help the homeless. And of course, Thornton, son of a wealthy man who sets up a competition between his twin sons to see who will gain control of the business when he dies.

Another book that I highly recommend and so want to read more about the others and what becomes of them. Great Christian message throughout of learning to trust in God.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the Bethany House Publishers - Netgalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have 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”. http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html

Description from the Publisher
When a financial crisis in 1850s New York leaves three orphaned sisters nearly destitute, the oldest, Elise Neumann, knows she must take action. She's had experience as a seamstress, and the New York Children's Aid Society has established a special service: placing out seamstresses and trade girls. Even though Elise doesn't want to leave her sisters for a job in Illinois, she realizes this may be their last chance.

The son of one of New York City's wealthiest entrepreneurs, Thornton Quincy faces a dilemma. His father is dying, and in order to decide which of his sons will inherit everything, he is requiring them to do two things in six months: build a sustainable town along the Illinois Central Railroad, and get married. Thornton is tired of standing in his twin brother's shadow and is determined to win his father's challenge. He doesn't plan on meeting a feisty young woman on his way west, though.

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