Bible in a Year January 9: Gen 27 – 29

 

January 9: Gen 27 – 29

These chapters hurt my heart! It’s hard for us to understand the depths of Esau’s pain over Rebecca and Jacob’s deception, but it’s pretty easy to comprehend the way Leah must have felt. All of her life she was the lesser when compared with her beautiful sister. We don’t know how she felt about the deception when marrying Jacob instead of Leah. Did she love Jacob silently up to this point? Was she forced into the marriage by her father who convinced her she would be an old maid otherwise? Or was she a willing participant (like Jacob was when deceiving Esau)?

Regardless of the circumstances of the wedding, I can’t imagine the pain she must have felt when less than one week later her new husband took Rachel, whom he loved, as his second wife. We know that Jacob and Leah continued to have relations since she bore four sons in relative succession. Did she feel used?  How did the relationship between the sisters change as a result of this new situation? Oh, as usual so many questions and very few answers.

I really enjoyed Liz Curtis Higgs book, Thorn in My Heart, which is a fictional novel about this story. She sets it in the Scottish Highlands, but it offers a potential glimpse into the possible emotions of the players.

TOMORROW’S TEXT: Gen 30:1 – 31:42

Bible in A Year January 8: Gen 24:28 -26:35

 

January 8: Gen 24:28 -26:35

Sometimes it makes me crazy that there are so few details in scripture. Don’t you want to know what was going on in Rebecca’s head as she rode away from all she knew toward a surprise future? She only had one days’ notice, yet she apparently went willingly (kudos to her mom and brother for asking her opinion).

We don’t know much about Rebecca at this point in her life. She’s a kind person, willing to go beyond the drink requested by a stranger to water his ten camels (who, when thirsty can drink 30 gallons of water in less than 15 minutes). She is apparently from a hospitable household since she offered to let the servant and his entourage stay without checking with her elders. And she seems to be easily swayed by pretty jewelry.

Later we see that she is beautiful and she was unable to have children for the first 20 years of her marriage. We see that she plays favorites and loved Jacob more than Esau.

Once again we see a treaty between God’s people and the Philistines. This Abimilech is probably a son or grandson of the one who had a treaty with Abraham. Something about God’s people is intimidating to the Philistines, causing them to want to ensure peace for the future. Did you notice the text about all the wells that had been filled in by the local people? For some reason they wanted Isaac/Jacob and their families to move on. And these were filled despite an earlier treaty that said they would be protected.

What would cause people living in a desert to fill in a well instead of utilizing it?

TOMORROW’S TEXT: Gen 27 – 29

Bible in a Year Jan 7: Gen 21:22 – 24:27

 

Jan 7: Gen 21:22 – 24:27

Again today’s text covers a lot of different stories, some seem rather random within the context. Most of us are pretty familiar with the story where God tests Abraham (tests, not tempts…an important distinction) and the story of how a wife was found for Isaac (more on that tomorrow).

But two of the lesser known stories here are important for understanding things that happen later in the book.

First is the treaty between Abimilech (remember, he was the second one who was fooled about Sarah’s true identity) and Abraham. Abimilech is apparently concerned about the power Abraham is beginning to wield in the area and wants to ensure peace. In the process they talk about a well that was forcibly taken by Abimilech’s servants. A well in the desert was obviously an important source of life. Remember this story because we’ll see the well again later in Genesis.

Another story that shows up and seems to take more words than necessary is when Abraham buys a cave so he can bury Sarah. There are lots of legal issues that show up here from the time period that we don’t need to go into, but the key point of this story is to show that Abraham now actually owns a piece of the Holy Land, and he has established a burial place which creates a more permanent foundation for generations to come.

TOMORROW’S TEXT: Gen 24:28 -26:35

Bible in a year - Jan 6: Gen 18:9 – 21:21

 

Jan 6: Gen 18:9 – 21:21

Wow, there are so many disturbing stories in today’s text. What was most shocking to you?

• -       Lying to God
• -       Persistent questioning of God
• -       Violent homosexuality
• -       Offering daughters to evil men
• -       Total destruction by the Lord
• -       Permanent consequence for looking back
• -       Incest
• -       Abraham again offering Sarah as a concubine
• -       Abraham telling Sarah this was the way to show her love
• -       Abraham sending his first son away

The text ends with God showing love once again to Hagar, so at least there’s a happier ending.

Why would it be important for these stories to be part of the Bible?

TOMORROW’S TEXT: Gen 21:22 – 24:27

Bible in a Year - Jan 5 Gen 14:14 – 18:8

 

Jan 5: Gen 14:14 – 18:8

This passage contains one of my favorite stories, that of Hagar the servant of Sarah. Her story both horrifies and delights me. I can’t imagine being a servant, perhaps a slave that must potentially bear children for the boss. While I could go on for a long time about her life, the part of the story that I love the most comes when she runs away from an abusive Sarah.

Hagar is in the desert, probably trying to run home to Egypt where some say she may have been a servant in Pharaoh’s house. She is devastated, pregnant, at least emotionally beaten down if not physically, and most likely would like to just curl up and die. But God sees her and sends an angel to provide encouragement and guidance. And the angel CALLS HER BY NAME!

We don’t know if Hagar worshipped the one true God, given her background she most likely did not. But now she’d met his angel and realized that even if she didn’t know God, he knew her and cared about her. She provides the first of many names of God, El Roi, translated as ‘the God who sees me.’

And this same God sees you today, too.

TOMORROW’S TEXT: Gen 18:9 – 21:21

Bible in a Year - Gen 11:10 – 14:13

 

Day 4: Gen 11:10 – 14:13

I wonder what God saw in Abram that led him to choose him as the father of the Jewish nation? These few chapters tell us that he was 75 years old when he left his fathers’ house (Gen 12:4). He was married to Sarai, and he apparently had a good relationship with his nephew, Lot (whom, according to Gen 11:28 was fatherless).

He apparently highly respected the Lord because he left his home and built altars along the way. He cared for the health of his large family because he rerouted his trip to go to Egypt for food during a severe famine (Gen 13:10, as his descendants do later!).

He apparently valued his life over the virtue of his wife, and he lied to the Pharaoh, which caused Sarai to be taken as Pharaoh’s wife – what a scandal that would cause today! Interesting that God punished Pharaoh and his household for this indiscretion, not Abram (Gen12:10 – 19). He was rich (Gen 13:2), he didn’t like strife within his family (Gen 13:8), and he was willing to let Lot choose the better land.

These chapters also contain the first visible appearance of God since Adam and Eve were kicked out of the Garden. Gen 12:7 shows that God appeared to Abram AFTER he left Haran and verified the promises he had made in verses 2 and 3.

Did you hate the place where the text ended today? What a cliff-hanger!

TOMORROW’S TEXT: Gen 14:14 – 18:8

Bible in a Year Genesis 8:1 - 11:9

 

Day 3: Gen 8:1 – 11:9

Noah and his family spent seven months on the ark – reminds me so much of our quarantined time during COVID. Thankfully we had the ability to at least talk to others, go to the store (or have delivery), and hear the news of the world. Can you imagine being locked up in a boat with seven other people and a ton of animals? Not seeing the sun or having fresh food, and knowing you were the only ones alive? I imagine there was a period of mourning as they realized the severity of the situation. While the rest of the world was deemed not worthy to be saved, I’m sure they had some friends and acquaintances that they missed. And the animals – oh my. I guess you would get used to the smell and the noise, but I’m sure it was difficult. There was enough work to keep them all busy feeding, watering, and cleaning stalls.

TOMORROW’S TEXT: Gen 11:10 – 14:13

Bible in a Year - Gen 4-7

 

Day 2: Gen 4 – 7

I can’t help but compare our current world to that of Noah’s time. So much violence, evil, debauchery…I’m sure God occasionally regrets saying he’d never flood the earth again! This verse chills me to the bone:

“The Lord saw how great man’s wickedness on the earth had become, and that every inclination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil all the time.” (Gen 6:6, NIV)  As violent and evil as our world can be, can you imagine that God was only able to find one person, or perhaps one family, that found favor in his eyes? That doesn’t mean Noah was perfect, but only that he revered and obeyed God. When the world seems overwhelming, I know I can turn to my Christian friends and know that we aren’t alone. What are some GOOD things you see happening in the world today?

TOMORROW’S TEXT:  Gen 8:1 – 11:9

Bible in a Year - Gen 1-3

Day 1: Gen 1 – 3

 

These passages are so familiar to most of us that sometimes it’s hard to read them and find something new. When I read it today, God’s grace hit me most powerfully.

Adam and Eve had sinned. They knew it and their eyes were opened. We know they were frightened because they hid from God. Based on God’s warning, they expected to die (but I’m not sure they really knew what that meant). It is apparently early morning when they hear God’s footsteps, so they run behind some trees. As I watched my grandchildren play hide and seek, I could only imagine God, seeing a random arm or leg behind a tree, calling out “Where are you?”, knowing perfectly well where they were and what they had done.

But God sought them out in the garden. Of course he knew what they had done, but he gave them a chance to confess and explain before he told them the consequences. God wants a relationship with us, too. He doesn’t just smite us when we do wrong. Yes, we will still face consequences, but God loved his creation enough not to wipe it off the earth completely. And like a good father, he loves us enough to give us a chance, too.

In His grace, he proclaims the first reference to the Messiah (Gen 2:15) and instantly provides hope for the future. Then he performs the first sacrifice (Gen 2:21) and provides clothing to hide their nakedness. I have to wonder if the skin clothing God made for them was still warm from the life it previously held? How terrifying it must have been to watch God kill and skin an animal that Adam had recently named.

This passage reminds me of Lamentations 3:22-23,

²² Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed,
    for his compassions never fail.
²³ They are new every morning;
    great is your faithfulness. (NIV)

Have you ever tried to hide from God? Would be glorious or terrifying to hear his steps drawing near to you? No matter what we do, his compassion (some versions say ‘mercy’) is new each morning and it never fails.

TOMORROW’S TEXT:  Gen 4 - 7

To Spark a Match

 To Spark a Match

by Jen Turano

My Thoughts:

Adelaide Duveen doesn't quite fit the mold of the New York 400. She has always been a bit of a wallflower, and her obsessive love for cats and books doesn't help. In addition, her uncanny ability to get herself into terribly embarrassing situations, such as the time she walked through a dinner party with her skirt tucked into her unusual bloomers, doesn't help. Her mother is beside herself and fears her daughter will never wed. When Adelaide's latest disaster is the result of helping Gideon Abbott while he's trying to uncover a thief, he feels obligated to find a way to help Adelaide return to the good graces of society.

This book is a hoot! But in addition to the hilarious situations, there is a deep aspect about Adelaide's life. She desperately wants to be herself, not the person society wants her to be. The way Jen Turano creates her character, and others, adds a heartfelt element of caring for others in sacrificial ways. I love this book, its characters, and the underlying message.

About the Book (from the back cover):

After five unsuccessful Seasons on the marriage mart, Miss Adelaide Duveen has resigned herself to the notion that she's destined to remain a spinster forever -- a rather dismal prospect, but one that will allow her to concentrate on her darling cats and books. However, when she inadvertently stumbles upon Mr. Gideon Abbott engaged in a clandestine activity during a dinner party, Adelaide finds herself thrurst into to a world of intrigue that resembles the plots in the spy novels she devours.

Former intelligence agent Gideon Abbott feels responsible for Adelaide after society threatens to banish her because of the distraction she caused to save his investigation. Hoping to return the favor, he turns to a good friend -- and one of high society's leaders -- to take Adelaide in hand and turn her fashionable. When danger surrounds them and Adelaide finds herself a target of the criminals in Gideon's case, the spark of love between them threatens to be quenched for good -- along with their lives.

About the Author:

Named one of the funniest voices in inspirational romance by Booklist, Jen Turano is a USA Today bestselling author known for penning quirky historical romances set in the Gilded Age. She and her family live outside of Denver, Colorado. Readers can find her on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter (X), an at jenturano.com.

A Match in the Making

 A Match in the Making

by Jen Turano

My Thoughts:

Jen Turano has once again provided a book full of historical fun and romance. She drops us into the center of the shenanigans of The 400, some of America's wealthiest families during their summer vacations which are anything but relaxing. Balls, parties, and even beach outings are barely disguised activities for finding a suitable mate.

This new series introduces some fun and some annoying new characters -- women who are seeking a different life and those who are only seeking rich husbands. Add some adorable and undisciplined children and the scene is ripe for mishap and adventure.

Turano has a brilliant ability to bring interesting and flawed characters to life in a way that has you rooting for characters who quickly become friends. I can't wait for the second book in this series!

About the Book (from the back cover):

Miss Gwendolyn Brinley accepted a temporary paid companion position for the Newport summer season, believing it would be a lark to spend the summer in America’s most exclusive town. She suddenly finds her summer turning anything but amusing when her employer expects her to take over responsibilities as an assistant matchmaker. Tasked with the daunting prospect of attaining advantageous matches for her clients, Gwendolyn soon finds herself in the company of Mr. Walter Townsend, the catch of the Season, but a gentleman Gwendolyn finds beyond annoying.

Walter is reluctantly in search of a wife for the sake of his unruly motherless children. What he wasn’t expecting was Miss Brinley, who turns his quest for a new wife into a complete and utter debacle.

The more time they spend together throughout the Newport Season, the harder it is for Gwendolyn to find Walter a wife when she realizes his perfect match might be . . . her.

USA Today bestselling author Jen Turano’s trademark wit, sweet romance, and hilarious mischief will keep you turning the pages of this lively Gilded Age tale.

About the Author

Named One of the Funniest Voices in Inspirational Romance by Booklist, Jen Turano is a USA Today Best-Selling Author, known for penning quirky historical romances set in the Gilded Age. Her books have earned Publisher Weekly and Booklist starred reviews, top picks from Romantic Times, and praise from Library Journal. She’s been a finalist twice for the RT Reviewers’ Choice Awards and had two of her books listed in the top 100 romances of the past decade from Booklist. When she’s not writing, she spends her time outside of Denver, CO. Readers may find her
at www.jenturano.com or https://www.facebook.com/jenturanoauthor/or on Twitter at JenTurano @JenTurano.

Proving Our Love

 Today's Verse: For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 (NIV)

As I walk by the television, there is yet another commercial for outrageously expensive gifts. I don't watch much tv, but over the past few weeks I've seen ads for many presents that cost in the hundreds and thousands of dollars. "Show her your love; buy diamonds." "Doesn't he deserve the best (a car ad)." And many more that show children with more toys than they could possibly play with...one even makes a 'toy angel' with all of them.

Why is it that we give each other gifts on Jesus' birthday? Shouldn't we be giving HIM gifts?

Then it hit me...God gave us the gift of salvation because He loved us. He gave us the moon, the stars, and Heaven to show how much he adored us. And now we make feeble attempts to show others how much we love them by giving gifts.

Over the years the gifts have become more of an obligation than a demonstration of love. We want to give our kids the latest, biggest, and best. Each year is supposed to be a magical, memorable celebration. I wonder if my kids even remember what they received last year? Most of us don't even know why we do it...it's just what you do at this time of year.

I'm thankful that I still have time to rethink this holiday season. We've purchased several gifts, and will continue to do so within the budget we've set, but I want to consciously think of ways to show people love, not just shower them with gifts.

I pray that we all may feel the love of God as we go through this holiday season, and that we can find tangible ways to show that love to others.

Originally posted in 2006

Poor Reflections

Verse of the Day - 1 Corinthians 13:12 Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. (NIV)

If you were to talk on the phone with a police artist, could you describe yourself well enough that he or she could draw you? No fair looking in a mirror or at a picture of yourself. Quick, think about your face and try to describe it. It's easy to get the main features, eye color, hair color, skin tone, but it's actually pretty difficult to provide specific details beyond that. Most likely we would exaggerate some features (those we especially like or dislike) and ignore others. 

Even if you could help the artist create a stunning likeness, it is only the external parts that would be shown, not who you really are. No drawing, not even a photograph, can portray the real you. One of my favorite exercises in leadership development training is to have each participant introduce himself or herself to another person. The room buzzes with conversations about where people work, what their jobs are, personal hobbies and interests, and family descriptions. Then I ask the participants to describe themselves without talking about job, family, or hobbies. There is usually a dead silence - we don't really know who we are without the trappings of everyday life. 

If we don't know ourselves well, how can we possibly understand God and His majesty? So many things happen on earth that we can't comprehend. That doesn't mean they are wrong, it just shows how little we are capable of grasping about the workings of the world. Yet God sees it all. He knows us perfectly, and His plan is brilliant if you know all the details. When I don't understand why something is happening in my life, I try to remember that I don't even fully know myself (too bad I don't do that before I struggle for days with wonder and worry). It's not my job to understand, just to obey. 

I'm thankful that our God is all knowing and in control. With the added knowledge that He wins in the end it is easier to accept things that don't make sense to me. I'm really looking forward to seeing the details of His big picture when I get to Heaven! 

Originally posted in 2006

To Disguise the Truth

 To Disguise the Truth

by Jen Turano

MY THOUGHTS:
This book is the conclusion to the Bleecker Street Inquiry Agency series by Turano, and I am sad to see it end! The women in these books became like friends. I love the quirky situations they get themselves into and the widely diverse personalities they have. In this book the owner of the boarding house where the women live is the main focus. Up to this point Eunice Holbrook has been hiding under widows veils, feigning the loss of her husband for well past the point required by society. We finally learn more about her, and she is quite the character! I love the way she finally displays her physical prowess and ability to defend herself from almost any attacker. The other women from the series play key roles in this book, so it's best if you read them first (but trust me, you'll love them).

While the book is light hearted in general, Turano brings up some difficult issues -- family dysfunction and the horrible way people (especially women) were treated if there was even a slight suspicion of mental illness (which could mean so many more things in the 1880's than it does today).

In Turano's signature style, she brings the series to a conclusion with a lot of humor, surprise, and romance!

ABOUT THE BOOK:

When a man arrives at the Bleecker Street Inquiry Agency, anxious to hire them to find a missing heiress, Eunice Holbrooke realizes her past has finally caught up with her...and that she may no longer be able to hide under the disguise that has kept her safe for so long. 

Arthur Livingston's goal in life is to make his mark on the world as a mining industrialist, but after the man who could help him achieve his goal is murdered, Arthur feels compelled to seek justice for the family--but he's left with more questions than answers after the eccentric Bleecker Street Inquiry Agency refuses to take on his case.

Desperate to conceal her real identity and avoid the irritatingly handsome Arthur, Eunice takes on a different case that requires her to go deep undercover and entangles her in one troublesome situation after another. When other secrets come to light, Eunice has no choice but to confront her past, hopeful that it will set her free but knowing it could very well place her life -- and the lives of those she loves -- in jeopardy.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jen Turano, a USA Today bestselling author, has written five historical romance series. She is a member of ACFW and lives in a suburb of Denver, Colorado. Visit her website at www.jenturano.com

Thank you to Bethany House Publishers for providing a copy of this book. The review is totally my own.

To Write a Wrong

 To Write a Wrong

by 

Jen Turano

MY THOUGHTS

I have yet to read a book by Jen Turano that I didn't love, and the latest release of The Bleecker Street Inquiry Agency series, To Write a Wrong, did not disappoint. The Bleecker Street Inquiry Agency was formed by four women who live in a boarding house in order to help a dear friend who was accused of theft. Of course, in the 1880's women were not considered smart enough to do such a thing, so there is immediately a conflict that has to be resolved. These women are definitely up for the challenge.

The third book focuses on Daphne, a very successful mystery writer who has to use a male nom de plume to be accepted by the publishing industry. Unfortunately Daphne has a knack for getting into strange and hilarious situations as she is called upon to solve mysterious murder attempts on a fellow writer, who of course has no idea what she really does for a living. 

Jen Turano has the most amazing ability to create loveable characters and unusual circumstances that are delightful to read. It's no wonder that she's been named "One of the funniest voices in the Inspirational genre" by Booklist. Her mastery of conversation is amazing, and she always keeps me guessing. I highly recommend any of her books, and hope you enjoy them as much as I do. Plus, look at that cover -- it's incredible!

ABOUT THE BOOK (from the back cover)

Miss Daphne Beekman is a mystery writer by day, inquiry agent by night. Known for her ability to puzzle out plots, she prefers working behind the scenes for the Bleecker Street Inquiry Agency, staying well away from danger. However, Daphne soon finds herself in the thick of an attempted murder case she's determined to solve.

Mr. Herman Henderson is also a mystery writer, but unlike the dashing heroes he pens, he lives a quiet life, determined to avoid the fate of his adventurous parents, who perished on an expedition when he was a child. But when he experiences numerous attempts on his life, he seeks out the service of the eccentric Bleecker Street Inquiry Agency to uncover the culprit. All too soon, Herman finds himself stepping out of the safe haven of his world and into an adventure he never imagined.

As the list of suspects grows and sinister plots are directed Daphne's way as well, Herman and Daphne must determine who they can trust and if they can risk the greatest adventure of all: love.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jen Turano, a USA Today bestselling author, has written five historical romance series. She is a member of ACFW and lives in a suburb of Denver, Colorado. Visit her website at www.jenturano.com

This book was provided for review by Bethany House Publishers. All opinions are my own.

Shadows of the White City

 Shadows of the White City

by Jocelyn Green

My Thoughts:

If you like historical novels, then Jocelyn Green's books should be on your must read list! Green does an amazing amount of research and visits the locations she writes about. Her narrative is so natural that it feels as if the reader is walking down the street in another place and time. Shadows of the White City is no different, and is really more amazing because it is located in Chicago during the 1893 World's Fair.

This Fair was bigger than most because it celebrated the 400th Anniversary of Christopher Columbus's arrival in the new world and took place just 15 years after Chicago was decimated by fire (which you can learn about in the first book in this series, Veiled in Smoke). Sylvie Townsend, a book store owner and adoptive single parent, works as a tour guide at the Fair. Through her visits to the Fairgrounds we get a first hand look at the sights, sounds, tastes, and smells of the event. So many interesting tidbits are shared as Sylvie leads tour groups or visits with her family. The scale and scope of the event is beyond comprehension!

Sylvie's daughter, Rozalia, was saved from life in an orphanage when she was very young, but now a teenager, she wants to understand more about her Polish heritage. Then, without explanation she disappears. Unfortunately many young women were mislead and ended up in brothels at the time with little hope of escape. Sylvie and her boarder, Kristof Bartok, will leave no stone unturned to find out what happened to Rose.

This book is full of adventure and intrigue, and is another book that is hard to put down. It isn't necessary to read Veiled in Smoke first to know what is going on, but I highly recommend it because it's an amazing book! Those who have read it will find some old friends in this one.

About the Book (from the back cover)

The one thing Sylvie Townsend wants most is what she feared she was destined never to have--a family of her own. But taking in Polish immigrant Rose Dabrowski to raise and love quells those fears--until seventeen-year-old Rose goes missing at the World's Fair, and Sylvie's world unravels.

Brushed off by the authorities, Sylvie turns to her boarder, Kristof Bartok, for help. He is Rose's violin instructor and the concertmaster for the Columbian Exposition Orchestra, and his language skills are vital to helping Sylvie navigate the immigrant communities where their search leads.

From the glittering architecture of the fair to the dark houses of Chicago's poorest neighborhoods, they're taken on a search that points to Rose's long-lost family. Is Sylvie willing to let the girl go? And as Kristof and Sylvie grow closer, can she reconcile her craving for control with her yearning to belong?

About the Author

Jocelyn Green is the award-winning and bestselling author of numerous fiction and nonfiction books, including The Mark of the King, A Refuge Assured, and Between Two Shores. Her books have garnered starred reviews from Booklist and Publishers Weekly and have been honored with the Christy Award and the Golden Scroll. Jocelyn lives with her family in Cedar Falls, Iowa. Visit her at www.jocelyngreen.com.







Thank you to Bethany House Publishers for providing me with a copy. All opinions are my own.

To Steal A Heart

To Steal a Heart

by Jen Turano

MY THOUGHTS
The criminals better watch out, there's a new detective agency in town and these women aren't playing around!

Jen Turano has started a new series called the Bleecker Street Inquiry Agency, and this is her best yet. Set in New York City in the late 1880's, Turano pulls together high society and the every day working class to create mystery, tension, and romance in a way that has the reader on the edge of her seat. I love Jen's books for a lot of reasons -- her research into the time period is amazing, her characters are multi-faceted and realistic, the dialogue she creates leaves you breathless, and she brings a unique sense of comedy to every scene.

Each time I read her books I have a hard time putting them down. She has a brilliant way of drawing the reader in and ending each chapter in such a way that you have to read 'just one more'. I love cheering the characters on as they, with the best of intentions, get themselves into hysterical situations that only make them more endearing. 

There are so many intriguing women living in the boarding house on Bleecker Street that I can't wait for the remaining books in the series. I really want to learn more about each one!

ABOUT THE BOOK (from the back cover)
After spending her childhood as a street thief, Gabriella Goodhue thought she'd put her past behind her until a fellow resident at her boarding house is unjustly accused of theft. Using her old skills to prove her friend's innocence, Gabriella unexpectedly encounters Nicholas Quinn, the man she once considered her best friend -- until he abandoned her.

After being taken under the wing of a professor who introduced him into society and named his as his heir, Nicholas is living far removed from his childhood life of crime. As a favor to a friend, Nicholas agrees to help clear the name of an innocent woman, never imagining he'd be reunited with the girl he thought lost to him forever.

As Gabriella and Nicholas are thrown together into one intrigue after another, their childhood affection grows into more, but their newfound feelings are tested when truths about their past are revealed and danger follows their every step.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Named One of the Funniest Voices in Inspirational Romance by Booklist, Jen Turano is a USA Today Best-Selling Author, known for penning quirky historical romances set in the Gilded Age. Her books have earned Publisher Weekly and Booklist starred reviews, top picks from Romantic Times, and praise from Library Journal. She’s been a finalist twice for the RT Reviewers’ Choice Awards and had two of her books listed in the top 100 romances of the past decade from Booklist. When she’s not writing, she spends her time outside of Denver, CO. Readers may find her at www.jenturano.com or www.facebook.com/jenturanoauthor or on Twitter @JenTurano.

Storing Up Trouble

Storing up Trouble
by Jen Turano


MY THOUGHTS:
Storing Up Trouble is the third book in the awesome American Heiresses series. Jen Turano brings the challenging life of debutants in the late 19th century to life. But these aren't just any debutants, these are complex women who are not at all enamored with all the expectations their parents' wealth brings. And the results are always hilarious.

Miss Beatrix Waterbury has always had a soft spot in her heart for the women's suffrage movement, but when she is sent for an extended stay at her aunt's home in Chicago she gets a whole new understanding for the challenges of the working class. It starts when she is a victim in a train robbery where she 'saves' the life of a scientist who doesn't understand women at all and who is unaware of her heritage. Needless to say they become easily offended by each other, but nevertheless sparks will fly.

I am always joyful when Jen Turano publishes a new book. No matter what my mood or what is going on in the world, the situations her characters find themselves in never fail to make me laugh out loud. I'm fascinated with this period in history and somewhat horrified by the expectations placed on wealthy young women of the day, and Jen brings heart and soul to those we might think of as unrealistically proper and poised. I highly recommend all of her books!

ABOUT THE BOOK:
After Miss Beatrix Waterbury suffers multiple mishaps due to her involvement with the suffrage movement, her mother decides a change of scenery is in order for her incorrigible daughter. Banished from New York, Beatrix is sent off for an extended stay with her Aunt Gladys in Chicago.

Mr. Norman Nesbit, a gentleman and brilliant man of science devoted to his work, doesn't have time to be distracted with members of the feminine set. When robbers descend on the train, intent on divesting him from his important research papers, Norman is thrust into Beatrix's company when she has the audacity to interfere -- leaving him no choice but to try to save her from herself.

When Beatrix's life is put at stake after she takes employment as a salesgirl, she and Norman find themselves propelled into each other's company again and again. With danger and intrigue dogging their every step, they become surprisingly drawn to each other -- until information comes to light that threatens this relationship that's barely had a chance to blossom.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Jen Turano, A USA Today bestselling author, has written four historical romance series. She ios a member of ACFW and RWA and live sin a suburb of Denver, Colorado. Visit her website at www.jenturano.com.

Veiled in Smoke

Veiled in Smoke
by
Jocelyn Green


MY THOUGHTS
I am so excited about this new series, The Windy City Saga, that Jocelyn Green has started. Veiled in Smoke is set in Chicago at the time of the Great Fire in 1871. This is a fabulous story of the event, the destruction, and the amazing resilience of the people as they rebuilt their city, but it is also SO much more!

Veiled in Smoke is a story of destruction, despair, hope, and redemption wrapped around an intriguing mystery and a bit of romance!

I am absolutely amazed at the amount of research that went into this book and the way Green has intricately woven together so many aspects of life at that time. The heartbreakingly realistic story of the fire and its aftermath had my heart racing as characters ran for their lives and had me in tears as they returned to find their wonderful homes and city desolate. The pain of lost businesses, friends, and even abilities was raw and palpable, and as a reader I was praying for them and cheering them on as they rose above their situations and found new ways to support themselves and each other. This was especially timely for me as I have watched my daughter and her town of Panama City work to recover from the deadly hurricane that hit last year and I've watched from afar as the California and Colorado wildfires have devastated those areas.

The book also includes fascinating secondary stories that provide the reader with a sense of witnessing the inside operations of an insane asylum, the heart-rendering realities of prisoner of war camps and the resulting PTSD (called Soldier's Heart at the time), the operations of an 1800's newspaper, and the changing face of the art world! And it is done in such a way that it seems very logical and in no way overwhelming or confusing. As a history buff, I was in awe!

I highly recommend this book if you like intrigue, historical fiction, and romance that doesn't feel forced. I am in awe of authors who are able to make me feel like I am standing in the midst of history, and Jocelyn Green is a master.

ABOUT THE BOOK
Meg Townsend and her sister, Sylvie, seek a quiet existence managing the family bookshop. Meg feels responsible for caring for their father, Stephen, whose spirit and health are both damaged from his time as a prisoner during the Civil War. Her one escape is the paintings she creates and sells in the bookshop.

Then the Great Fire sweeps through Chicago's business district. The fiery explosions and chaos stir up memories of war for Stephen as he runs from the blaze and becomes separated from his daughters. Days later, when the smoke has cleared, Meg and Sylvie manage to reunite with him. Their home and shop are lost, and what's left among the ashes may be even more threatening than the flames, for they learn that a close friend was murdered the night of the fire--and Stephen has been charged with the crime. After he is committed to the Cook County Insane Asylum, where they cannot visit him, Stephen feels as lost to them as the shop that now lies in the rubble.

Though homeless and suddenly unemployed, Meg must not only gather the pieces of her shattered life but prove the truth of what happened that night, before the asylum truly drives her father mad.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jocelyn Green is the award-winning and bestselling author of numerous fiction and nonfiction books, including The Mark of the King, A Refuge Assured, and Between Two Shores. Her books have garnered starred reviews from Booklist and Publishers Weekly and have been honored with the Christy Award and the Golden Scroll. Jocelyn lives with her family in Cedar Falls, Iowa. Visit her at www.jocelyngreen.com.







Thank you to Bethany House Publishers for providing me with a copy. All opinions are my own.

Diamond in the Rough

Diamond in the Rough
by
Jen Turano

MY THOUGHTS
Diamond in the Rough is the second book in the American Heiresses series, although it is not necessary to read the first book (Flights of Fancy) before reading this one. Of course, Flights of Fancy was a fabulous book and if you like fun historical romance novels you will love it.

Miss Poppy Garrison's grandmother has finagled a way to involve her in the 1985 New York social season, and the book begins with a hilarious account of the disastrous results. As usual, Turano has created a character who, despite her best efforts, gets literally tangled up in the midst of an important dance and causes a scene that is definitely not considered appropriate by high society. As a person who has two left feet, I could immediately sympathize with Poppy and the situations she finds herself in.

As the book continues, mishaps and misunderstandings continue for this young woman who really has the best interest of others at heart. I realized about two-thirds of the way through the book that my face hurt from smiling so much as I read! I love Turano's books for this reason -- it is so seldom than any author is so brilliant at engaging the reader in such crazy and yet somehow realistic escapades that I laugh out loud. They are a great way to escape the drudgery and disasters that headline our daily news.

But these books are filled with so much more than just funny events. The characters have depth, intriguing secrets, and fascinating conversations. In addition, I love the historical details that are included. The descriptions of the clothing (and their advantages/disadvantages) have me both wanting to try something so beautiful and glad we don't have to wear such things these days! While I typically don't care much for romance books, there is so much more here that I don't mind the occasional predictability about who falls in love with whom.

Diamond in the  Rough is a story of trying to fit in, wanting to change the world, and helping to open the eyes of others to needs they had ignored.

I have thoroughly enjoyed every book Jen Turano has written, and I will read every book she writes in the future.



ABOUT THE BOOK (from the back)
When Miss Poppy Garrison accepts her grandmother's offer of financial help for her family in exchange for Poppy joining the New York social season, she quickly realized she is far less equipped to mingle with the New York Four Hundred than even she knew. As she becomes embroiled in one hilarious fiasco after another, becoming the diamond of the first water her grandmother longs her to be looks more impossible by the day.

Reginald Blackburn, second son of a duke, is in New York to help his cousin find an American heiress who can help save his family's estate. But when his very proper British manners lead Poppy's grandmother to request he teach etiquette to Poppy, he quickly finds himself in for much more than he bargained for.

And while they couldn't be more opposite, Reginald and Poppy just might find they have more to teach each other than they ever could have expected.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Named One of the Funniest Voices in Inspirational Romance by Booklist, Jen Turano is a USA Today Best-Selling Author, known for penning quirky historical romances set in the Gilded Age. Her books have earned Publisher Weekly and Booklist starred reviews, top picks from Romantic Times, and praise from Library Journal. She’s been a finalist twice for the RT Reviewers’ Choice Awards and had two of her books listed in the top 100 romances of the past decade from Booklist. When she’s not writing, she spends her time outside of Denver, CO. Readers may find her

at www.jenturano.com or https://www.facebook.com/jenturanoauthor/or on Twitter at JenTurano @JenTurano.