My Bookshelf: A Worthy Pursuit by Karen Witemeyer

(This is my regular Tuesday My Bookshelf post, only it is being posted today, on a Friday, because I received this novel from a Bethany House giveaway and had planned on reviewing it this week, only it didn’t arrive until late Monday night. So I just swapped the days!)

A teacher on the run. A bounty hunter in pursuit. Can two enemies learn to trust each other before they both lose what they hold most dear?

        Stone Hammond is the best tracker in Texas. He never comes home empty-handed. So when a wealthy railroad investor hires him to find his abducted granddaughter, Stone eagerly accepts.

        Charlotte Atherton, former headmistress of Sullivan’s Academy for Exceptional Youths, will do anything to keep her charges safe, especially the orphaned girl entrusted to her care. Charlotte promised Lily’s mother she’d keep the girl away from her unscrupulous grandfather, and nothing will stop Charlotte from fulfilling that pledge. Not even the handsome bounty hunter with surprisingly honest eyes who comes looking for them.

        When Miss Atherton produces documentation that shows her to be Lily’s legal guardian, Stone must reevaluate everything he’s been led to believe. Is she villain or victim?

        Then a new danger forces Charlotte to trust the man sent to destroy her. Stone vows to protect what he once sought to tear apart. Besides, he’s ready to start a new pursuit: winning Charlotte’s heart.

        A Worthy Pursuit was one of the few books by Karen Witemeyer that I had not read, until now of course. She has been one of my favorite authors ever since I read Stealing the Preacher a few years ago, and I have been unable to put any of her novels down after picking them up. With her witty dialogue and swoon-worthy heroes, Karen crafts historical stories that will draw you in and leave you melting in a little puddle, and A Worthy Pursuit is no exception.

        Let me introduce you to Stone Hammond. A former Texas Ranger turned successful tracker (though I like to say retriever, you’ll know why if you read the book), Stone appears at first to Charlotte as the strong, burly, intimidating—albeit handsome—man that he is. On the inside though, is another story. Filled with the Holy Spirit, Stone is a good, Christian man with a soft heart that quickly grows to love Charlotte’s charges who vows to protect them, and their teacher, with everything in him. How can you not fall for a hero like that?

        Now, Charlotte may not be a dashing Texas cowboy, but she is important too. Still reeling from the rejection of her father and a former suitor, she hides herself behind a mask she has let no one—not even her young charges—penetrate. When Stone comes looking for Lily, she coolly proves to him she’s Lily’s legal guardian, despite the fear that rages inside. Slowly, though, she begins to trust their rugged hero, especially as he proves he would do anything for her and her students. But, there is a big difference between trusting him with their lives and giving him her heart. Will she ever surrender to his very worthy pursuit?

        If you are not jumping out of your seat determined to pick up A Worthy Pursuit this very minute—or at least very soon—then I have done a sorry job describing it. Believe me, this novel deserves double the five bookshelves I am giving it, but my scale doesn’t go that high. I cannot describe to you in words how amazing this novel was, not just because of its melted-me-into-a-puddle love story. Although that (obviously) played a really big part. The suspense playing into Lily’s situation gave this book exactly what it needed, and the little details made it all the more enjoyable. A Worthy Pursuit is a novel fully worthy (see what I did there?) of all the praise I could ever give it, and the assurance that I know I will read it again and again. If you pick up this book, I promise you won’t be disappointed.

        Happy reading!

You can purchase your own copy of the book here.
All credit for the amazing photography goes to my little sister Allie (check out her blogs here and here).

All credit for the italicized synopsis goes to Karen Witemeyer and her publishers.

A Most Inconvenient Marriage by Regina Jennings

Abigail Stuart thought she was Jeremiah Calhoun’s widow. But Jeremiah Calhoun is very handsome, very alive, and very perplexed. Most inconvenient indeed.

        With few options of her own, nurse Abigail Stuart agrees to marry her patient, a gravely wounded soldier calling himself Jeremiah Calhoun. They arrange a quick ceremony before he dies, giving Abigail the rights to his Ozark farm and giving Jeremiah the peace of knowing someone will care for his ailing sister after he’s gone—a practical solution for both of them.

        After the war, Abigail fulfills her side of the bargain—until the real Jeremiah Calhoun shows up, injured but definitely alive, and wastes no time in challenging Abigail’s story. Abigail is flummoxed. After months of claiming to be his widow, how can she explain that she’s never seen this Jeremiah Calhoun before? How can she convince him that she isn’t trying to steal his farm? And will she find a way to stay, even though this practical arrangement has turned into a most inconvenient marriage?

        Nurse Abigail Stuart never encouraged the attentions of any of her patients, knowing they were lonely and in pain and not really attracted to her. But when her favorite patient, the gravely wounded Jeremiah Calhoun, asks her to marry him as a practical arrangement—in the interest of his ailing sister—she reluctantly accepts. After he passes, she carries out her part of the bargain by making her way to his farm and family, until she is stunned by the appearance of the real Jeremiah Calhoun. Will she be able to convince him that her story is true and she has no intention of stealing his farm, or will he quickly send her packing?

        A Most Inconvenient Marriage by Regina Jennings is the first of her books that I have read, and I must say I was very pleasantly surprised. I have now found another author to put on my favorites list. With its clever plotline and suspenseful story, this novel is one to remember, especially since its characters were so relatable. Abigail’s struggles were ones anyone could understand, and I loved reading about Jeremiah’s determination to overcome his injury.

        Not only were the characters relatable, but the story wasn’t as predictable as it sounds. It kept me hooked, unsure what would happen, but so sure I wanted to keep reading to find out. I read the book in a day, if that tells you anything. And it was well worth shirking my responsibilities for. It also well deserves all of the five bookshelves I am giving it. You should read it sometime. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

        Happy reading!

You can pick up your own copy here.

All credit for the italicized synopsis goes to Regina Jennings and her publishers.

Currently—July

        Here’s my post of what I’m currently doing this month! Right now I’m…

        Craving ice cream. Ice cream. Ice cream. It doesn’t matter what kind, or if it is soft serve or not, just so long as it is cold and sweet. In the summer, I constantly crave ice cream, maybe because it is refreshing in our hundred-and-five degree weather. Either way, right now mint chocolate chip is my favorite, although I also really enjoy moose tracks. And vanilla. And chocolate peanut butter. On another note, I’m also really in love with watermelon right now.

        I’m currently grilling…burgers. Always burgers. I just love sitting out on my screened in porch on a Saturday night and eating grilled cheeseburgers and fresh, creamy coleslaw. There is no better way to spend a summer night.

        I’m currently listening to David Dunn’s whole album, For the Life of Me. I already knew David was a great artist since I love his single Today Is Beautiful—which is my alarm by the way—so I knew getting this album would be a good idea. Needless to say, I cannot stop listening to it. Heart Stops is my favorite. Although So We Sing is pretty fabulous too.

        I am planning the best real-life tea party you could ever imagine with a few of my close friends. We’re pulling out all the stops, with scones, little cakes, and lots and lots of tea. We’re even going to dress up in dresses—I’m wearing the one I mentioned in my last Currently post—and have themed decorations. I don’t want to give too much away since I will be posting about it after the party’s over, but let me tell you, it will be wonderful. And the little bit of England I am always longing for.

        Last but not least, I am currently not decorating anything, although next month, I will be changing my residence. I know I will be decorating then, so I’m going to let that count for this month, as I’m sure I’ll start purchasing some new things. And deciding how I’m going to decorate. So, that counts.

        That’s what I’m doing this July! What about you?

Must-Have July Releases

The Wonder of You

        Mortified after her semester abroad is cut short, Amelia Christiansen returns to Deep Haven, certain she isn’t brave enough for the adventures she’s dreamed of. The last thing she expects is for the man who broke her heart to cross the Atlantic and beg forgiveness.

        Heir to a European hotel dynasty, Roark St. John has trekked from one exotic locale to another, haunted by tragedy and the expectations that accompany his last name. Amelia is the first woman to give him a reason to stop running. He’ll do anything for a second chance—even contend with Amelia’s old flame, who is intent on sending Roark packing.

        While one surprise after another leaves Amelia reeling, Roark’s continued presence only highlights the questions pursuing her. Like him, is she running from the life God has called her to? Could finding her new place mean leaving home behind?

        This is the fifth book in Susan May Warren’s Christiansen Family series, and I have been anticipating it since I finished the fourth one—Always on My Mind—a couple of weeks ago. There were little hints about Amelia’s story mixed into Casper’s, so I am excited to finally find out what really happened, and how it plays out. I also just really enjoyed all of the other siblings’ stories I’ve read so far; Darek’s—Take a Chance on Me—Eden’s—It Had to Be You—Grace’s—When I Fall in Love—and Casper’s. Susan May Warren had me falling in love with the Christiansen’s since page one of the first book, so I know this is a book I will be reading as soon as I can.

Pick up any of the Christiansen Family novels here!

Lady Maybe

        One final cry…”God Almighty, help us!” and suddenly her world shifted violently, until a blinding collision scattered her mind and shook her bones. Then, the pain. The freezing water. And as all sensation drifted away, a hand reached for hers, before all faded into darkness…

        Now she has awakened as though from some strange, suffocating dream in a warm and welcoming room she has never seen before, and tended to by kind, unfamiliar faces. But not all has been swept away. She recalls fragments of the accident. She remembers a baby. And a ring on her finger reminds her of a lie.

        But most of all, there is a secret. And in this house of strangers she can trust no one but herself to keep it.

        Since I am a huge Julie Klassen fan and have read every single one of her books so far, I have been looking forward to this book for quite a while. It sounds utterly amazing, and I know Julie will not disappoint, as she never has yet. I’ve already pre-ordered myself a copy, so you will be hearing what I think about it sometime soon after it releases.

Get a copy of this book here.

The Curiosity Keeper

“It is not just a ruby, as you say. It is large as a quail’s egg, still untouched and unpolished. And it is rumored to either bless or curse whoever possesses it.”

        Camille Iverness can take care of herself. She’s done so since the day her mother abandoned the family and left Camille to run their shabby curiosity shop. But when a violent betrayal leaves her injured with no place to hide, Camille must allow a mysterious stranger to come to her aid.

        Jonathan Gilchrist never wanted to inherit Kettering Hall. As a second son, he was content to work as the village apothecary. But when his brother’s death made him heir just as his father’s foolish decisions put the estate at risk, only the sale of a priceless possession—a ruby called the Bevoy—can save the family from ruin. But the gem has disappeared. And all trails lead to Iverness Curiosity Shop—and the beautiful shop girl who may be the answer to his many questions.

        Caught at the intersection of blessings and curses, greed and deceit, these two determined souls must unite to protect what they hold dear. But when a passion that shines far brighter than any gem is ignited, they will have to decide how much they are willing to risk for their future, love, and happiness.

        Since I just absolutely love mysteries, the description from this book completely intrigues me. It leaves so much to the imagination, and makes me want to dive right in every time I read about it. That’s why I’ve also pre-ordered this one as well. Besides, Sarah E. Ladd always writes the perfect historical romances.

Want a copy of the perfect historical romance? Pick one up here.

A Bride at Last

        Abandoned by his mail-order bride, Silas Jonesey has fought an uphill battle to recover from a pattern of poor choices. Now his prayers for reconciliation have finally come true and his estranged wife has contacted him with her whereabouts.

        Kate Dawson was supposed to be a mail-order bride, but upon realizing she’d been deceived about her intended groom, she’s now settled into life as a schoolteacher. When the mother of a student passes away, Kate assumes she’ll take on care of nine-year-old Anthony—until two men suddenly show up in town, claiming to be the boy’s father.

        Silas can see Anthony loves Kate, so he enlists her help in reaching out to the boy and attempting to prove his paternity to the court. When a common interest in Anthony leads to an interest in each other and Silas and Kate begin to think they can overcome their rocky start, neither is prepared for the secrets and past hurts that have yet to come to light. Can Silas, Kate, and Anthony’s wounded souls bind them together or will all that stands between them leave them lonely forever?

        As the third book in Melissa Jagears’ Unexpected Brides series, I have had time to anticipate this novel as I have read the first two, A Bride for Keeps and A Bride in Store. Both were absolutely wonderful, as I am sure this one will be as well!

You can pick up any of the books in this series here.

In Good Company

        After growing up as an orphan, Mille Longfellow is determined to become the best nanny the East Coast has ever seen. Unfortunately, her playfulness and enthusiasm aren’t always well-received and she finds herself dismissed from yet another position.

        Everett Mulberry has quite unexpectedly become guardian to three children that scare off every nanny he hires. About to depart for Newport, Rhode Island, for the summer, he’s desperate for competent childcare.

        At wit’s end with both Millie and Everett, the employment agency gives them one last chance—with each other. As Millie falls in love with her mischievous charges, Everett focuses on achieving the coveted societal status of the upper echelons. But as he investigates the suspicious circumstances surrounding the death of the children’s parents, will it take the loss of those he loves to learn whose company he truly wants for the rest of his life?

        The second book in Jen Turano’s A Class of Their Own series—After a Fashion being the first—is another book I have been anticipating for a while. I finished After a Fashion only a couple of weeks ago—I read it in a day to be exact—and I absolutely loved it. Jen does an amazing job of making you feel transported to whatever place and year she is writing about, and all of her interesting heroines are sure to keep you laughing. This is a novel you cannot miss!

Don't miss it! Grab a copy of either book in this series here!

Refining Fire

        Twenty-two-year-old Militine Scott is in training at the Madison Bridal School in Seattle, yet she has no intention of pursuing marriage. What respectable man would have her? But she has found the school provides the perfect opportunity to keep her unsavory past hidden.

        Thane Patton, though fun-loving and fiercely loyal to his friends, hides a dark secret as well. He finds himself drawn to Militine, sensing that she harbors a haunting pain similar to his own.

        Will they allow God to make something new and beautiful from the debris of their pasts?

        Also the second book in its series, Refining Fire comes after Steadfast Heart. I am afraid that I did not enjoy Steadfast Heart nearly as much as I thought I would, so I am not nearly as excited about Refining Fire as the other novels on this list, but I am hoping this book will be better than the first.

Grab yourself a copy of either Refining Fire or Steadfast Heart here.

To Capture Her Heart

In an uncertain time, she faces a choice that will change her life forever.

        It is 1653 and Heather Flower, a princess of the Montaukett tribe, is celebrating her wedding feast when a rival tribe attacks, killing the groom and kidnapping her. Though her ransom is paid by an Englishman, she is bound by her captors and left to die—until she finds herself rescued by handsome Dutch Lieutenant Dirk Van Buren.

        Still tender from her loss, Heather Flower begins to heal in the home of the Hortons, English friends of her people. Torn between her affection for Dirk and her longtime friendship with Ben Horton, Heather Flower must make a difficult choice—stay true to her friend or follow her heart.

        Another second in its series, The Southold Chronicles, I know why I'm looking forward to this book. One of the reasons is because I know Ben from the book before. The other reason is because I hope to find this novel not as slow going as A Place in His Heart.

You can purchase your own copy of A Place in His Heart or To Capture Her Heart here.

            Those are the July releases I'm most looking forward to! I hope you'll check them out and look for my reviews of them in the future!

All credit for the italicized synopses goes to each author and their publishers.

Quarterly Round-Up: April-June

        Today I am posting about all of the books I have read this quarter, from April to June. Since I have read more than twenty, that is quite a list, but I have loved every one of them (click on titles for full reviews).

When Love Calls by Lorna Seilstad

        I think this was my favorite out of the two in the series (The Gregory Sisters) that I have read so far. It was completely fantastic, and the mystery was a wonderful added touch.

Pick yourself up a copy here!

When Love Stirs by Lorna Seilstad

        Although I enjoyed many parts of this story, the ending had a huge disconnect that I could not ignore, which made it my least favorite in the series. I am still looking forward to reading the third book, however, and still rank this one as a solid four-bookshelf novel.

Love mysteries? Check this one out here!

Angels Walking by Karen Kingsbury

        I had been highly anticipating this novel for months, as I am a huge fan of Karen, and this book did not disappoint. I completely devoured it, and still cannot stop thinking about all of the wonderful, angel-filled moments that reminded me just how amazing God is.

Find out just amazing He is here!

Chasing Sunsets by Karen Kingsbury

        This second book in Karen’s Angels Walking Series as also highly anticipated, especially after I read the first, and I loved this one even more than its predecessor. I completely fell in love with Marcus, and Mary Catherine, whose story reminded me so much of mine—in certain parts that is. My only fault with this novel is that it left me hanging on the side of a cliff—metaphorically speaking—and I have to wait until November to find out what happens next.

Fall in love with these characters here!

Reclaiming Nick by Susan May Warren

        This was only the second Susan May Warren book I had read—I found it as a Bargain buy—but I was so glad I bought it, and read it of course. I have loved every single book by Susan to date, and the mystery she weaved into this one made it even more enjoyable.

Pick yourself up a copy here!

Love Unexpected by Jody Hedlund

        Even though this was the first book I had ever read by Jody, it made me a life-long fan of her writing. This novel effortlessly made its way onto my all-time favorites list, and is one I will always remember. Especially as I read the second and eventually the third—when it finally releases.

Pick up a copy here!

A Bride for Keeps by Melissa Jagears

        This book was the first one I read by this author as well. I enjoyed it immensely, especially since I love novels where the couple gets married before they fall in love. Clearly it makes for a wonderful story, and this book was no exception.

Fall in love with this book by grabbing a copy here.

A Bride in Store by Melissa Jagears

        As the second book in Melissa’s Unexpected Brides series, I already knew what I was getting into when I started this book. It met my expectations and more by topping the novel before it.

Read this amazing novel here.

Barefoot Summer by Denise Hunter

        Once again, a first for me by this author. This was also the first book in her Chapel Springs series, but I cannot say it was my favorite. I enjoyed it, but there were a few stylistic things that bothered me about it, which forced me to give it less bookshelves. It didn’t diminish my love for her characters, however, and that is a good thing.

Check it out here!

Dancing with Fireflies by Denise Hunter

        When I started out planning this post, I decided I would pick one novel that I loved above all the others I read this quarter. This book is it. Although I went into this second book in the Chapel Springs series worried that it would bother me like the first, I found no faults within its pages, and now call it one of my favorites of all time. It was impossible to put down, absolutely swoon-worthy, and a novel I know I will read again and again.

Grab your own copy here!

The Wishing Season by Denise Hunter

        As the third book in the series, I wasn’t sure if it would have faults like the first or be absolutely wonderful like the second, but it turned out to be a perfectly happy medium, though it leaned more towards the second. It was wonderful and also hard to put down, had no faults in my opinion, but just wasn’t quite as amazing. It is a worthy read, however.

You can pick up a copy here!

Married ‘til Monday by Denise Hunter

        This was the final book in Denise’s Chapel Springs series, and was by far my second favorite, barely falling behind Dancing with Fireflies. It didn’t release until three and a half weeks after I finished The Wishing Season, so I had been anticipating it for a while. I pre-ordered it on Amazon, so I received it the day it released, and I started—and finished—it the next day. It only took me about four hours to read it, and I loved every moment. This is another I will read over and over, especially because Ryan and Abby continually had be bouncing between laughter and swoons.

Live Original by Sadie Robertson

        I really enjoyed reading this inspiring teenager's book full of encouraging tips on how to just be you. This was the only non-fiction book I finished this quarter, but it was more than enough. If you're ever looking for a good devotional, this is the book to get.

Murder Simply Brewed by Vanetta Chapman

        Although I fear being redundant, I have to say, this was another first for me. I had never read anything by Vanetta, but I must say I was thoroughly impressed with her Amish/Englisch romance/mystery. It was easy to read, hard to figure out, and definitely memorable.

Check it out here!

Murder Tightly Knit by Vanetta Chapman

        This second book in the Amish Village Mystery series was just as good as the first, although for different reasons. Either way, I enjoyed it and found it one to remember as well. Though I cannot say it was necessarily one of my favorites this quarter, I am eagerly anticipating reading the third.

Pick up this novel here!

Take a Chance on Me by Susan May Warren

        After reading this first book in Susan’s Christiansen Family series, I knew I would be reading a lot more of her novels over the next couple of weeks, because I completely fell in love with the Christiansens. Darek was no exception, although he isn’t my favorite brother. I loved watching him grow as I made my way through the book, and know I will be returning to this series again sometime in the near future.

Take a chance on this book here!

It Had to Be You by Susan May Warren

        Since Eden constantly reminded me so much of myself, I couldn’t help but love her story. I also never expected how it all would pan out, and was surprised with each chapter. This book was definitely worth the read.

Check it out here!

When I Fall in Love by Susan May Warren

        I think this was my favorite Christiansen novel so far. Grace and Max’s story resonated with me in a way many books never do, and it really did have the sweetest moments. I know this is a novel I will remember forever.

Fall in love with this book here.

Always on My Mind by Susan May Warren

        Casper Christiansen is the kind of man many women only dream of. Need I say more? His sweet personality made this novel the perfect read, and the wonderful storyline only made it even better. This is another book I will most definitely be reading again.

Grab a copy of this wonderful novel here.

With Every Letter by Sarah Sundin

        Once again, this was another first for me. Although I wasn’t sure about it going in, I found this a wonderful read, and added Sarah to my list of authors to keep an eye on. I enjoyed this book far more than I expected, and thought her World War II setting made for the perfect story.  

Pick up this perfect story here.

After a Fashion by Jen Turano

        I have read almost all of Jen’s novels, so I already knew going in that this book would be wonderful. She has a way of creating the best historical romances that make me long to be able to write like her. This novel made me even more of a believer in her talents.

Are you a believer? Then grab her novel here!

Steadfast Heart by Tracie Peterson

        I have been a fan of Tracie’s writing since I first read one of her novels over three years ago. Unfortunately, this book fell flat for me, and wasn't one I enjoyed. There were just too many things wrong with this one for it to be enjoyable.

Although I wasn't a fan, you might be. Check it out here.

A Place in His Heart by Rebecca DeMarino

        This was also another first for me. I found it an interesting read, as the facts about colonial times were impeccable and very fun to learn, but I cannot say it was one of my favorites.

This book was still enjoyable, and I still recommend you pick it up here.

        Those are the books I have read the past three months! I am excited to see if I read more next quarter!
        Happy reading!

The wonderful pictures from this post were taken by my sister Allie. Check out her blog here.

A Bride in Store by Melissa Jagears

        Impatient to meet her intended groom and help him grow his general store, mail-order bride Eliza Cantrell sets out on her travels a week early. But her plan goes sadly awry when her train is held up by robbers who steal her dowry and Axel, her groom-to-be, isn’t even in town when she finally arrives.

        Axel’s business partner, William Stanton, has no head for business and would much rather be a doctor. When his friend’s mail-order bride arrives in town with no money and no groom in sight, he feels responsible and lets her help around the store—where she quickly proves she’s much more adept at business than he ever will be.

        The sparks that fly between Will and Eliza as they work together in close quarters are hard to ignore, but Eliza is meant for Axel and a future with the store, while Will is biding his time until he can afford medical school. However, their troubles are far from over when Axel finally returns, and soon both Will and Eliza must decide what they’re willing to sacrifice to chase their dreams—or if God has a new dream in store for them both.

        Eliza Cantrell has dreamed of owning her own store since she was a little girl. So when her father gives his store to her much-less-capable older brother, she feels betrayed. After making the decision to become a mail-order bride, she takes a chance and sets out a week early, only to have her train robbed and everything she had stolen. To top it off, when she arrives, her groom-to-be, Axel, is nowhere to be found. Waiting for him to appear, Eliza helps Will, Axel’s partner, out in their store, but she starts to wonder if this was the best decision after all. She and Will share a chemistry she cannot ignore, and how much does she really know about Axel anyway? When Axel finally returns, will Eliza go forward with her plans, or will she realize some much bigger dreams? And do they include Will?

        A Bride in Store is the second book in Melissa Jagears’ Unexpected Brides series, but I cannot decide if it is my favorite or not. It was just so completely different from A Bride for Keeps that I really cannot compare them that way. Although, one thing I found in both—a deep spiritual struggle that I could relate to on many levels—even though the struggles were different. In A Bride in Store, there were so many issues that all of us face, such as difficulty believing in ourselves—which both Will and Eliza struggled with, though for different reasons—feelings of regret when someone passes and you feel you could have done more for them, or anger at the unfairness of an innocent child’s death before their life even begins. I will not give you the answers, partially for fear of ruining the book, but mainly because that is something for you to find out for yourself as you set out to read this novel. I believe each of us will see the answers a little differently, because all of us are not in the same place in our relationships with God, so I couldn’t accurately describe them anyway.

        I also loved the way both Eliza and Will struggled with discovering what is really what their heart desires and what it was the Lord was calling them to do. Honestly, I think everyone has difficulty separating their desires from their callings; I know I have struggled with that on multiple occasions. And, Eliza’s fear was grounded. Say you follow your heart and give up your plans to chase the man of your dreams, what happens ten years later when life is hard, things are tough, and you miss the plans you had made. Will you be able to continue to let them go, or will you leave the man of your dreams for your long-lost plans? In all reality, the only answer I have for you is chase the Lord, do as he says, and everything else will fall into place. And, sometimes, you’ll be surprised when God blesses you more abundantly than you could ever imagine by giving you both, the man and the plans. You never know what could happen!

        Anyway, A Bride in Store (obviously) gave me a lot to think about, and at the same time was still that sweet story I expected when reading the description on the back. It easily deserves all five bookshelves, if not more, and has become one to read again and again. I hope you enjoy it just as much as I did!

        Happy reading!

You can find every book from this series here.

All credit for the italicized synopsis goes to Melissa Jagears and her publishers.

A Place in His Heart by Rebecca DeMarino

She could cross an ocean, but could she ever win his heart?

        Anglican Mary Langton longs to marry for love. Left at the altar and disgraced in her small hamlet, she is being pressured to marry the eligible son of the London milliner. Puritan Barnabas Horton still grieves the loss of his beloved wife, but he knows his two young sons need a mother.

        With tender hearts, Mary and Barnabas take a leap of faith and wed. But when Barnabas’s secret plans to move his family to the New World to escape persecution come to light, Mary’s world is upended. How could she possibly leave her papa and her dear sister?

        And will she ever reach the secret places of her husband’s broken heart?

        A Place in His Heart is the only book I have ever read by Rebecca DeMarino, so I wasn’t sure what to expect going in. Let me just say, considering the fact that this was her first published novel, I was pleasantly surprised. Whenever I find a new author, I either fear that their works will bother me to such a degree that I cannot finish the book, or feel that they will become one of my new favorite writers (let me be clear that I rarely ever find novels that I cannot finish). Clearly I am a little silly for going from one extreme to the other, but I do very often find new authors I love simply by reading one of their books. However, this was not one of those times. I did enjoy this novel, but there were a few things about it that I could not ignore.

        One of which is the fact that it was very slow moving. Not much happened in the middle part of this novel, though it covered a span of more than ten years. I felt like many of the scenes added nothing to the story and were purely filler, and that disappointed me greatly. The main theme of this novel was a great idea, but I just am not sure it was well executed. On the other hand, Rebecca’s facts were impeccable. I could tell she spent hours researching for this story.

        Like I’ve said before, I hate writing bad reviews, so I’m a bit at war with myself. Although, I’m not sure if this could qualify as a bad review. I mean, I am giving it four bookshelves. I just felt a little lost in the monotony of the story, especially as it was a bit repetitive. I am still looking forward to the second novel in this series, however, so I would say this is a worthy read. Just a bit off for my tastes. Fortunately I still was able to enjoy it, and you just might too!

        Happy reading!

Pick up a copy of this book here.

All credit for the italicized synopsis goes to Rebecca DeMarino and her publishers.