After A Fashion (A Class of Their Own Book #1) by Jen Turano

Another delightful, nonstop, madcap and mayhem story by Jen Turano! Kind of a cross between the Thin Man and Cinderella, only without the murder, it's a Christian Historical Romance set in 1882 New York City.

Harriet, who is actually very talented, is currently working in a hat shop. She also redesigns cast-off clothes from the wealthy for herself, and has quite a flair. And she's beautiful. She's asked to make a delivery of hats to the home of one of the wealthiest men in America, and thus starts the story. There is never a dull moment as turn by turn of events has her agreeing to accompany Oliver to a dinner with the Duke of Westmoore. Of course none of this goes smoothly, and it's hilarious all the way through. There's also the influence of a Reverend Gilmore on both Oliver and Harriet, keeping it grounded in faith.  This is such a satisfying read. If you want to lift someone's spirits, give them this book! It looks like it's the first in a series - I'm really looking forward to the next one.  Isn't that a great cover?

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Baker Publishing Group, Bethany House and the 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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The Last Heiress by Mary Ellis

Upper class, lower class, slaves - does social status matter during a war? Or when you're in love?

This is an excellent Christian Historical Romance set during the Civil War, representing points of view from England as well as America.  From a personal view as well as a mercenary view, how people live, who they depend on. It's apparent that the author did a lot of research. There was nothing simple about the Civil War, and that depth is brought to this story.

Amanda's family owns textile mills in England. Her twin sister has already moved to America, so it addresses two issues for Amanda to sail over as well. The textile mills desperately need cotton, and have been supplied by her sister's husband and his family business for some time. But with war starting up, the cotton hasn't been coming in as expected. It's essential to their business and their lifestyle that the shipments come in on a regular basis, affecting the lives of the workers as well.

After arriving in America Amanda meets Nathaniel, who is a merchant near her sister's house. He's from the hills of Tennessee, looking for a better life.  And there's more to him than meets the eye.

During a war skills to live and personal integrity come into play on a daily basis. Secrets can be essential.  These characters find that social status does not make a difference when it comes right down to their families and staying alive. But trusting in God and doing the right thing will always see you through.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Harvest House Publishers and the 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.

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Anna’s Crossing by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Loved this book and the cover! Based on several true facts, a Christian Historical Romance set in 1737 on the ship Charming Nancy. Some of my ancestors sailed over from Germany in 1905, so I had a strong interest in this book, but my family came over on a passenger ship - a much different experience than in this story.

Anna's minister insists that she go with the Amish group from her village that is traveling from Ixheim, Germany to America, because she knows English and can translate for everyone. She doesn't want to leave her Grandparents, but will do as she's asked, digging up her rose to take with her.  In addition it is beneficial to escape the reach of the nearby Baron who wants to destroy a family in their community, which affects them all. Anna is a very caring person with a strong faith.

Bairn is a young man who has been on a ship with the beloved Captain and his brother, also a Captain, since he was a young boy. Very ambitious, he's on the right track for promotion and earning great wealth - important goals for him.  Then they transport this group of German Amish and Mennonite passengers to America and he's forced to face some difficult things, including his tragic past and lack of faith.

What detail! I'm not sure how Suzanne knew what it was like to be on a ship back then, but it is a very real and intricate account of life during this voyage.  Richly told, the story is intricately woven; an amazing story of courage, salvation and love for others that's hard to put down.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Revell and the 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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The Creole Princess by Beth White

Fast paced Christian Historical Romance starting in 1776 on the Gulf Coast, with the American Revolution and the struggle between the British, Spanish and Americans for the area. From the book's review: '...along the eastern seaboard the American struggle for independence rages. But in the British-held southern port of Mobile, Alabama, the conflict brewing is much quieter--though no less deadly.'

This book had me in the opening chapter, with 16 year old Lyse dancing on bare feet along the wharf with a crab bucket, face lifted, imagining herself in a ball gown and walking into a castle in high heeled slippers, orchestra playing, dancing with a duke. When a real-time creep breaks the dream, she pulls her knife from her bodice, drops the bucket and goes after him. And then proceeds to remove all the silver buttons from Rafa's waistcoat when he tries to assist. Their interaction throughout the book is such a pleasure to read, and you have to love them both.

There are secrets to Lyse's heritage which are revealed, and reactions to it from people in the society which she had been brought into. And Rafa is not who he seems. Also revealed is the personal struggle each character has with their family, friends, community and  upbringing, and the new thought of the Revolution, that all men are created equal under God.

This is very well written and is sure to become a favorite. I know that I hated to see the book end, and would like to see what becomes of everyone as time goes on! I really didn't want to let go. And I didn't realize that it was book two in the series until after I'd read it - so it's not necessary to read book one in order to get this one. Great cover, beautifully done. Quotes from book: : "...brave and persistent and very clever. Those things she was determined to be, God willing." "She'd always prayed in time of crisis. And her life had been one crisis after the another.Surely there were calluses on her knees."

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Baker Publishing Group, Revell and the 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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Skinny: She was starving to fit in... (False Reflections Book 1) by Laura L. Smith

This book looks interesting - I've put it on my "to read" list. I was very very thin as a teenager - in fact I was ridiculed for it - so I can't say that I would understand wanting to be really thin. But I'm sure that's one of the points made in this book. And things are different now than when I was a teen.

It's free right now, so grab it!

Here's their review:
The 'need' to be thin continues to plague American girls, and Laura Smith tackles this tough topic in her debut teen novel with thoughtfulness and style. Girls are going to relate to Melissa and her struggle to 'look good.' --Melody Carlson - author of Grace Unplugged and Diary of a Teenage Girl series

A real story for real girls. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by schoolwork, relationships, your friends, or activities, you need to read this book. --Heather Gemmen Wilson - Best Selling Author

Melissa is a vibrant teen who teaches readers signs of an eating disorder and the value of spirituality in working through the treatment. Skinny is powerful because it heightens the awareness of eating disorders--the key to early diagnosis and treatment, which translates to improved adolescent wellness. Thank you, Ms. Smith, for empowering young women! --Dr. Michelle Naegele

Adolescent readers will appreciate this true-to-life account of the ambivalence, pain, and emotional struggle of living with an eating disorder. The seemingly 'normal' drive to achieve, win the favor of a young man, and please one's parents is captured in a readable text that does not underplay the real consequences and health risks that accompany eating disorders. The importance of spiritual connection, not always portrayed in similar stories, is an added bonus. --Julie Campbell-Ruggaard - PhD, LPCC, RN

From the Back Cover
Teenager Melissa Rollins seems to have it all, and now she’s got the eye of the cute new guy in school, Beau Pointreaux. The one thing Melissa doesn’t have is a perfect body. There are ways to fix that, though.

Strict dieting and throwing up can’t be all bad, can they? Melissa soon finds the consequences are devastating, but turning back isn’t so easy. Will she hear God’s voice before it’s too late?

The link on Kindle is here: http://www.amazon.com/Skinny-starving...

Hope you like it!

Dauntless (Valiant Hearts) (Volume 1) by Dina L. Sleiman

I seem to be reading books within a theme - mostly about strong women. This is another and is geared towards young adults - but I really enjoyed it even though I'm old.  I have always liked tales of Robin Hood and the idea of living off the land. When I was younger I spent many, many enjoyable hours in the woods near our home.

Lady Merry Ellison, daughter of a Baron who tried to assassinate the King, has been forced to live and hide in the forest after the King tried to wipe out their entire village. But Merry and the children from the village were hidden away before the Kings' men came through. After they were gone it was up to Merry to feed, clothe and take care of everyone - and continue to keep them hidden from the revengeful King. She had learned aerobatic tumbling skills from a young age and to live in the forest - strength, anonymity and restraint mottoes foremost - so she was well equipped to lead this young band. But sometimes they needed to take from the rich to survive.

Merry's friend Timothy Grey, the ninth son of a Baron, grew up with her and shared the same motto and skills. He was betrothed to Merry, but Timothy's family did not join with Merry's father in the assassination attempt and stayed on the good side of the King. Timothy thought Merry was killed long ago. In time since he longed to do something magnificent to earn a title of his own, as he was far down the line in his own family.  Capturing "The Ghosts of Farthingale Forest" would impress the nobility and give him a chance of his own. Little did he know who those "ghosts" were.

This is the story of how Merry and Timothy find each other again, and the struggle to survive and do what is right, no matter the danger. Definitely a great read, pulls on your heartstrings and has deep roots in faith. Highly recommended! I really liked the cover too. Dina L. Sleiman is a new author to me, and can add me to her fan list. I'm looking forward to more in the series.

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”.

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