Historical Books

Redeeming Love

Francine Rivers

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Subjects -> Religion & Spirituality -> Authors, A-Z -> ( R ) -> Rivers, Francine

Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 564 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

Editorial Review:

In this splendid retelling of the biblical story of Hosea, bestselling author Francine Rivers pens a heartbreaking romance between a prostitute and the upright and kind farmer who marries her; the story also functions as a reminder of God's unconditional love for his people. Redeeming Love opens with the Gold Rush of 1850 and its rough-and-tumble atmosphere of greed and desire. Angel, who was sold into prostitution as a child, has learned to distrust all men, who see her only as a way to satisfy their lust. When the virtuous and spiritual-minded Michael Hosea is told by God to marry this "soiled dove," he obeys, despite his misgivings. As Angel learns to love him, she begins to hope again but is soon overwhelmed by fear and returns to her old life. Rivers shines in her ability to weave together spiritual themes and sexual tension in a well-told story, a talent that has propelled her into the spotlight as one of the most popular novelists in the genre of Christian fiction. This is one of her best. --Cindy Crosby

Yukon Quest 3-in-1 (Yukon quest)

Tracie Peterson

List Price: $19.99 By: Bethany House Amazon Marketplace: 37 new & used starting at $5.28

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 5 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

Excellent Read! 5 out of 5 stars.
9 of 9 people found this review helpful.

This series, Yukon Quest, was the first books I've read by Traci Peterson. I've read a lot of historical Christian romance books -- Peterson's books surely didn't disappoint me! The characters in this trilogy were multifaceted and experienced a range of emotions as they encountered challenges in their faith, their family relationships, love relationships and physical hardships of the harsh Alaskan north in the late 1800's.

Traci Peterson did an excellent job researching the historical setting of the Alaskan gold rush at the end of the 19th Century. Her descriptions were so vivid that I was transported myself as I read her books. This era of our American history has not been written about very often, so I felt I received a good history lesson from these books as well!

I also found myself drawn into the challenges the main characters faced in this entire series of books. The plots were not exactly predictable or "neat and tidy"... at the end of each book, I was left with unresolved plots or issues the characters were experiencing. As a warning -- don't sit down with Book 1 unless you have Books 2 & 3 ready to read, because you'll be wishing that you could get to some resolution of the stories of each character!

I loved the strong female protagonists in the story (Grace Hawkins, Karen Pierce, & Miranda Colton), and how they were faced with either faith-shattering or faith-building situations. There are good lessons of faith here -- realistic in their struggles, and yet Peterson does bring each character back to faith (or newfound faith) in God at the end. This was probably the best part of the books for me.

I was disappointed that this was only a trilogy... until I found out that Peterson wrote another trilogy (Alaskan Quest) that follows 2 of the characters (orphaned siblings Leah and Jacob Barringer). I will most likely be staying awake late at night to devour this next series of books!

Editorial Review:

In "Treasures of the North", Grace Hawkins flees north during the Alaskan gold rush to escape an arranged marriage with a sinister man. Will her new relationship with a young ship owner be threatened when her furious fiance tracks her down? "Ashes and Ice" - Heartbroken by loss, Karen Pierce is bound by a promise to watch over two young adults in her care. Together they journey north to the goldfields with the determined Adrik Ivankov as their guide. Will Karen find her way back to her once solid-faith...and into Adrik's arms? "Rivers of Gold" - Separated from her travel companions and presumed dead, Miranda Colton finds herself under the protection of Teddy Davenport. Though grateful for his help, Miranda longs to find her friends and continue north to the gold fields. As her friendship with Teddy blossoms, Miranda struggles over conflicting desires...until a menacing force from the past threatens to destroy everything she holds dear.

An Ancient Strife (Caledonia Series, Book 2)

Michael Phillips

List Price: $13.99 By: Bethany House Publishers Amazon Marketplace: 24 new & used starting at $0.99

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 3 Average rating: 4.0 of 5

Editorial Review:

Michael Phillips gives readers evocative descriptions of distant lands and distant times, a panorama of a world you can visit only through books.

AN ANCIENT STRIFE, the second book in the Scottish CALEDONIA series, brings all of these elements together with a contemporary political mystery that holds the future of a nation in its answer. At the heart of the book stands Andrew Trentham, a member of the British Parliament who continues his personal pilgrimage to discover his heritage in order to answer questions looming before him in the government.

Through stories read and told to him, he uncovers more about his own ancestors, more about the history of Scotland, and more about the spirit of a people long kept from experiencing the freedom they so desire. At the height of his search, Trentham comes across a feisty highland lass who throws unexpected complications into his personal life. Will she help or hinder his quest to finds the answers he desperately needs? Will he gain the courage and vision necessary to learn from the example of the past and stand for what he truly believes?

The Peacemaker (Men of the Saddle #1)

Lori Copeland

Amazon Price: $9.59 List Price: $11.99 Usually ships in 24 hours By: Tyndale House Publishers Amazon Marketplace: 53 new & used starting at $3.27

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 10 Average rating: 4.0 of 5

Fun Book, but a little far-fetched 3 out of 5 stars.
2 of 2 people found this review helpful.

This book was a funny (if predictable) love story. However, it's a bit far-fetched that the lead female character has set out to kill a man for leaving her at the altar. With her personality, she'd undoubtedly be very angry but hardly enough to commit murder. In an ironic twist, she ends up taking refuge in the very home and heart of the family of the man she's set out to kill, while their identity remains unknown to her (a perfect set-up for much comedy to come.) There's also an unbelievable amount of bad luck in the life of the "peacemaker" but it's necessary to the plot, to keep him from fulfilling his assigned duty in a more timely manner. In spite of a ridiculous plot, it's fun to read because of the relationship which develops between the two strong and stubborn lead characters. (Taming of the Shrew, revisited.)

Editorial Review:

Bull-headed Wynne Elliot has one goal in mind: to track down Cass Claxton and shoot him dead for leaving her at the altar and running off with her money. But when Cass's brother Cole shows up, Wynne finds herself on an unexpected adventure, and she just might lose her heart.

Beloved author Lori Copeland takes readers back in time to an era when cowboys were heroes and the rules of the Wild West prevailed. Lori's trademark blend of humor, romance, and Christian content make this an irresistible read.

Around the River's Bend (The Spirit of Appalachia Series #5)

Gilbert Morris, Aaron McCarver

List Price: $11.99 By: Bethany House Publishers Amazon Marketplace: 11 new & used starting at $24.75

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 2 Average rating: 1.5 of 5

Not what I expected 2 out of 5 stars.
8 of 8 people found this review helpful.

This final book of a great series was not anything like I expected. The first part of the book doesn't even take place in Appalachia, and key characters from previous books aren't even mentioned. It is still an uplifting story, but I felt that the final book could have been much better.

Editorial Review:

Will Sabrina Finally Find Her Place in the New World?

Sabrina Fairfax was raised in an elegant house with servants catering to her every desire. With her father’s unexpected death, she finds herself impoverished and alone in London. Among his papers, however, she discovers a deed to a piece of land in the Colonies and seizes it as her best—and perhaps only—hope.

A mix-up lands Sion Kenyon, an out-of-work miner, in jail. Sabrina arranges his release on the condition that he accompany her to America as an indentured servant. They soon find that nothing is easy in this new land. And adding to the hardships of pioneer life is Sabrina’s struggle with jealousy as she watches Sion’s growing attraction for her friend and neighbor.

Passage into Light (The Russians, Book 7)

Michael Phillips, Judith Pella

List Price: $7.99 By: Bethany House Publishers Amazon Marketplace: 10 new & used starting at $24.57

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 4 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

Editorial Review:

Best by enemies within and without, Russia is reeling. And Vladimir Lenin is waiting in the wings-.

In 1917 Russia finds itself in a nightmare of political upheaval and violence as ruthless men clash over control of her destiny. Saddled with a devastating, unpopular war, the Provisional Government flirts with disaster while the power-starved Bolsheviks circle like wolves for the kill. Tsar Nicholas and his family have become both prisoners and pawns in this deadly game of chess.

Amid the turmoil, Anna Fedorcenko's sons face the consequences of their personal and political choices. Russia will never be the same, that much is certain. But unless Andrei and Yuri are able to cast off the blinders of the past, they too may be caught in the chaos sweeping throughout the Motherland.

A dark pall hangs over the Russian empire as it careens toward an unsettling future. Will the faith and love that have become the Fedorcenko and Burenin legacy shed enough light to make any difference?

Christy: The Collectors Edition

Catherine Marshall

List Price: $24.99 By: Chosen Books Amazon Marketplace: 15 new & used starting at $4.55

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 108 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

Loved it! 5 out of 5 stars.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.

This is one of those classic novels that you could read again and again. I hadn't read it since high school twenty years ago and just re-read Christy last week. I like it even better now than I did then (and I loved it then, too). I would have loved to have had Catherine Marshall's version of a sequel (hopefully it would have consisted of a continuation of Neil & Christy's romance), but I guess we get to imagine the "happily ever after" instead. It's a great read!

Editorial Review:

When Christy Huddleston leaves a life of privilege and ease to teach in the impoverished Smokey Mountains, her faith is severely tested by her pupils, the love of two men, and the curious customs of the mountain people in her community. Yet she grows to love these people and the simple, fulfilling lifestyle to be found in the heart of God's country. First released in 1967, Christy is based on the life of author Catherine Marshall's mother and was the inspiration for the recent television series of the same name. Beautifully told, this is a charming, timeless tale of love and faith that will appeal to romance readers of all ages. --Maudeen Wachsmith

Honor's Reward (Rocky Mountain Legacy #5)

Kristen Heitzmann

List Price: $11.99 By: Bethany House Publishers Amazon Marketplace: 8 new & used starting at $23.99

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 10 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

A great book and a great series! 5 out of 5 stars.
3 of 3 people found this review helpful.

Kristen Heitzmann is a wonderful writer, and this series has become one of my favorites. I really loved all of the books in the series, with the last two being my favorites. I loved how Cole and Abbie finally got married, since I really came to like Cole. I also wish very much to read more about Cole and Abbie, but for now, I would just like to thank Kristen Heitzmann for writing such a wonderful series! I'm greatly looking forward to "The Rose Legacy" and what it might offer!

Editorial Review:

STILL HAUNTED BY YESTERDAYS GRIEF, ABBIE HAD PLEDGED COLE HER LOVE....WOULD IT BE ENOUGH?

As the newly married wife of Cole Jasper, Abbie is certain life will never again be dull. What she doesnt know is whether her blossoming love for Cole will allow her to bid farewell to the nightmares that have plagued her since Montes brutal death. But Cole is determined to capture her whole heart, and he means to win over her pint-sized son, Elliot, too-even if Cole has to trample a bit on Abbies tight rein. With little orphaned Jenny and the wayward young woman, Birdie, filling out their ragamuffin family, Cole and Abbie have their hands full riding the ups and downs of life at the Lucky Star.

When rumors of the evil, vengeful Crete Marlowe and his unsavory band of comrades reach Rocky Bluffs, Cole knows he must bring them to justice. Can Abbie ever forgive Cole for allowing honor to once again jeopardize their love?

Heaven's Road (Sequel to Texas Angel)

Judith Pella

List Price: $11.99 By: Bethany House Publishers Amazon Marketplace: 28 new & used starting at $0.09

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 6 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

Pella deserves 10 stars for suspense and quality!!! 5 out of 5 stars.
3 of 3 people found this review helpful.

Taking up a few years after "Texas Angel" ended, "Heaven's Road" features preacher Benjamin Sinclair's oldest son Micah, who is still a teenager and estranged from the father he hates. Micah has fought a war and desperados and has seen death too many times. He now finds himself in less than desirable company.

Alone except for his outlaw friends, he is sentenced to be executed, but his life takes a surprising direction, due to the fact he is so young and the intervention of a dear, old friend. Micah is forced to choose between hanging and serving as a Texas ranger, on the other side of the law.

There are several things which Micah hates violently, most notably his father, religion, and Mexicans for their part in the slaughter of his beloved Uncle Haden.

It is his hate which seems to drive him and keep him alive. All that changes when he meets young, beautiful Lucie Maccullum, whom he is determined he will NOT love, will never be beholden to, and will never, never allow to change him or tame him.

Micah's loyalties are torn forever at the discovery of who Lucie really is, who it is that leads the notorious, dangerous Mexican fighting men, and who and what his father has become in his absence.

Truly a cliff hanger, as well as a tender, religious fiction love story, and one which covers politics, history, and family relationships.

I sincerely hope and trust that Judith Pella is planning book #3 and soon! This book really deserves more stars than the 5 allowed on this site!

Editorial Review:

The powerful story of Micah Sinclair's journey from an outlaw with bitterness to a man who lets gentleness rule and win his soul. Guided by a father and a godly young woman, how could he spurn his new life? The sequel to Texas Angel.

Highland Grace (Blue Ridge Legacy, Book 3)

Gary E. Parker

List Price: $12.99 By: Bethany House Publishers Amazon Marketplace: 10 new & used starting at $4.38

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Total reviews: 1 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

Editorial Review:

The Rousing Conclusion to a 100-Year Family Saga

Abigail Porter Holston gathers the strength to pass on to her great-granddaughter, Lisa, the legacy of a truly remarkable life journey—one that began more than 100 years earlier in the remote hollers near Blue Springs, North Carolina. The latter half of the twentieth century is a time of great upheaval in America—and in Abby’s family. Though her faith is as sturdy as the mountains she calls home, her children and grandchildren struggle mightily to hold on to each other and the spiritual values that have made them who they are.

And like each of Abby’s descendants, Lisa must claim a place to call home.

Highland Grace, the moving conclusion to the BLUE RIDGE LEGACY series, delivers a clear sense of the immeasurable height and depth and breadth of divine love. Author Gary Parker again colorfully portrays life in the highlands of Appalachia, complete with characters that spring life-like from the pages.

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