The Secrets of Emberwild by author Stephenia H. McGee is a Christian historical novel that includes something for everyone. If you love horses and history along with mystery, adventure, danger, romance, inspiration, or twists and turns, you will not want to miss this fabulous book. It also will give you a taste of southern hospitality.
This is the story of Nora, an independent, sassy young lady that resides on a horse farm. Her desire is to race and train horses. It is also the story of Silas, a horse trainer looking for his father’s killer from fifteen years ago.
Set in 1905 at Mississippi’s Emberwild Horse Farm, the story focuses on Nora and her family. She has a passion for horses, but her family believes she should be a proper lady and leave the training and racing of horses to men. Nora loves her family, but disagrees with them on this. She is excellent with the horses and the only one that can handle the spirited one named Arrow.
At the beginning of this novel, Nora’s father tells Nora a secret as he is dying. Her Uncle Amos goes to them and announces that everything has been left to him so that he can take care of her mother. Things are changing and confusing so Nora decides to find out what the truth really is.
The author has done an excellent job with this story. The characters are relatable and easy to like. There are some surprises that will keep readers on their toes. The information on southern horse farms and horse racing was very well written. It is obvious the author did her research well.
For me, I thought the insight into what was allowed women during this era was eye-opening. I loved Nora’s grit and determination. It was fun learning about harness racing. Living near Louisville, Kentucky with Kentucky grandparents, I have an appreciation for beautiful racehorses. It was nice to glean more information on them. My only complaint is that the Christian inspirational message was very weak and skimpy. I like Christian books to have the inspirational message strongly present.
I was invested in the story and characters within the first couple of chapters. The more I read, the faster I turned the pages. I was eager to see what could happen next. It is a very good book, and I highly recommend it. I give it a 5 star rating. A copy was provided by the publisher and Net Galley, but these are my honest words.
After our Castle by author Kellyn Roth is a Christian historical novel. This is Book 6 in the Chronicles of Alice and Ivy Series. Even though it is Book 6, it could easily be read as a stand alone.
I have read the other books in this series and can say with certainty that each one only gets better. The author has a wonderful style of writing that touches me and has me invested easily in the characters and their stories. In my opinion this book is geared more toward mature and perhaps married readers due to subject matter.
Ivy seemed more confident than in the earlier books. Violet struggled with mental issues. Alice was wonderful, and Jordy was a mess. The characters are eccentric, quaint, and like old friends. The author writes them into readers’ hearts.
I was surprised by the subject matter and messages. The author did warn that the book had adult content concerning a married couple, a depressed woman, and babies. I thought it was all very well handled. Issues such as family planning and birth control were a surprise for me but handled nicely. Christian messages were sprinkled throughout the story. Hearing from God was one of my favorite parts of this book.
I highly recommend this book to mature readers. It would be great for a Women’s Reading Group. In fact, I recommend the entire series. This novel gets a 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but these are my honest words.
About the Book
Book: After Our Castle
Author: Kellyn Roth
Genre: Historical Women’s Fiction
Release date: October, 2022
A year into a blissfully happy marriage, Violet Angel admits to a dose of skepticism. She’s not married, granted—but as the closest friend of the bride and groom, she feels she has a perspective no one but the people directly involved could have. There’s no such thing as a happy ending, and it’s only a matter of time before the castle in the sky plummets to earth.
If only Violet were always wrong instead of just mostly wrong. Ivy McAllen doesn’t believe she and her new husband are out of the honeymoon period—if they are, she isn’t going to admit it to herself—but there are certainly areas of adjustment that she hadn’t expected.
Changes at the village of Keefmore and in Ivy’s life lead to complications, and Violet spirals further and further from reality. When a castle in the sky turns to be more cloud than stronghold, finding a foothold proves to be more than a little difficult.
Kellyn Roth is a historical romance & women’s fiction author who writes about the empty places where hope has the most room to grow. Her novels include the inspirational Victorian family saga, The Chronicles of Alice and Ivy, and the Kees & Colliers series, which follows a broken family in the tumultuous years of the first half of the 20th century.
Kellyn is a student of the Author Conservatory and a writing coach. When not building her author career, she is likely getting lost somewhere in the Pacific Northwest with her friends, watching period dramas and facetious comedies, or spending time with her husband.
More from Kellyn
After Our Castle was a book I didn’t think I would ever write. Oh, I considered writing a short story or two about the early years of Ivy and Jordy’s marriage, yes, but it wasn’t until last year that I decided that I would write a full-length novel.
Why did I hesitate? I’m writing a family saga, after all, and I plan on covering every stage of my characters’ lives in the 10+ books I’m planning (this being book 6). Well, I didn’t think there was anything to be discussed about Ivy and Jordy’s early married days, as there was with my other book couple, Alice and Peter. Nothing interesting, I thought, happens until 1890, eight years into their union. So why write about anything before then?
Then I realized just how much backstory I was packing into that book. And I realized that, for my writing style, there are so many little things that can add up into a book. And that became the story that is After Our Castle.
The novel wasn’t an easy one to write. It required a lot of subtlety and doesn’t precisely have the most perfect ending. But I knew, if I wanted to set up book 8, I would have to write the novel this way.
So here we go. Another book I wasn’t sure about–but that careful writing and even more careful editing, along with a lot of prayer, have turned into a story I’m actually rather proud of.
Jeanette’s Gift by author Blossom Turner is Book 5 in the Christian historical Shenandoah Brides series. Even though it is Book 5, it may easily be read as a stand alone. It was by far my favorite book in the series, and I have loved them all.
This is the story of Jeanette. She is a schoolteacher with a heart meant to help and love children. She is the youngest of five sisters and has always felt less pretty and desirable than her four sisters. It is also the story of Theo. He is a widower with six children. He has moved back to the small community and does not want help from anyone.
Author Turner has written a stunning novel that had me captivated in the lives of her characters. I love books written in the late 1800s and this one is no exception. The dialog sounded authentic. Descriptions swept me away to that time in the Shenandoah Valley, and I was mesmerized by the brilliant writing. Immediately after starting the book, I became invested in the story and characters.
This page-turning novel was filled with heartfelt moments and inspirational messages. It would make a lovely movie. Jeanette was the children’s teacher and only wanted to help them, but Theo had been through some rough things and had trouble trusting.
I love the life and spiritual messages sprinkled throughout the book. The romance was lovely, and the children delightful. I highly recommend this book. It gets a 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but these are my honest words.
About the Book
Book: Jeanette’s Gift
Author: Blossom Turner
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Release date: October 11, 2022
This life wasn’t the one she dreamed of, but happily ever afters don’t always come when and how we expect.
At twenty-nine, Jeanette Williams has watched each one of her four sisters marry and start families of their own. It’s hard not to believe God has forgotten the desires of her heart, especially when most people refer to her as Spinster Williams. Without the beautiful children she teaches, life would be unbearably lonely.
When the handsome widower, Theo Wallace, and his six children move into the Shenandoah Valley, every available woman is atwitter—except for Jeanette. She has no such aspirations that someone as plain as her could draw even a smattering of interest.
As life throws this unlikely couple together, Jeanette can’t help but fall in love with Theo’s children and their soul-wrenching plight. Before she knows it, her heart is far more invested than she could’ve ever imagined. And not just with the children, but with their handsome father as well. Is she headed for another heartbreak, or is it possible God had a beautiful plan in the works all along?
Blossom Turner is a freelance writer published in Chicken Soup and Kernels of Hope anthologies, former newspaper columnist on health and fitness, an avid blogger and published novelist of the Word Guild semi-finalist Anna’s Secret. However, she has found her home in the writing of historical fiction. The power of love and romance is authentically woven into the Shenandoah Bride Series about five sisters and their love stories. She and her husband, David, have two grown children and live in beautiful British Columbia, Canada. Read more at blossomturner.com.
More from Blossom
Do You Enjoy Romance That Keeps You Thinking Days Later?
Long before I knew I could write, I loved to read. Being a hopeless romantic I gravitated to all romance stories either contemporary or historical. I soon realized that finding clean fiction but still written with the passion God created us to experience, was hard to find. (Song of Solomon is a good example of the expression of passion and love between a man and woman without being explicit.)
Given the gift of a writing career later in life one thing was for sure…I wanted to write what I like to read. Clean romance does not need to be boring. As each story pours out, I realize that writing historical fiction is my passion. I finally know what I was born to do. The Shenandoah Brides is a series of five sisters and their five love stories. Oct. 11, 2022 is launch day for the final book in the series called Jeanette’s Gift.
Each book has a redeeming theme. Katherine’s Arrangement, set in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley, post-civil war, speaks on how to love the way 1 Corinthians encourages, even when marriage (Katherine’s is an arranged marriage) has proven to be very disappointing. The second book Amelia’s Heartsong, situated in Richmond, Virginia illustrates how love transcends the pomp and circumstance of class and money and encourages us to view others the way God does. The third book, Lucinda’s Defender unfolds back in the valley, and speaks of how our greatest mistake does not have to define our future. A message on second chances encourages the soul. The fourth book, Gracie’s Surrender once again set in Richmond, speaks of a life dedicated to the ministry of God helping the underprivileged orphans. Gracie learns that God can upset even our best intentions with a better plan.
However, the message for this fifth book, Jeanette’s Gift, is a subject so near and dear to my heart. Growing up in an environment that tore me down instead of build me up, proved to be invaluable in writing on this subject. The theme of this book—healing from low self-worth—is a topic that many will relate to.
Jeanette suffers from low self-worth and believes God has forgotten her. A very valuable process unfolds with truth and techniques that work today. Jeanette learns to accept that how life unfolds is up to the sovereignty of God, and He can be trusted. She also breathes in the truth of how she is, indeed, fearfully and wonderfully made.
My prayer is that as Jeanette grows toward healing in the story, that any reader suffering in this same way will embrace the steps on how to break this vicious cycle. I know from first-hand experience healing is possible, and I long to get that message out there.
Although this book can easily be read as a stand-alone, enjoying the whole series as the family saga unfolds will deepen the experience.
I sincerely hope you enjoy the read as much as I enjoyed the write. I love to hear from my readers. Contact me at http://blossomturner.com
Anything but Plain by award winning author, wordsmith extraordinaire, Suzanne Woods Fisher is a contemporary Amish Christian novel that is beautifully written and emotionally charged. I was immediately involved in the story and the lives of the characters.
There is so much to love about this book beginning with the information I gleaned from it. The author took on some huge family and life issues and dealt with them exemplary. From contrary family members to medical disorders this book had beautiful suggestions for resolutions. It even dealt with lying, making poor choices, using people, reconciliation, and forgiveness.
This is the story of Bishop David’s daughter, Lydia Stoltzfus, a nineteen year old unmarried girl. She seems to be an accident waiting to happen and is usually late wherever she goes. She and her neighbor, Nathan Yoder, also nineteen years old, have a special friendship. He wants to be an organic farmer, but is met with resistance from his father and brother.
Author Fisher has done extensive research in preparing for this book. I learned a lot about Lydie’s disorder, family reconciliation, and gardening/farming. This entire novel was so interesting and entertaining at the same time. There are so many interesting subplots that this was a real page turner. I had trouble putting it down because I wanted to see what would happen next. When it was over I still wanted more! I loved the story and characters that much.
At the beginning of the book, there is a listing of characters with a little about them. After the story are discussion questions, author notes, and recommended resources for additional help on Lydie’s medical disorder. I highly recommend this amazing book. It gets a 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided by the publisher, but these are my honest words.
About the Book
Book: Anything But Plain
Author: Suzanne Woods Fisher
Genre: Amish fiction
Release date: October 4, 2022
It’s not easy being the bishop’s daughter, especially for Lydie Stoltzfus. She’s not like other Amish girls, as much as she wishes she were. The only thing she does well is disappoint others. Leaving her family and church seems unbearable, but staying might be worse.
Knowing Lydie is “between” jobs, the local doctor asks her to fill in at the front desk for a few months. To Lydie, this is a boon. It gives her time to figure out how she’s going to say goodbye to her neighbor, Nathan Yoder–the main reason she needs to leave Stoney Ridge. Nathan claims he’s in love with her, but she knows she’s not good enough for him. If in doubt, Nathan’s father reminds her frequently.
As Dok spends time with Lydie, she recognizes symptoms of an uncommon disorder among the Amish. She offers treatment for Lydie. But will it be enough to make her stay? Or has help come too late?
Suzanne Woods Fisher is a Christy finalist, a Carol Award winner, a two-time ECPA Book of the Year finalist, and the Publishers Weekly, ECPA, CBA, bestselling author of more than thirty books. Her genres include contemporary and historical romances, Amish romance, and women’s fiction. She and her husband live in a small town in California, where everyone knows everyone else, knows what they are doing and why. Most folks act a little nervous around Suzanne because they usually wind up in one of her novels. She has four grown children and enough grandchildren to keep her young. Visit Suzanne at www.suzannewoodsfisher.com
More from Suzanne
Easily Distracted? 8 Strategies to Help Stay Focused
Anything but Plain is a story about a young Amish woman with undiagnosed ADHD. Lydie Stoltzfus feels like a square peg in a round hole. She just doesn’t fit in and, to make matters worse, she’s the bishop’s daughter. At this point, the only path forward she can see is to leave Stoney Ridge. Leave her church, her friends, her family, her neighbor Nathan Yoder. It’s better to leave, Lydie decides, than to keep disappointing everyone she cares about. I won’t say anymore so that I don’t spoil the story for you.
ADHD is not a common diagnosis among the Amish and many might assume it’s not a real thing. Of course, they’re mistaken. ADHD is a real thing. While I don’t have ADHD, I do have many friends and family members who have been diagnosed. It’s challenging! And something we should all take seriously. Here’s why:
Evidence is mounting that a growing dependence on digital devices could be giving all of us some ADHD-like symptoms. Have you wondered if distractibility is becoming a problem for you? Or has a spouse or child or friend remarked on how often you pick up your phone to check a text message or scroll Instagram? You might remain physically present but your mind has wandered away. For me, the answer is, regrettably, yes.
There’s a recurring phrase in Anything but Plain that comes from an old-fashioned farming term: Walking the beans. Literally, it means weeding by hand. Figuratively, it means paying attention to our priorities. To pull the weeds before they take root.
One of the takeaway lessons of this book is to “walk the beans” of technology’s role in my life. So…I’ve been working on a few strategies. When I practice, I see a difference. Life is calmer. More manageable.
So…I wanted to pass these tips along to you. (If you have little children, these might not work for you. Not when your little ones are awake, anyway.) Hopefully, you’ll find them to be useful, and maybe spark some strategies of your own.
Make a plan. I start the day with an index card and write down the day’s priorities. And I check off tasks as I finish them!
Go off-line. Create an environment that helps you stay focused. Turn your cell phone to silent. If working on the computer, close your email app. Put yourself in distraction-free mode until you’re accomplished what you need to do
Finish one task before moving on to the next. Even little tasks.
Distractibility is at its peak during transitions. Build in margin. For example, arrive a few minutes early instead of rushing in a few minutes late.
When distractions are high, make tasks smaller and break down your large projects into smaller tasks to help you concentrate and give you a sense of accomplishment and progress.
When I’m facing a big task, I’ll break it down into smaller, more manageable pieces.
Set a deadline for a task. Beat the clock! Use a timer.
Rewards! When I beat the clock, I’ll take a break from computer work and pop up to the garden, text a friend, walk the dog. Something that feels good.
“Forgotten Memories” by author Penny Zeller is a Christian western historical romance novel. It is the first book in the author’s new Wyoming Sunrise Series. This was an excellent tale of faith, love, trust, and forgiveness. I was captivated.
Set in 1870’s Wyoming Territory, this is the story of Annie and Caleb. She has bad memories of being on the wagon train where she was robbed. Annie now teaches school in Willow Falls.
Caleb comes into town and immediately sparks fly between him and Annie. As times goes by and they become closer, Caleb realizes he has a secret that if discovered might ruin their relationship.
I love the way author Zeller writes. It is detailed enough to make me feel like I am in a time and place that I’ve never been without being boring. Her characters are genuine and become like friends as I became invested in them and their stories. Conversations sounded authentic for the time period. I wanted to keep reading to see what would happen.
There were many life lessons woven throughout this novel. Lessons on love, trust, hope, and forgiveness beautifully written. There are Christian messages of God’s love, forgiveness, and always faithfully being with us sprinkled within this thoughtful tale.
I highly recommend this historical romance. It is something that will stay with you and give you much to ponder. I rate it 5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but these are my honest words.
About the Book
Book: Forgotten Memories
Author: Penny Zeller
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Release date: August 30, 2022
Some memories are best forgotten…
The Wyoming Territory is rife with lawlessness and disorder, something Annie Ledbetter and her parents discover when their wagon train is robbed. Seven years later, Annie settles into her lifelong dream as a teacher in the small town of Willow Falls. When she meets handsome rancher Caleb Eliason through a humorous misunderstanding, she is quickly drawn to his kind heart and charming smile.
Former outlaw Caleb Eliason embraces his chance at a fresh start. Gone are the days of robbing stagecoaches and wagon trains. When he falls in love with the new Willow Falls teacher, he doesn’t realize they’ve met before—under much different circumstances. When his past comes to light, will it put the growing love between them at risk?
Can forgiveness and redemption heal two broken hearts or will the past keep them from sharing a future?
Penny Zeller is known for her heartfelt stories of faith and her passion to impact lives for Christ through fiction. While she has had a love for writing since childhood, she began her adult writing career penning articles for national and regional publications on a wide variety of topics.
Today Penny is the author of over a dozen books. She is also a homeschool mom and a group fitness instructor. Her desire is to assist and nurture women into a closer relationship with Christ.
When Penny is not dreaming up new characters, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters, and camping, hiking, canoeing, reading, running, gardening, and playing volleyball.
I am often asked how I come up with ideas for my books.
Many different things inspire my plots. One inspiration comes from real-life stories. For instance, today our local librarian told me how her family homesteaded in our town in 1881. Of course, I had a million questions. I am also inspired by photographs, people-watching, and sometimes I will hear from readers about a story they’d like to read. I have often joked that I will need to be at least 102 to write down all the stories percolating in my mind.
The idea for Forgotten Memories came from reading about a mail-order bride named Eleanor. Eleanor answered an advertisement from a man named Louis, and after a time of written correspondence, they eventually made plans to marry. During the journey to meet her soon-to-be husband, Eleanor’s stagecoach was robbed. After obeying her request to hand Eleanor her trousseau, the robbers blew up the stagecoach and rode away with their loot.
When the time to be wed arrived, Louis recognized Eleanor immediately. Only later, when Eleanor and Louis were preparing to sign the marriage license, did Eleanor recognize him as the robber due to his voice and a discernable scar. Louis fled and rode off without a word, leaving Eleanor with a broken heart.
After reading Eleanor’s story, my imagination wandered and what-ifs filled my mind. What if something similar happened to a character who, years later, fell in love with a man who robbed her? What would happen when the truth was discovered? Was there any hope for a happily-ever-after?
Ezekiel’s Song by author Naomi Craig is an exquisite historical Biblical fiction taken from the Old Testament. It is beautifully done and makes the Bible come to life. Biblical fiction is my favorite genre when done correctly, and this book is.
This book takes us to Jerusalem in 604BC as we learn about Ezekiel, a struggling prophet, and his wife, whom the author has named Shiriel. This was a well thought, well researched, and extremely well written book. It is based on scripture and easy to understand. Each chapter begins with a Bible verse, which made it nice for cross referencing.
There is so much packed into this novel. It has topics of worship, trust, forgiveness, obedience, love, working together, and hope. I doubt I was able to absorb everything this phenomenal book offered. It has stayed with me and been in my thoughts for days. I will definitely read it again.
I highly recommend this for fans of biblical fiction. It would be great for a study group. There is so much to ponder and discuss. Author Craig did a masterful job. I rated this captivating book 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my honest words.
About the Book
Book: Ezekiel’s Song
Author: Naomi Craig
Genre: Biblical Fiction
Release date: August 16, 2022
A prophet’s heart broken, a woman’s joy gone. What does Yahweh have planned for His people?
On the brink of Jerusalem’s demise, devoted priest, Ezekiel, sees the insincerity of Judah’s worship. Despite his efforts to call the people back to true worship of Yahweh, priests, artisans, valiant warriors, and royals are exiled to Babylon. When God gives him messages of continued judgment for the people in his homeland, his heart breaks. How can he minister to the people from so far away?
The presence of the Lord is tangible when Shiriel sings in the temple, and her voice prepares the hearts of many to worship. When she is exiled to Babylon, her faith is shaken. Does the Lord’s presence extend beyond Jerusalem and His holy temple?
Ezekiel is struck mute and paralyzed as he begins his prophetic ministry, and Shiriel devises a plan to get the Lord’s message back to the unfaithful people of Judah. Shiriel struggles with discontentment as serving the Lord looks nothing like she’d imagined. Can she provide for her family and carry out her husband’s ministry when her joy is gone, and her own dreams are placed on hold?
How will Yahweh save His people from themselves? Find out in Ezekiel’s Song!
Author of Biblical fiction, avid reader, pastor’s wife, Naomi loves reading the Bible and imagining how things were at the time. When she’s not serving in various areas at church, trying to stay on top of mountains of dishes or convincing her rescue dog, Freeway, to be cute on command for Instagram reels, you’ll most likely find her enjoying a good book and a cup of coffee. Naomi co-hosts #BehindTheStory with Naomi and Lisa, an author interview show on YouTube and your podcast platform of choice.
More from Naomi
What do you recall about Ezekiel?
The wheel within the wheel?
The dry bones living.
Ezekiel 4:9 bread?
Did you know the Lord asked him to prepare his food over human dung? Or that he was paralyzed for about 14 months? What about mute for seven years?
There are so many bizarre prophecies and symbolisms in the book of Ezekiel. So many prophecies that are yet to be fulfilled. Raise your hand if you tend to skim through these parts of God’s word.
I do.
But when I read Ezekiel a couple years back, the story really jumped of the page.
What about the people who lived with the prophecies and symbolisms?
Ezekiel saw the Lord, and the message He gave was one of Jerusalem finally meeting their just reward.
Only problem is Ezekiel is already in Babylon.
Oh and there’s the whole paralyzed and mute thing.
How is a man who is physically and geographically bound able to get this message a world away?
What was it like to live on rations of war (contrary to how today’s scientists have discovered the right combination to make nutrient dense, protein packed super bread?) in a land that wasn’t suffering from famine or scarcity.
How did the prophet respond when the people who heard the message in Babylonia and Jerusalem brushed it aside as inconsequential?
Ezekiel’s Song explores the lives of those affected by the prophecies. You’ll meet Ezekiel–in the priestly service, turned prophet, Shiri—the Bible states Ezekiel had a wife, her name and her backstory is my imagination, and Gilead—a fictional valiant warrior from Jerusalem.
Discover the book of Ezekiel like you’ve never seen it before!
Trusting Her Amish Heart by author Cathy Liggett is a delightful Amish tale. It is the story or Leah,Ivan, and Zach. The author knew about the Amish lifestyle because this story sounded authentic. It was engaging and progressed well. Her characters were likable and believable, that were strong in many areas yet had issues and insecurities in others.
Zach and Leah both have secrets that they are carrying around like heavy bags. Their characters were easy to like. Their conversations were timely and sounded correct for the Amish culture. I enjoyed the horse farm setting.
There are so many life and spiritual lessons in this heartwarming story. Characters deal with their past, forgiveness, humility, pride, faith, family, hope, and fear. Zach is like the prodigal son returning home after years away with no contact. However, his welcome was much different. The faith element and message are woven throughout the entire story. They bring hope and encouragement.
I highly recommend this sweet story. Fans of Amish Fiction will enjoy it. I received a copy of Trusting Her Amish Heart: An Uplifting Inspirational Romance from the Celebrate Lit but these are my honest words.
About the Book
Book: Trusting Her Amish Heart
Author: Cathy Liggett
Genre: Amish Inspirational Romance
Release date: August 1, 2022
Her heart may learn to love again…
But can it trust?
Running from betrayal, Leah Zook finds purpose caring for the older owner of an Amish horse farm. But when he’s injured and his estranged son returns home looking for redemption, Leah’s resolve is tested. The mysterious Zach Graber has all the power to fix the run-down farm— and Leah’s locked-down heart. But together will they be strong enough to withstand his secret…and hers?
ACFW award-winning author Cathy Liggett is an Ohio girl who never dreamed writing would take her across the world and to Amish country, too. But she’s learned God’s plans for our lives are often more creative than the ones we imagine for ourselves. That includes meeting her husband at a high school reunion and marrying three months later–forty years ago. Together, they enjoy visiting kids.
More from Cathy
Trust. It’s a small word with huge implications, isn’t it?
When I think of trust, the first thing that comes to mind is our dog Chaz. We – or rather she – rescued us when she was a little over one year old. At the time she first came into our home the poor pup was too scared to even sleep. She’d start to doze off, then jerk and open her eyes, looking all around trying her utmost to stay on guard. Now, at 13 years old, our furry gal has cushy dog beds in every room in the house. Which makes perfect sense since she undoubtedly rules our roost. It’s been our joy to be able to spoil her all these years. But I have to say, Chaz isn’t the only one who has had trust issues.
While penning Leah and Zach’s story, I was so happy because it took me back to Sugarcreek, and not just in spirit or through sweet memories. As it happened, my critique partners (and dear friends) decided Ohio Amish country would be the perfect spot for a writing retreat. How could I disagree?
In the four days we spent in a rustic cabin we got ideas flushed out and chapters written too. But we also laughed, shared, celebrated, and ate more snacks and sweets than we should have.
I’m telling you this because coming home I thought how the chance to know and share with these special women may have never happened. Many years ago, I almost didn’t say ‘yes’ to their invitation to join their critique group. I’d been working in a creative field but writing a book was something new, and they were so far ahead of me. Can I tell you that as I sit typing this, that I’m so thankful I shared my writing and myself with them?
As just noted, like Leah and Zach, I know it’s not always easy to open up and to trust. But, also like the two of them, I’ve learned when I do trust God and the special people (and pups) He sends into my life, those relationships can be beyond rewarding.
Oh! And lastly – if you’re in the mood for something sweet like the characters in this book, here’s the recipe for the “Chocolate Chip Cake” they all raved about. It’s quick, easy and delicious. Trust me!
Chocolate Chip Cake
Ingredients:
1 box Duncan Hines yellow cake mix
4 eggs
½ cup oil
1 cup water
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 package vanilla instant pudding
6 oz. package of chocolate chips
4 oz. bar of Baker’s German Chocolate grated
3 Tablespoons confectioner’s sugar
Floured tube pan
Wax paper
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour tube pan and line bottom with wax paper.
Set aside 3 Tablespoons of confectioner’s sugar. Mix everything else together except for chocolate.
After mixed, fold in all chocolate chips and ¾ of the grated German chocolate.
Add to pan and bake for 1 hour (a little prior to 1 hour, check for doneness).
Mix the remaining ¼ of the grated German chocolate with the 3 Tablespoons of confectioner’s sugar. Sprinkle this chocolate sugar mixture on top of cake. Bake 3-4 minutes longer.
Remove from oven and cool thoroughly. Remove from pan.
Laura’s Shadow by storyteller extraordinaire, Allison Pittman, was a not a thing what I was expecting, but I was not exactly sure what to expect. This is the ninth book in Barbour Publishing’s Doors to the Past, dual time series. Each installment is a stand-alone read. I have really enjoy this series.
Allison Pittman is a gifted wordsmith. Her stories are unique and often a bit gritty. She brought the 1890s and 1970s to life on the pages of her novel. I was captivated by her engaging story. This was a riveting page-turner, and I kept reading long into the night. I loved it.
The Laura in the book’s title refers to Laura Ingalls Wilder. In the 1890s section, we meet siblings Mariah and Charles. They are a close brother and sister pair used to taking care of each other. We briefly meet their teacher, Laura Ingalls. Contrary to what I have always thought, this book provides a view that she is not liked by everyone.
We meet Trixie, a newspaper comic strip creator, along with her mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. The four generations of women in that family each have had their own battles and have proven to be resilient. Trixie is able to learn some surprising family secrets after being called home.
There are so many life and spiritual lessons tucked into this remarkable book. This story has many twists to it that kept me guessing. Even though I finished this book days again it is still lingering in my mind.
I highly recommend this book. If you belong to a book club or reading group, this would be a fantastic selection. There is so much to discuss. It gets a 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my honest words.
About the Book
Book: Laura’s Shadow
Author: Allison Pittman
Genre: Christian/Historical/Romance
Release date: August 1, 2022
Family Secrets Spill One Conversation at a Time
Visit historic American landmarks through the Doors to the Past series. History and today collide in stories full of mystery, intrigue, faith, and romance.
De Smet, South Dakota—1890 Young women growing up in DeSmet live by two rules: don’t go out in a snowstorm and don’t give your heart to Cap Garland. Young Mariah Patterson only managed to obey one. Orphaned and having devoted her youth to scrapping out a life with her brother Charles, Mariah finds herself with no interesting suitors or means of support. Throwing caution to the wind, she seizes an opportunity to lay her feelings at Cap’s feet, even though she knows Cap sees the world through the torch he carries for Laura Ingalls. Mariah is certain her love for Cap will be strong enough to break both bonds, and she’s willing to risk everything to prove it.
De Smet, South Dakota—1974 Trixie Gowan is the fourth generation of living Gowan women residing in the sprawling farmhouse on the outskirts of De Smet. Well, former resident. She’s recently moved to Minneapolis, where she writes ads for a neighborhood paper edited by Ron Tumble. She might live and work in the city, but her co-workers still call her Prairie Girl. Thus the inspiration for her comic strip—“Lost Laura”—in which a bespectacled girl in a calico dress tries to make her way in the city. The name is a quiet rebellion having grown up in a household where she’d been forbidden to mention the name, Laura Ingalls. But when her great-grandmother Mariah’s declining health brings Trixie home for a visit, two things might just keep her there: the bedside manner of Dr. Campbell Carter and the family secret that seems to be spilling from GG’s lips one conversation at a time.
Allison Pittman is the author of more than a dozen critically acclaimed novels and a four-time Christy finalist—twice for her Sister Wife series, once for All for a Story from her take on the Roaring Twenties and most recently for the critically acclaimed The Seamstress which takes a cameo character from the Dickens’ classic A Tale of Two Cities and flourishes her to life amidst the French Revolution. She lives in San Antonio, Texas, blissfully sharing an empty nest with her husband, Mike. Connect with her on Facebook (Allison Pittman Author), Twitter (@allisonkpittman) or her website, allisonkpittman.com.
More from Allison
I can credit Laura Ingalls Wilder for just about every aspect of my identity. I’m a reader because I read her books over and over and over again, checking them out from my little elementary school library. I can still see them—last bookcase, bottom shelf. During the summer, I checked them out from the Bookmobile, and one magical Christmas, I received my own set. The well-worn, yellow paperbacks have a place of honor in my office: top shelf, center stage. It was amazing to my eight-year-old self that I could pick up Little House in the Big Woods, skip the dull parts, and jump straight to These Happy Golden Years in a single afternoon.
Looking at Laura’s writing now (as I often do), I realize I spent my childhood absorbing the art of telling a story. Her books masterfully string meaningful vignettes within an over-arching conflict. She creates stories-within-a-story-within-a-story whenever Pa launches into a tall tale, and minor characters come to life no matter how brief their appearance. (Aunt Docia, anyone?)
When I first came up with the concept of writing a story set in the world of Laura Ingalls Wilder, I knew I couldn’t bring Laura herself in as a character. There’s a sacredness to her story, and I wouldn’t dream of inserting myself into the cannon of her pages. But—I thought—surely she had peers who grew up alongside her, classmates who also hated Miss Wilder, young men who might have set their own cap for her, townsfolk who remembered the vibrant young woman with the button-brown eyes and dark curls. And then I pondered further: maybe there was another side to Laura—a side that she kept from the romanticized ideal skipping through the pages of her books. My first thought was to create a fictional De Smet town girl, but then…
In researching and reading Pioneer Girl, The Annotated Autobiography of Laura Ingalls Wilder, I came across a bit of information that brought the story to life for me. In These Happy Golden Years, Laura teaches her first class: five students, two families. And while the “Brewster” children are documented in other sources, the Harrison children are not. There are no census records, land deeds, or any official documents to support the identity of Charles and Martha as they are depicted in the novel. And so, it clicked. If Laura could fictionalize these people, well, then, so could I. Thus Martha Harrison was lifted from those pages, renamed Mariah, and given a new life and a new story in mine.
Writing Laura’s Shadow allowed me to indulge in a few favorite directions. First, I’m fascinated with the idea of extreme longevity (showcased in my novel All for a Song), and creating a character whose lifespan stretches from homesteading to disco was delightful. My Mariah chafes at the romanticized depiction of pioneer life, telling us in her old age that it was really more of a daily struggle for survival. I also enjoyed exploring the family dynamic of four generations of women and how each generation faced the same battles and fought them so, so differently. Finally—and this is what truly speaks to my fourth-grade self…
You know that Elton John song, “Your Song” with the lyrics, “I hope you don’t mind that I put down in words…” Well, I got to put down in words my lifelong crush on Cap Garland. Sure, Almonzo is great and everything, but I always thought Cap was more exciting. More fun. More…more. Bringing him to life in this book set my old heart racing. My research for this novel took me to De Smet, and to his gravesite, where I spoke this story to his stone. I like to think he’d approve, and I hope all of the Laura fans will join me in this tale and let their imaginations run wild.
October is fast approaching. The leaves will start changing colors and falling. Nights will be brisk. People will be dragging favorite sweaters and sweatshirts out of their closets. Pumpkin flavored goodies are already everywhere. I love October! Don’t you?
When I was younger, and a whole lot dumber or misinformed, I also loved Halloween. Stay with me because this is important. Years ago I became convicted of celebrating it so Halloween changed to Harvest Celebration for me. Witches and ghosts were replaced with scarecrows and plain pumpkins.
A couple of years ago, I saw an interview about Halloween from a former high ranking member in Satan’s army here on earth. Wow. I was shocked. For some reason I hadn’t even thought about an organized army of earthly people working for Satan and his terrible cause. This person, John Ramirez, had served Satan for years, but now is saved and serves Jesus Christ. Isn’t that awesome?!
In his interview, John discussed how Satan workers were busiest on Halloween. They looked for houses and churches, yes churches, with Jack-o-Lanterns as a welcome for them to enter. Yes, you read that correctly. As a “welcome, come on in” sign. Children dressed in costume were unprotected and easy prey. The interview was positively frightening. It has put Halloween and any Harvest Festival for October 31 into perspective for me. Just calling it by another name, but doing the same thing does not change something. It only alters its name.
“Anton LaVey, the founder of the Church of Satan, said: ‘I am glad that Christian parents let their children worship the devil at least one night out of the year. Welcome to Halloween.’ We are quick on our feet to rush and honor the devil in so many ways. We see no harm in Halloween, because we think it is fun. We paint our faces, we wear our innocent costumes, we dress up our doorways—even churches dress up their entryways for Halloween with pumpkins. These actions are like giving the devil license, saying, “Here’s my church. You can have it.” This is from John’s article “I’m Shocked Christians Celebrate Halloween.”
I see so many pictures on Facebook of children dressed like zombies, witches, devils, and other evil things. Houses are decorated to look haunted and creepy. Is that really what we want? Sure, Satan is cheering, but I want to protect the children. Maybe we need a new day for them to get candy with a theme that is not scary.
I hope this blog today gave you something to ponder. It has been heavy on my heart to share this. I recognize this is a very controversial subject. Research it for yourself and do what is right for you and your family. As I look back in that old rear view mirror of life, I have a clearer understanding of why ministers in my childhood neighborhood had all of their lights off on Oct. 31. They were not being stingy after all, as we kids thought. There was a reason no gourds, pumpkins, ghosts, or witches decorated their porches and yards.
Obeying God is my number one priority. It is often hard in a world that doesn’t always, or even seldom, does that. That is why we Christians are called to be set apart from this old world. Ahhhhhh, wisdom does come with age. More importantly, it comes from God.
Whatever conclusion you reach, I hope you enjoy October and this last quarter of the year. For this lady, it has gotten here quickly. Tempus fugit.
Note: John Ramirezis an internationally known evangelist, author and highly sought-out speaker who for more than 16 years has been teaching believers around the globe how to defeat the enemy. He has shared his powerful testimony—of being miraculously saved as a high-ranking satanic priest—on It’s Supernatural!, The 700 Club, TBN, Daystar and more.
John Ramirez, author of Armed and Dangerous: The Ultimate Battle Plan for Targeting and Defeating the Enemy, Chosen.
Connecting with Christ: 52 Weekly Devotionals to Nurture Spiritual Growth by editor Yolonda Tonette Sanders is a beautiful book of devotions by various contributors. Devotionals are some of my favorite books. I do have problems with weekly ones because it is difficult for me to wait an entire week between reading them!
This is a wonderful devotional. It is nice how the book was divided into twelve sections with different themes. They included Renewal, Love, Revival, Promises, Caring, Provision, and six more. Each devotion begins with a title, author, and corresponding scripture. Follow those is the devotion which ends in a prayer. The rest of that page and next one are blank lines for your personal reflection. The entire book has been well thought, organized, and written in an easy to understand way.
I loved the voices of the different authors. Each one brought a heartfelt story. So many of the chapters made me stop and think about things. In fact, I pondered the devotions long after reading them. It is a thought-provoking book that will help readers in their journey to become closer to Jesus. I will definitely read it again.
I highly recommend it. This would make a great Christmas present for a group that meets weekly. The devotions are touching and great for discussion. With it being a weekly devotional, this is perfect for a busy person. I loved it. It gets a 5 out of 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my honest words.
About the Book
Book: Connecting With Christ
Editor: Yolonda Tonette Sanders
Genre: Nonfiction, Inspirational
Release date: November 30, 2021
Self-care is a buzzword often mentioned when people seek to optimize their health. Suggested self-care practices tend to include activities such as exercising, getting a massage, or eating a healthy diet. While all of these actions have their place, none of them are sufficient enough to provide the soul-care we need to maximize our self-care. Self-care without soul-care equates to temporary solutions that leave us searching for the next new thing. However, when Christ becomes the center of our holistic health journey, we not only find fulfillment in Him but also a dependency on and trust in Him to truly live our best lives-emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually.
Yolonda Tonette Sanders is the CEO of Yo Productions, LLC and co-founder of the Faith & Fellowship Book Festival. Her writing portfolio includes academic papers, novels, short stories, poems, and other creative works. She is an editor for a national publication, a professor, and serves on several boards and associations. Yolonda holds two bachelor’s degrees, a master’s degree, and is currently completing her Ph.D. in organizational leadership. She treasures her relationships with family and close friends. Yolonda is blessed to be the wife of David; mother of two adults, Tre and Tia; “Nini” to her grandchildren, Khari and Khia; daughter of Eddie; sister to Milton; and dog mom to Paco.
More from Yolonda
Have you ever started a daily devotional but didn’t finish because you found yourself getting behind schedule and frustrated? One missed day turns into two, then the missed days pile on until we often do one of two things: a) have a marathon session to “make-up” the missed days’ readings; or b) abandon the devotional altogether. Neither of these options help with our spiritual growth. When we have marathon sessions to catch up, reading the devotional becomes a checklist item instead of us taking the time to glean the spiritual message or lesson to be learned. When we abandon reading the devotional, we miss everything still. Those great books end up collecting dust until we try again the next year only to repeat the same process.
Yep, I’ve been there! Having had such experiences, I sought to create a devotional that people could actually finish. Plus, let’s face it . . . we should read our Bibles every day, but devotionals are optional. Yet, sometimes people replace devotionals with reading the Bible. I didn’t want that either! So, Connecting with Christ is a 52-week devotional with just one reading each week. Not only was this a practical approach, but it was also purposeful. The desire behind this technique is for readers to have time to meditate on Scripture! Connecting with Christ is a devotional that readers can and will complete that will inspire them to dig more into the Word!
Abba's Prayer Warrior Princess 