Dawn at Emberwilde by Sarah E. Ladd

Christian Historical fiction – England early 1800’s

As a young child, after her mother died Isabel was left at the Fellsworth School. She was still there when her father died and her sister joined her. Later a teacher, she never expected to leave unless as a governess. One day a visitor comes to tell her that she has an Aunt, who brings her and her sister to live with them at their mansion. But all is not as it seems.

Her Aunt and Uncle expect her to enter society and marry well. Isabel isn’t even used to talking to men, and now has two she interacts with. Quite a different life than what she had expected. Still it is exciting with all the dresses and parties. Always fond of gardens and outdoors, there’s a forest alongside the estate, but even though she is drawn there she’s been warned to stay away. Conflicting advice from her Aunt, Uncle, Cousin and suitors makes things difficult, and as time goes by she uncovers more secrets and realizes how little she really knew about her mother.  Lessons in self-worth and faith in God’s influence and guidance throughout.  

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the Thomas Nelson Publishers and The BookLook Bloggers Team. 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 “GuidesConcerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”. 

Description from Publisher

Isabel Creston never dared to dream that love could be hers. Now, at the edge of a forest filled with dark secrets, she faces a fateful choice between love and duty.

For as long as she can remember, beautiful and free-spirited Isabel has strained against the rules and rigidity of the Fellsworth School in the rolling English countryside. No longer a student, Isabel set her sights on a steady yet unexciting role as a teacher at the school, a safe yet stifling establishment that would provide her a steady environment to care for her younger sister Lizzie, who was left in her care after her father's death.

The unexpected arrival of a striking stranger with news of unknown relatives turns Isabel's small, predictable world upside down, sweeping her and her young charge into a labyrinth of intrigue and hidden motives.

At her new family's invitation, Isabel and Lizzie relocate to Emberwilde, a sprawling estate adjacent to a vast, mysterious wood rife with mysterious rumors and ominous folklore—along with whispers of something far more sinister. And perhaps even more startling, two handsome men begin pursuing Isabel, forcing her to learn the delicate dance between attraction, the intricate rules of courtship, and the hopes of her heart.

At Emberwilde, Isabel will discover that the key to unlocking the mystery of her past may also open the door to her future and security. But first she must find it—in the depths of Emberwilde Forest.

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Embroidered Garden Flowers, Botanical Motifs for Needle and Thread by Kazuko Aoki

Beautiful book. Great photos and detailed information about the basics of embroidery. So many flowers with excellent detail. I like the way that the patterns are given, with a picture of the flower and the type of stitch near each area. The thing I would change is to have the picture of the embroidered flower next to the pattern so that you don’t have to flip back and forth.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher Roost Books 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.”

Description from the Publisher:
Featuring 63 plants, this collection of embroidered flower motifs was inspired by a year of studying the garden. Beginning with the spring and going through the late autumn, the flower varieties presented here are presented with care and realistic detail. With beautiful color combinations, wonderful texture, and a studied but artful expression, this is an exquisite guide for those who love flowers and embroidery, and for those who want to share in the pleasures to be found with fabric and needle.

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To Walk In Sunshine by Sally Laity

Christian Historical Romance set in the 1920s. I grew up near Wilkes-Barre, PA where the story is set. It’s a nice, rural area. As you drive through the area you can still see steam and smoke coming up through breaks in the ground from underground fires in the old mines.  This is a story of differences in race and culture among immigrant communities, intolerance and profiling.  A member of the “gypsy” community, Rosalind who is a Lebanese girl rides with her Grandfather, a peddler in the area. When searching in the woods for medicinal plants for her Grandmother, she meets Ken, who is a miner who comes there to read his bible and relax. They sit and talk each time they meet, learning about each other. Ken has been raised as a Christian and shares his faith and teaching with Rosalind. She learns that he is a man who will respect and honor her, unlike the man from her community who wants to marry her.  When they get closer they find that neither family will accept them as a couple. A great example of Christian faith and trusting in God.  

 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the Barbour Publishing - 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

Enjoy an historical romance from author Sally Laity as you journey into coal mining country of 1920s Pennsylvania. Ken Roberts, a coal miner, and Rosalind Gilbran, a Lebanese immigrant, develop a friendship that is forbidden by her Old World family. Also includes a bonus novel, The Train Stops Here by Gail Sattler, in which cultures clash between a hobo and the daughter of a man charged with sweeping the trains of freeloaders. 

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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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The Pattern Artist by Nancy Moser

Are you creative?

If you are, you have a sort of craving in you to create. You search and go towards things and situations guided by that craving. It may not be something that you conscientiously do, but it does drive you. So you can understand what is behind the decisions that Annie Wood makes. It's neat that Annie doesn't have a very good opinion of herself, yet everything in the story happens because of her and she is gradually shown her strength and worth. If you enjoy fabric you know what a beautiful piece of silk is like. Beautiful and flowing, with many highlights and some shadows. This book is a bit like that. The stretching and self discovery of a young lady in 1911 who comes from a very negative English family, gets a position as a servant to get away and discovers her God given talent. And was discovered because of that talent.

I am blessed to receive several books to read, and they often get backed up as new ones come along. That happened with this book, it got pushed back and I didn't see it. Things in life happen for a reason, and I read this just when I was supposed to. It's fascinating with God's word how He sends the message that you need to receive, and your eyes are opened to your answer. From Annie's friend Edna: "The Almighty is working all around you if you just open your eyes. He's waiting for you to notice Him" . . . From Sean, Annie's beau: ". . . I need to pray for direction, be aware of the nudges the Almighty sends me, and act on those nudges to the best of my ability. If I'm on the right path, I feel a sense of peace."

I highly recommend this book. It has a good Christian message throughout, with a plot that has everything - engaging characters, rich and poor, triumph, struggle and pain. Plus a satisfying romance and interesting historical facts about the pattern making and fashion industry. Please author Nancy Moser continue the story and tell us what becomes of Annie, Sean and her friends later in life. There are stories there that need to be told (and read)! I am a new fan. This is so well written it's like a movie. Now I will have to search out the other books that this is in tangent with!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the Barbour Publishing - 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.” .

Description from the Publisher:
Born into a life of hard work, English housemaid Annie Wood arrives in New York City in 1911 with her wealthy mistress. Wide-eyed with the possibilities America has to offer, Annie wonders if there’s more for her than a life of service. Annie chooses to risk everything, taps into courage she never knew she had, and goes off on her own, finding employment in the sewing department at Macy’s. While at Macy’s Annie catches the eye of a salesman at the Butterick Pattern Company. Through determination, hard work, and God’s leading, Annie discovers a hidden gift: she is a talented fashion designer—a pattern artist of the highest degree. As she runs from ghosts of the past and focuses on the future, Annie enters a creative world that takes her to the fashion houses of Paris and into a life of adventure, purpose, and love.


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Behind The Scenes by Jen Turano

Hilarious action packed fun that pulls on your heartstrings. A delightful Cinderella-esque story with a special young lady you're sure to love. (Christian Historical Romance) Miss Permilia Griswold grew up with her father at his mines. Because of this upbringing she acquired special talents and a no-nonsense view on life. A new Stepmother leads her father to believe that since they are a wealthy family Permilia should be introduced to and take her place in Society. As you can imagine it was not an easy fit - and she was relegated to Wallflower status.  Which was actually an advantage since she also has a soft heart and needs to earn money to help support her charity. Wait - she's from a wealthy family but has to earn money? That's some Stepmother she has - treating Permilia badly behind her father's back, yet elevating her own daughter. We need a hero!

Asher is a handsome business man who is quite comfortable in Society, but if they were aware of his family's financial situation they might not be so welcoming. He also realizes that he is a bit of a Dandy.

Stir in mystery, a murder attempt and madcap supporting characters in fast paced action. Did I mention Permillia's fabulous fashion taste and affinity for bargain shopping? Who did you think the hero was going to be?

I've said it before and I'll say it again - Cheer up! Read a Jen Turano book.

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”.

From the Publisher:
Start of a Delightful New Series from Historical Romance Author Jen Turano

Miss Permilia Griswold may have been given the opportunity of a debut into New York high society, but no one warned her she wasn't guaranteed to "take." After spending the last six years banished to the wallflower section of the ballroom, she's finally putting her status on the fringes of society to good use by penning anonymous society gossip columns under the pseudonym "Miss Quill."

Mr. Asher Rutherford has managed to maintain his status as a reputable gentleman of society despite opening his own department store. While pretending it's simply a lark to fill his time, he has quite legitimate reasons for needing to make his store the most successful in the country.
When Permilia overhears a threat against the estimable Mr. Rutherford, she's determined to find and warn the man. Disgruntled at a first meeting that goes quite poorly and results in Asher not believing her, she decides to take matters into her own hands, never realizing she'll end up at risk as well.

As Asher and Permilia are forced to work together and spend time away from the spotlight of society, perhaps there's more going on behind the scenes than they ever could have anticipated. . . .


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