The Heart’s Pursuit by Robin Lee Hatcher

The Heart’s Pursuit

1873 – Colorado

Silver Matlock and Jared Newman know traveling together is a bad idea. Bad for Silver’s already tarnished reputation in her small Colorado town. Bad for bounty hunter Jared’s secret, single-minded mission for revenge. But Silver is determined to track down the rogue who left her at the altar and stole the last remnant of her father’s fortune. And Jared’s in a hurry to hunt down the murderer who destroyed his family–even if Silver is too distractingly beautiful for comfort.

The pair takes off over mountain and desert, past bleak homesteads and raw mining towns, hot on the trail of the two villains who took what wasn’t theirs to take. Soon supplies dwindle, secrets emerge, and suspicion leave Silver and Jared at odds when they need each other most. To confront an enemy deadlier than desert rattlesnakes and rocky cliffs, Silver and Jared must learn to forgive and trust and face the question they haven’t dared voice: What happens next?

Gunmen of Nicodemus by Marlene Banks

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1887 – Kansas

Resolving for different reasons to abandon lifestyles relying on their guns, four men with well-earned reputations settle quietly outside the African American town of Nicodemus, Kansas. Payment being cash and ownership of land, the men are commissioned to protect the town from an unscrupulous land baron’s attempted takeover. They face challenges from unwelcoming townsfolk, a devious adversary, and powerful corporate greed, along with their personal and spiritual struggles and budding romances. This novel has something for everyone; interesting characters, romance, strong spiritual insight, an attention holding multilayered plot, and western action.

Gideon McCoy, Caleb Cain, Joshua Boudreaux and David ‘Boone’ Tennyson are immediately attracted to the charming Nicodemus women: Sugar, a beautiful farm girl, Louise the talkative daughter of a general store owner, Liberty a sassy saloon owner and the newly arrived schoolmarm, Polly.

While Nicodemus residents enthusiastically anticipate the advent of the Pacific Union Railroad, a scheming Lucas Hitchcock, the cultural mentality of greed, shady government dealings, and ingrained racism work against a potentially beneficial arrangement. Yet the Godly presence in Lucas’ most despised enemy, Geoffrey Abington, foils his vicious bid for control. Nicodemus becomes pawn in a tug of war between the railroad company only concerned with expansion and profit, Lucas Hitchcock’s power play and the godly team of Geoffrey Abington and his friend Harlan Colby. Harlan, a loving family man and longtime railroad executive is fed up with his company’s trend of unethical business practices. He takes a bold stand for what he believes is God’s standard in business, society, and humanity as a whole. People are being harassed, run from their land and even killed. The four gunmen are hired to protect the town’s citizens but encounter obstacles both spiritual and natural they did not foresee. Sides are drawn culminating into a tragic showdown and only God can deliver victory to Nicodemus.

A Cowboy Unmatched by Karen Witemeyer

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1893 – Texas

Neill isn’t sure who hired him to repair Clara’s roof–he only knows Clara desperately needs his help. Can he convince this stubborn widow to let down her guard and take another chance on love?

Author Interview – A Lady’s Honor – Laurie Alice Eakes

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Today, we have a visit from Laurie Alice Eakes, don’t miss the giveaway at the end. Hope you enjoy the interview! Isn’t the cover gorgeous?

A tarnished reputation. A distant home. A forced engagement to a dangerous man.

When Elizabeth Trelawny flees London, she has more than one reason to run. And when her carriage, pursued by her would-be fiancé, is caught in a storm, she quickly accepts the help of a dark stranger. Anything to get back to Cornwall. Rowan Curnow is not exactly a stranger. Not quite a gentleman either, class disparity once kept him from courting Elizabeth. . . Even if it didn’t keep him from kissing her. The couple elude their pursuers and reach Bastion Point, Elizabeth’s future inheritance and the one place she calls home. But in the very act of spiriting her to safety, Rowan has jeopardized Elizabeth’s inheritance—if her grandfather ever learns she spent the night, however innocently, in the company of a man . When smugglers unite the pair in a reckless, flirtatious alliance—an alliance that challenges the social norms that Elizabeth has been raised to revere and rattles Rowan’s fledgling faith in God—Elizabeth must choose between the obedience of a child and the desires of a woman: whether to cling to the safety of her family home or follow the man she loves.

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Questions about Laurie Alice’s Book

What did you enjoy most about writing this book?writing -- laurie 009

One thing that excites me about this book is that I came up with the idea a gazillion years ago, but the time was just never right to try to sell it to a publisher—location, time period, theme were all wrong. Then, at last, everything fell into place and I got to tell these characters’ story.

Which scene is your favorite, the one you never tired of working with?

One scene I knew was coming up, in the second half of the book, that I actually wanted to write so much I wrote it ahead, is when Elizabeth and Rowan go to a horse fair. For once in her life, Elizabeth forgets the restrictions of her life and is able to be the person she wants to be—and I could give the romance a leap forward here as well, which is always fun for this romantic soul.

(Melissa says: Oh, I love romance leaping scenes! )

Why did you choose the year your book is set?

The year is 1811. This is considered to be the first year of the Regency, and I wanted to use that year for that reason. Also, because I have American characters, I didn’t want to use a later year and have the two countries at war with on another.

If you could be guaranteed to publish a book set anywhere and at anytime, what setting would you love to set a novel in?

I’m trying to decide between two time periods here. Both are revolts against the Crown of England. One is the English Civil War in the 1640-50s, and the other is the American Revolution. Perhaps I have a rebellious spirit.

Where is your home on the web?

www.lauriealiceeakes.com

BONUS – Laurie Alice has another book out at the same time: The Honorable Heir:

 

Catherine, Lady Bisterne, returns to Tuxedo Park cloaked in scandal, the widow of a nobleman who’d loved only her fortune. As she sets out to repair her family’s reputation, another Englishman in her midst is seeking reparations of a different sort. While Lord Tristram Wolfe may suspect that Catherine has stolen the Bisterne jewels, he looks at her in a way her husband never had.

As Tristram’s investigation continues, one thing becomes clear: the only thing Lady Catherine has ever stolen is his heart. But can he convince her to trust another English nobleman…and take a second chance on love?

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Questions about Laurie Alice’s Reading

Which book got you hooked on reading Christian Historicals?

Sometime in the late 1980s, I was seeking books that weren’t full of…inappropriate to read materials. The librarian suggested a couple of inspirational romances. I didn’t know such a thing existed. One was just all right and I don’t recall the name, but the other was called Love’s Fragile Flame and I loved it. A long time passed before I felt called to write Christian fiction, and I never forgot that book.

(Melissa says “It’s an old Bethany House book, but she has it out on ebook with a different cover, so click to the picture to go to Amazon and check it out. I’m SO happy that ebook self-pubbing is available now for all those authors whose backlists are sold out. Some great books from way back are happily on my kindle that wouldn’t have been on my shelf any other way!”)

Which was the last Christian Historical Novel you read, and what was your favorite thing about it?

soldier secret

The Soldier’s Secret by Naomi Rawlings. I loved the setting, as I am fond of France (studied there in college) the French Revolution, etc., and I simply loved the uniqueness of the story.

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Laurie Alice has been gracious to offer one copy to a lucky winner. Laurie Alice wants to hear the answer to her question and then if you want extra chances, more will show up after you write a blog comment and then tell me you commented in the rafflecopter. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Raina’s Choice by Gilbert Morris

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1891 – Louisiana

When a mysterious stranger, Ty Kincaid, arrives in her town from Mexico, headed for Arkansas by way of the riverboats, Raina Vernay’s mind starts churning a plan to escape her brutal brother-in-law and locate the father she’s never know. Ty just might be her ticket to Indian Territory and freedom. . . . Then Ty lands himself in jail, and Raina has to wonder if this wanted man is any use to her. She needs a hero. Can she find him in Ty?

Hearts in Flight by Patty Smith Hall

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1943 – Georgia

Serving her country as one of the Women’s Army Special Pilots is Maggie Daniels’s dearest wish. But there are obstacles to overcome above and beyond the enemies in the Pacific, including her overprotective family, skeptical fellow pilots—and handsome, distant squadron leader Wesley Hicks. Whatever it takes, Maggie will prove herself to Wesley, until she succeeds in winning his admiration…and love.

Wesley can see that Maggie’s a first-class pilot. She’s also too fearless by half. The war has cost Wesley so much already. Can he let go of his guilt for a chance at happiness—and can he learn to trust in God…and Maggie…enough to believe in love for a lifetime?

Dreamspell by Tamara Leigh

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1376 – England

A TIME TO LIVE. A TIME TO DIE. A TIME TO DREAM.

Sleep disorders specialist Kennedy Plain has been diagnosed with a fatal brain tumor. When her research subject dies after trying to convince her he has achieved dream-induced time travel and her study is shelved, she enlists herself as a subject to complete her research. But when she dreams herself into 14th-century England and falls into the hands of Fulke Wynland, a man history has condemned as a murderer, she must not only stay alive long enough to find a way to return to her own time, but prevent Fulke from murdering his young nephews. And yet, the more time she spends with the medieval warrior, the more difficult it is to believe he is capable of committing the heinous crime for which he has been reviled for 600 years.

Baron Fulke Wynland has been granted guardianship of his brother’s heirs despite suspicions that he seeks to steal their inheritance. When the king sends a mysterious woman to care for the boys, Fulke is surprised by the lady’s hostility toward him–and more surprised to learn she is to be his wife. But when his nephews are abducted, the two must overcome their mutual dislike to discover the boys’ fate. What Fulke never expects is to feel for this woman whose peculiar speech, behavior, and talk of dream travel could see her burned as a witch.

The Magistrate’s Folly by Lisa Karon Richardson

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themagistratesfollyThe Magistrate’s Folly

Colonial – Virginia

Merry Lattimore is innocent. . . But when she fails to prove her case, she’s convicted of larceny and sent to colonial Virginia as an indentured servant. Now she must find a way to survive an ocean away from her beloved home in England. . .and a way to silence her heart. She couldn’t help but recognize the magistrate, Graham Sinclair—her first love until he disappeared from her life. Far from healing old wounds, his sudden reappearance has brought nothing but fresh hurt. Ever since condemning Merry, Graham is haunted by her memory. When he discovers her innocence, he obtains a pardon and pursues her. But by then Merry is embroiled in a new mystery—one that Graham won’t let her face alone. Together they hunt down a killer to save a friend. . .and their future.

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Sons of Isaac by Roberta Kells Dorr

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Sons of Isaacsonsofisaac

BC – Middle East

You will live the grand story of the descendants of Abraham in this capstone of the Roberta Kells Dorr biblical fiction series. This work is a new, unpublished title, of Abraham’s descendants featuring Isaac’s sons, Jacob and Esau, told with the same critical eye and careful study Dorr is known for. In it, faith keeps Abraham from accepting the king’s daughter as a wife for Isaac, but fear almost keeps Rebekah from leaving her home to become Isaac’s spouse. When God tells Rebekah that she will bear Isaac twin sons and the youngest will serve the older, Jacob is skeptical. But that revelation will mark the lives of Jacob and Esau and influence generations to come. This tale of family love, greed, jealousy, hope, manipulation, stubbornness, idol worship, famine, and faith in the one God, Elohim, is taken from the pages of biblical history but sounds like a headline from today’s magazines. It ends much like it begins, when Jacob blesses two of his sons, Manasseh and Ephraim, saying that the younger will become greater than the older, a theme that is seen throughout The Sons of Isaac. 

Out of the Ruins by Karen Barnett

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outoftheruinsOut of the Ruins 

1906 – California

While her sister lies on her deathbed, Abby Fischer prays for a miracle. What Abby doesn’t expect, however, is for God’s answer to come in the form of the handsome Dr. Robert King, whose experimental treatment is risky at best. As they work together toward a cure, Abby’s feelings for Robert become hopelessly entangled. Separated by the tragedy of the mighty San Francisco earthquake, their relationship suddenly takes a back seat to survival. With fires raging throughout the city, Abby fears for her life as she flees alone through burning streets. Where is God now? Will Robert find Abby, even as the world burns around them? Or has their love fallen with the ruins of the city?

Fair Play by Deeanne Gist

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Fair Play

1893 – Illinois

Saddled with a man’s name, the captivating Billy Jack Tate makes no apologies for taking on a man’s profession. As a doctor at the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair, she is one step closer to having her very own medical practice—until Hunter Scott asks her to give it all up to become his wife.

Hunter is one of the elite. A Texas Ranger and World’s Fair guard specifically chosen for his height, physique, character, and skill. Hailed as the toughest man west of any place east, he has no patience for big cities and women who think they belong anywhere but home…

Despite their difference of opinion on the role of women, Hunter and Billy find a growing attraction between them—until Hunter discovers an abandoned baby in the corner of a White City exhibit. He and Billy team up to make sure this foundling isn’t left in the slums of Chicago with only the flea-riddled, garbage-infested streets for a playground. As they fight for the underprivileged children in the Nineteenth Ward, an entire Playground Movement is birthed. But when the Fair comes to an end, one of them will have to give up their dream.

Will Billy exchange her doctor’s shingle for the domesticated role of a southern wife, or will Hunter abandon the wide open spaces of home for a life in the “gray city,” a woman who insists on being the wage earner, and a group of ragamuffins who need more than a playground for breathing space?

Falling for the Rancher Father by Linda Ford

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Falling for the Rancher Father fallingfortherancherfather

1882 – Canada

Widower Abel Borgard has his hands full raising twins and establishing a homestead. Mercy Newell’s offer to care for his son and daughter seems like the perfect solution. And though it takes no time for Mercy to steal his children’s hearts, Abel’s is another story, because he’s a single father set on stability and she’s a wild-at-heart beauty searching for adventure. Joining a Wild West show as a trick rider is Mercy’s dream. She never foresaw the joy she’d find caring for Abel’s children. The rugged widower hardly trusts her yet. But by the first snowfall, there could be a new family—and new love—in Eden Valley….

The Horseman’s Frontier Family by Karen Kirst

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The Horseman’s Frontier Familyhorsemansfrontierfamily

1889 – Oklahoma

Everything Gideon Thornton has worked for is in jeopardy, all because of one stubborn woman. Evelyn Montgomery insists that Gideon’s new claim from the Oklahoma Land Rush legally belongs to her. Both refuse to budge—even when the law says that until their dispute is settled, they must share the land. Their family feud has taught Evelyn that Thortons can’t be trusted. Yet day by day Gideon’s thoughtfulness to Evelyn, and especially to her young son, shows the real truth. A truth that may mean the end of her claim…and the start of a future big enough to encompass both their dreams.

Straight to My Heart by Davalynn Spencer

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Straight to My Heartstraighttomyheart

1879 – Colorado

When cattle go missing from the Bar-HB Ranch, the tenacious foreman will stop at nothing to find them. But his boss’s granddaughter, Olivia Hartman, is more than Whit bargained for. Once the victim of Whit’s childhood pranks, Livvy has grown into a feisty beauty. Livvy can’t forget the way Whit used to tease her. Even worse, he doesn’t think she’s capable of helping in the roundup. She could stay mad at him forever—if he wouldn’t act all sweet toward her. But when he literally rides to her rescue, Livvy starts to wonder whether her old enemy might turn out to be much more than a friend.

A Rumored Engagement by Lily George

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Regency England
 
Her Once And Future Fiancé 
 
It was a bold plan—become engaged to one man to avoid marrying another. Three years ago, Susannah Siddons had little choice. But with no communication since, she considers her alliance with Daniel Hale entirely ended—and her heart well and truly bruised. Until new gossip jeopardizes the Siddons sisters’ millinery shop, and Daniel proposes once more. To court one’s own fiancée…how does a man even begin? Daniel owes it to Susannah—and to the shambles he has made of his responsibilities so far—to start again. In truth, marrying Susannah would be far more than just a duty; it’s his dearest wish. If he can only persuade her to say “yes” a second time.

While Love Stirs by Lorna Seilstad

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While Love Stirswhilelovestirs

1910 – Minnesota

After graduating from Fannie Farmer’s School of Cookery in 1910, Charlotte Gregory is ready to stir things up. She is thrilled to have the opportunity to travel, lecture, and give cooking demonstrations on the very latest kitchen revolution–the gas stove–and certainly doesn’t mind that the gas company has hired the handsome Lewis Mathis to perform at her lectures. Lewis encourages her work, especially her crusade to introduce fresh, appetizing, nutritious food to those convalescing in hospitals. But young hospital superintendent Dr. Joel Brooks is not convinced any changes should be made–especially by this outspoken young woman. When Charlotte and Joel are coerced into planning a fund-raising gala for the hospital, will this combustible pair explode? Fan favorite Lorna Seilstad is back with a breezy, lighthearted love triangle that will keep readers guessing. Attention to historic detail adorns the timeless story of a young woman looking for true love and making her way in a rapidly changing world.

His Chosen Bride by Rhonda Gibson

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1886 – Texas
 
This Texan Had No Intention of Becoming a Groom… 
 
Until he found out he had a year to find a bride—or risk losing the family ranch. Any of the four mail-order brides recently arrived in Granite, Texas, would make a good wife. So why can’t Levi Westland stop thinking about the one who refuses to have him? The marriage of convenience Levi offers isn’t enough to persuade Millie Hamilton. Truth is, it’s no longer enough for Levi, either…. Millie just needed a place to escape to. Now that she’s paid Levi back his traveling expenses, she can forge her own way. If he knew the truth about her past, Levi’s admiration would vanish. But the only thing harder than risking her heart may be watching Levi marry anyone but her.

The Baron’s Honourable Daughter by Lynn Morris

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The Baron’s Honourable Daughterbaronshonourabledaughter

Regency – England

When her stepfather suddenly dies, Valeria Segrave finds she must take charge of her grieving mother and the vast estate which now belongs to her six-year-old half brother, the new Earl of Maledon. Though capable, Valeria is frustrated to find each day brings a new struggle as she tries to establish her authority with servants, stewards, and solicitors-all men. As a young woman with no blood relation to the earl, they are all too ready to dismiss her. Much to her chagrin, she must rely on the assistance of her stepfather’s distant kinsman, Alastair, Lord Hylton. He is handsome and noble, and Valeria senses under the veneer of his gentlemanly behavior that she never measures up to his expectations of a refined lady. In light of that, accepting his help and feeling under a burden of gratitude to him is almost unbearable. Even when Valeria leaves the country estate for the glittering London Season, where she gets into a series of escapades, Lord Hylton is always there to witness, criticize, and correct her behavior. But if Alastair insists on engaging in a battle of wits and wills with the lively Valeria, she’ll stop at nothing to prove that he’s met his match.

Through the Deep Waters by Kim Vogel Sawyer

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Through the Deep Watersthroughthedeepwaters

1883 – Kansas

A past filled with shame can be washed away with a love that conquers all

Born to an unloving prostitute in a popular Chicago brothel, timid seventeen-year-old Dinah Hubley was raised amidst the secrets held in every dark, grimy room of her home. Anxious to escape, Dinah pursues her dream of becoming a Harvey Girl, waiting tables along the railroad in an upscale hotel. But when she finds out she isn’t old enough, her only option is to accept a job as a chambermaid at the Clifton Hotel in Florence, Kansas. Eager to put everything behind her, Dinah feels more worthless than ever, based on a single horrible decision she made to survive. The Clifton offers a life Dinah has never known, but blinded to the love around her, Dinah remains buried in the shame of her past. When a handsome chicken farmer named Amos Ackerman starts to show interest, Dinah withdraws further, convinced no one could want a sullied woman like her.  Despite his self-consciousness about his handicapped leg and her strange behavior, Amos resolves to show Dinah Christ’s love. But can she ever accept a gift she so desperately needs?

Daisies are Forever by Liz Tolsma

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Daisies are Foreverdaisiesareforever

1945 – Germany

Gisela Cramer is an American living in eastern Germany with her cousin Ella Reinhardt. When the Red Army invades, they must leave their home to escape to safety in Berlin. However, Ella is a nurse and refuses to leave, sending her young daughters with Gisela. During their journey, Gisela meets Mitch Edwards, an escaped British POW. She pretends she is his wife in order to preserve his safety among other Germans, especially one wounded German soldier, Kurt, who has suspicions about Mitch’s identity. Kurt also has feelings for Gisela and tries to uncover the truth about her “marriage.” Their journey to Gisela’s mother in Berlin is riddled with tragedy and hardship, but they strive to keep Ella’s daughters safe so they can reunite with their mother. During the journey Gisela and Mitch begin to develop feelings for one another beyond friendship. They reach Berlin, but their struggles are far from over. Gisela and Mitch must learn to live for the day and find hope in the darkest of circumstances.

Journey Toward Home by Carol Cox

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1800s – New Mexico Territory

Desperate to escape her life in Missouri as a barely-tolerated poor relation, Judith Alder journeys west to live with her uncle, only to be abandoned along the Santa Fe Trail. Her only hope of survival is a motley crew of cowboys and a simple ranch that becomes an oasis to Judith’s broken soul. Her fondness for the New Mexico Territory grows as a seed of love sprouts toward Jefferson Bradley, the ranch’s owner and trail boss. But Judith struggles with learning to trust God with every part of her life, including the possibility of losing Jeff to a former love. Is God abandoning Judith to a life of hopeless wandering, or can she trust Him to lead her to a place she can finally call home?

The Measure of a Man by Carol Cox

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1800s – New Mexico Territory

Growing up on the Double B Ranch has given Lizzie Bradley ample opportunity to indulge her tomboy whims. At nineteen, Lizzie has yet to realize she’s on the threshold of womanhood-though Adam McKenzie, one of her father’s ranch hands, is very much aware of her maturing appeal. When handsome Tom Mallory makes a dramatic entry into her life, Lizzie begins to sense her own womanhood in the light of his open admiration. Tension mounts as both Tom and Adam vie for Lizzie’s favor. Lizzie swings from elation to despair before she learn to gauge a man’s worth according to God’s standards-and to find the joy of a relationship grounded in Christ.

A Lady’s Honor by Laurie Alice Eakes

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A Lady’s Honoraladyshonor

1811 – England

On the cliffs of 19th-century Cornwall, a spirited, impetuous young woman is torn between the honor of her family and the longing of her heart. A tarnished reputation. A distant home. A forced engagement to a dangerous man. When Elizabeth Trelawny flees London, she has more than one reason to run. And when her carriage, pursued by her would-be fiancé, is caught in a storm, she quickly accepts the help of a dark stranger. Anything to get back to Cornwall. Rowan Curnow is not exactly a stranger. Not quite a gentleman either, class disparity once kept him from courting Elizabeth . . . even if it didn’t keep him from kissing her. The couple elude their pursuers and reach Bastian Point, Elizabeth’s future inheritance and the one place she calls home. But in the very act of spiriting her to safety, Rowan has jeopardized Elizabeth’s inheritance—if her Grandfather ever learns she spent the night, however innocently, in the company of a man. When smugglers unite the pair in a reckless, flirtatious alliance—an alliance that challenges the social norms that Elizabeth has been raised to revere and rattles Rowan’s fledgling faith in God—Elizabeth must choose between the obedience of a child and the desires of a woman: whether to cling to the safety of her family home or follow the man she loves.

Bridge to Haven by Francince Rivers

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Bridge to Havenbridgetohaven

1950s – California

To those who matter in 1950s Hollywood, Lena Scott is the hottest rising star to hit the silver screen since Marilyn Monroe. Few know her real name is Abra. Even fewer know the price she’s paid to finally feel like she’s somebody. To Pastor Ezekiel Freeman, Abra will always be the little girl who stole his heart the night he found her, a wailing newborn abandoned under a bridge on the outskirts of Haven. Zeke and his son, Joshua—Abra’s closest friend—watch her grow into an exotic beauty. But Zeke knows the circumstances surrounding her birth etched scars deep in her heart, scars that leave her vulnerable to a fast-talking bad boy who proclaims his love and lures her to Tinseltown. Hollywood feels like a million miles from Haven, and naive Abra quickly learns what’s expected of an ambitious girl with stars in her eyes. But fame comes at an awful price. She has burned every bridge to get exactly what she thought she wanted. Now, all she wants is a way back home. In this riveting and highly anticipated tale of temptation, grace, and unconditional love, New York Times best-selling author Francine Rivers delivers big-canvas storytelling at its very best.

The Longing by Tamara Leigh

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1160 – England

In The Unveiling, The Yielding, The Redeeming, and The Kindling, the lives of the formidable Wulfrith family unfold during Duke Henry’s battle for the English throne and his succession. The fifth book in the series, The Longing, belongs to the last Wulfrith brother, the enigmatic Sir Everard, and the much maligned Lady Susanna de Balliol.

THE ONE HE CAN NEVER FORGIVE
For years, Lady Susanna de Balliol has borne the blame for betrayal—well-earned, though not as believed by the man she can never forget. Now her nephew must prove his legitimacy or lose his claim to his father’s lands. When Susanna is forced to flee with the boy following an attempt on his life, will the one man who knows the truth of her nephew’s birth grant them sanctuary within his walls? More, will he aid the woman whom he believes cost him the love of his life?

THE ONE SHE CAN NEVER FORGET
Eleven years—a long time to have loved and lost. Certain he will not love again, Everard Wulfrith has committed his life to the command of Wulfen Castle. But when the girl whose betrayal he can never forgive appears to him as a grown woman and demands he atone for his sins, can he lay bare his past to aid her nephew? And what of his unexpected feelings for the scandalous Susanna de Balliol whose indiscretions may very well put his own to shame?

Mark of Distinction by Jessica Dotta

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1830s – England

London is said to be the glittering jewel of society, a world unto itself—but to Julia Elliston it is a city of shadows. Her life is swiftly dissolving into scandal. And in Victorian society, even a whisper of scandal—substantiated or not—can be the death of a young woman’s reputation.

Now under the watchful eye of Lord Roy Pierson, one of most influential men in England, Julia begrudgingly accepts his protection. But Chance Macy’s power is far-reaching as well, and he is eager to assert his claim over her.

Thrust into society as the Emerald Heiress, Julia is the toast of London, a celebrated curiosity. But in reality she’s trapped between the clutches of two powerful men. Aided only by a gentleman whose intentions she prays she can trust, Julia must finally take control of her own fate—but outwitting one’s foe rarely goes according to plan.

The Advocate by Randy Singer

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63 A.D. – Rome

At the trial of Christ, Theophilus, brilliant young assessore raised in the Roman aristocracy, stands behind Pontius Pilate and whispers, “Offer to release Barabbas.” The strategy backfires, and Theophilus never forgets the sight of an innocent man unjustly suffering the worst of all possible deaths—Roman crucifixion.

Three decades later, Theophilus has proven himself in the legal ranks of the Roman Empire. He has survived the insane rule of Caligula and has weathered the cruel tyrant’s quest to control the woman he loves. He has endured the mindless violence of the gladiator games and the backstabbing intrigue of the treason trials.

Now he must face another evil Caesar, defending the man Paul in Nero’s deranged court. Can Theophilus mount a defense that will keep another innocent man from execution?

The advocate’s first trial altered the course of history. His last will change the fate of an empire.

Whisper Goodbye: Till We Meet Again by Myra Johnson

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whispergoodbyeWhisper Goodbye: Till We Meet Again

1919 – Arkansas

Crippled both physically and emotionally by his war injuries, First Lt. Gilbert Ballard struggles to find himself again in civilian life. After breaking his engagement to Annemarie Kendall, he has found solace in the arms of Mary McClarney, a spunky Irish immigrant nurse he met at the Army and Navy Hospital in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Yet Mary’s love for Gilbert goes unreturned. If it’s not Gilbert’s insane jealousy over his former fiancée’s new marriage, it’s his addiction to pain killers and gambling that thwarts Gil’s own happiness. Worse, Gilbert’s mother, Evelyn, continually reminds him of what he lost when he pushed Annemarie away. Under Evelyn’s critical eye, Mary fights to believe in her worth, wondering if she will ever be enough. As Mary longs for the day when Gilbert will finally let go of the past and learn to love her as she loves him, she realizes that the only way to open Gilbert’s heart is to whisper her goodbyes . . . and pray God will bring them back together.

The Pursuit of Tamsen Littlejohn by Lori Benton

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1787 – North Carolina

Frontier dangers cannot hold a candle to the risks one woman takes by falling in love  

In an act of brave defiance, Tamsen Littlejohn escapes the life her harsh stepfather has forced upon her. Forsaking security and an arranged marriage, she enlists frontiersman Jesse Bird to guide her to the Watauga settlement in western North Carolina. But shedding her old life doesn’t come without cost. As the two cross a vast mountain wilderness, Tamsen faces hardships that test the limits of her faith and endurance. Convinced that Tamsen has been kidnapped, wealthy suitor Ambrose Kincaid follows after her, in company with her equally determined stepfather. With trouble in pursuit, Tamsen and Jesse find themselves thrust into the conflict of a divided community of Overmountain settlers. The State of Franklin has been declared, but many remain loyal to North Carolina. With one life left behind and chaos on the horizon, Tamsen struggles to adapt to a life for which she was never prepared. But could this challenging frontier life be what her soul has longed for, what God has been leading her toward? As pursuit draws ever nearer, will her faith see her through the greatest danger of all—loving a man who has risked everything for her?

The Pelican Bride by Beth White

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1704 – Canada

Genevieve Gaillain and her sister board a French ship headed for the Louisiana colony as mail-order brides. Both have promised to marry one of the rough-and-tumble Canadian men in this New World in order to escape religious persecution in the Old World. Genevieve knows life won’t be easy, but at least here she can establish a home and family without fear of beheading. But when she falls in love with Tristan Lanier, an expatriate cartographer whose courageous stand for fair treatment of native peoples has made him decidedly unpopular in the young colony, Genevieve realizes that even in this land of liberty one is not guaranteed peace. And a secret she harbors could mean the undoing of the colony itself.

So Fair a Lady by Amber Lynn Perry

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1773- Massachusetts

Shards of Eliza Campbell’s life crash to the ground when she discovers a devastating secret: her father was a spy for the Sons of Liberty. Determined to uncover the truth, not even a marriage proposal from the dashing British Officer Samuel Martin can dissuade her. When rescued from British capture by handsome patriot Thomas Watson, Eliza discovers what her father risked his life for and yearns to know more. But will her budding attraction to this courageous patriot damage her already wounded heart?

After years of being blackmailed by Officer Martin, Thomas plans to start a new life in the small town of Sandwich. However, when his actions place Eliza and her sister in danger, he must act quickly to protect them from falling into enemy hands. If the three of them are discovered, their lives will never be the same. Now, not only must he protect Eliza, he must protect his heart from a love that is sure to wound him far greater than any British soldier ever could.

Author Interview – The Soldier’s Secrets by Naomi Rawlings

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Wait a minute. Wasn’t Naomi Rawlings just on here? Why yes she was back in January with The Wyoming Heir! She’s got two out this year, and being my lovely crit partner and friend, I hope you all are putting these on your wishlist if not buying them immediately! Love Inspired paperbacks sell out quickly, so if you want a paper copy of The Soldier’s Secrets, order this month!

soldier secret

Brigitte Dubois will do anything to keep her family safe. When she is blackmailed by her father-in-law, his quest for revenge leaves her no choice. To protect her children, she must spy on the man who may have killed her husband. But Jean Paul Belanger is nothing like she expected. The dark, imposing farmer offers food to all who need it, and insists on helping Brigitte and her children.

Everything Jean Paul did was in the name of liberty. Even so, he can never forgive himself for his actions during France’s revolution. Now a proud auburn-haired woman has come to his home seeking work and has found her way into his reclusive heart. But when she uncovers the truth, his past could drive them apart….

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Questions about Naomi’s BookNaomi Rawlings Author

What character in your book turned out to be your favorite?

The hero, Jean Paul Belanger. I love taking a former troublemaker and getting to reform him (or her).

(Melissa says, you and Julie Lessman. 🙂 Though I ended up liking Jean Paul better than I did Charity. I’m still out on her, I’ll have to read more to the series to see if Charity ever wins me over!)

Which scene is your favorite, the one you never tired of working with? Give us a reason to look forward to it.

I have one scene where my heroine, Brigitte, is trying to defend Jean Paul to one of her father-in-law’s guards. She’s very ardent in her defense, claiming he’s gentle, caring, and compassionate, but the entire time, she has doubts in her head. As much as she wants to believe Jean Paul, she doesn’t really know if she can trust him. It was a fun scene to write with the conflicting emotions and war inside my heroine’s head.

Why did you choose the year your book is set?

This book is a sequel to my first novel, Sanctuary for a Lady. So I had to choose something set after 1794, and I wanted a relatively peaceful time of the French Revolution so that I could focus on matters on Jean Paul’s farm rather than an invading army or some such. That made the summer of 1795 (about a year after my first novel takes place) the perfect time.

Other Books in this Series:

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What is your home on the web?

www.naomirawlings.com

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Questions about Naomi’s Reading

What other Christian Historical Novels are similar to yours in setting or storyline?

sanctuary-for-a-lady

The first book in my Belanger Family Saga, Sanctuary for a Lady, is similar, of course. Another Christian novel set during the French Revolution is Love’s First Light by Jamie Carie.

If your job was to sell one author’s historical fiction (besides your own) which author’s wares would you want to peddle?

Melissa Jagears, of course!

Julie Lessman’s novels would be a close second though, as would Roseanna White’s.

(Melissa says, I’ll just pick my favorites of the one’s I’ve read from these. Of course the favorite of my own novels isn’t even bought yet, maybe it will be! So I’ll just pick the one available 🙂

What Christian Historical Novel are you most excited to read that hasn’t yet come out?

A Bride in Store by Melissa Jagears—which releases in September.

I’m also really excited about Circle of Spies by Roseanna White, which released on the same day as my novel. Both of our stories feature spies, which is pretty fun.

What Christian Historical Novel in your To Be Read pile is begging you to make time to plop down with it right now?

Dare to Love Again by Julie Lessman. It’s staring at me from my kindle (and has been for the past couple months). All I need to do is open it up and begin reading . . . so why haven’t I started it yet??? Am I the only one who procrastinates reading books I know I’m going to like?

(Melissa says: I tend to read scenes and sections over and over at the end of a book I’m enjoying to keep from getting to the end too quickly.)

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We are giving away two copies of The Soldier’s Secrets – Enter the Rafflecopter this weekend for one of two chances!

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What Follows After by Dan Walsh

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1962 – Florida

It’s October, 1962. Life is simple. The world makes sense, and all families are happy. When they aren’t, everyone knows you’re supposed to pretend. With their family about to collapse, Colt Harrison and his little brother, Timmy, hatch a plan. They’ll run away from their Florida home, head for their aunt’s house in Savannah and refuse to come home until their parents get back together. But things go terribly, terribly wrong. Colt’s parents must come to grips with years of mistrust and fight for their son’s return…and to mend their broken marriage. In this emotional story, Dan Walsh takes readers on a suspense-filled journey to rediscover the things that matter most in life.