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Recommend this book:
Kirk
Gun for Hire Sweet Western Romance Series Book 3
Charlene Raddon
2025 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Christian - Romance - Historical
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Kirk by Charlene Raddon is the third book in the Gun For Hire series. Set in the year 1874, the story follows Kirk Reddick, a former preacher turned hangman, who is plagued by guilt over his job. After his brother, Cage, was framed for a bank robbery he didn't commit, Kirk accepted the role of a hangman as punishment on behalf of his brother. When a hanging leads to Kirk being shot and chased by an angry mob, Adina Kinnaird, who works in the local newspaper office, takes him to safety and nurses him back to health. As the two travel from town to town due to Kirk's duties, they develop mutual feelings for each other. Meanwhile, Adina runs into the man who shot and killed her boss. What's next in store for Kirk and Adina?
This is a book for fans of romance and Westerns alike. Chalene Raddon weaves an engaging narrative full of suspense, action, and romance. The plot revolves around the love story between Kirk and Adina, featuring a couple of unexpected twists and turns that are sure to take readers by surprise. Raddon's salt-of-the-earth characters and the immersive Western setting transport you to another time and place you don't want to leave. But this is not just another story where the hero saves the damsel in distress. Quite the opposite. I loved the chemistry between Kirk and Adina. Even the secondary characters like Glory and Marshall Sandford are well-developed and likable. I also found the ending very satisfying. Readers who enjoy love stories in Western settings should not miss out on this!
Kirk by Charlene Raddon is the third book in the Gun For Hire series. Set in the year 1874, the story follows Kirk Reddick, a former preacher turned hangman, who is plagued by guilt over his job. After his brother, Cage, was framed for a bank robbery he didn't commit, Kirk accepted the role of a hangman as punishment on behalf of his brother. When a hanging leads to Kirk being shot and chased by an angry mob, Adina Kinnaird, who works in the local newspaper office, takes him to safety and nurses him back to health. As the two travel from town to town due to Kirk's duties, they develop mutual feelings for each other. Meanwhile, Adina runs into the man who shot and killed her boss. What's next in store for Kirk and Adina?
This is a book for fans of romance and Westerns alike. Chalene Raddon weaves an engaging narrative full of suspense, action, and romance. The plot revolves around the love story between Kirk and Adina, featuring a couple of unexpected twists and turns that are sure to take readers by surprise. Raddon's salt-of-the-earth characters and the immersive Western setting transport you to another time and place you don't want to leave. But this is not just another story where the hero saves the damsel in distress. Quite the opposite. I loved the chemistry between Kirk and Adina. Even the secondary characters like Glory and Marshall Sandford are well-developed and likable. I also found the ending very satisfying. Readers who enjoy love stories in Western settings should not miss out on this!
Recommend this book:
No Leaves in Autumn
Terri Wangard
2025 Honorable Mention
334 Pages
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Christian - Romance - Historical
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
No Leaves in Autumn by Terri Wangard is a heartfelt Christian historical novel set against the chilly, windswept backdrop of World War II Iceland. Marie Foubert is a Red Cross recreation worker grappling with abandonment issues after growing up in an orphanage, and Stefan Dabrowski is a gifted seaplane pilot facing discrimination due to his Polish heritage. Their paths cross amidst the camaraderie and conflict of military life, where love blossoms cautiously between them. Marie must confront her past when her long-lost cousin attempts to reconnect, while Stefan must prove his worth against jealous colleagues threatening to sabotage him. As personal reckonings collide with the demands of war, both Marie and Stefan are forced to confront who they are, where they belong, and what family truly means.
Author Terri Wangard has a flair for character that’s evident on every page of this highly descriptive and deeply emotional novel, which beautifully captures vulnerability and resilience in a wartime setting. Despite the tragic circumstances surrounding them in a war-torn world, Marie and Stefan are brought to life with tender dialogue appropriate for the time, but also giving a deep insight into issues of identity and family still relevant today. The pacing of their feelings and emotional journey keeps a great sense of suspense. Their evolving relationship is a poignant and realistic portrayal of love under pressure that feels balanced between them as individuals and as a pair. The setting itself also feels like a character, thanks to the author’s excellent knowledge of the mood and attitudes of Iceland, giving a refreshing take on WWII fiction by spotlighting lesser-known locations and dynamics. I also felt that the Christian themes were integrated seamlessly, enriching the story with hope and redemption, but never making it feel overdone or preachy. Overall, No Leaves in Autumn is a highly recommended read for its unique perspective and well-penned character drama.
No Leaves in Autumn by Terri Wangard is a heartfelt Christian historical novel set against the chilly, windswept backdrop of World War II Iceland. Marie Foubert is a Red Cross recreation worker grappling with abandonment issues after growing up in an orphanage, and Stefan Dabrowski is a gifted seaplane pilot facing discrimination due to his Polish heritage. Their paths cross amidst the camaraderie and conflict of military life, where love blossoms cautiously between them. Marie must confront her past when her long-lost cousin attempts to reconnect, while Stefan must prove his worth against jealous colleagues threatening to sabotage him. As personal reckonings collide with the demands of war, both Marie and Stefan are forced to confront who they are, where they belong, and what family truly means.
Author Terri Wangard has a flair for character that’s evident on every page of this highly descriptive and deeply emotional novel, which beautifully captures vulnerability and resilience in a wartime setting. Despite the tragic circumstances surrounding them in a war-torn world, Marie and Stefan are brought to life with tender dialogue appropriate for the time, but also giving a deep insight into issues of identity and family still relevant today. The pacing of their feelings and emotional journey keeps a great sense of suspense. Their evolving relationship is a poignant and realistic portrayal of love under pressure that feels balanced between them as individuals and as a pair. The setting itself also feels like a character, thanks to the author’s excellent knowledge of the mood and attitudes of Iceland, giving a refreshing take on WWII fiction by spotlighting lesser-known locations and dynamics. I also felt that the Christian themes were integrated seamlessly, enriching the story with hope and redemption, but never making it feel overdone or preachy. Overall, No Leaves in Autumn is a highly recommended read for its unique perspective and well-penned character drama.
Recommend this book:
Molly
Shanna Hatfield
2025 Bronze Medal
406 Pages
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Christian - Romance - Historical
Reviewed by Bernadette Longu for Readers' Favorite
Molly by Shanna Hatfield is a most delightful romance that takes part at the tail end of the First World War when the United States Army introduced women into their Signal Corps, nicknamed the Hello Girls. The main characters are Molly Thorsen and her extended family and Harkey John, her sister’s fiancé, and his best friend Friday Fitzpatrick. The author guides the main characters through their story so skilfully that the reader will find it very hard to put the book down once the plot starts to unfold. It takes place at a time of a war that nobody really wanted but everyone rallied to help stop. The fact that romance and hope can thrive in such despair and loss of life gives optimism to those who survive. A delightful romance set in an era when innocence and gallantry were slowly coming to an end in the world as we knew it.
Molly by Shanna Hatfield is written with such compassion, showing the ugly side of war and then the best side of those who go to war and still help others where they can, even to the detriment of themselves. The author leaves the reader with a feeling that there could be many more stories like this that happened during this period. A beautiful romance that is set in a time of innocence and each of the characters adheres to it with a grace and kindness that is not found today. The author writes in such a way that leaves the reader to use their imaginations to think about how the main characters feel about each other. The characters are so charming and take the reader on a journey of joy, sorrow, loss, and love most delightfully. The author also brings to light the fact that sometimes it takes decades for people to publicly acknowledge those who helped the troops and their movements during the First World War, leaving the men to fight the good fight. Can you imagine waiting until 2024 to find out that the army now actually acknowledges that you were part of the US Forces fighting in France and Belgium during the First World War? Since then, there have been the Second World War, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, and the women who served in those wars are on the Wall of Remembrance, even those who died in Hawaii. Thank you for a most interesting read.
Molly by Shanna Hatfield is a most delightful romance that takes part at the tail end of the First World War when the United States Army introduced women into their Signal Corps, nicknamed the Hello Girls. The main characters are Molly Thorsen and her extended family and Harkey John, her sister’s fiancé, and his best friend Friday Fitzpatrick. The author guides the main characters through their story so skilfully that the reader will find it very hard to put the book down once the plot starts to unfold. It takes place at a time of a war that nobody really wanted but everyone rallied to help stop. The fact that romance and hope can thrive in such despair and loss of life gives optimism to those who survive. A delightful romance set in an era when innocence and gallantry were slowly coming to an end in the world as we knew it.
Molly by Shanna Hatfield is written with such compassion, showing the ugly side of war and then the best side of those who go to war and still help others where they can, even to the detriment of themselves. The author leaves the reader with a feeling that there could be many more stories like this that happened during this period. A beautiful romance that is set in a time of innocence and each of the characters adheres to it with a grace and kindness that is not found today. The author writes in such a way that leaves the reader to use their imaginations to think about how the main characters feel about each other. The characters are so charming and take the reader on a journey of joy, sorrow, loss, and love most delightfully. The author also brings to light the fact that sometimes it takes decades for people to publicly acknowledge those who helped the troops and their movements during the First World War, leaving the men to fight the good fight. Can you imagine waiting until 2024 to find out that the army now actually acknowledges that you were part of the US Forces fighting in France and Belgium during the First World War? Since then, there have been the Second World War, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, and the women who served in those wars are on the Wall of Remembrance, even those who died in Hawaii. Thank you for a most interesting read.
Recommend this book:
The Lamp
Victorian Virtues Book 2
Edwina Kiernan
2025 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Christian - Romance - Historical
Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite
Life wasn’t easy for young Beatrice. An orphan living with and caring for an aging aunt, she has her sights set on a young man, Isaac, who lives nearby. In Edwina Kiernan’s The Lamp, Beatrice and Isaac try to cement their love in the Victorian era, when certain principles and family obligations sometimes interfere. Isaac is sent away to look after some property that his father recently inherited. He has no time to meet with Beatric and inform her of his departure. Then an outbreak of cholera threatens their lives, making it difficult to believe that their love might someday bring them back together. Will the two find their place together, as they believe was God’s intention?
Edwina Kiernan’s novel, The Lamp, is the second book in the Victorian Virtues series. Set in Victorian England, this charming historical romance will captivate historical romance readers. The two main characters are well-developed and presented in a caring, believable manner. Dialogue is used effectively to enhance the character development as well as move the plot forward. This is a fast-paced drama, a real page-turner. The author has a thorough comprehension, understanding, and appreciation of the era in which her novel is set. Christian faith plays a profound role in this story, as it did for many who lived in the Victorian era. Bursting with intrigue, powerful sentiments, and a lasting desire to follow the life of a good Christian, the two main characters, Beatrice and Isaac, will inspire and encourage readers well after they’ve finished reading the book.
Life wasn’t easy for young Beatrice. An orphan living with and caring for an aging aunt, she has her sights set on a young man, Isaac, who lives nearby. In Edwina Kiernan’s The Lamp, Beatrice and Isaac try to cement their love in the Victorian era, when certain principles and family obligations sometimes interfere. Isaac is sent away to look after some property that his father recently inherited. He has no time to meet with Beatric and inform her of his departure. Then an outbreak of cholera threatens their lives, making it difficult to believe that their love might someday bring them back together. Will the two find their place together, as they believe was God’s intention?
Edwina Kiernan’s novel, The Lamp, is the second book in the Victorian Virtues series. Set in Victorian England, this charming historical romance will captivate historical romance readers. The two main characters are well-developed and presented in a caring, believable manner. Dialogue is used effectively to enhance the character development as well as move the plot forward. This is a fast-paced drama, a real page-turner. The author has a thorough comprehension, understanding, and appreciation of the era in which her novel is set. Christian faith plays a profound role in this story, as it did for many who lived in the Victorian era. Bursting with intrigue, powerful sentiments, and a lasting desire to follow the life of a good Christian, the two main characters, Beatrice and Isaac, will inspire and encourage readers well after they’ve finished reading the book.
Recommend this book:
Only By Grace
Elizabeth Johns
2025 Gold Medal
216 Pages
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Christian - Romance - Historical
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Only By Grace by Elizabeth Johns is a Regency romance that blends humor, tenderness, and adventure on the open sea. The story follows Grace Whitford, a gentle and unassuming young woman who, after being accidentally left behind on a ship following her sister’s wedding, finds herself on a voyage to Ireland with the dashing and brooding Lord Carew. Grace’s character unfolds beautifully throughout the novel. Initially presented as quiet and timid, her circumstances gradually reveal her wit and surprising boldness. Her interactions with the crew, particularly the young cabin boy Paddy, highlight the narrative. Meanwhile, Lord Carew, burdened by an old family feud and personal regrets, grapples with his protective instincts and growing affection for Grace. Their slow-burn relationship is marked by playful banter, simmering tension, and a mutual respect that blossoms naturally over time.
Elizabeth Johns brings the historical setting to life, weaving in vivid details about the many challenges of sailing during the Regency period, from the unpredictable dangers of the sea to the demanding navigation of strict social expectations placed on women of the era. The novel's pacing occasionally slows, particularly in scenes devoted to the gradual emotional shifts between the characters, but this is fitting for a slow-burn romance. Fans of historical romances will find much to appreciate in Only By Grace. Johns offers readers an immersive escape into a world where strength reveals itself quietly, through patience, compassion, and resilience. It is a reminder that grace, whether offered to others or accepted for oneself, can change the direction of a life.
Only By Grace by Elizabeth Johns is a Regency romance that blends humor, tenderness, and adventure on the open sea. The story follows Grace Whitford, a gentle and unassuming young woman who, after being accidentally left behind on a ship following her sister’s wedding, finds herself on a voyage to Ireland with the dashing and brooding Lord Carew. Grace’s character unfolds beautifully throughout the novel. Initially presented as quiet and timid, her circumstances gradually reveal her wit and surprising boldness. Her interactions with the crew, particularly the young cabin boy Paddy, highlight the narrative. Meanwhile, Lord Carew, burdened by an old family feud and personal regrets, grapples with his protective instincts and growing affection for Grace. Their slow-burn relationship is marked by playful banter, simmering tension, and a mutual respect that blossoms naturally over time.
Elizabeth Johns brings the historical setting to life, weaving in vivid details about the many challenges of sailing during the Regency period, from the unpredictable dangers of the sea to the demanding navigation of strict social expectations placed on women of the era. The novel's pacing occasionally slows, particularly in scenes devoted to the gradual emotional shifts between the characters, but this is fitting for a slow-burn romance. Fans of historical romances will find much to appreciate in Only By Grace. Johns offers readers an immersive escape into a world where strength reveals itself quietly, through patience, compassion, and resilience. It is a reminder that grace, whether offered to others or accepted for oneself, can change the direction of a life.
Recommend this book:
I, Magdalena
M P Sherman
2024 Bronze Medal
354 Pages
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Christian - Romance - Historical
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
I, Magdalena is a work of fiction in the historical, women’s fiction and interpersonal drama subgenres. It is best suited to mature readers owing to some scenes of moderate sex and violence and was penned by author M P Sherman. This powerful and captivating novel tells the inspiring story of a strong-minded and fiercely independent woman navigating an oppressive patriarchy during Biblical times. Magdalena's journey unfolds against a backdrop of limited opportunities for girls, but her mother's unwavering support and creative spirit provide solace and hope. This book serves as a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the transformative power of resilience.
Author M P Sherman skillfully portrays the struggles and hardships Magdalena faces on her path to physical and spiritual awakening. Through her experiences, the author sheds light on the multifaceted nature of every life, emphasizing the futility and lack of merit in judging others. Magdalena's resilience and determination become beacons of inspiration, reminding readers of the strength and potential within each individual. The narrative also highlights the broader societal issues of structural imbalances and their impact on every member. Sherman adeptly weaves these themes into the story, prompting readers to reflect on the complexities of social dynamics and the need for change. Sherman has crafted a beautifully penned novel that immerses readers in the rich tapestry of Magdalena's life with evocative and compelling prose that draws readers into the emotions and experiences of the protagonist. Overall, I, Magdalena is a must-read for those seeking a captivating tale that challenges societal norms and encourages self-discovery.
I, Magdalena is a work of fiction in the historical, women’s fiction and interpersonal drama subgenres. It is best suited to mature readers owing to some scenes of moderate sex and violence and was penned by author M P Sherman. This powerful and captivating novel tells the inspiring story of a strong-minded and fiercely independent woman navigating an oppressive patriarchy during Biblical times. Magdalena's journey unfolds against a backdrop of limited opportunities for girls, but her mother's unwavering support and creative spirit provide solace and hope. This book serves as a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the transformative power of resilience.
Author M P Sherman skillfully portrays the struggles and hardships Magdalena faces on her path to physical and spiritual awakening. Through her experiences, the author sheds light on the multifaceted nature of every life, emphasizing the futility and lack of merit in judging others. Magdalena's resilience and determination become beacons of inspiration, reminding readers of the strength and potential within each individual. The narrative also highlights the broader societal issues of structural imbalances and their impact on every member. Sherman adeptly weaves these themes into the story, prompting readers to reflect on the complexities of social dynamics and the need for change. Sherman has crafted a beautifully penned novel that immerses readers in the rich tapestry of Magdalena's life with evocative and compelling prose that draws readers into the emotions and experiences of the protagonist. Overall, I, Magdalena is a must-read for those seeking a captivating tale that challenges societal norms and encourages self-discovery.
Recommend this book:
The Letter
Victorian Virtues Book 1
Edwina Kiernan
2024 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Christian - Romance - Historical
Reviewed by Foluso Falaye for Readers' Favorite
In 1848, Dr. David Carbury is suspected of murder because the chloroform he used on a patient appears to be the reason behind his sudden death. Instead of letting the court decide his fate in London, David escapes to Lindenfell and assumes his cousin's identity while staying with his aunt whom he hadn't seen in a long time. David introduces himself as John to his aunt and the beautiful young woman staying with her—Grace Stratton. Though he finds himself falling for Grace, he fears the judgment he will receive once his identity is exposed. How long does David have before his secrets unravel? Edwina Kiernan's The Letter captivates readers with a historical tale about two individuals whose love for each other is marred by an outrageous act of deceit and a harsh, life-threatening accusation.
Edwina Kiernan's story alternates between two viewpoints, depicting David's and Grace's perspectives at intervals as they get to know each other and deal with their personal issues. It was exciting to learn what the characters didn't know about each other, like their undeclared feelings, by following the well-executed shifts in viewpoints. I loved the compelling protagonists. Both appear to be kind and respectful despite their struggles with deceit, forgiveness, and the law. Also, the narrative incorporates biblical messages that encourage readers to trust God in all situations. Essentially, The Letter is filled with brilliant, reader-friendly features: moderate pacing, profound lessons, compelling developments, likable characters, and more. Fans of historical fiction and suspenseful love stories are in for a treat! It's the type of book you read with your phone on Do Not Disturb because it is just that compelling!
In 1848, Dr. David Carbury is suspected of murder because the chloroform he used on a patient appears to be the reason behind his sudden death. Instead of letting the court decide his fate in London, David escapes to Lindenfell and assumes his cousin's identity while staying with his aunt whom he hadn't seen in a long time. David introduces himself as John to his aunt and the beautiful young woman staying with her—Grace Stratton. Though he finds himself falling for Grace, he fears the judgment he will receive once his identity is exposed. How long does David have before his secrets unravel? Edwina Kiernan's The Letter captivates readers with a historical tale about two individuals whose love for each other is marred by an outrageous act of deceit and a harsh, life-threatening accusation.
Edwina Kiernan's story alternates between two viewpoints, depicting David's and Grace's perspectives at intervals as they get to know each other and deal with their personal issues. It was exciting to learn what the characters didn't know about each other, like their undeclared feelings, by following the well-executed shifts in viewpoints. I loved the compelling protagonists. Both appear to be kind and respectful despite their struggles with deceit, forgiveness, and the law. Also, the narrative incorporates biblical messages that encourage readers to trust God in all situations. Essentially, The Letter is filled with brilliant, reader-friendly features: moderate pacing, profound lessons, compelling developments, likable characters, and more. Fans of historical fiction and suspenseful love stories are in for a treat! It's the type of book you read with your phone on Do Not Disturb because it is just that compelling!
Recommend this book:
Love on Target
Pink Pistol Sisterhood Series Book 2
Shanna Hatfield
2024 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Christian - Romance - Historical
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
In Love on Target, author Shanna Hatfield tells a heartwarming tale set against the rugged backdrop of Oregon’s mining country in the late 19th century. Rena Burke, the resilient and determined protagonist, embarks on a journey from Texas with little more than her father's pistol and a steadfast mule for company. Determined to forge a new life, Rena takes on a daring job working with explosives at a local mine while nurturing dreams inspired by her idol, Annie Oakley, and quietly yearning for companionship. Josh Gatlin is a saddlemaker whose world revolves around his beloved daughter, Gabi. Devoted to providing his child with a stable and loving environment, Josh finds himself unexpectedly drawn to Rena, a woman who challenges his preconceptions of a suitable wife and mother. Clad in trousers and fiercely independent, Rena stands in stark contrast to Josh's ideals, yet her courage and spirit begin to undo the walls around his heart.
It's refreshing to see a resurgence of Western novels, and Shanna Hatfield masters the genre. Love on Target is well-paced, with a perfect “save the cat” moment that sets up Rena as a likable character that readers care about. Hatfield skillfully weaves together themes of resilience, forgiveness, and the transformative power of love. The narrative blends tender moments with the rugged realities of frontier life, creating a compelling read. Fans of Western romance will find much to love in this novel—characters to root for, a setting that comes alive, and a love story that defies conventions. It's a testament to the author's ability to craft an engaging narrative that transports readers to another time and place, leaving them eagerly awaiting her next literary journey. Hopefully, the wait won’t be too long.
In Love on Target, author Shanna Hatfield tells a heartwarming tale set against the rugged backdrop of Oregon’s mining country in the late 19th century. Rena Burke, the resilient and determined protagonist, embarks on a journey from Texas with little more than her father's pistol and a steadfast mule for company. Determined to forge a new life, Rena takes on a daring job working with explosives at a local mine while nurturing dreams inspired by her idol, Annie Oakley, and quietly yearning for companionship. Josh Gatlin is a saddlemaker whose world revolves around his beloved daughter, Gabi. Devoted to providing his child with a stable and loving environment, Josh finds himself unexpectedly drawn to Rena, a woman who challenges his preconceptions of a suitable wife and mother. Clad in trousers and fiercely independent, Rena stands in stark contrast to Josh's ideals, yet her courage and spirit begin to undo the walls around his heart.
It's refreshing to see a resurgence of Western novels, and Shanna Hatfield masters the genre. Love on Target is well-paced, with a perfect “save the cat” moment that sets up Rena as a likable character that readers care about. Hatfield skillfully weaves together themes of resilience, forgiveness, and the transformative power of love. The narrative blends tender moments with the rugged realities of frontier life, creating a compelling read. Fans of Western romance will find much to love in this novel—characters to root for, a setting that comes alive, and a love story that defies conventions. It's a testament to the author's ability to craft an engaging narrative that transports readers to another time and place, leaving them eagerly awaiting her next literary journey. Hopefully, the wait won’t be too long.
Recommend this book:
The Rock at the Bottom
Lorna & Tristan Series Book 3
Cynthia Hilston
2023 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Christian - Romance - Historical
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
It is said that to err is human and to forgive is divine, and how this might play out is a foundational element of the Christian romance novel The Rock at the Bottom by Cynthia Hilston. But forgiveness of who? Your biological father? Yourself? Stephen starts his life under a cloud of hatred, his father's contempt for him further complicated by a penchant for drinking. Stephen tries his best to craft a place for himself in an imagination that thrives against a backdrop of abuse. He is a wordsmith, a writer, and proving his worth is a powerful driver. Once old enough to leave home, Stephen moves out with his childhood friend and marries the tenacious Anna “Julie”. Stephen's success and his life with Julie, along with those of two others, are abruptly interrupted when Stephen dredges up his father's own issues from within himself. Stephen is haunted by his mistakes but whether or not he can overcome his own worst enemy, himself, will determine the rest of his life, both lived and eternal.
I love a good redemption story and my goodness author Cynthia Hilston is able to serve it up in The Rock at the Bottom. The analogy of the title shows up unexpectedly as Stephen's story progresses, and the nuance of Hilston having one word or phrase narrated and a reader discovering it is the sign of a gifted writer. She does this a few times and it is fantastic. I admit that I did not read books one or two in the Lorna and Tristan series, Lorna Versus Laura and Rocks and Flowers in a Box, but it didn't impact the readability of book three. That said, I was clueless about how the story of a guy named Stephen tied into a series with a different name, but Hilston unveils the connection in a beautiful, metaphysical reveal. Readers should be warned that Stephen goes through a dark period where he is deeply troubled and, frankly, becomes a character so flawed that he morphs into one that is genuinely unlikeable. This is the moment we start to witness God's grace and mercy and, yet again, where Hilston proves the divinity of forgiveness that comes. I'm human and struggled with Stephen...but God is patient and loving, and readers who stay the course will see how amazing this can be, no matter how far we fall.
It is said that to err is human and to forgive is divine, and how this might play out is a foundational element of the Christian romance novel The Rock at the Bottom by Cynthia Hilston. But forgiveness of who? Your biological father? Yourself? Stephen starts his life under a cloud of hatred, his father's contempt for him further complicated by a penchant for drinking. Stephen tries his best to craft a place for himself in an imagination that thrives against a backdrop of abuse. He is a wordsmith, a writer, and proving his worth is a powerful driver. Once old enough to leave home, Stephen moves out with his childhood friend and marries the tenacious Anna “Julie”. Stephen's success and his life with Julie, along with those of two others, are abruptly interrupted when Stephen dredges up his father's own issues from within himself. Stephen is haunted by his mistakes but whether or not he can overcome his own worst enemy, himself, will determine the rest of his life, both lived and eternal.
I love a good redemption story and my goodness author Cynthia Hilston is able to serve it up in The Rock at the Bottom. The analogy of the title shows up unexpectedly as Stephen's story progresses, and the nuance of Hilston having one word or phrase narrated and a reader discovering it is the sign of a gifted writer. She does this a few times and it is fantastic. I admit that I did not read books one or two in the Lorna and Tristan series, Lorna Versus Laura and Rocks and Flowers in a Box, but it didn't impact the readability of book three. That said, I was clueless about how the story of a guy named Stephen tied into a series with a different name, but Hilston unveils the connection in a beautiful, metaphysical reveal. Readers should be warned that Stephen goes through a dark period where he is deeply troubled and, frankly, becomes a character so flawed that he morphs into one that is genuinely unlikeable. This is the moment we start to witness God's grace and mercy and, yet again, where Hilston proves the divinity of forgiveness that comes. I'm human and struggled with Stephen...but God is patient and loving, and readers who stay the course will see how amazing this can be, no matter how far we fall.
Recommend this book:
The Flowers of Penruddock
A Romance Collection
Ronnda Eileen Henry
2023 Honorable Mention
536 Pages
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Christian - Romance - Historical
Reviewed by Grant Leishman for Readers' Favorite
The Flowers of Penruddock: A Romance Collection from Ronnda Eileen Henry is a collection of seven substantial novellas that all focus on the mythical land of Penruddock, which Henry has created and expanded on over time. The novellas all take place over different periods of Penruddock’s history; a history, it seems, that is measured by before and after the rule of Good King Adelard. King Adelard was the last king to rule over a unified and united Penruddock. Upon his death, the island nation was divided up into six kingdoms, each to be ruled by one of his six sons. The story of Good King Adelard and what led to his decision to split his kingdom is told in the fourth novella, Hyacinth: Love Royal and True, and is in itself fascinating. Each of the seven novellas is named after the lead female character in the story, also being the name of a flower. So, we have Poppy, Rose, Violet, Hyacinth and more. As a bonus, at the end is a story written by the author titled Cousins One and All, a Jane Austen fan fiction story.
I loved this wonderful collection of simple love stories. There is nothing pretentious about Ronnda Eileen Henry’s writing and in The Flowers of Penruddock: A Romance Collection, she gives us simple, sweet and uplifting love stories about real characters. I particularly liked that age, occupation and social status had no bearing in the characters’ choices of who they fell in love with. Many of the stories are centred around nobility and royalty, where “love matches” are often the last consideration when arranging a marriage. More important are improving one’s status or adding a title to one’s family name. Henry’s characters rise above these material issues and true love is found, pursued and defended stoutly. Because all the stories revolve around the land of Penruddock, albeit at different times in history, I always felt an affinity with the location of each new story. This is a long collection of stories, but one that can be delved into and read at one’s leisure. Each story stands alone and I can highly recommend this to anyone who loves, good, clean, but exciting romantic adventure. My favourite stories? Marigold: Love in Two Acts, closely followed by Peony: Forged in Love, but truth be told, I enjoyed them all immensely.
The Flowers of Penruddock: A Romance Collection from Ronnda Eileen Henry is a collection of seven substantial novellas that all focus on the mythical land of Penruddock, which Henry has created and expanded on over time. The novellas all take place over different periods of Penruddock’s history; a history, it seems, that is measured by before and after the rule of Good King Adelard. King Adelard was the last king to rule over a unified and united Penruddock. Upon his death, the island nation was divided up into six kingdoms, each to be ruled by one of his six sons. The story of Good King Adelard and what led to his decision to split his kingdom is told in the fourth novella, Hyacinth: Love Royal and True, and is in itself fascinating. Each of the seven novellas is named after the lead female character in the story, also being the name of a flower. So, we have Poppy, Rose, Violet, Hyacinth and more. As a bonus, at the end is a story written by the author titled Cousins One and All, a Jane Austen fan fiction story.
I loved this wonderful collection of simple love stories. There is nothing pretentious about Ronnda Eileen Henry’s writing and in The Flowers of Penruddock: A Romance Collection, she gives us simple, sweet and uplifting love stories about real characters. I particularly liked that age, occupation and social status had no bearing in the characters’ choices of who they fell in love with. Many of the stories are centred around nobility and royalty, where “love matches” are often the last consideration when arranging a marriage. More important are improving one’s status or adding a title to one’s family name. Henry’s characters rise above these material issues and true love is found, pursued and defended stoutly. Because all the stories revolve around the land of Penruddock, albeit at different times in history, I always felt an affinity with the location of each new story. This is a long collection of stories, but one that can be delved into and read at one’s leisure. Each story stands alone and I can highly recommend this to anyone who loves, good, clean, but exciting romantic adventure. My favourite stories? Marigold: Love in Two Acts, closely followed by Peony: Forged in Love, but truth be told, I enjoyed them all immensely.
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