Alena

A Not So Peaceful Journey is a story of western travel rich in historical detail paired with characters who jumped right off the page. If you are looking for a book that will sweep you back into the 1880's, look no further. Sandra Merville Hart is a master historian. As I read A Not So Peaceful Journey, I could hardly stop shaking my head at the details Sandra included. This was not a five minute research job.

From tours through various train cars to frantic meals at lunch counters, interspersed with short tempers, arguments, and injured feelings, this was a story that gave a fresh look at western travel. The characters were a lot of fun, and the plot moved quickly even with all the historical details.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading about John and Rennie's journey and I'd recommend it for anyone who loves their novels with an extra dose of history.

When Love Comes just became one of my favorite books by Penny Zeller.

Filled with a cast of quirky characters (a.k.a, the aunts) and others that pulled at your heartstrings (such as Lanie), it was such a fun read. The plot moved forward at a good pace, and I loved the Wyoming setting. Small towns are so delightful.

Tobias and Charlotte, of course, created plenty of action by themselves. I think my favorite line from Tobias was when he invited himself over for supper, regardless of how Charlotte felt. Priceless!

And I have to mention the climax. Penny handled the details with such an attention for historical accuracy.

As with all of Penny's books, I deeply appreciate the deep faith content she weaves into her stories and her dedication to keeping the romance sweet and clean.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book, but my thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.

This is my new favorite Penny Zeller book (I know I said that about the last book of hers I read, When Love Comes, but I hadn't read this one. I still love When Love Comes just as much, but this one . . .)

John Mark was my absolute favorite character. Strong. Protective. Manly. Godly. And yet, prone to his own set of weaknesses that made him delightfully human. The way he swept in to rescue Hannah was perfect–sweet and funny at the same time.

And I just have to mention Pritchard. If you've read the book, I need say nothing more, and if you haven't, well . . . just read it.

Penny included so much rich wisdom in her book, practical advice about marriage that all couples should hear. I loved that she openly showed the hardships of marriage (especially for someone who had been as mistreated as Hannah), yet also displayed the blessings of it.

This is definitely a book that's going onto my favorites list of stories I've read this year.

Absolutely loved this book! Luke's personality really came to life in the story–he made such a great hero. It was fun to see the Horsemen back in action and to get a glimpse into the other three's lives as well.

This was the first book I read by Karen Witemeyer, and I can't recommend it enough! I was hooked on the very first page (literally), and could not put it down. With every spare moment I dashed to my room, grabbed the book, and madly began to read. I walked around in a daze, unable to stop thinking about it while I worked, and when my sister insisted on turning out the lights at night, I agonized over what was going to happen next as I lay in the dark. It was one of my all time favorite books.

Travis Archer was a perfect hero, coming to the rescue in perfect timing, but also showing plenty of flaws that made him human. Meredith was a woman of action who kept the reader cheering as she ran to the aid of the man she loved, regardless of the consequences. The romance was absolutely perfect, holding the right balance of longing and hesitancy as Travis and Meredith explored their deepening relationship.

Short-Straw Bride made me laugh, it made me cry, and it left my heart singing with a happily ever after. This is definitely a must read for anyone who loves historical Christian romance.