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Lone Star Brides #2
A Moment in Time
Alice Chesterfield is a woman pursued. Having survived an attack that left her scarred and her father dead, she is never free from the fear and memories of the man who is responsible.
Texas seems to be an answer to Alice's prayers, and when she has the opportunity to relocate to a ranch near Dallas, a new man captures Alice's attention. Robert Barnett is unlike any man Alice has ever known: He doesn't seem to mind the scar she bears, nor does he worry about the obstacles that stand in their way--including Jessica Atherton, the woman he's supposed to marry.
But there are storm clouds gathering, and Alice's peaceful sanctuary is threatened when she learns the truth about her father's dishonest dealings and the mother she thought was dead. Disillusioned, Alice must learn to place her trust in God as she seeks a measure of peace for her future...and for her heart.
Texas seems to be an answer to Alice's prayers, and when she has the opportunity to relocate to a ranch near Dallas, a new man captures Alice's attention. Robert Barnett is unlike any man Alice has ever known: He doesn't seem to mind the scar she bears, nor does he worry about the obstacles that stand in their way--including Jessica Atherton, the woman he's supposed to marry.
But there are storm clouds gathering, and Alice's peaceful sanctuary is threatened when she learns the truth about her father's dishonest dealings and the mother she thought was dead. Disillusioned, Alice must learn to place her trust in God as she seeks a measure of peace for her future...and for her heart.
417 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 27, 2014
374 people are currently reading
1291 people want to read
About the author
Tracie Peterson
251 books3,138 followersTracie Peterson is a bestselling author who writes in both historical and contemporary genres. Her novels reveal her love for research as well as her strong desire to develop emotionally meaningful characters and stories for her readers. Tracie and her family live in Montana.
pen name: Janelle Jamison
pen name: Janelle Jamison
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews
October 31, 2018
Another exciting historical romance. I had fun with this story.
February 18, 2022
First of.....I love Tracie Peterson! I don't why I have never picked up one of her books before!
My favorite thing about the whole book, was the spiritual message of praying, waiting and trusting in the Lord (cowboy too, duh!). For some who was raised in a Godly house the taught for an early age to do just that, I was so impressed and pleased to see that there are some books out there that do hold some of those great truths.
Another thing I loved about this book was, the purity. The fact they waited for their wedding day to have their first kiss was so heartwarming, since that has been what I was raised and taught to do as well (and yes still the cowboy a fav).
I loved the characters! Of course I have read book 1, I could still sort of figure out what happened in the pervious book. All the side characters were so we'll written and so fun to read about. I loved how Hannah was always taking charge in situations. Probably my favorite character in the whole book (besides the cowboy 😁). And also who Alice and Robert seemed to banter back and forth was great too. I love a good banter because even though they seemed to be fussing there was just a hint of playfulness.
The romance was so sweet and pure and enduring. This book truly gives love-at-first-sight a vivid meaning. It makes you believe that it could really happen.
There who two things I disliked: Jessica and Alice running from the prefect man! I mean come on girl! You aren't gonna find a guy like that hardly anywhere! (Can you tell I'm fangirling yet?) But to Jessica. She was the typical spoiled rich girl whose daddy owns one of the biggest ranches around (anyone getting Man from Snowy River vibes?). She was a likiable character though. I guess I'll have to like her if she gonna be the main character in book 3. (Already figured out which guy she'll end up with).
All in all, the book was great. It's kinda slow pacee and an easy, comforting read for those lazy days. The content, like I kinda already stated, is clean, sweet and loving. The Godly and spiritual message really spoke to me. And I hope it will to others. Such a good book and I look forward to reading the other two!
My favorite thing about the whole book, was the spiritual message of praying, waiting and trusting in the Lord (cowboy too, duh!). For some who was raised in a Godly house the taught for an early age to do just that, I was so impressed and pleased to see that there are some books out there that do hold some of those great truths.
Another thing I loved about this book was, the purity. The fact they waited for their wedding day to have their first kiss was so heartwarming, since that has been what I was raised and taught to do as well (and yes still the cowboy a fav).
I loved the characters! Of course I have read book 1, I could still sort of figure out what happened in the pervious book. All the side characters were so we'll written and so fun to read about. I loved how Hannah was always taking charge in situations. Probably my favorite character in the whole book (besides the cowboy 😁). And also who Alice and Robert seemed to banter back and forth was great too. I love a good banter because even though they seemed to be fussing there was just a hint of playfulness.
The romance was so sweet and pure and enduring. This book truly gives love-at-first-sight a vivid meaning. It makes you believe that it could really happen.
There who two things I disliked: Jessica and Alice running from the prefect man! I mean come on girl! You aren't gonna find a guy like that hardly anywhere! (Can you tell I'm fangirling yet?) But to Jessica. She was the typical spoiled rich girl whose daddy owns one of the biggest ranches around (anyone getting Man from Snowy River vibes?). She was a likiable character though. I guess I'll have to like her if she gonna be the main character in book 3. (Already figured out which guy she'll end up with).
All in all, the book was great. It's kinda slow pacee and an easy, comforting read for those lazy days. The content, like I kinda already stated, is clean, sweet and loving. The Godly and spiritual message really spoke to me. And I hope it will to others. Such a good book and I look forward to reading the other two!
May 16, 2014
I enjoyed this book. Was it predictable ? A little bit but sometimes that's what we need :) a gentle, sweet story and this one made me tear up at the end so bravo! Another plus for me was the first kiss was when they got married. I love the purity! I was a little frustrated with the characters at times for not communicating better and it would have cut most of the conflict out but again, this is a book you pick up knowing what to expect and that's ok :) the 3rd one coming out next has Jessica as the main character and I'm curious how she will be redeemed. She's such a brat and not very nice either! I'm guessing she will mature a lot :)
April 13, 2024
A wholesome and entertaining continuation of the series! An easy read and enjoyable storyline.
July 2, 2014
I've been a fan of Tracie Peterson for quite awhile. I always look forward to her newest books. She is able to write an attention grabbing story that has a wonderful blend of faith and lightness to it.
A Moment in Time continues right where A Sensible Arrangement ends. The Lone Star Brides series is reading thus far like a smooth three part story. We still have all of our character that we came to know from Sensible Arrangement and still see the story through their eyes, but not as much. The story has shifted a bit now to Marty's former maid and friend Alice.
Alice is a girl who is a mixture of tenacity and of meekness. She is ready and willing to help Marty and Jake by working in a rough part of town at a restaurant as the economic collapse hits Denver harder by the day, but when she needs help, she doesn't want to burden anyone.
We also get to see more of Marty's family in Texas and see them from Robert's eyes, Marty's nephew. We have been introduced to this family before in a previous series by Tracie, now we just get to see a different generation of sorts. And through Robert we get to see the ranchers life of Texas. Robert is a very laid back and enjoyable character, and I felt bad for him in parts of the story. Even though he is a good guy, nobody seems to listen to him on a certain issue and the poor guy is twenty. I think at his age, he knew his own mind.
I enjoyed reading this story, because hey, it's partially set in one of the best states! Marty still has much to overcome and work through in this story, as does Alice. Both are damaged and a little weary of things, but push through with the help of those around them. Marty is able to lean on her family as struggles rise up and Alice is able to lean on someone she never thought she could. It was an interesting twist to the story.
The story played out how I thought it might and it ended up being an enjoyable summer read. I can't wait for the third part of the series with A Matter of the Heart (October 2014).
Thank you to Bethany House, I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
Review originally posted @ http://wordsfromabookaholic.blogspot....
A Moment in Time continues right where A Sensible Arrangement ends. The Lone Star Brides series is reading thus far like a smooth three part story. We still have all of our character that we came to know from Sensible Arrangement and still see the story through their eyes, but not as much. The story has shifted a bit now to Marty's former maid and friend Alice.
Alice is a girl who is a mixture of tenacity and of meekness. She is ready and willing to help Marty and Jake by working in a rough part of town at a restaurant as the economic collapse hits Denver harder by the day, but when she needs help, she doesn't want to burden anyone.
We also get to see more of Marty's family in Texas and see them from Robert's eyes, Marty's nephew. We have been introduced to this family before in a previous series by Tracie, now we just get to see a different generation of sorts. And through Robert we get to see the ranchers life of Texas. Robert is a very laid back and enjoyable character, and I felt bad for him in parts of the story. Even though he is a good guy, nobody seems to listen to him on a certain issue and the poor guy is twenty. I think at his age, he knew his own mind.
I enjoyed reading this story, because hey, it's partially set in one of the best states! Marty still has much to overcome and work through in this story, as does Alice. Both are damaged and a little weary of things, but push through with the help of those around them. Marty is able to lean on her family as struggles rise up and Alice is able to lean on someone she never thought she could. It was an interesting twist to the story.
The story played out how I thought it might and it ended up being an enjoyable summer read. I can't wait for the third part of the series with A Matter of the Heart (October 2014).
Thank you to Bethany House, I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
Review originally posted @ http://wordsfromabookaholic.blogspot....
August 28, 2017
.
The characters and main story plot were interesting and likeable.
For some reason, that I am having difficulty pinpointing, I was not as captivated by the first two books of this series as I thought I would be.
Again, part of the dilemma was that there are so many different characters and subplots that vie for your attention, that it is hard to keep up.
I prefer a series where each book in the series is able to stand on its own and delivers an HEA. Therefore, I was perturbed by the many unanswered questions.
The characters and main story plot were interesting and likeable.
For some reason, that I am having difficulty pinpointing, I was not as captivated by the first two books of this series as I thought I would be.
Again, part of the dilemma was that there are so many different characters and subplots that vie for your attention, that it is hard to keep up.
I prefer a series where each book in the series is able to stand on its own and delivers an HEA. Therefore, I was perturbed by the many unanswered questions.
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May 28, 2019*WARNING SPOILERS*
Personal Response:
I love this book. I read it a few years back and a few more times after that. I personally hope that the author will write a second part of this book due to the fact that it didn’t finish the storyline off at the end.
Plot Summary:
This book is about a woman by the name of Alice Chesterfield, whose father was murdered by a man only known as Mr. Smith nearly two years ago. She goes to live with Martha and Jake Wythe as their maid, but after they not having enough to pay her, they just let her board. This is due to the fact that all the banks in Denver, Colorado are closed or closing and Jake who is a bank teller is out of a job he leaves Marty and Alice as he goes to Dallas, Texas. They sell their house and board at an orphanage. With Mr. Smith gets back in town and Marty finding out that she is going to have a baby, they decide that it is time to go to Dallas to be with Jake. Jake is currently living with Marty’s family the Barnett’s when they get there they are greeted by Jake and most of Marty’s family. Alice fits in right away, and one of the Barnett boys has taken a liking to Alice. Alice has a scar on the right side of her face due to the accident with Mr. Smith and her father being murdered. His name is Robert Barnett and he is known by his family as the one taking care of sick or lost things and Marty believes that is what he is doing with Alice due to the incident. Then some news about Alice’s brother and mother arrives that they are very much alive and well. Alice’s father told her that her mother and brother had died a while ago. Alice replies back, and her mother and brother both decide that they are going to Texas. Alice falls for Robert who is expected to be wed to another girl whose name is Jessica. Robert also falls in love with Alice and calls off the engagement that was never actually an engagement with Jessica. Alice’s mother and brother come to Texas and her mother then tells her that Alice’s father abused her and Alice’s little brother Simon, so they left. Alice does not believe that so she separates herself from her mother. In the end, they were all able to get along and Marty has a little boy at Alice and Robert’s wedding.
Who Would I Recommend This Book Too?:
I would recommend this book to anybody that likes a romance. I would also recommend this book to anybody that particularly likes historical romance. Finally, I would recommend this to anybody that likes reading about Texas.
Personal Response:
I love this book. I read it a few years back and a few more times after that. I personally hope that the author will write a second part of this book due to the fact that it didn’t finish the storyline off at the end.
Plot Summary:
This book is about a woman by the name of Alice Chesterfield, whose father was murdered by a man only known as Mr. Smith nearly two years ago. She goes to live with Martha and Jake Wythe as their maid, but after they not having enough to pay her, they just let her board. This is due to the fact that all the banks in Denver, Colorado are closed or closing and Jake who is a bank teller is out of a job he leaves Marty and Alice as he goes to Dallas, Texas. They sell their house and board at an orphanage. With Mr. Smith gets back in town and Marty finding out that she is going to have a baby, they decide that it is time to go to Dallas to be with Jake. Jake is currently living with Marty’s family the Barnett’s when they get there they are greeted by Jake and most of Marty’s family. Alice fits in right away, and one of the Barnett boys has taken a liking to Alice. Alice has a scar on the right side of her face due to the accident with Mr. Smith and her father being murdered. His name is Robert Barnett and he is known by his family as the one taking care of sick or lost things and Marty believes that is what he is doing with Alice due to the incident. Then some news about Alice’s brother and mother arrives that they are very much alive and well. Alice’s father told her that her mother and brother had died a while ago. Alice replies back, and her mother and brother both decide that they are going to Texas. Alice falls for Robert who is expected to be wed to another girl whose name is Jessica. Robert also falls in love with Alice and calls off the engagement that was never actually an engagement with Jessica. Alice’s mother and brother come to Texas and her mother then tells her that Alice’s father abused her and Alice’s little brother Simon, so they left. Alice does not believe that so she separates herself from her mother. In the end, they were all able to get along and Marty has a little boy at Alice and Robert’s wedding.
Who Would I Recommend This Book Too?:
I would recommend this book to anybody that likes a romance. I would also recommend this book to anybody that particularly likes historical romance. Finally, I would recommend this to anybody that likes reading about Texas.
July 3, 2021
2 stars for the first half of the book; 4 stars for the last half of the book -- averages out to 3 stars. I wasn't super excited about reading this book. I had decided that I was going to read it, because I wanted Alice's story. However, much of the book was still about Marty, and for the first half she acted like a spoiled child. I was done with her. She did come around about 1/2 way through, and I started to enjoy the book more then. I wish they had gotten to Texas earlier. I would have liked to see more interaction between Alice and Robert, but it was still nice.
I have decided I won't be reading the 3rd book. I didn't like Jessica in this book (of course, we weren't really supposed to...), and while some reviewers said she was redeemed in the 3rd book, I don't think I could handle the frustration until that happens. I'm also not fond of love triangles, so I will be done with this series.
I have decided I won't be reading the 3rd book. I didn't like Jessica in this book (of course, we weren't really supposed to...), and while some reviewers said she was redeemed in the 3rd book, I don't think I could handle the frustration until that happens. I'm also not fond of love triangles, so I will be done with this series.
August 22, 2018
I still struggled with Marty's character, but Ms. Peterson did redeem her somewhat by the end of this book. Alice's character is great and so is Robert. I was really glad they got their happy ending. Happy reading/listening!
August 11, 2021
Every now and then, I need to read a good cheesy love story. This didn’t disappoint-such a sweet book.
June 3, 2024
A Nice sequel. I was left in a huge cliff hanger in A Sensible Arrangement so I dove right into the opportunity to read A Moment in Time. I found it to be a sweet read, but I think I would have liked it better if it wasn't a stand alone. Because it is a stand alone, however, the pace slowed for me after the suspense scene it opens with, starring the notorious Mr. Smith once again. The repeats of important facts from A Sensible Arrangement causes the pace to kinda fall into a lull of sorts. When the story really started flowing though the pace picked up and I enjoyed it all the more. New secrets and deceptions are brought to light as Alice takes center stage along with Marty's nephew Robert. Hannah and Will, Robert's parents, also make great characters and wonderful additions to the books! New surprises are in store for Marty and Jake as well, and I LOVE where Tracie is taking, and has taken, their stories. If I didn't love Jake before (which I did! :D) I REALLY do now! I can not wait for the next book, A Matter Of Heart coming Oct. 7th, to see where she takes these great characters next! As in the last book Tracie leads us into the next book by introducing us to the main characters and in this case A Matter Of Heart's leading lady isn't the most popular in A Moment in Time; so it will be interesting to see what she does with her. As always I LOVE the Spiritual lessons and messages in Tracie's books. This one touches on worrying and fear in a beautiful way. Overall I recommend this read for the sweet story, awesome messages, fantastic characters, and intriguing surprises!
Songs: "Not For A Moment (After All)" by Meredith Andrews, "Beauty For Ashes" by Crystal Lewis, and "Your Grace Finds Me (Live)" by Matt Redman
Songs or any part of this review May be changed and/or added to in the future. ~ASC
2 Timothy 1:7
~ASC
*I requested and received this book from Bethany House for the purpose of reviewing it. This in no way affected my opinion and the above are my true thoughts and feelings about A Moment in Time. ~ASC
Songs: "Not For A Moment (After All)" by Meredith Andrews, "Beauty For Ashes" by Crystal Lewis, and "Your Grace Finds Me (Live)" by Matt Redman
Songs or any part of this review May be changed and/or added to in the future. ~ASC
2 Timothy 1:7
~ASC
*I requested and received this book from Bethany House for the purpose of reviewing it. This in no way affected my opinion and the above are my true thoughts and feelings about A Moment in Time. ~ASC
August 30, 2015
Alice Chesterfield has survived a brutal attack that killed her father and left her with a horrible scar. But she is still stalked by the man responsible and lives every day in fear. When given the chance to move to Texas, Alice knows that it will be a fresh start. Soon she finds herself in danger of losing her heart to Robert Barnett who's as good as engaged to another girl.
I hadn't read the first book in the series, just picked this one up thinking that the synopsis looked promising. What a letdown. This book should come with the subtitle Lone Star Brides #1 Part 2. More than half the story was told from Marty's, the protagonist from the first book, POV. And she had a lot of issues and really wasn't a likable character at all. She claimed to care so much about Alice and likened her to a sister but often called her immature and acted as though her being stalked by a known murderer wasn't any kind of problem compared to her own self-inflicted rift with her husband.
The story either dragged on or went way too quickly. It wasn't until about 45% into the book that our "main" character Alice even got to Texas and met Robert. Then their romance was so rushed and forced that it was ridiculous. The first time Robert spends any time with her is over the family dinner and he's "completely captivated" by her as she answers inane questions about how well she likes her bedroom. What? Then just a few pages later, Alice is already in love with Robert and then wonders to herself if she can be in love with someone based on looks alone, then decides that she can. And this is about as deep as their relationship gets before they're both madly in love with the other. There was just no development to their relationship probably because we spent so much time with Marty's POV as she whined and wallowed in self-pity because her husband wouldn't do exactly what she wanted and therefore must not love her. Can we see how much I dislike Marty?
All in all, I found this book to be a disappointment.
I hadn't read the first book in the series, just picked this one up thinking that the synopsis looked promising. What a letdown. This book should come with the subtitle Lone Star Brides #1 Part 2. More than half the story was told from Marty's, the protagonist from the first book, POV. And she had a lot of issues and really wasn't a likable character at all. She claimed to care so much about Alice and likened her to a sister but often called her immature and acted as though her being stalked by a known murderer wasn't any kind of problem compared to her own self-inflicted rift with her husband.
The story either dragged on or went way too quickly. It wasn't until about 45% into the book that our "main" character Alice even got to Texas and met Robert. Then their romance was so rushed and forced that it was ridiculous. The first time Robert spends any time with her is over the family dinner and he's "completely captivated" by her as she answers inane questions about how well she likes her bedroom. What? Then just a few pages later, Alice is already in love with Robert and then wonders to herself if she can be in love with someone based on looks alone, then decides that she can. And this is about as deep as their relationship gets before they're both madly in love with the other. There was just no development to their relationship probably because we spent so much time with Marty's POV as she whined and wallowed in self-pity because her husband wouldn't do exactly what she wanted and therefore must not love her. Can we see how much I dislike Marty?
All in all, I found this book to be a disappointment.
October 24, 2014
What a wonderful continuation of the Lone Star Brides series! I really loved this book. It picks up right where the first book of the series, A Sensible Arrangement, leaves off.
A Moment in Time focuses on Alice Chesterfield, a woman who lives in fear and feels that no man will ever be able to love her because of her scarred face. Alice is such a kind and likeable character. She truly tries to be nice to everyone and does not want to cause problems for anybody. As she begins to have feelings for Robert, she doubts that he would ever be truly attracted to her.
Robert Barnett is a strong and handsome hero, who sees past what is on the outside and is immediately drawn to Alice. But, everyone expects Robert to wed his childhood friend, Jessica. Robert must search his heart and discern what God wants for him.
Alice and Robert are such great characters. The attraction and gentle romance between them is wonderful. I also really enjoyed that the story contains a lot of Marty and Jake, from the first book. It is so nice to see what is going on in their lives. Their relationship continues to grow and thrive, after a shaky start, through this book.
I highly recommend this series to fans of historical fiction and I have since realized that this series is linked to an earlier series that Tracie Peterson wrote called Land of the Lone Star. Now I look forward to reading that series as well.
You can read this review on my blog at:
http://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.co...
A Moment in Time focuses on Alice Chesterfield, a woman who lives in fear and feels that no man will ever be able to love her because of her scarred face. Alice is such a kind and likeable character. She truly tries to be nice to everyone and does not want to cause problems for anybody. As she begins to have feelings for Robert, she doubts that he would ever be truly attracted to her.
Robert Barnett is a strong and handsome hero, who sees past what is on the outside and is immediately drawn to Alice. But, everyone expects Robert to wed his childhood friend, Jessica. Robert must search his heart and discern what God wants for him.
Alice and Robert are such great characters. The attraction and gentle romance between them is wonderful. I also really enjoyed that the story contains a lot of Marty and Jake, from the first book. It is so nice to see what is going on in their lives. Their relationship continues to grow and thrive, after a shaky start, through this book.
I highly recommend this series to fans of historical fiction and I have since realized that this series is linked to an earlier series that Tracie Peterson wrote called Land of the Lone Star. Now I look forward to reading that series as well.
You can read this review on my blog at:
http://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.co...
June 12, 2025
I recently read A Sensible Arrangement (book 1) so when I saw that book 2 was available on Audible, I was so excited to start it! I knew from reading the synopsis that it would be focusing on Alice instead of Marty. I'll be honest, I was kind of bummed because I got really attached to Marty and Jake. But I was pleasantly surprised that Marty and Jake were in this story a LOT!! Some of the things I thought were unresolved between them in book 1 got properly addressed in this book! I was so pleased! It was an amazing continuation and I'm excited to see Jess's story in book 3!
🚨 Spoilers ahead 🚨
Fave Chapter:
Chapter 26
This was the cutest chapter in my opinion. Jake and a very pregnant Marty meeting their three adopted sons at the train station?! My heart 🥹
Fave Character:
Jake
Comparatively speaking he wasn't in this book that much. But I think he'd have to be my favorite. His love for Marty and his coming children (the one to be born and the three kids they ended up adopting) was overflowing and so incredibly sweet!
Ship:
Marty x Jake
I've already said how much I loved that we got to see a good deal of them in this book. I liked that Marty's fears were discussed and that Jake helped her with them. I appreciated the realistic nature of their bickering or butting of heads.
Alice x Robert
They were fine 😆 I was obviously mainly invested in Jake x Marty but they were still cute. Their proposal story had me laughing! Not sure I've ever heard of an argument taking place right before "will u marry me" receiving a yes 😂
🚨 Spoilers ahead 🚨
Fave Chapter:
Chapter 26
This was the cutest chapter in my opinion. Jake and a very pregnant Marty meeting their three adopted sons at the train station?! My heart 🥹
Fave Character:
Jake
Comparatively speaking he wasn't in this book that much. But I think he'd have to be my favorite. His love for Marty and his coming children (the one to be born and the three kids they ended up adopting) was overflowing and so incredibly sweet!
Ship:
Marty x Jake
I've already said how much I loved that we got to see a good deal of them in this book. I liked that Marty's fears were discussed and that Jake helped her with them. I appreciated the realistic nature of their bickering or butting of heads.
Alice x Robert
They were fine 😆 I was obviously mainly invested in Jake x Marty but they were still cute. Their proposal story had me laughing! Not sure I've ever heard of an argument taking place right before "will u marry me" receiving a yes 😂
June 11, 2014
Series of Lone Star Brides book #2 "A Moment in Time" by Tracie Peterson
I love to read about brides and their men so this book was just perfect for me. Tracie is an author I like reading because she makes the characters so believable and lovable.
This is the story mainly of Alice but has little more of Marty&Jake from book #1 who was the lone star bride then.
Alice is being persued and has been hurt terribly that left a scar on her face, she is sure she will never have a man want to be with her but some men are worth more and don't notice outward appearances as much as the inner and Robert was just that man who came into her life after they moved to Texas.
You will enjoy meeting this big wonderful family of Robert's and seeing Texas through their eyes. come read a great story that will take you to Texas near Dallas on a great ranch with cowboys a plenty.
Thanks to Bethany House publishers that gave me the opportunity to read this story for an honest review.
I love to read about brides and their men so this book was just perfect for me. Tracie is an author I like reading because she makes the characters so believable and lovable.
This is the story mainly of Alice but has little more of Marty&Jake from book #1 who was the lone star bride then.
Alice is being persued and has been hurt terribly that left a scar on her face, she is sure she will never have a man want to be with her but some men are worth more and don't notice outward appearances as much as the inner and Robert was just that man who came into her life after they moved to Texas.
You will enjoy meeting this big wonderful family of Robert's and seeing Texas through their eyes. come read a great story that will take you to Texas near Dallas on a great ranch with cowboys a plenty.
Thanks to Bethany House publishers that gave me the opportunity to read this story for an honest review.
December 10, 2015
4.25 stars. I really enjoyed Alice's story. Marty is a huge character in this book, too, and a lot of things left over from the last book are resolved in this one. So far this is my favorite in the series, and I enjoyed it a great deal. It was really pleasant to find a solid Christian message throughout the books, with a specific focus on doing the right thing morally despite one's own inclinations.
July 28, 2016
A beautifully written story
No matter the scars on the outside its what is inside that truly matters. Forgiveness and seeking God's best are the at the heart of this story. A truly poignant story that is a must read!
No matter the scars on the outside its what is inside that truly matters. Forgiveness and seeking God's best are the at the heart of this story. A truly poignant story that is a must read!
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June 20, 2014Another good book by Tracie Peterson
January 14, 2018
A Moment in Time is the perfect continuation of A Sensible Arrangement. It gave me everything that I was missing from the first book along with a wonderful romance centered around Alice. It almost seems like the two books should have been one because you get the perspective of both Marty and Alice in both books and in the second book you are still working through a lot of the issues that surrounded Marty in the first book. The points of contention over the status of the bank, moving to Texas, Alice's father, Marty's fear of losing another husband, the orphans, Alice's family, and Alice's scar are all themes that play out during the second book. Needless to say, at the end of this book I was left with a much better sense of fulfillment at the end of the story than I was with the first book. All of the above mentioned points were very well done, weaving together in a way that kept the plot exciting and unpredictable. I wish there had been more romantic moments of interaction between Alice and Robert. There were a few of those, but it seemed like there were more interactions between Robert and Jessica. The way the romance was shaped Alice and Robert seemed to fall in love without hardly having spent any time together, basing a lot of their reasoning for wanting to marry each other on what they had seen and admired in that person just from observing them and not from first hand interactions. Granted, observing another person's actions around others and in different scenarios is a good way to learn more about someone, but for the story for them to have such strong feelings, I wanted more direct interactions between the two. Even still, there were a lot of moments wrapped up in the romance and all of the other plot points that brought me a lot of joy. The ending was sweet and happy. Overall, it was a rather enchanting read.
July 28, 2020
I have good feelings and blah feelings about this book. I was intrigued by Alice’s story in the first book so I wanted to read her story. I have say I like it better than Marty and Jake’s.
Alice is still being chased, stalked(?) by men who wanted her fathers papers when he was killed. So her and Marty stand up together against the danger. Denver at this time is in a depression of sorts with the silver losing depreciation. So, the banks fold and Jake goes off to find work with his friends then makes his way over to Texas, Marty’s family. Jake finally has the life he wants in ranching and Marty is still scared about going back. This is the part about Marty I can’t get behind. She is trying to change what she can’t control. Her fears leave her debilitated and she can’t move on. So it’s kinda frustrating reading about her. And Alice has had a pretty rough life in the past year or so meets everything with rainbows and glitter. It’s very exhausting to be this nice all the time even reading about it. I do like the storyline of Robert (and Alice), as he seemed the only read one in the book. He had to actually look for a silver lining in his world. The ending was action-packed and ended predictably.
It wasn’t a bad book but I remember why I didn’t truly enjoy the first because of the nauseating “happiness is forever and you can grab it for yourself lifestyle”. It didn’t ring true, even believers have a hellish life thrown at them. I did like reading about ranching in Texas during the late 1890’s. That part of the historical background I did enjoy. It was dangerous but peaceful at the same time. I prolly won’t read the next one. I think I am done with this family. Well, and the girl who is the main character of book 3 doesn’t seem fun to read about (I mean she wasn’t in this book).
Alice is still being chased, stalked(?) by men who wanted her fathers papers when he was killed. So her and Marty stand up together against the danger. Denver at this time is in a depression of sorts with the silver losing depreciation. So, the banks fold and Jake goes off to find work with his friends then makes his way over to Texas, Marty’s family. Jake finally has the life he wants in ranching and Marty is still scared about going back. This is the part about Marty I can’t get behind. She is trying to change what she can’t control. Her fears leave her debilitated and she can’t move on. So it’s kinda frustrating reading about her. And Alice has had a pretty rough life in the past year or so meets everything with rainbows and glitter. It’s very exhausting to be this nice all the time even reading about it. I do like the storyline of Robert (and Alice), as he seemed the only read one in the book. He had to actually look for a silver lining in his world. The ending was action-packed and ended predictably.
It wasn’t a bad book but I remember why I didn’t truly enjoy the first because of the nauseating “happiness is forever and you can grab it for yourself lifestyle”. It didn’t ring true, even believers have a hellish life thrown at them. I did like reading about ranching in Texas during the late 1890’s. That part of the historical background I did enjoy. It was dangerous but peaceful at the same time. I prolly won’t read the next one. I think I am done with this family. Well, and the girl who is the main character of book 3 doesn’t seem fun to read about (I mean she wasn’t in this book).
August 10, 2024
I usually love this type of story genre, but this particular book felt WAY too easily resolved, choppy, and the way the main plot of the story is built up doesn't even seem to matter at the end.
SPOILER ALERTS:
Okay!!! So the love interests don't even MEET until halfway through the book. The main point of the story is that Alice is a "woman pursued" by a man who wants her father's wealth- going so far as to murder her father and scar her severely. Alice eventually moves to Texas with her friend- and then her enemy is never even seen again. There was all this build up like her love interest was going to have to save her from this guy, then the entire last half of the book almost soley focuses on how her friend is afraid of living in Texas. At one point Alice is determined to leave the ranch, and then suddenly in the next chapter just shows back up with no explanation of her thought process from her point of view. It could have been a really exciting story- the idea was there but not executed well. It felt like she was just rushing to publish another book. A little disappointed!!!
SPOILER ALERTS:
Okay!!! So the love interests don't even MEET until halfway through the book. The main point of the story is that Alice is a "woman pursued" by a man who wants her father's wealth- going so far as to murder her father and scar her severely. Alice eventually moves to Texas with her friend- and then her enemy is never even seen again. There was all this build up like her love interest was going to have to save her from this guy, then the entire last half of the book almost soley focuses on how her friend is afraid of living in Texas. At one point Alice is determined to leave the ranch, and then suddenly in the next chapter just shows back up with no explanation of her thought process from her point of view. It could have been a really exciting story- the idea was there but not executed well. It felt like she was just rushing to publish another book. A little disappointed!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 23, 2020
In book #1 of this series, a young widow from Texas (Marty) moves to Denver to escape the bad memories of her rancher husband being killed in an ranching accident. She has accepted an advertisement to go to Denver and marry Jake, another transplanted Texan in the banking industry. He has always wanted to move back to Texas and have his own ranch and when the bank fails, he gets his chance. In this book #2, we follow Marty and her friend ad former ladies maid, Alice, as the move to Texas to rejoin Jake. Alice has been badly scarred on her face in an attack that left her father dead. She doesn't think any man will want to look at her for very long. They she meets Robert, Marty's nephew and begins to think that things might be different. However, there are many complications, unexpected occurrences and fears. I enjoyed this book but maybe not quite as much as the first one. Alice doesn't seem to want to accept that things might change for her and acts in an unpredictable and impulsive manner. It had a mild Christian message about relying and trusting in God. No sex or profanity.
May 11, 2025
I would put this at 3.5 stars (rating shown may differ depending on review site).
I've read Tracie Peterson before and found this book at a library book sale. I did not read book 1 of the series, so it can be read as a stand alone. (I'm not sure if certain aspects might be more clear if you'd read book 1 first or not--I was a bit confused by Marty's aversion to Texas, for example, and depending on what book 1 covered, that might have been better explained there.)
This is a historical romance set around the time of the Great Depression. Many aspects of society have changed since then. Alice probably would have more legal options against Mr. Smith today than she did back then. Alice's mother might have had more legal standing today regarding being able to see her daughter without fear of what her husband said tainting her for good. Family friendship might or might not result in the expectation that the children would marry. Religion seemed to have a more prominent place back then--seemed more interwoven with everyday life than it does today.
I've read Tracie Peterson before and found this book at a library book sale. I did not read book 1 of the series, so it can be read as a stand alone. (I'm not sure if certain aspects might be more clear if you'd read book 1 first or not--I was a bit confused by Marty's aversion to Texas, for example, and depending on what book 1 covered, that might have been better explained there.)
This is a historical romance set around the time of the Great Depression. Many aspects of society have changed since then. Alice probably would have more legal options against Mr. Smith today than she did back then. Alice's mother might have had more legal standing today regarding being able to see her daughter without fear of what her husband said tainting her for good. Family friendship might or might not result in the expectation that the children would marry. Religion seemed to have a more prominent place back then--seemed more interwoven with everyday life than it does today.
September 8, 2017
A Moment in Time is the 2nd book in the Lone Star Brides series by Tracie Peterson. This novel continues the story of Marty Olson Wythe and Alice Chesterfield, the young woman who had been attacked and her father murdered in Denver. In the beginning of the book, Marty's husband Jake has gone to Texas to find work but Marty had refused to go with him remaining in Denver. Eventually, they are reunited and then the novel focuses more on Alice's story which includes romance and an unexpected visit from someone she had believed to be dead.
As in all of Peterson's novels, there is a strong Christian message, which was meaningful to me. However, this novel differed from the 1st book in the series, A Sensible Arrangement, in that there was virtually no historical information included which I missed.
Tracie Peterson's Christian fiction novels are among the finest in the Christian fiction genre.
As in all of Peterson's novels, there is a strong Christian message, which was meaningful to me. However, this novel differed from the 1st book in the series, A Sensible Arrangement, in that there was virtually no historical information included which I missed.
Tracie Peterson's Christian fiction novels are among the finest in the Christian fiction genre.
November 27, 2019
Let’s start off by saying I read the first book in the series and I liked it. I would go as far to say I’d recommend it. I cannot say the same for this one.
The writing style was good. The book was very well written so that wasn’t the problem. I was reading on my kindle and it tells me what percentage I am through the book. I was well past 50% when the two main characters(Robert & Alice) finally met and they had both realized their love for one another not long after. It happened wayyy too quickly.
One of my favorite things about books like this is when the couple spends time together and you can see the love and affection grow as the book goes on. The characters spent very little time together and the focus was more on their problems and issues—along with sub-characters problems and issues—than their relationship.
Maybe some like this layout and plot but it’s definitely not for me. I probably won’t read the third one the series.
The writing style was good. The book was very well written so that wasn’t the problem. I was reading on my kindle and it tells me what percentage I am through the book. I was well past 50% when the two main characters(Robert & Alice) finally met and they had both realized their love for one another not long after. It happened wayyy too quickly.
One of my favorite things about books like this is when the couple spends time together and you can see the love and affection grow as the book goes on. The characters spent very little time together and the focus was more on their problems and issues—along with sub-characters problems and issues—than their relationship.
Maybe some like this layout and plot but it’s definitely not for me. I probably won’t read the third one the series.
December 28, 2018
This is the second book of a three book series. I almost did not read A Moment In Time because I was disappointed in how abrupt the first book (A Sensible Arrangement) ended and didn't much care for how the main characters handled things. Marty aggravates me throughout the first and second books. Her constant fear and need to control everyone and everything around her is a character attribute I don't care for. Alice has better qualities overall, but her choice to become inaccessible for a much needed conversation irritated me. There wasn't enough written about Alice and Robert for me to get a feel for their relationship. Other story elements worked out for me and Hannah and Will are a couple I enjoy reading about. I'll finish the series because there are still some unanswered questions and open plot points I want to follow through with.
February 20, 2017
For some reason, I can not put these books down. They just suck me in and I blame it entirely on the fact that these have the slowest burning romances. I just can't stop until something important happens.
The romances are slow, but still fast paced at the same time if that makes sense. I feel like if I put the book down for even a moment, they will kiss and I'll miss it all.
Also, these books have the worst endings ever. I keep thinking I have at least ten more pages left and then it's all over. They are all so short, and end at such a perfect time, but I'm still not ready to let go of these characters. I am really hoping to see a lot of Alice and Marty in the third book.
The romances are slow, but still fast paced at the same time if that makes sense. I feel like if I put the book down for even a moment, they will kiss and I'll miss it all.
Also, these books have the worst endings ever. I keep thinking I have at least ten more pages left and then it's all over. They are all so short, and end at such a perfect time, but I'm still not ready to let go of these characters. I am really hoping to see a lot of Alice and Marty in the third book.
September 30, 2024
Though I’m happy this book continued the story from the first of the series, I felt like the romance between Alice and Robert was rushed and could have been written better. It seemed like they barely conversed before they were suddenly in love with each other. They barely talked and all of a sudden he was buying a ring.. I enjoyed the last 40 pages the most. I’m still disappointed and confused that the controversy with Mr Smith hasn’t been resolved. As the 3rd book is about Jessica Atherton I find it hard to believe it will still be relevant but we’ll see.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 20, 2025
Not great. Marty from book one continued to be a pain in my backside. Her character is just not likeable. The male characters are more so. I particularly enjoyed Robert who was gentle and kind to a fault. He didn't want to disappoint everyone and be firm enough about his feelings, or lack thereof, for Jessica. Jessica is a spoiled brat and sadly she is the main feature in book three. I have low expectations, but I own the set so I will finish it and move on. 😑
All opinions are mine alone without expectation or compensation.
All opinions are mine alone without expectation or compensation.
June 2, 2021
I liked this book more than the first one and I really enjoyed the first one. This one is very sweet and I liekd that we could see how the characters from the first book were doing. This one is not their story but Alice's story. She had a lot to overcome in this book. She wasn't confident and she needed to heal from her past. Could she get pass it all to find love and happiness? I am sure others who love this genre will enjoy this book as much as I did.
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