Tuesday, December 27, 2022

Top Ten Tuesday: Most Recent Additions to My Book Collection

 Here we are with another Top Ten Tuesday! It has been a while since I have participated and I have missed reading other blogs and learning about new books. So today I have a list of ten recent books that I have received. As all bookish people understand I feel like I could never have too many books. So I buy used books, I get some as gifts, I buy new ones, and I get many for free which is a blessing. 

















Monday, December 26, 2022

The Paper Daughters of Chinatown Review

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About the Book

Based on the true story of two friends who unite to help rescue immigrant women in the most dangerous corners of San Francisco’s Chinatown in the late 1890s.

When Tai Choi leaves her home in the Zhejiang province of China, she believes she’ll be visiting her grandmother. But in truth, despite her mother’s opposition, her father has sold her to pay his gambling debts. Alone and afraid, Tai Choi is put on a ship headed for San Francisco, known among the Chinese as Gold Mountain. When she arrives, she is forced to go by the new name listed on her paper documents: Tien Fu Wu.

Her new life as a servant at a gambling den is hard. She is told to stay hidden, to stay silent, and to perform an endless list of chores, or else she will be punished. Tien Fu thinks her life couldn’t get any worse, until she is sold again to an abusive shopkeeper and tasked to care for a young boy. If she is to survive, Tien Fu must persevere, and learn who to trust.

When Dolly Cameron arrives in San Francisco to teach sewing at a mission home for orphaned Asian girls, she meets Tien Fu, who is willful, defiant, and unwilling to trust anyone. Dolly quickly learns that all the girls at the home were freed from lives of servitude and maltreatment. Dolly immediately joins the group of women dedicated to saving more of these “paper daughters” because some in authority have turned a blind eye to the situation.

Despite many challenges, Dolly and Tien Fu forge a powerful friendship as they mentor and help those in the mission home and work to win the freedom of thousands of immigrant women and girls. (Goodreads)

 RELEASES APRIL 11, 2023!!!

PRE-ORDER HERE!

 

My Thoughts

This is a story that has stuck with me since reading the last page. This book is fantastic and so incredibly interesting as it shines a bright light on part of history I knew nothing about! I have not read the original as this one was adapted for young readers. This is a GREAT book. I was sucked into the story from the start and all of the characters and the great risk that these women took to save others simply blows me away. I can understand why this story had to be rewritten for a younger audience as there are some pretty terrible things that happen to the young women in this story. But it was written in a way that got the point across without being graphic. I thought the writing was great and the flow of the story and historical time line excellent. I loved this book and I think everyone should read about the history of the Occidental Mission Home/Donaldina Cameron House. It is inspiring! 

Five stars. 

 

" I received this book from Shadow Mountain Publishing for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."

Thursday, December 15, 2022

In Love's Time Review

 


 

 About the Book

In the summer of 1918, Captain Marcus Weatherford arrives in Russia on a secret mission, with a beautiful ballerina posing as his fiancée. Marcus searches for the Romanov Tsarina and her son--who both allegedly survived the murdering Bolsheviks--and the information behind an allied plot to assassinate Lenin. But Marcus's sense of duty battles his desire to return home to Clare--his actual love.

Hospital orderly Clare Danner still suffers from Marcus's betrayal and now fears losing her daughter to the heartless family who took Daisy away from Clare once before, but only Marcus can provide the critical proof needed to save her daughter.

Faced with danger and unexpected circumstances, can Clare trust Marcus, or will he shatter her world yet again?
 

 

 BUY HERE

 

My Thoughts

 I have really enjoyed all of Kate Breslin’s novels. I wasn’t entirely certain what to expect with this story and I was surprised at the many twists and turns that it took. I love that it wasn’t entirely predictable and the added mystery of the big picture story was so well done. The ending was a combination of suspense and anxiety for me because I wanted to know what would happen. I felt for Clare throughout the story and I really loved her character. I did enjoy this book even though I spent a lot of the story feeling anxious. There is a sweet love story but it isn’t your typical romance. Breslin writes such great stories full of heart and history. I recommend any of her books!

Four stars!



“I received this book from Bethany House Publishers for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review.”

Sunday, December 11, 2022

All the Lost Places Review

  

 


 
 

About the Book

When a baby is discovered floating in a basket along the canals of 1807 Venice, a guild of artisans takes him in and raises him as a son, skilled in each of their trades. Although the boy, Sebastian Trovato, has wrestled with questions of his origins, it isn't until a woman washes ashore his lagoon island that answers begin to emerge. In hunting down his story, Sebastian must make choices that could alter not just his own future, but that of the beloved floating city.

Decades later, Daniel Goodman is given a fresh start in life as the century turns. Hoping to redeem a past laden in regrets, he is sent on an assignment from California to Venice to procure and translate a rare book. There, he discovers a mystery wrapped in the pages of that filigree-covered volume. With the help of Vittoria, a bookshop keeper, Daniel finds himself in a web of shadows, secrets, and discoveries carefully kept within the stones and canals of the ancient city . . . and the mystery of the man whose story the book does not finish: Sebastian Trovato (Goodreads)


BUY HERE


My Thoughts

 There is not a book that Amanda has written that is not a complete delight to read. I set aside specific time to read this one because I knew once I started I wouldn't be able to stop. This book is wonderful. I had no idea what to expect and this story is so unique you just have to read it to understand how impactful and heart wrenching it is. The characters are so well written. The dual time line is marvelous and all of the story lines interwoven on the pages are just terrific. There is an ongoing mystery that threads throughout the book. There is romance though it is not overdone and it really came down to the heart of the characters and their growth that made this book so special. Amanda's writing shines light on the brokenness of people and how there is still so much hope to continue on. I loved this book and I hope you do too! I highly recommend! 

Five stars! 

 

"I received this book from Bethany House Publishers for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."





Saturday, December 10, 2022

Engaging Deception Book Review

 

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 About the Book

Olive Kentworth has spent her life hiding her interest in architecture, even though she pores over architectural books and sketches buildings. When she accepts a job on a home expansion, it's only because her cousin Amos agrees to pose as the builder. To further hide her involvement, Olive takes a position as a nanny--not knowing that she'll be working for her idol, Joplin's leading architect, widower Maxfield Scott.

Maxfield is intrigued by his new nanny--she makes his home and his life bearable again. His work, on the other hand, is a disaster. An untrained builder is remodeling a completed project of his. What's worse, Maxfield's current client wants changes to his plans because of that builder's work.

As the architectural one-upmanship heats up, Olive's involvement becomes harder to hide. Will the relationship between her and Maxfield survive, or will they both miss out on building something for their future? (Goodreads)

 

BUY HERE

 My Thoughts

What a fun book! This series does not have to be read in order and this book could be read as a stand alone. I really enjoyed this book because Olive's personality just made me smile. Maxfield finally won me over even though he made some choices earlier in the book I didn't love. I love the architectural tidbits and rivalry on building and design. I think what I loved the most was reading the history side of things by the author. As with all of Jennings novels there are some hilarious scenes that made me giggle. There is also more depth in this book that I appreciated and really showed character growth at the end. This is a lighthearted and fun read that you will enjoy!

Four Stars. 


" I received this book from Bethany House Publishers for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."

 

 

 

 

 

Tuesday, November 29, 2022

Beneath His Silence Review


 

About the Book

Book: Beneath His Silence

Author: Hannah Linder

Genre: Christian Fiction / Historical / Romance

Release date: November, 2022

 

Will Seeking Justice Lead to Her Own Demise?

A Gothic-Style Regency Romance from a Promising Young Author

Second daughter of a baron—and a little on the mischievous side—Ella Pemberton is no governess. But the pretense is a necessity if she ever wishes to get inside of Wyckhorn Manor and attain the truth. Exposing the man who killed her sister is all that matters.

Lord Sedgewick knows there’s blood on his hands. Lies have been conceived, then more lies, but the price of truth would be too great. All he has left now is his son—and his hatred. Yet as the charming governess invades his home, his safe cocoon of bitterness begins to tear away.

Could Ella, despite the lingering questions of his guilt, fall in love with such a man? Or is she falling prey to him—just as her dead sister?

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

 

Hannah Linder resides in the beautiful mountains of central West Virginia. Represented by Books & Such, she writes Regency romantic suspense novels. She is a double 2021 Selah Award winner, a 2022 Selah Award finalist, and a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW). Hannah is a Graphic Design Associates Degree graduate who specializes in professional book cover design. She designs for both traditional publishing houses and individual authors, including New York Times, USA Today, and International bestsellers. She is also a local photographer and a self-portrait photographer. When Hannah is not writing, she enjoys playing her instruments—piano, guitar, and ukulele—songwriting, painting still life, walking in the rain, and sitting on the front porch of her 1800s farmhouse. To follow her journey, visit hannahlinderbooks.com.

 

More from Hannah

People always ask me what inspired a story. Where did I get the idea? Who was my inspiration? What true-life event motivated these characters into existence?

 

And the truth is, I don’t know. I’ve never known. When I was younger, I’d look clueless and shrug my shoulders. A few years ago, I would have probably answered “people”—and maybe there’s truth in that. People do inspire me. The way they walk, the places they go, the things they do, the way they dress.

 

But lately…well, I think it’s more than that. I don’t think it’s people so much as feelings. The nitty-gritty. The raw emotions, caught deep in someone’s chest, at the most pivotal points in their life.

 

Like the old man seated at a booth, alone in a restaurant, with his veiny hands cupping a mug of coffee. It’s not his shabby fedora that inspires me. Or the knotty cane leaned against his seat. Or the envelope stuffed into the pocket of his woolen overcoat.

 

It’s the look on his face. The slow blinking, the red nose, the flash of moisture as he takes another sip of coffee. Why does he sit alone? Who left him? Who caused the tears? What emotions render that lost, helpless, longing expression—and how will he cope?

 

If you would ask me what inspired Beneath His Silence, I probably wouldn’t have much of an answer. No concrete idea or moment would rush to remembrance. If anything, inspiration for Beneath His Silence was nothing more than a small thought. A feeling.

 

I wanted to write about a girl who learned to love someone she hated. I wanted to explore every aspect. The poison of her hate. The weight it pressed into her heart. The process—slow, startling, and healing—that sucked out that poison and replaced it with something unexpected. Love.

 

I guess that’s what I love about writing. Not the people. The characters. Not even the storylines and the plot twists and the fun settings.

 

I love the emotion. That’s what inspires me.

 

And if you find yourself in the pages of Beneath His Silence, I hope it will inspire you too.

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 28

Genesis 5020, November 28

Texas Book-aholic, November 29

To Everything There Is A Season, November 29

Where Faith And Books Meet, November 30

Inklings and notions, November 30

Lily’s Book Reviews, November 30

Book Looks by Lisa, December 1

deb’s Book Review, December 1

Betti Mace, December 2

Locks, Hooks and Books, December 2

Remembrancy, December 3

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, December 3

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, December 4

Connie’s History Classroom, December 4

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 5

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 5

Rebecca Tews, December 6

Simple Harvest Reads, December 6 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

Blogging With Carol, December 7

For Him and My Family, December 7

Through the Fire Blogs, December 8

Holly’s Book Corner, December 8

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, December 9 (Author Interview)

Bizwings Blog, December 9

Melissa’s Bookshelf, December 9

Pause for Tales, December 10

Cover Lover Book Review, December 10

Mary Hake, December 10

Labor Not in Vain, December 11

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, December 11

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Hannah is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon e-gift card and a print copy of the book!!

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

 

GIVEAWAY 

 

 

 My Thoughts

 I have been looking at this book on my wish list for months. This is a new to me author so I wasn't sure quite to expect. I will tell you this book exceeded my expectations and I am eager to read more from Hannah Linder! This story starts off with a thrill of adventure and mystery and takes you in a direction you might not expect. There is swoon worthy romance and a tangled web of suspense that was DELIGHTFUL! Right when you think you have it all figured out you discover that you don't. The entire cast of characters was so well done and of course the setting. This book swept me up into the mystery and I really couldn't put the book down. Hannah Linder is an author to watch! 


Four Stars.

" I received this book from the publisher for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."

Saturday, November 19, 2022

Miss Newbury's List-A Must Read For Regency Fans!

 


 

About the Book

 England, 1820

Rosalind Newbury loves her family and wants nothing more than to add to their legacy. So when an opportunity arises to marry a duke—a dream come true for her family—despite hardly knowing him, she quickly agrees.

But after rediscovering a childhood wish list, Ros realizes that she has dreams of her own and little time left to fulfill them. She recruits her dearest friend Liza and subsequently Liza’s handsome but wayward cousin Charlie—a gentleman turned rugged boxer—to help her complete her list before her wedding.

From boxing lessons to buried treasure, Charlie helps Ros experience a life and love that she’d never dreamed possible. Soon, Ros is faced with the very decision she’s been running from—to save her family’s future or her own. (Goodreads)

 

Pre-Order Today!

 

Releases February 7, 2023 

 

My Thoughts

 Oh my what a delightful read! This is the BEST book I have read by Megan Walker. The characters are delightful and fun. Their personalities are very different which adds for many entertaining conversations and scenes throughout the story. I was a little uncertain about her falling for a man who is not her intended. But as we know with the Regency times people often didn't know their intended or at least not well until right before the wedding day arrived. I think Megan did a good job in not crossing a line with the romance side of things. Mostly I just enjoyed the funny scenes and banter between not only the two main characters but also Liza. Many times I caught myself laughing out loud and I am hoping we get to read about these characters again. I thoroughly loved this book and I can't wait to read Megan Walker's next story! 


Five Stars. 


" I received this book from Shadow Mountain Publishing for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."

Wednesday, November 9, 2022

The Bookshop of Secrets Review With Celebrate Lit



About the Book

Book: The Bookshop of Secrects

Author: Mollie Rushmeyer

Genre: Contemporary Women’s Fiction (Christian)

Release date: October 25, 2022

A collection of lost books holds the clues to her family’s legacy…and her future.

Hope Sparrow has mastered the art of outrunning her tragic past, learning never to stay anywhere too long and never to allow anyone control over her life again. Coming to Wanishin Falls in search of her family’s history already feels too risky. But somewhere in the towering stacks of this dusty old bookshop are the books that hold Hope’s last ties to her late mother—and to a rumored family treasure that could help her start over.

Only, the bookshop is in shambles, and the elderly owner is in the beginning stages of dementia and can’t remember where the books lie. To find the last links to the loved ones she’s lost, Hope must stay and accept help from the townsfolk to locate the treasured volumes. Each secret she uncovers brings her closer to understanding where she came from. But the longer she stays in the quaint town, the more people find their way into the cracks in her heart. And letting them in may be the greatest risk of all…

 

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Mollie writes contemporary fiction with a heart for history. What does this mean exactly? She loves to write inspirational fiction in contemporary settings with fascinating historical elements, people, objects, and stories woven throughout.

A modern girl herself– She wouldn’t want to go a day without modern plumbing and central air! But she’s always felt a special connection to the past. The legacies and lives left behind are like gifts waiting to be unwrapped, and she’s excited to share this blend of history and contemporary living with readers.

A born and bred Midwestern gal, Mollie Rushmeyer, makes her home in central Minnesota with her husband and two spunky, beautiful daughters. She is not only a bibliophile (the dustier the better, in her opinion), she’s a true anglophile at heart. Tea and coffee fuel her travels, by Google maps at least, and her passion for the written word.

More from Mollie

Since childhood, opening up a book unlocked a whole new world for me. Of possibilities and adventure, and made me care for people and places that didn’t exist. Like stepping through the wardrobe into Narnia, books transported me. It was like magic.

As I began dreaming up The Bookshop of Secrets in its early stages, I knew I wanted to create a character who loved books and was in awe of their transformative and transportive power as much as I am. Thus, Hope Sparrow, a human trafficking survivor and ultimate book lover, was born. I also wanted to honor my grandpa, who planted the seed—love of the written word—in my heart from the time I was very young. And so, Ulysses, the owner of Dusty Jackets Bookshop in the story, is based on my sweet grandpa who has since passed away. But I know he’d love this homage to all things literary.

Afterward, I didn’t know if I’d ever write again and I was more terrified of that than not gaining back the full strength of my left arm.

In the middle of writing this book, in 2018, I had a stroke. As with most medical emergencies, it was quite unexpected. I had a hole in my heart (that has been repaired, thankfully). Afterward, I didn’t know if I’d ever write again and I was more terrified of that than not being able to fully move my left arm again. My brain had to make new connections and it was so difficult, still is some days, to be creative. To find the right words.

But God. In the way that only He can, He brought this forgotten story, this project’s finish line that seemed to be at the summit of an insurmountable mountain within reach. I thought I had something to prove to myself. I begged God not to forget my dream to write. Like He could. But in the end, I just had to trust like my character Hope. Trust that He is good even when life hurts and is uncertain.

“Do you know what the opposite of fear is?”

“Bravery? Peace?” Dare she say her namesake, hope?

“The true counterpart of fear is faith. It takes faith to walk into the future, the unknown, with confidence. Secure in the love of the One who created you and those around you outweighs any hardship, real or imagined, that lies on the path ahead.”

I hope following Hope’s journey of healing and love in The Bookshop of Secrets truly blesses you.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, October 27

lakesidelivingsite, October 27

Inklings and notions, October 28

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 28

Simple Harvest Reads, October 28 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

An Author’s Take, October 29

The Write Escape, October 29

deb’s Book Review, October 29

Texas Book-aholic, October 30

Rebecca Tews, October 30

Blogging With Carol, October 30

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 31

Inspired by fiction, October 31

Life of Literature, October 31

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, November 1

Cover Lover Book Review, November 1

Locks, Hooks and Books, November 2

Losing the Busyness, November 2

For Him and My Family, November 2

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, November 3

Holly’s Book Corner, November 3

Mary Hake, November 3

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, November 4 (Author Interview)

Paula’s Pad of Suspense and Detection, November 4

Blossoms and Blessings, November 4

Sylvan Musings, November 5

Lily’s Book Reviews, November 5

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, November 5

A Reader’s Brain, November 6

Book Looks by Lisa, November 6

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, November 7

Truth and Grace Homeachool Academy, November 7

Story Craft, November 7

Through the fire blogs, November 8

Pause for Tales, November 8

Labor Not in Vain, November 8

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, November 9

To Everything There Is A Season, November 9

Lights in a Dark World, November 9






To celebrate her tour, Mollie is giving away the grand prize package of a eBook or signed paperback copy (paperback U.S. Only) of The Bookshop of Secrets and a $50 Amazon gift card!!

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


Giveaway



My Thoughts


How could I not be excited about a book with this cover and set in a bookshop!? This was a lovely sweet story and about as bookish as I expected. It was an adventure of finding hidden books in a bookshop and who wouldn't want to do that? I enjoyed Hope's character as there were a lot of layers to what made her who she was. The mystery element that flows through the story line kept me flipping the pages as did Ulysses, the elderly character that made this book all the better. There is a lot packed in this story and a while a few chapters seemed a bit slow I still enjoyed it. I am eager to read what Mollie Rushmeyer writes next!! 


Four Stars. 


"I received this book from the author for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."

Tuesday, November 8, 2022

Sundown Review




BUY HERE

 

About the Book


Former Delta Operative Colt Kingston knows when someone is lying. He may not know the truth, but he sure doesn't trust Tae, the woman who is caring for his ailing father at Sky King Ranch. Behind those beautiful blue eyes, he can tell there is a troubled--and smart--woman.

A few of her stories prove true--he's found the crashed plane and the dead body inside. Still, her story of survival seems too incredible to believe . . . until the thugs she claims to be hunting her show up and threaten Sky King Ranch. Now Tae must disappear, along with her secrets.

But Colt's not about to let her go it alone. And when they discover that her secrets include the antidote to a plague that threatens the world, it'll take all three Kingston brothers to save the country they've vowed to protect.

Susan May Warren brings her Sky King Ranch series to a climactic close with this high-stakes race against the clock. (Goodreads)


My Thoughts

Susan May Warren can write a dang good story. In this case a GREAT trilogy. This is my second favorite series she has written and I am sad to see it ending. I loved this book. It starts off with action and you absolutely have to read the entire thing in one sitting. Sleep is not as important as finishing this delightful adventure! I love all the Kingston brothers and I was curious how Colt's story would be told. There are some twists and turns I wasn't quite expecting which is always great. The romance is perfect and the family dynamic is one of my favorites. This book does talk about a virus and that part was a bit too realistic but it was necessary for the story to unfold. The ending had me tearing up quite a bit and touched my heart more than expected. I get too attached to these characters! While this book can be read as a stand alone, I wouldn't recommend it. Start with book one and get to know all the Kingston brothers and also book two has a lot of back story that ties in with this final one. 

I can't recommend this trilogy enough! If you enjoy clean romance and adventure you simply must pick up these books! 

 

Five Stars. 

 

"I received this book from Revell for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review." 

Sunday, November 6, 2022

Where the Blue Sky Begins Review

 

 


About the Book

 After an accident brings businessman Eric Larson and eccentric Eunice Parker together, the unlikely pair spend more time with each other than they would like while facing challenges beyond what they imagined. As Eunice comes to accept her terminal illness, they both wrestle with an important question: What matters most when the end is near? (Goodreads)

 

 

BUY HERE


My Thoughts

I have really enjoyed each novel that Katie Powner has written. She is so great about writing characters that you wouldn't expect and with such depth. This story takes us into the lives of Eric and Eunice. Eric is a cocky businessman and Eunice is dying. Thrown together in the strangest of places by coincidences that involves a scooter and a list, the two go on to experience life through a slightly different lens. Both characters grow throughout the story but Eric is who really touched my heart. That could be because I can relate to him the most? Regardless this story is not at all what I expected. I loved the small town setting and the secondary characters truly shine through the pages. 

This is not my favorite book by Powner but it was still a good read. It will make you think and consider on a big picture level, especially when it comes to forgiveness. 


Three Stars. 


"I received this book from Bethany House for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."




Monday, October 31, 2022

Mary: Daughters of the Lost Colony Review



About the Book

Book: Mary

Author: Shannon McNear

Genre: Historical/Christian/Romance Fiction

Release date: October, 2022

 

Worlds Collide Along the Shores of the Outer Banks

Immerse yourself in the “what if” questions related to the Lost Colony of Roanoke. What if an English boy and a native girl met in the wilderness? The push-and-pull between two very different worlds begins as one seeks simple friendship and the other struggles to trust. And can it—dare they—allow it to be more?

Sparks fly between Mushaniq, free-spirited daughter of Manteo, and Georgie Howe, whose father was brutally murdered by undiscovered native warriors before they’d been on Roanoac Island a full week. As Georgie struggles to make sense of his life and to accept that not all they call “savage” are guilty of his father’s death, Mushaniq grapples with her own questions about who Manteo has become. As tentative friendship becomes more, forged in the fire of calamity and attack upon their community, both must decide whether the One True God is indeed who He claims to be and whether He is worthy of their trust.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

 

Transplanted to North Dakota after more than two decades in Charleston, South Carolina, Shannon McNear loves losing herself in local history. She’s a military wife, mom of eight, mother-in-law of three, grammie of two, and a member of ACFW and RWA. Her first novella, Defending Truth in A Pioneer Christmas Collection, was a 2014 RITA® finalist. When she’s not sewing, researching, or leaking story from her fingertips, she enjoys being outdoors, basking in the beauty of the northern prairies. Connect with her at www.shannonmcnear.com, or on Facebook and Goodreads.

 

More from Shannon

Why did I write Mary? The series started as an idea suggested by my editor and soon became something of an obsession. This installment was inspired partly by the Legend of the Coharie, a fragment of the very murky history surrounding the Roanoke Colony and the Lumbee people of North Carolina. According to this legend, George Howe, the son of the colonist by same name who was brutally murdered a few days after their landing on Roanoke Island, married a daughter of Manteo, the Native man who traveled twice to England, later led a group of the colonists inland for refuge and eventually became an ancestor of the Lumbees. Then, as my Lost Colony research expanded, my interest in the nuances of two cultures meeting and blending grew into a desire to pay tribute to what might have been the first (and possibly only) example of European and Native peoples living together in peace. Imagine if this had been the defining moment of our country’s founding?

 

As usually happens, fictional characters (even those based on historical figures) sooner or later run away with the story—and that’s the part I find most exciting! I hope you, the readers, also enjoy this tale of Mushaniq (squirrel in Carolina Algonquian) and Georgie, which serves as both a parallel story and sequel to Elinor.

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, October 26

Remembrancy, October 27

Inkwell Inspirations, October 27

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 28

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 28

Texas Book-aholic, October 29

Hallie Reads, October 29

Inklings and notions, October 30

For Him and My Family, October 30

deb’s Book Review, October 31

To Everything There Is A Season, October 31

Locks, Hooks and Books, November 1

Holly’s Book Corner, November 1

Betti Mace, November 2

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, November 2

Connie’s History Classroom, November 3

Mary Hake, November 3

Bizwings Blog, November 4

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 4

Tell Tale Book Reviews, November 5

A Reader’s Brain, November 6

Sylvan Musings, November 6

Through the Fire Blogs, November 7

Pause for Tales, November 8

Spoken from the Heart, November 8

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Shannon is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon e-gift card and a copy of the book!!

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

GIVEAWAY

 

My Thoughts

I have always been fascinated with the history of the Lost Colony. I love thinking up ideas on mysterious events in history that have little explanation. This book surprised me but in a good way. The first book in this series was very slow for me because I didn't feel fully invested in the characters. This story captured my attention right away. I love the characters and the historical details are DELIGHTFUL! The back of the book has a list of Carolina Algonquian words that are used throughout the book and I referenced it multiple times. 

The author does type a bit of a "caution" prior to the first chapter. She is sticking with historical accuracy and some of the things that happen in the book are not necessarily what we are accustomed to in our current culture. This is a clean book but there is a lot of discussion about coming of age and how the settlers vs. the Native Americans handled purity and sexual relations. There are many differences of course on a lot of things between the two cultures and I found it to be completely fascinating from a historical standpoint. 

All that to say, this is not your typical story, so grab a copy and get ready for an adventure! 

I really enjoyed it! 

Five Stars. 


" I received this book from the publisher for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."