Old Family Recipe Cookbook And Thanksgiving Wishes

In honor of Thanksgiving this year, I have a special gift from me and several other Love Inspired Historical authors. It's a digital cookbook of favorite family recipes, with a heartwarming true-life story to accompany each recipe.

In the book you'll find everything from my very own banana pancake recipe to cabbage rolls to hunter's stew.

If you're interested in getting a copy of this book, please leave a comment below with your email address, and I'll be happy to send you a copy. I hope to eventually get this cookbook up on my website, where anyone interested can download it.

And now for what I'm thankful for this Thanksgiving: YOU. All of you wonderful blog readers who bless me with your presence and comments and positive spirits. Thank you for taking time to visit Making Home Work, and please take advantage of the cookbook.

Schooling the Cowboy: A Glimpse at the Story

Now that I've introduced you to my second novel, Schooling the Cowboy, a couple weeks ago. I wanted to let you meet the characters.

My hero, Luke Hayes, will be played by the stunningly handsome Paul Walker:

(Did you all just drool when you saw that picture? I sure did!)

Anyway, Luke is a rancher, through and through. He loves spending time on the wide open prairie, with the wind in his face, the sun on his back, and clear mountain air filling his lungs. In short, the Luke Hayes likes living here:

And the last thing he wants to do is travel someplace like here:

But travel to New England, he does, and he's none to happy about it. He wants to get out of the stuffy, citified town of Valley Falls, New York just as quickly as he can. Unfortunately he doesn't understand quite how much responsibility his late grandfather has left him. Not only does Luke inherit a slew of money, a massive estate, and a giant insurance and accounting company with over a dozen branches on the East Coast; he also inherits this:

A girls preparatory school on the brink of closing due to poor enrollment and lack of funds.

As far as Luke is concerned, he may as well just close the school down and be done with it, anything to get him back to his beloved ranch.

And so now we meet the heroine, Miss Elizabeth Wells, who will be played by the adorable Amy Adams:
 

 

Elizabeth Wells is the daughter of an esteemed local politician and the mathematics teacher at Hayes Academy. She's spent six of the past eight years earning a mathematics degree that the rest of society doesn't think a woman should even bother with. Then she's spent the last two years teaching at Hayes Academy.

Elizabeth's family isn't very fond of her teaching dreams. They'd much rather see her married to a rich, public figure who will help advance her own father's political career.

So Elizabeth is used to fighting for women's education. And she's not about to let some backward cowboy like Luke Hayes close down the school where she teaches just because he's anxious to return to back Wyoming.

And boy, oh boy, do sparks fly as Elizabeth and Luke hash out their battles over the school.

Do any of you have thoughts about this story? Does something strike you as interesting? Boring? Different? I'd love to hear your ideas.

Good News! Announcing the Sale of My Second Novel

Hi Everyone!

I've been bursting at the seams for the past two weeks, wanting to tell everyone my exciting news but at the same time, needing to wait for details to be ironed out with my publisher.

Love Inspired Historical is going to publish a second novel from me. While I don't know what the official title will be, right now it's called Schooling the Cowboy. Here's a little more about the book:

Rancher Luke Hayes has no desire to leave his precious Wyoming ranch, but when his grandfather dies, he must travel to New England to settle the estate and retrieve his inheritance. This shouldn't be a problem. He'll sell everything off as quickly as he can, pick up his sister at her fancy prep school she's been attending, and be back home with his sister before the snow flies.  

But when Luke arrives in New England, he doesn't expect to inherit responsibility for a girls school on the brink of closing, or to meet a steel-spined mathematics teacher who's convinced Luke needs to stay out east and keep the school open.

As you may have guessed by the summary above, Schooling the Cowboy isn't related to my first book, Sanctuary for a Lady. It's a story that I started writing after I finished Sanctuary for a Lady in 2011, but before I learned Sanctuary for a Lady would be published. Schooling the Cowboy has changed a bit since this time last year, but I'm confident readers will love it. It will release either late next year (2013) or in early 2014.

So to celebrate my news about Schooling the Cowboy getting published, I've decided to offer a free copy of Sanctuary for a Lady. Be sure to leave a comment with your email address below to be entered into the contest. The drawing will close Saturday, August 25, at midnight.

And on Thursday, I'll be introducing you to the characters in Schooling the Cowboy.

Interview and Giveaway with Author Noelle Marchand

I'm delighted to have one of my good author friends with us today, Noelle Marchand. Noelle's love of literature began as a child when she would spend hours reading beneath the covers long after she was supposed to be asleep. Over the years, God began prompting her to write. Eventually, those stories became like "fire shut up in her bones" leading her to complete her first novel at fifteen. Now, at the age of twenty-three, that fire of inspiration continues to burn.

Noelle is a Houston-native who graduated from Houston Baptist University in May 2012. She received bachelors degree in Mass Communication with a focus in journalism and Speech Communication. The Runaway Bride is her second published novel. (I reviewed it both on Making Home Work and on Amazon.) She will be giving a copy away to one lucky winner, so be sure to leave a comment below with your email address to be entered in the drawing.

I've put together a new list of interview questions that I'm very excited about for today. We'll be looking at things from a daughter's perspective and learning about the impact Noelle's parents had on her.

What decade were you born in, and what era do you remember growing up in? 

I was born in 1988, narrowly avoiding any memories of that decade. I guess I’m a millennial girl. I remember ringing in the new millennium with my family for the first minute or so then sitting down to wait for the world to grind to a halt. Thankfully, the Y2K scare was only that and we could drain the water from the bath tubs and giveaway some of our canned goods without fear.

Ah yes, I remember those stockpiles of canned goods. So glad we never ended up needing them! Where were you born?

I was born and raised in Houston, Texas—the land of skyscrapers and cowboys.

Hmmm... That's a fun combination to imagine. In fact, I think I'm getting the idea for another novel. :-) Share one of your favorite childhood memories.

When I was really young my Dad worked at home. Since I am the youngest, he would take me with him to drive my mom to work after my older siblings went to school. Afterward he’d take me to the park to feed the ducks and ride the miniature train, eat breakfast at a restaurant, or drive home and let me sit on his tummy to watch Barney. I loved having that special one-on-one time with my dad.

That sound so special. I'm really happy you were able to forge such a tight bond with him. Does your family take part in any traditions that you plan to continue in your own home one day?

Every year my sister and I take my mom to see a performance of the Houston Ballet for Mother’s Day. We all really enjoy it. It would be nice to do the same with my daughter(s) one day…assuming I have some. Lol.  

That sounds special as well. I certainly hope you're able to include your own daughter a few years from now. What do you enjoy most about your parents?

They are hilarious! My mom has a sly sense of humor while my dad’s is very in your face but they are both funny. They passed that trait along to all three of their kids. If you put all of us together in a room, there is bound an overabundance of jokes, hijinks, witticism, physical comedy and a lot of laughter.

After reading two of your novels, I can totally see that sense of humor in you! ***Warning to readers, be prepared to laugh if you pick up a copy of The Runaway Bride*** What’s the best life lesson your parents have taught you?

I can sum it up in two small words—have faith. Have faith in God. Have faith that His word is true, active, and powerful. Have faith that nothing is impossible for those who love Him and are called according to His purposes. Have faith that you can achieve every dream He places in your heart.

Oh Noelle! What a precious lesson to learn from your parents. You sound like you were really blessed with with an amazing mother and father. Now for one of the fun questions: What single chore did you hate more than any others? Why?

Folding. I hate folding. It feels like such a waste of time. I’m going to have to unfold the clothes to wear them soon anyway. I’d rather hang than fold. That’s all I’m saying.

You know, that's why I love my ereader. I download a book and put it on text-to-speech so that I can listen while I fold laundry. But unlike you, I'd rather fold than hang. How do you think your upbringing and the way your parents raised you prepared you to be a writer?

They never limited my creativity. They encouraged me to use my talents and didn’t force me to live my life in the box of their expectations. They also encouraged me to participate in and appreciate the Arts. I was constantly going to museums, listening to or singing a variety of musical genres, watching classic movies, taking dance lessons and checking out stacks of books at the library. 

And now your interest in books and creativity has morphed into you being an author. How cool is that! Thanks for being with us today, Noelle.

The giveaway will end on midnight on Saturday, July 28. To enter, leave a comment and email address below. Now here's a little more about The Runaway Bride:

The only husband Lorelei Wilkins ever wanted was Sean O'Brien, but she's wasted too much time waiting for him to love her back. When another man proposes, she accepts—until she stands at the altar…and realizes she can't marry without love. Bolting out of town toward a fresh start, she never suspected her parents would send Sheriff O'Brien to bring her home!

After an innocent mistake leaves Lorelei and her reluctant rescuer with compromised reputations, marriage is their only option. But first they must triumph over suspicious locals, shady characters, an inconvenient groom and the bride's own stubborn heart. Will it take putting their lives on the line for Sean and Lorelei to realize that only love can conquer all?

Book Spotlight: The Runaway Bride by Noelle Marchand

Hi Everyone,

Today I wanted to introduce you to a new book by one of my special writer friends, Noelle Marchand. Noelle will be doing an interview and giveaway on Making Home Work at the end of the month, but I thought you all should get a heads up about her book . . . you know, before it's sold out of all your local stores and you can't find a copy anywhere.

Her novel is called The Runaway Bride, and it's a delightful story set in Texas about a spunky heroine named Lorelei. (Isn't that the most beautiful name?) And of course the story also features a rough-and-tumble sheriff named Sean. This is Noelle's second novel, and it dovetails perfectly with her first novel, Unlawfully Wedded Bride, telling the story of another member of the O'Brien family. Here's a little more about the book:

The only husband Lorelei Wilkins ever wanted was Sean O'Brien, but she's wasted too much time waiting for him to love her back. When another man proposes, she accepts—until she stands at the altar…and realizes she can't marry without love. Bolting out of town toward a fresh start, she never suspected her parents would send Sheriff O'Brien to bring her home!

After an innocent mistake leaves Lorelei and her reluctant rescuer with compromised reputations, marriage is their only option. But first they must triumph over suspicious locals, shady characters, an inconvenient groom and the bride's own stubborn heart. Will it take putting their lives on the line for Sean and Lorelei to realize that only love can conquer all?

I've read this story, of course, and posted a review on Amazon, if you're interested in seeing my thoughts.

So now I'm curious about the rest of you. Have you read any good books lately that you can't resist telling people about? Share them in the comments below. I always love to see what others are reading!

Interview and Giveaway with Author Sherri Shackelford

Hi Everyone!

I'm excited to introduce you to a very special guest today, Sherri Shackelford. I first mentioned Sherri to you earlier this month, when I told you of her debut novel, Winning the Widow's Heart (which I read and thoroughly enjoyed!). I met Sherri last summer, when both of our novels ended up finaling in the Genesis Contests, and now, a year later, we're both published authors. Oh the fun!

Sherri will be giving a copy of Winning the Widow's Heart to one winner, so be sure to leave a comment below if you're interested in the novel. Now here's a little bit about how Sherri balances her writing time and her family:

Tell me a bit about your family. How many children do you have, and if they still live at home, how old are they?

My husband and I have been married for almost fifteen years. We have three children: A girl – 12, a boy 11, and another boy 6.

Why did you choose to work from home rather than find a job elsewhere?
I actually work part time outside of the home while the kids are in school. I enjoy writing, but right now the habit barely supports itself! When the kids were little, it just made more sense to stay at home with them – the daycare costs were astronomical! Once my youngest went to school, I found a job for a few hours in the afternoon.

Wow! You must be super busy with a part time job plus writing. But I understand what you mean about daycare costing a fortune! Plus it's so nice to stay home with your little ones if you're able.What is the most challenging aspect of working from home while raising children?

Time management! That’s always a challenge. In the winter it works out fine, but in the summer I struggle between spending time with the kids and getting work done. Especially this June with the debut of my first novel. It’s been absolutely amazing – but incredibly time consuming.

Winnie Griggs and I put together a writing contract, and we’ve been keeping each other accountable. That helps.

Did you ever get your children involved with your home business? What advice would you give mothers thinking about having their children help with their business?

There’s really no way for them to be involved at this point – writing is such a solitary business. It’s funny, though – my daughter is an avid reader and I can’t even get her to read my book!

Oh goodness, I just know my kids are going to be like that one day! If you're married, what challenges did working from home present to your marriage, and how did you compensate?

My husband has always been amazingly supportive! Earlier this year, I had one of the moments where I thought, “forget this! I’m going back into marketing.” But he talked me down from the corporate ledge and kept me going. I truly owe my publishing contract to him. When life gets busy and I don’t get a chance to write, I get antsy. He can always tell and he’ll grab the kids and take them out for ice cream or a movie so I can get some work done. He’s an amazing man!

He sounds wonderful, and you're so blessed to have such a supportive man behind you. If you could start all over again, what would you do differently? What would you do the same?

I would have been born with more talent! Nothing takes the place of hard work, of course, but I’d love to be driven AND have talent. You read some authors and you just want to weep – they make it look so effortless.

I know what you mean, Sherri, and I try not to hate those other authors too much. But they do make me a little envious at times. Is it worth it? What keeps you home instead of having an outside career?

Honestly, only my career choice keeps me home! You don’t have to leave the house to write. I don’t think staying at home is a ‘right’ or a ‘wrong’ choice for anybody. There’s only a ‘better’ or ‘worse’ choice for your family. I often think my children would have benefited from the structure of daycare, but they did fine with me. And I’ve almost always had a part time job outside the house. It’s good for me to socialize with other adults – otherwise I lose my social skills!

Oh yes, I can totally relate to the feeling of loosing your social skills when you're home with your kids all day. Thank you for being with us Sherri! Sherri will be back on Thursday to share her Overnight Sticky Bun recipe with us. I don't know about you, but I'm salivating just thinking of that recipe. 


To enter the giveaway, be sure to leave a comment with an email address below. The giveaway will end Saturday, June 30, at midnight. Now here's a little more about Winning the Widow's Heart:

In the Care of the Lawman When Texas Ranger Jack Elder stormed the isolated Kansas homestead, he expected to find a band of outlaws. Instead, the only occupant is a heavily pregnant woman-and she's just gone in to labor. A loner uneasy with emotion, Jack helps deliver widow Elizabeth Cole's baby girl and can't get back on the trail fast enough. The robber and murderer he's after killed one of Jack's own, and he vows to catch the man. But when he returns to check on Elizabeth and her little one, he discovers that she may hold the key to his unsettled past-and his hoped-for future.

Book Spotlight--Historical Romance Titles for June (Part 2)

 In keeping with our book introductions this week, I've got two more novels to tell you about from Love Inspired Historical. Last time I introduced you to Winning the Widow's Heart by Sherri Shackelford and A Baby Between Them by Winnie Griggs. Now today I've got details about two novels set in England. The first is A Proper Companion by Louise M. Gouge:

With her father's death, Anna Newfield loses everything—her home, her inheritance and her future. Her only piece of good fortune is a job offer from wounded major Edmond Grenville, whose mother requires a companion. The Dowager Lady Greystone is controlling and unwelcoming, but Anna can enjoy Edmond's company, even if she knows the aristocratic war hero could never return her love.

Even amid the glittering ballrooms of London, nothing glows brighter for Edmond than Anna's gentle courage. Loving her means going against his family's rigid command. Yet how can he walk away, when his heart may have found its true companion?

I don't know about you, but the title Dowager Lady of Greystone makes me think of the dowager countess on Downton Abbey. What a hoot! I sincerely hope the dowager in A Proper Companion is every bit as entertaining as the dowager in Downton Abbey.

The second book for today is The Baron's Governess Bride by Debra Hale.

(Now I just want to pause right here and say: Doesn't that title make you think of the Sound of Music? Okay, granted the setting is a century or so before Sound of Music and a couple of countries away. But still, wasn't the von Trapp dad a baron? And he marries his governess, right? Goodness, even the cover of the book makes me think of that picnic scene in Sound of Music where Maria's teaching the von Trapp kids to sing!)

Here's what the back cover of the book has to say : 

Lord Steadwell's three motherless daughters were heartbroken when their last governess ran off to elope. In her dowdy cap and spectacles, Grace Ellerby seems an ideal replacement—a nurturing, intelligent woman uninterested in marriage. No wonder Rupert doesn't recognize Grace as the golden-haired vision at a masked ball, who slips away before midnight….

Frightened by the unwanted attentions of previous employers, Grace resolved to hide her beauty…and her growing feelings for Rupert. One enchanted evening—and a sweet, breathtaking kiss—changes everything. For with Grace's three adorable charges playing fairy godmother, Rupert may discover his happy ending is closer than he thinks.

Well, now that I read the cover wording, it makes me think of Cinderella.  I've got a good mind to read the book just so I can figure out if it's at all like either story!

So there you have it, all four books releasing from Love Inspired Historical in June 2012. These books cover everything from the American West to Regency England, so whatever your reading preferences, I trust you'll be able to find a book to your liking from this group. 


Has any read one or more of these books yet? I've started Winning the Widow's Heart, but haven't had the chance to read very much of it yet. And I'm wishing each of you wonderful blog readers lots of extra reading time over the weekend!

Book Spotlight--Historical Romance Titles for June (Part 1)

It's the beginning of the month again. (Can you all believe it? It seems like 2012 has been flying by at bullet speed in our household.) But a new month means it's time for me to introduce you to the new novels from my publisher. I'm super excited about one novel in particular, Winning the Widows Heart by Sherri Shackleford.

This novel is special to me because about this time last year, Sherri and I both finaled in the Genesis Contest, a rather prestigious contest for unpublished inspirational writers. Finaling in a contest like Genesis allows agents and editors the chance to read your material and often opens up the doors to publication. Well, this was the case for both Sherri and I, as we were finalist in the same contest and then both went on to sell our stories to Love Inspired Historical. My debut novel, Sanctuary for a Lady, released in April. And now it's June, and Sherri's debut novel, Winning the Widow's Heart is releasing. How fun is that!

When Texas Ranger Jack Elder stormed the isolated Kansas homestead, he expected to find a band of outlaws. Instead, the only occupant is a heavily pregnant woman—and she's just gone into labor. A loner uneasy with emotion, Jack helps deliver widow Elizabeth Cole's baby girl and can't get back on the trail fast enough. The robber and murderer he's after killed one of Jack's own, and he vows to catch the man. But when he returns to check on Elizabeth and her little one, he discovers that she may hold the key to his unsettled past—and his hoped-for future.

I must admit, last year Sherri and I traded contest entries so we could each see what the other had written. I was amazed by Sherri's writing and hooked into the story right from the beginning. I'm going to give you just a sneak peek of the opening two lines of Winning the Widow's Heart:

A shrill scream from inside the homestead split the frosty air.

Jack Elder flattened his back against the cabin's rough-hewn logs, his Smith & Wesson drawn. Icy fear twisted in his gut. He couldn't think about the woman inside, couldn't let himself imagine what had ripped that tortured sound from her.

See? Now doesn't that book look good? I can't wait to start this novel, and am hoping to do so later in the week. Congrats on the release of Winning the Widow's Heart, Sherri!!!

Next I want to introduce you to A Baby Between Them by Winnie Griggs. A Baby Between Them is the third and final book in the Irish Brides miniseries. I've been sharing this series with you for the past two months. This book goes along with The Wedding Journey and Mistaken Bride, and the series is about three sisters who journey from Ireland to the United States in the mid 1800s and all find love. Here's what the back cover of A Baby Between Them says:

For two months, Nora Murphy has cared for the abandoned infant she found on their Boston-bound ship. Settled now in Faith Glen, Nora tells herself she's happy. She has little Grace, and a good job as housekeeper to Sheriff Cameron Long. She doesn't need anything more—not the big family she always wanted, or Cam's love….

A traumatic childhood closed Cam off to any dreams of family life. Yet somehow his lovely housekeeper and her child have opened his heart again. When the unthinkable occurs, it will take all their faith to reach a new future together.

Well, I don't know about you, but I'm excited about both these novels. It's nice to see a satisfying conclusion to the Irish Brides trilogy, and I'm super thrilled to see my friend Sherri's debut novel release!

Now I'm wondering about the rest of you. Do you have any fun books on your reading list? Are any of you planning to read all three books of the Irish Brides miniseries? And what about Sherri's book? Doesn't that look like a fun one, especially for those of you who love westerns?

I'll be back on Thursday to introduce you to the next two books releasing this month. In the meantime, enjoy your week.

Book Spotlight--Historical Romance Novels for May (Part 2)

Hi Everyone!

Continuing on with the books I introduced you to on Monday, I want to share the next two Love Inspired Historical books with you. First is The Marshal's Promise by Rhonda Gibson. Here's more about the book:

Mail-order bride Rebecca Ramsey arrives in the New Mexico territory full of dreams—but they're shattered when she discovers her intended husband has been killed. If it weren't for U.S. marshal Seth Billings's housekeeping job offer, she'd have nowhere to go. Rebecca loves tending to Seth's home, but the strong and silent lawman is harder to figure out. What secret is he hiding?

Caring for Jesse Cole's would-be bride is the least Seth can do. If it weren't for him, the young man would still be alive. Seth had promised to look after Rebecca—and to keep her safe from Jesse's enemies. Now if only he can keep his heart safe, as well….

Now I have to admit, I LOVE this book cover. It is by far my favorite cover out this month, and I'm not quite sure why. Maybe it has to do with the ominous sky in the background. Or maybe it's because just a man is on the cover--a rather attractive, dangerous looking man at that. What is it about dangerous looking men that make women swoon? I have no idea, but if any of you figure it out, be sure to let me know.

The last book for this month is called Homefront Hero, and it's written by Allie Pleiter. Allie is a long time Love Inspired Historical author who has attracted many readers with her adventurous novels. In fact, she's one of the first Love Inspired Historical authors I remember reading. Here's more about her newest novel:

Dashing and valiantly wounded, Captain John Gallows could have stepped straight out of an army recruitment poster. Leanne Sample can't help being impressed—although the lovely Red Cross nurse tries to hide it. She knows better than to get attached to the daring captain who is only home to heal and help rally support for the war's final push. As soon as he's well enough, he'll rush back to Europe, back to war—and far away from South Carolina and Leanne. But when an epidemic strikes close to home, John comes to realize what it truly means to be a hero—Leanne's hero.

So there you have it, all four of May's releases from Love Inspired Historical. If you've got a few extra hours set aside for reading over Memorial Day, I'd encourage you to pick up one of these books. And here's a link to Part 1 of the post, if you missed the first two novels I highlighted on Monday.

Wishing you all a lovely Memorial Day weekend,


Naomi Rawlings

Book Spotlight--Historical Romance Novels for May (Part 1)

Hi Everyone!

I'm running a bit behind in my book introductions for this month, but I want to tell you about the books releasing from my publisher, Love Inspired Historical, in May (you know, before May turns into June and I have more books to tell you about).

The first book is The Homesteader's Sweetheart by Lacy Williams. This novel is on the top of my list, as the snippets and scenes I've seen look terribly interesting. Furthermore, this is only Lacy's second novel, and she's a young mom with two kids under 5. Sounds a little like "yours  truly," as she's just starting her writing career and has a couple little ones running around at home, doesn't it? So without further ado, here's more about the book:

To escape a dreaded arranged marriage, Penny Castlerock will face anything--even life on her grandfather's farm. But it isn't the rustic lifestyle that's got the Philadelphia socialite tied in knots. It's the handsome homesteader and his eight adopted children next door....

With seven boys and a girl to raise, transplanted farmer Jonas White could sure use some help. He just didn't expect it to come from the high-spirited, copper-haired beauty he's always admired from afar. But surely working the land is no life for a woman like Penny. Yet a threat to Jonas's farm just might show him how perfect Penny is for him after all. 

Seven boys! Can you imagine? Wow! Makes me want to read the book just because I know I'll have to laugh through half of it. In fact, I read an extra scene where one of the boys in this story is plotting to help his daddy and the prim Miss Castlerock fall in love. It looked super fun. Also, Lacy's book has gotten some great reviews from places like the Romantic Times.

Next I want to introduce you to Mistaken Bride by Renee Ryan. Mistaken Bride is book two in the Irish Brides Series that I introduced you to last month. If you read book one (The Wedding Journey by Cheryl St. John) you might want to check this one out as well.

When William Black's mail-order bride fails to appear at the Boston docks, he's relieved when beautiful, vibrant Bridget Murphy steps in. However, she has a surprise in store. She will be a temporary nanny to his young twins…but she will not marry without love.

Faith Glen, Massachusetts, is worlds away from the poverty Bridget knew in Ireland. And William Black couldn't be more different from her faithless ex-fiancé. Yet that integrity Bridget so admires binds William to a promise that could keep them apart forever. In this new land of opportunity, does she dare to wish for a happy ending?

Got to love it when Mail Order Bride A is supposed to arrive, but Mail Order Bride B shows up instead!

So there you have it, two great books from Love Inspired Historical this month. We'll look at the next two books on Thursday. Now I'm curious about you. Have any of you read either of these books? Does one catch your eye? Let me know your thoughts!

Book Spotlight--Historical Romance Novels for April (Part 2)

Now that we've spent the pat week meeting Author Jessica Nelson and looking at her debut novel, Love on the Range, I decided to swing back to some of the other Love Inspired Historical novels out this month and highlight those. The Wedding Journey is a novel that takes place at sea, aboard a ship heading from Ireland to the United States, written by well-loved Author Cheryl St. John. Here's a little more about it:

The mysterious inheritance is the answer to a prayer. Now Irish lass Maeve Murphy and her sisters can come to America! She's sure happiness awaits her, even if it won't—can't—come from widowed ship doctor Flynn Gallagher. Yes, he made her his assistant, but she's not foolish enough to fall for the man all the eligible, wealthy female passengers admire.

Flynn Gallagher may have his pick of ladies, but only one cares as he does for the sick and poor. Flynn vowed never to marry another woman who could break his heart. With Maeve, has his heart found safe harbor at last?

Doesn't that novel sound great? I must admit, I recently read another novel set aboard a ship, Heart's Safe Passage by Laurie Alice Eakes, and I ended up LOVING it. So I'm more than happy to head back to sea as I read another story.

The last novel I'm featuring this month is called Brides of the West. It's a novella collection, comprised of three shorter stories written by familiar Love Inspired Historical authors. Take a look:


Josie's Wedding Dress by Victoria Bylin
Desperate for someone to help her save her ranch, Josie Bright makes a deal with Ty Dormer. Now the man who'd left her waiting at the altar is making her hope for things she had long stopped wishing for.

Last Minute Bride by Janet Dean
Elise Langley was stung to the quick when her would-be suitor suddenly left town. But when David Wellman returns and they are thrown together organizing their friends' wedding, can she open her heart again?

Her Ideal Husband by Pamela Nissen
As a girl, Lydia Townsend hoped to marry Jebediah Gentry—until his rejection spoiled her dreams. When family duty brings her home, it's Jeb's chance to show Lydia that now is the time for her wedding dreams to come true.

So there you have it, the Love Inspired Historical releases for the month of April. If you missed the highlight of the first two novels (which includes Sanctuary for a Lady by Yours Truly), take a look at this post. 

Now I'm curious how many of these novels you've read. Any? None? One or two? Let me know what you thought in the comment section below.

Book Spotlight--Historical Romance Novels for April

Hey Everyone,

Did you all have a fabulous Easter Weekend? I know I did, and I'm hoping you enjoyed your own Easter as much as me and my family did. I wanted to kick off the week with our Book Spotlight, highlighting the novels available from my publisher this month. The first novel I'm going to introduce you to is . . . MINE!!! (I know, it probably surprises some of you, but I'm eager to give my book a shout out whenever possible.) Here's a little about the book:

The injured young woman Michel Belanger finds in the woods is certainly an aristocrat. And in the midst of France's bloody revolution, sheltering nobility merits a trip to the guillotine. Yet despite the risk, Michel knows he must bring the wounded girl to his cottage to heal.

Attacked by soldiers and left for dead, Isabelle de La Rouchecauld has lost everything. A duke's daughter cannot hope for mercy in France, so escaping to England is her best chance of survival. The only thing more dangerous than staying would be falling in love with this gruff yet tender man of the land. Even if she sees, for the first time, how truly noble a heart can be….

Obviously I'm excited to see Sanctuary for a Lady release, as it's my debut novel and will always be close to my heart, but did you know I'm not the only author debuting this month with Love Inspired Historical? Jessica Nelson also saw her book, Love on the Range, hit shelves for the first time last week. Here's more about the novel:

Any other socialite would view being packed off to a remote Oregon ranch as a punishment. But Gracelyn Riley knows that this is her opportunity to become a real reporter. If she can make her name through an interview with the elusive hero known as Striker, then she'll never have to depend on anyone ever again.

Rancher Trevor Cruz can't believe his secret identity is being endangered by an overly chatty city girl. But if there's one thing he knows, it's that Gracie's pretty little snooping nose is bound to get her in trouble. So he'll use her determination to find "Striker" to keep an eye on her…and stick close by her side.

We'll be spending next week with Jessica, here on Making Home Work. She'll be doing an interview and giveaway, plus and sharing a recipe with us, and I'm excited to have her. Jessica interviewed me on her blog last week? If you missed it, stop by to check out the interview. On Friday, we'll be hearing from our monthly blogger, Sarah Hamaker. And in the meantime, if you're wanting to try out a book by a new author to see how well you like it, I can think of a couple to recommend . . .

Book Spotlight:: Historical Romance Novels for March, Part 2

Hello everyone, I'm back again today to feature the next two romance novels releasing this March from Love Inspired Historical. (If you missed the first two novels, be sure to check out the previous post featuring Mandy Goff's and Eva Maria Hamilton's newest books.)

Next on our list, we have The Bridal Swap by Karen Kirst. Karen is also a newer author. Her first book, The Reluctant Outlaw released last fall, and now she's got another novel in her Smokey Mountain Matches series. I haven't read either of these yet, but I do have The Bridal Swap on my to-be-read list for March. Here's a little more about the book:

The heiress Josh O'Malley has courted by mail is on her way to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, to become his wife. His dreams are coming true, and together, they'll create the family he's always wanted. But when the stagecoach arrives, it's not his intended who exits, but her sister, Kate!

She came to end her sister's engagement, but with her duty completed, Kate Morgan is in no hurry to leave. She can't help but like the beautiful mountain town…and her sister's would-be groom. If only Josh would realize that his dream can still come true—and love can be found where least expected.

And finally, we have tried and true Love Inspired Historical author Linda Ford, with her novel The Cowboy Comes Home:

Security and a home of her own—that's Sally Morgan's dream. And a new job could offer both. Her employer will marry her if she proves her worth as housekeeper. A sensible—if unromantic—plan. Until a lean, laid-back cowboy moves in next door…and "sensible" moves right out!

Linc McCoy and his family left town years ago under a cloud of suspicion. A cowboy with a tarnished name has nothing to offer a woman like Sally. Except for a spark of kinship neither can deny. And the growing hope that two guarded hearts might learn to trust in a power greater than them both.

So whether you're looking for a story set in the Scottish highlands or in the old west, I hope you'll enjoy one of these novels this month.

Book Spotlight: Historical Romance Novels for March

At the beginning of every month, I'm going to highlight some romance novels that I'm looking forward to reading. As many of you know, my own romance novel, Sanctuary for a Lady, will be release in April, only one month from now. So in honor of that, I want to look at the novels releasing from my publisher this March.

I'm super excited about this batch of novels, because three of the authors are new. Since I'm going to be a new author soon, I'm sure you can understand my enthusiasm in introducing you to some others. The first is author Eva Maria Hamilton with her debut novel, Highland Hearts. Here's a little about the book:

Logan McAllister survived years of indentured servitude in America to reach this moment. Now he's returned to Scotland, ready to redeem the secret promise from Sheena Montgomery's father—that five years as a servant would earn him Sheena's hand in marriage. But when he arrives home, he learns that Sheena's father has died, his contract has been lost…and Sheena is engaged to another man.

Sheena has spent the past five years trying to forget Logan, the man who abandoned her with no explanation. She won't listen to his protests that he loves her—has always loved her. It'll take more than empty promises to win her back…and to prove that his highland heart is hers forever.

I haven't read too many stories set in Scotland, so I'm really looking forward to seeing eighteenth century Scotland through the eyes of Sheena and Logan. (And by the way, isn't Logan an awesome name for the hero?) I downloaded the ebook version of Highland Hearts two days ago and am currently enjoying Sheena and Logan's story very much!

Next up is Engaging the Earl by author Mandy Goff. This is Mandy's second novel, and I'm super excited to read it. I first met Mandy when I happened upon her debut novel, The Blackmailed Bride last year. I read the first couple pages of The Blackmailed Bride online and fell instantly in love with the character of Olivia. Now that Olivia is happily married, she's out to find the perfect match for her brother, Marcus, and I can't wait to see what happens.

To help her destitute parents, Emma Mercer must marry very well. And very soon. Love is irrelevant. Only security matters…doesn't it? Aided by her friend Olivia—and Olivia's brother Marcus, Earl of Westin—Emma quickly gains society's notice. But Marcus himself, the only man whose company Emma truly enjoys, seems oblivious to her charms.

With his finances in jeopardy, Marcus knows he can't be the wealthy groom Emma needs. Instead, he'll see her properly engaged to the right man…and break his own heart.

Yet Emma's determination and Marcus's resolve may be no match for love, faith—and a scheming sister determined to end Emma's husband hunt right at Marcus's side.

So, if you're looking for something to fresh and new to read, I suggest you check out these authors. On Wednesday I'll introduce you to two other books from my publisher. In the meantime, keep in mind the ebook versions of these novels are only $3.99, and the print versions are just slightly higher.