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The Secret Admirer Romance Collection
Declaring one’s love can be hard—even risky—especially when faced with some of life’s greatest challenges. Separated by class, time, distance, and more, some loves must remain secret until the time is right. Instead, notes of affection, acts of kindness, gifts of admiration, and lots of prayer are circulated. From New England mansions to homestead hovels, love is quietly being nourished and waiting for the right time to be revealed. But when love can finally be boldly expressed, will it be received by love in return?
448 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2017
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June 21, 2017
The Secret Admirer Romance Collection (2017, Barbour) is approximately 25th in Barbour’s Love & Romance Collections series. The cover asks, “Can Concealed Love Be Revealed in 9 Historical Novellas?” Whether this is the subtitle (as Goodreads indicates) or merely a question posed on the cover, I think it would have been better to simply note “Nine historical novellas by nine authors” or something like that. I chose to read this book because I was looking for two Kindle books with authors whose last names begin with “Y” and “Z.” It’s anal, I know. NetGalley delivered for me in the form of this collection of Christian novellas - in exchange for an honest review, of course. Happily, novellas by Ms. Y’Barbo and Ms. Zeller are at the end of this collection. Peachy! Except…. With Ms. Barratt, Ms. Beatty, and Ms. Bull, now I’m way ahead on “B” authors…… Oh, dear.
How many of my Goodreads friends will admit to reading alphabetically, I wonder?
********************
Overall rating: 4 1/3 stars
*All novellas in this collection are very clean/chaste and in some way or another, includes a secret admirer aspect to the story.
Be warned that this is a very long review. I tried to limit myself, but reviewing each of the nine novellas makes this long overall! Please feel free to skim for the information you’re looking for!
********************
Novella #1: 4 stars
The Cost of a Heart (2017) by Amanda Barratt,
Newport, Rhode Island, 1897
The heroine: Socialite Lily Montgomery’s husband of one year is unfaithful, and he expects her to grin and bear it. He dies unexpectedly, freeing Lily from an unhappy marriage. The story jumps ahead to two years later, when Lily feels ready to move on with her life.
The hero: Nathaniel Evans is Lily’s chauffeur, footman, and friend. He “had been her [Lily’s] buoy, helping to keep her afloat during her tenure as Jackson’s wife” and has continued to do so. He has cared for Lily for the last two years.
Christian elements: “But now, instead of her own clumsy efforts to bind together with schoolroom paste what needed to be fused with steel, she sought comfort in the refuge of a Father who would never leave, nor forsake.”
What I liked: Ms. Barratt makes an extremely unlikely hero/heroine pairing a possibility. I liked both protagonists very much.
What I didn’t like: Most of the situations in which Lily spends time with Nathaniel seem not only extremely unrealistic, but they proceed in a very unlikely manner.
***********
Novella #2: 4 stars
The Advocate (2017) by Lorraine Beatty,
Out west, in an era “on the cusp of great change for women.”
The heroine: Hannah Davis has come to visit her aunt, who owns the Riverton Chronicle. Hannah has two objects: to meet the town’s heroic sheriff and to get a “real job as a reporter.”
The hero: Mitch Kincaid is the “famed sheriff of Riverton” as as touted by Hannah’s father in an article he wrote the previous year. Hannah boldly introduces herself to him in his office under the guise of offering him a newspaper. His response? “I know who you are, and I don’t need a copy of the Chronicle.” He then expresses doubts about her staying power and predicts that she will return home within two weeks.
Christian elements: “No man is [a hero], Hannah, and as soon as you put a man up on that pedestal, you’ll be disappointed every time.” This is good advice. No matter who we are admiring, dating/courting, or married to, we need to remember Romans 3:23: “Because all people have sinned, they have fallen short of God's glory.” (God’s Word Translation)
What I liked: The election for the sheriff as a backdrop for the story was very interesting, and I enjoyed being privy to the newspaper articles about it.
What I didn’t like: “She wasn’t sure when she’d realized she was in love with Mitch. Maybe she had been since she’d first read the article about him.” Umm. No. She had never met him! Some may consider that thought to be romantic, but we are not, in fact, “in love” with someone merely by seeing someone for the first time, or in this case, reading about the person!
********************
Novella #3: 4 stars
Too Many Secrets (2017) by Molly Noble Bull,
Texas, 1882
The heroine: Originally from Atlanta, Georgia, Miss Abigail Willoughby has come as a mail order bride for Mr. Ambrose Franklin in Frio Corners, Texas. Abby’s brothers and sisters are dependent on her, and they have come to be with their sister in her new home.
The hero: Luke Conquest is neighbor to Mr. Franklin, an ailing nonagenarian. Abby is “the most beautiful girl Luke had ever seen.” However, he is very concerned that “Miss Willoughby was nothing more than a gold digger out to marry a rich and ailing man.”
Christian elements: There is reference to “the sin of omission,” and I came up blank for a supporting Bible verse. I looked it up, and found: “Remember, it is sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it.” (James 4:17, NLT)
What I liked: I was not expecting any narration from anyone other than the hero and heroine. When it came, I was surprised, and I enjoyed seeing where it went. There were a couple of other things that didn’t go as I predicted, and that was fun.
What I didn’t like: Instalove was very much a part of this story. Prior to Luke and Abagail’s first meeting: “Luke breathed a sigh of relief. She isn’t married.” And very shortly after their first meeting: “Conquest was a thoughtful person, and she would call him Luke -- at least in her dreams.”
********************
Novella #4: 4 stars
Love in Store (2017) by Anita Mae Draper,
Miles City, Montana, 1890
The heroine: Janet Smith, 22, admires Adam Hazelton, yet he won’t ever look at her when she comes into his store. Janet decides to take an unusual approach to rectify the situation: she leaves him an anonymous poem, expressing her admiration. (I consider this to be flawed logic. I don’t see how she can expect this to work when the letter will be anonymous. Maybe she expects him to figure out who the writer is, but unless I missed something, the story doesn’t indicate this. Her letters DO end up helping, but not in the way that I would have expected as a reader, and that was pretty cool.)
The hero: Adam Hazelton is a very close-mouthed general store shopkeeper. He doesn’t want to get close to people or to share details about his past.
Christian elements:
*This story opens with 1 John 1:9: ”If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
*A bit farther in, there’s a likable preacher imparting wisdom and kindness.
What I liked: The author made Adam’s integrity shine through, and the characters felt realistic. I also just really enjoyed the plotline.
What I didn’t like: There were a couple of very small details that I thought needed some explanation. Also, at the end, there seemed to be too large of a leap forward in the hero and heroine’s relationship compared to the rest of the story.
********************
Novella #5: 5 stars
The Last Letter (2017) by C.J. Dunham,
Canandaigua, New York & Manhattan, Kansas in 1865
The heroine: The story opens on April 10th, 1865 to the joyous news that the American Civil War is over. But Emilia Davis is in mourning and cannot enjoy it. Her father, brother, and fiance all died in the war a year or more ago. When Emilia goes to the post office that day, she is shocked to receive a delayed letter from her fiance Asa. There were several surprises in this story, so I don’t want to say any more. I thought it was fantastic.
Christian elements:
*”...when God opens a door, sometimes we have to act swiftly before it closes again.”
*”Doesn’t the Lord call upon us to lift up the hands that are weary? Not slap them down for their emptiness?”
What I liked:
*The dialogue, surprises, and emotions were all so very well done!
*Specific laws about what women did or did not have the right to do were interesting. There were other well-incorporated historical details as well.
What I didn’t like: I didn’t find anything to object to except one verb with an incorrect tense. I consider this to be an ideal novella.
********************
Novella #6: 4 1/2 stars
The Outcast’s Redemption (2017) by Jennifer Uhlarik,
Blackwater, Texas, 1872
The heroine: Margaret Ann Blanton, more comfortably known as Maisie, works at a cafe. She is experiencing raw grief from her father’s death as well as inner turmoil over his unexplained behavior before he died. Her father’s strange behavior caused her family to be the subject of gossip, and continues to affect how the townspeople view treat Maisie and her family.
The hero: Lucky Tolliver is a cowhand at the Rocking D ranch and anonymously leaves a gift of flowers for Maisie. The usually garrulous man becomes tongue-tied around her. His friend notes, “You can talk the ears off a cornfield, but you walk in here [the cafe] and forget how to string more than two words together.”
Christian elements: “Lord, I can only hope we might be good for each other one day, but what do I have to offer her?” Lucky sets a good example for us. We can (and should) talk to God about our current problems as well as our hopes for the future. Also, Maisie’s father (before he passed away) encouraged Lucky in his Christian walk with Bible verses, encouraging Lucky to turn from his old ways.
What I liked: Maisie and Lucky are already fond of each other at the beginning of the story, unbeknownst to one another. I always think this works very well for a novella-length story. Maisie and Lucky are both extremely likable, which makes for a pleasant read.
What I didn’t like: “He loved her, had from the first time he’d laid eyes on her.” I am ALWAYS going to object to statements like that! I’m not a fan of instalove.
*********************
Novella #7: 5 stars
Beside Still Waters (2017) by Becca Whitham,
Massachusetts & Oklahoma, 1901
The heroine: Sarah Maffey is an heiress preparing for her wedding. She breaks off the engagement after learning that her fiance is unfaithful and is planning to abandon her after the wedding. What kind of a father says, “A man needs an outlet,” defending such behavior? I don’t blame Sarah at all for leaving Boston to claim some land in Oklahoma on her own!
The hero: Widowed John Tyler, a former Texas Ranger, has also gone to Oklahoma for land. He becomes Sarah’s nearest neighbor, and offers her occasional assistance, which she grudgingly accepts. When he first meets Sarah, he is very perceptive about her emotional state: “Yes, he knew grief. And the woman standing before him still considered it her enemy.”
Christian elements: “God, you know I only acted the way I did because I was hurt! Truth struck hard. Of course, she’d been hurt. Everyone got hurt at some point in life.” Nice Biblical application here! We need to behave in a godly manner, regardless of the situation. Easier said than done, right?
What I liked: I liked Sarah’s spunk!
*Sarah’s father: “Stop bluffing, princess. A woman alone would never succeed at homesteading.”
Sarah: “We’ll see about that.”
*Sarah (to self): “It’s only a tent. You are smarter than a piece of fabric.”
What I didn’t like: Sarah is sometimes suspicious of John’s motives for his friendship with her. It’s understandable, giving Sarah’s background, but I didn’t enjoy those parts.
********************
Novella #8: 4 stars
The Princess of Polecat Creek (2017) by Kathleen Y’Barbo,
Texas, 1886
The heroine: Pearl Barrett, 21, has loved Deke Wyatt since childhood, and for a while, it was assumed between the two families that Pearl and Deke would marry. This didn’t last, because the heads of the families came to be in constant dispute with each other. Pearl still wishes to marry Deke regardless of the family dispute - and regardless of the fact that Deke left home years ago. Now Pearl’s father is arranging a beneficial marriage, and she wants no part of it! She prays for God to intervene, and I like the way that goes down!
The hero: Deke Wyatt has come home to “settle his father’s affairs.” He has no intention of staying, and does not seem to have the long-held affection for Pearl that she has for him.
Christian elements: “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.” I like this verse. It makes me think of Maria in The Sound of Music.
What I liked: I liked the unique storyline which the premise (not mentioned above) made possible, and think it had a natural feel to it. (But see below.) I also really enjoyed discussion of the application of Bible verses between two characters, which I haven’t frequently seen in Christian fiction.
What I didn’t like: I think that the premise of the story is somewhat far-fetched. I also think the resolution was a bit too immediate, unfortunately. (I don’t have an objection to the resolution otherwise.)
********************
Novella #9: 4 1/2 stars
Love from Afar (2017) by Penny Zeller,
Ellis Creek, Montana Territory, 1884
The heroine: Meredith Waller, 20, has made several exquisite wedding gowns… all for others. She longs to make her own and to marry a “man with a strong faith in the Lord and a kind and gracious nature.”
The hero: Gabe Kleeman has been gone for three years to assist on his aunt and uncle’s farm after his uncle met with an accident. Meredith vaguely remembers him as a “sickly fellow” who “missed a lot of school.” He is now very healthy and has purchased a ranch next to his father’s. “From the beginning, that had been Gabe’s dream - to own his own ranch.” Gabe has always admired Meredith. “She hadn’t known he existed then, and she certainly didn’t know now.” Gabe’s “tongue got tied into hopeless knots” when trying to talk to Meredith, so he’s hesitant to try now.
Christian elements:
*At the very beginning: “Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.”
*Meredith is very conscious of the Lord and frequently communicates briefly with Him. Gabe has his share of prayerful talking to God as well.
What I liked: I thought the letter writing scheme was very cute, and was glad it didn’t go south! I enjoyed the gossip between Meredith’s and Gabe’s younger sisters.
What I didn’t like:
*I thought it was a bit strange that Meredith would only “vaguely recall” Gabe, since they were in the same school, and he’d been gone for only three years.
*Meredith’s rationale for a conclusion she makes is not 100% plain.
*********************
The bottom line: This secret admirer themed collection is great fun, and I was surprised that every single one was a 4 star or higher read for me. I recommend this book to historical Christian romance fans. I would be happy to read more by every one of these authors!
How many of my Goodreads friends will admit to reading alphabetically, I wonder?
********************
Overall rating: 4 1/3 stars
*All novellas in this collection are very clean/chaste and in some way or another, includes a secret admirer aspect to the story.
Be warned that this is a very long review. I tried to limit myself, but reviewing each of the nine novellas makes this long overall! Please feel free to skim for the information you’re looking for!
********************
Novella #1: 4 stars
The Cost of a Heart (2017) by Amanda Barratt,
Newport, Rhode Island, 1897
The heroine: Socialite Lily Montgomery’s husband of one year is unfaithful, and he expects her to grin and bear it. He dies unexpectedly, freeing Lily from an unhappy marriage. The story jumps ahead to two years later, when Lily feels ready to move on with her life.
The hero: Nathaniel Evans is Lily’s chauffeur, footman, and friend. He “had been her [Lily’s] buoy, helping to keep her afloat during her tenure as Jackson’s wife” and has continued to do so. He has cared for Lily for the last two years.
Christian elements: “But now, instead of her own clumsy efforts to bind together with schoolroom paste what needed to be fused with steel, she sought comfort in the refuge of a Father who would never leave, nor forsake.”
What I liked: Ms. Barratt makes an extremely unlikely hero/heroine pairing a possibility. I liked both protagonists very much.
What I didn’t like: Most of the situations in which Lily spends time with Nathaniel seem not only extremely unrealistic, but they proceed in a very unlikely manner.
***********
Novella #2: 4 stars
The Advocate (2017) by Lorraine Beatty,
Out west, in an era “on the cusp of great change for women.”
The heroine: Hannah Davis has come to visit her aunt, who owns the Riverton Chronicle. Hannah has two objects: to meet the town’s heroic sheriff and to get a “real job as a reporter.”
The hero: Mitch Kincaid is the “famed sheriff of Riverton” as as touted by Hannah’s father in an article he wrote the previous year. Hannah boldly introduces herself to him in his office under the guise of offering him a newspaper. His response? “I know who you are, and I don’t need a copy of the Chronicle.” He then expresses doubts about her staying power and predicts that she will return home within two weeks.
Christian elements: “No man is [a hero], Hannah, and as soon as you put a man up on that pedestal, you’ll be disappointed every time.” This is good advice. No matter who we are admiring, dating/courting, or married to, we need to remember Romans 3:23: “Because all people have sinned, they have fallen short of God's glory.” (God’s Word Translation)
What I liked: The election for the sheriff as a backdrop for the story was very interesting, and I enjoyed being privy to the newspaper articles about it.
What I didn’t like: “She wasn’t sure when she’d realized she was in love with Mitch. Maybe she had been since she’d first read the article about him.” Umm. No. She had never met him! Some may consider that thought to be romantic, but we are not, in fact, “in love” with someone merely by seeing someone for the first time, or in this case, reading about the person!
********************
Novella #3: 4 stars
Too Many Secrets (2017) by Molly Noble Bull,
Texas, 1882
The heroine: Originally from Atlanta, Georgia, Miss Abigail Willoughby has come as a mail order bride for Mr. Ambrose Franklin in Frio Corners, Texas. Abby’s brothers and sisters are dependent on her, and they have come to be with their sister in her new home.
The hero: Luke Conquest is neighbor to Mr. Franklin, an ailing nonagenarian. Abby is “the most beautiful girl Luke had ever seen.” However, he is very concerned that “Miss Willoughby was nothing more than a gold digger out to marry a rich and ailing man.”
Christian elements: There is reference to “the sin of omission,” and I came up blank for a supporting Bible verse. I looked it up, and found: “Remember, it is sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it.” (James 4:17, NLT)
What I liked: I was not expecting any narration from anyone other than the hero and heroine. When it came, I was surprised, and I enjoyed seeing where it went. There were a couple of other things that didn’t go as I predicted, and that was fun.
What I didn’t like: Instalove was very much a part of this story. Prior to Luke and Abagail’s first meeting: “Luke breathed a sigh of relief. She isn’t married.” And very shortly after their first meeting: “Conquest was a thoughtful person, and she would call him Luke -- at least in her dreams.”
********************
Novella #4: 4 stars
Love in Store (2017) by Anita Mae Draper,
Miles City, Montana, 1890
The heroine: Janet Smith, 22, admires Adam Hazelton, yet he won’t ever look at her when she comes into his store. Janet decides to take an unusual approach to rectify the situation: she leaves him an anonymous poem, expressing her admiration. (I consider this to be flawed logic. I don’t see how she can expect this to work when the letter will be anonymous. Maybe she expects him to figure out who the writer is, but unless I missed something, the story doesn’t indicate this. Her letters DO end up helping, but not in the way that I would have expected as a reader, and that was pretty cool.)
The hero: Adam Hazelton is a very close-mouthed general store shopkeeper. He doesn’t want to get close to people or to share details about his past.
Christian elements:
*This story opens with 1 John 1:9: ”If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
*A bit farther in, there’s a likable preacher imparting wisdom and kindness.
What I liked: The author made Adam’s integrity shine through, and the characters felt realistic. I also just really enjoyed the plotline.
What I didn’t like: There were a couple of very small details that I thought needed some explanation. Also, at the end, there seemed to be too large of a leap forward in the hero and heroine’s relationship compared to the rest of the story.
********************
Novella #5: 5 stars
The Last Letter (2017) by C.J. Dunham,
Canandaigua, New York & Manhattan, Kansas in 1865
The heroine: The story opens on April 10th, 1865 to the joyous news that the American Civil War is over. But Emilia Davis is in mourning and cannot enjoy it. Her father, brother, and fiance all died in the war a year or more ago. When Emilia goes to the post office that day, she is shocked to receive a delayed letter from her fiance Asa. There were several surprises in this story, so I don’t want to say any more. I thought it was fantastic.
Christian elements:
*”...when God opens a door, sometimes we have to act swiftly before it closes again.”
*”Doesn’t the Lord call upon us to lift up the hands that are weary? Not slap them down for their emptiness?”
What I liked:
*The dialogue, surprises, and emotions were all so very well done!
*Specific laws about what women did or did not have the right to do were interesting. There were other well-incorporated historical details as well.
What I didn’t like: I didn’t find anything to object to except one verb with an incorrect tense. I consider this to be an ideal novella.
********************
Novella #6: 4 1/2 stars
The Outcast’s Redemption (2017) by Jennifer Uhlarik,
Blackwater, Texas, 1872
The heroine: Margaret Ann Blanton, more comfortably known as Maisie, works at a cafe. She is experiencing raw grief from her father’s death as well as inner turmoil over his unexplained behavior before he died. Her father’s strange behavior caused her family to be the subject of gossip, and continues to affect how the townspeople view treat Maisie and her family.
The hero: Lucky Tolliver is a cowhand at the Rocking D ranch and anonymously leaves a gift of flowers for Maisie. The usually garrulous man becomes tongue-tied around her. His friend notes, “You can talk the ears off a cornfield, but you walk in here [the cafe] and forget how to string more than two words together.”
Christian elements: “Lord, I can only hope we might be good for each other one day, but what do I have to offer her?” Lucky sets a good example for us. We can (and should) talk to God about our current problems as well as our hopes for the future. Also, Maisie’s father (before he passed away) encouraged Lucky in his Christian walk with Bible verses, encouraging Lucky to turn from his old ways.
What I liked: Maisie and Lucky are already fond of each other at the beginning of the story, unbeknownst to one another. I always think this works very well for a novella-length story. Maisie and Lucky are both extremely likable, which makes for a pleasant read.
What I didn’t like: “He loved her, had from the first time he’d laid eyes on her.” I am ALWAYS going to object to statements like that! I’m not a fan of instalove.
*********************
Novella #7: 5 stars
Beside Still Waters (2017) by Becca Whitham,
Massachusetts & Oklahoma, 1901
The heroine: Sarah Maffey is an heiress preparing for her wedding. She breaks off the engagement after learning that her fiance is unfaithful and is planning to abandon her after the wedding. What kind of a father says, “A man needs an outlet,” defending such behavior? I don’t blame Sarah at all for leaving Boston to claim some land in Oklahoma on her own!
The hero: Widowed John Tyler, a former Texas Ranger, has also gone to Oklahoma for land. He becomes Sarah’s nearest neighbor, and offers her occasional assistance, which she grudgingly accepts. When he first meets Sarah, he is very perceptive about her emotional state: “Yes, he knew grief. And the woman standing before him still considered it her enemy.”
Christian elements: “God, you know I only acted the way I did because I was hurt! Truth struck hard. Of course, she’d been hurt. Everyone got hurt at some point in life.” Nice Biblical application here! We need to behave in a godly manner, regardless of the situation. Easier said than done, right?
What I liked: I liked Sarah’s spunk!
*Sarah’s father: “Stop bluffing, princess. A woman alone would never succeed at homesteading.”
Sarah: “We’ll see about that.”
*Sarah (to self): “It’s only a tent. You are smarter than a piece of fabric.”
What I didn’t like: Sarah is sometimes suspicious of John’s motives for his friendship with her. It’s understandable, giving Sarah’s background, but I didn’t enjoy those parts.
********************
Novella #8: 4 stars
The Princess of Polecat Creek (2017) by Kathleen Y’Barbo,
Texas, 1886
The heroine: Pearl Barrett, 21, has loved Deke Wyatt since childhood, and for a while, it was assumed between the two families that Pearl and Deke would marry. This didn’t last, because the heads of the families came to be in constant dispute with each other. Pearl still wishes to marry Deke regardless of the family dispute - and regardless of the fact that Deke left home years ago. Now Pearl’s father is arranging a beneficial marriage, and she wants no part of it! She prays for God to intervene, and I like the way that goes down!
The hero: Deke Wyatt has come home to “settle his father’s affairs.” He has no intention of staying, and does not seem to have the long-held affection for Pearl that she has for him.
Christian elements: “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.” I like this verse. It makes me think of Maria in The Sound of Music.
What I liked: I liked the unique storyline which the premise (not mentioned above) made possible, and think it had a natural feel to it. (But see below.) I also really enjoyed discussion of the application of Bible verses between two characters, which I haven’t frequently seen in Christian fiction.
What I didn’t like: I think that the premise of the story is somewhat far-fetched. I also think the resolution was a bit too immediate, unfortunately. (I don’t have an objection to the resolution otherwise.)
********************
Novella #9: 4 1/2 stars
Love from Afar (2017) by Penny Zeller,
Ellis Creek, Montana Territory, 1884
The heroine: Meredith Waller, 20, has made several exquisite wedding gowns… all for others. She longs to make her own and to marry a “man with a strong faith in the Lord and a kind and gracious nature.”
The hero: Gabe Kleeman has been gone for three years to assist on his aunt and uncle’s farm after his uncle met with an accident. Meredith vaguely remembers him as a “sickly fellow” who “missed a lot of school.” He is now very healthy and has purchased a ranch next to his father’s. “From the beginning, that had been Gabe’s dream - to own his own ranch.” Gabe has always admired Meredith. “She hadn’t known he existed then, and she certainly didn’t know now.” Gabe’s “tongue got tied into hopeless knots” when trying to talk to Meredith, so he’s hesitant to try now.
Christian elements:
*At the very beginning: “Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.”
*Meredith is very conscious of the Lord and frequently communicates briefly with Him. Gabe has his share of prayerful talking to God as well.
What I liked: I thought the letter writing scheme was very cute, and was glad it didn’t go south! I enjoyed the gossip between Meredith’s and Gabe’s younger sisters.
What I didn’t like:
*I thought it was a bit strange that Meredith would only “vaguely recall” Gabe, since they were in the same school, and he’d been gone for only three years.
*Meredith’s rationale for a conclusion she makes is not 100% plain.
*********************
The bottom line: This secret admirer themed collection is great fun, and I was surprised that every single one was a 4 star or higher read for me. I recommend this book to historical Christian romance fans. I would be happy to read more by every one of these authors!
February 12, 2017
The Secret Admirer Romance Collection: Can Concealed Love Be Revealed in 9 Historical Novellas? is a historical collection of nine wonderful stories. These stories include:
The Cost of a Heart by Amanda Barratt
The Advocate by Lorraine Beatty
Too Many Secrets by Molly Noble Bull
Love in Store by Anita Mae Draper
The Last Letter by CJ Dunham
The Outcast’s Redemption by Jennifer Uhlarik
Beside Still Waters by Becca Whitham
The Princess of Polecat Creek by Kathleen Y’Barbo
Love from Afar by Penny Zeller
This collection is fabulous! There's only a couple of authors I have read before and have found many new authors to look forward to in the future. If I have to pick a favorite, it would be between Amanda Barratt's The Cost of a Heart and Kathleen Y'Barbo's The Princess of Polecat Creek.
Another great collection by Barbour publishing that I highly recommend.
5 plus stars.
The Cost of a Heart by Amanda Barratt
The Advocate by Lorraine Beatty
Too Many Secrets by Molly Noble Bull
Love in Store by Anita Mae Draper
The Last Letter by CJ Dunham
The Outcast’s Redemption by Jennifer Uhlarik
Beside Still Waters by Becca Whitham
The Princess of Polecat Creek by Kathleen Y’Barbo
Love from Afar by Penny Zeller
This collection is fabulous! There's only a couple of authors I have read before and have found many new authors to look forward to in the future. If I have to pick a favorite, it would be between Amanda Barratt's The Cost of a Heart and Kathleen Y'Barbo's The Princess of Polecat Creek.
Another great collection by Barbour publishing that I highly recommend.
5 plus stars.
February 21, 2023
This is, for the most part, an enjoyable collection filled with faith-centered, God-honoring romances. Perfect for the romantic who enjoyed clean historical romance.
Overall Rating: 5 Stars
Individual ratings and reviews are below.
***
The Cost of a Heart by Amanda Barratt – Newport, Rhode Island, 1897
Nathaniel Evans has stood by Lily Montgomery through a broken marriage and the death of her husband. On the eve of her return into social life, he battles his attraction to her. But he is a servant, she a socialite.
Rating: 4 Stars
Thoughts: This is a sweet, faith-filled story with a good message about how only God’s approval matters – not society’s approval or disapproval regarding how our appearance aligns with its demands. I appreciated that Lily didn’t have the typical heroine build of slim and perfectly-proportioned. It was refreshing.
___
The Advocate by Lorraine Beatty – East Texas, 1881
Hannah Davis tries to get Mitch Kincaid, the man she secretly admires, elected sheriff by printing anonymous articles about his qualifications and sterling character. But will the truth win his heart or break hers?
Rating: 4 Stars
Thoughts: The Advocate discusses vote purchasing, which was when a politician bribed folks to vote for him by purchasing their vote. I found this interesting. The characters are well-developed and the plot fun. I did think Hannah a bit immature in the beginning, but she quickly grew on me. I enjoyed her tenacity and Mitch’s aloof grumpiness. I’ll definitely be investigating more books by Lorraine Beatty.
___
Too Many Secrets by Molly Noble Bull – Frio-Corners, Texas, 1882
Abigail Willoughby hides her feelings for Luke Conquest, the handsome cowboy who introduced her to her mail-order husband. How could she have guessed that her future husband was ninety-years-old?
Rating: 2 Stars
Thoughts: This has an interesting premise of a mail-order bride whose future husband has hidden his age from her. But it just wasn’t delivered in a way that garnered my attention. While this certainly had potential, the writing felt stilted and the characters awkward in their interactions with each other. The conversations also felt dry. I just couldn’t get into it.
___
Love in Store by Anita Mae Draper – Miles City, Montana, 1890
Hidden love notes hint at what’s in store for a reserved shopkeeper when a straight-talking spinster sneaks anonymous declarations of her affections among the shelves of his store.
Rating: 5 Stars
Thoughts: What happens when a reticent shopkeeper meets a straight-shooting young lady intent on making her affections know? Confusion, chaos, and humor. Despite the word count limit, the author did exceptionally well in developing character arcs, not only for the main characters, but secondary ones as well. Adam’s descriptions (e.g. “gaggle of women”, “catering to little vixens”) are hilarious and Janet’s straightforward ways are endearing. Touching moments, endeavors to build a list of eligible bachelors, and a beautiful faith message also earn this novella its five-star rating. Anita Mae Draper is another author whose books I’ll be looking into.
___
The Last Letter by CJ Dunham – Kansas,1865
The Civil War has taken everyone Emilia Davis loves. When she receives her dead fiancé’s last letter, she embarks on a journey into the Kansas frontier to fulfill his last wish. So who is sending her anonymous gifts?
Rating: 5
Thoughts: This was excellent. Emilia’s journey kept me eager to continue reading. Her faith, the hero’s sacrifice, and the plot were executed so well. What most endeared me to this novella was the strong adoption theme. Emilia’s determination and love for little Josiah is touching and elicits a lot of feels. I also liked how the importance of the heart over physical attraction was embedded in the story. This is another author whose books I’ll be looking into.
___
The Outcast’s Redemption by Jennifer Uhlarik – Blackwater, Texas, 1872
When a reformed rustler is framed for stealing cattle, his secret crush—the daughter of the disgraced lawman who arrested him—comes to his aid. But who really saves who?
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Thoughts: This novella is what hooked me on Jennifer Uhlarik’s writing. The plot is decidedly unique, the characters excellent, and the baddies chillingly evil. This was another novella where a lot happened in a short word count. This is packed with action, the struggle of forgiveness and redemption, and a sweet love story. The only complaint I have is Lucky’s use of whilst. For a man whose vernacular includes typical western speech, like ain’t, whole mess of, and sweetest gal, the use of whilst fit neither the story nor character. It's also not quite era-appropriate. This is a personal thing, though, as I just heartily dislike the word overall. It won't bother other readers.
___
Beside Still Waters by Becca Whitham – Lawton, Oklahoma, 1901
Sarah Maffey is receiving worrisome letters that make her feel vulnerable. Her handsome neighbor has vowed to keep her safe. . .or is he playing her for a fool?
Rating: 5 Stars
Thoughts: Besides Still Waters earns the reward for having the most humor. Sarah is a fun heroine, her feisty spirit, naivete about horses and plowing, and her hilarious commentary – both internal and aloud – had me laughing. This is a different spin on love letters from a secret admirer, and I liked the direction it was taken. I’ll definitely be adding more of this author’s books to my TBR.
___
The Princess of Polecat Creek by Kathleen Y’Barbo – Texas and Washington, DC, 1886
Scandal divided them. Two kidnappings and a wedding later, can a Texas cowboy turned Washington lawyer and the girl-next-door who secretly loved him since childhood save their marriage of inconvenience?
Rating: 2 Stars
Thoughts: This was another one I couldn’t bring myself to like. There are funny parts, and the shenanigans employed to steal Pearl from the train are amusing, but I just wasn’t impressed. Pearl is rather annoying, though her stubbornness makes her a more likable character than Deke, whom I found conniving, selfish, and overbearing. Other readers really liked this story, and you may as well, but I could barely finish it. It had potential, and I don’t know if it was just the execution of the story or the off-putting main characters, but Y’Barbo’s style and I don’t get along, it seems.
___
Love From Afar by Penny Zeller – Ellis Creek, Montana, 1880s
When secret love letters are written in a clandestine plot to bring two lonely hearts together, will love from a distance finally bloom into matrimonial bliss for Gabe and Meredith?
Rating: 5 Stars
Thoughts: Gabe and Meredith are endearing characters. Gabe is a reserved, tongue-tied mess around the extroverted Meredith who wishes he’d say more than two words to her. The clandestine plot and its instigators are the funniest, though. As an older sister, I could sympathize with Gabe and Meredith as they found themselves baffled and hesitant – at first – participants in a scheme cooked up by two mischievous best friends. Well-written, hilarious, and enjoyable.
***
Be sure to pick up a copy of this book. You're bound to find some authors you've not yet read, as well as potentially a new favorite author.
Overall Rating: 5 Stars
Individual ratings and reviews are below.
***
The Cost of a Heart by Amanda Barratt – Newport, Rhode Island, 1897
Nathaniel Evans has stood by Lily Montgomery through a broken marriage and the death of her husband. On the eve of her return into social life, he battles his attraction to her. But he is a servant, she a socialite.
Rating: 4 Stars
Thoughts: This is a sweet, faith-filled story with a good message about how only God’s approval matters – not society’s approval or disapproval regarding how our appearance aligns with its demands. I appreciated that Lily didn’t have the typical heroine build of slim and perfectly-proportioned. It was refreshing.
___
The Advocate by Lorraine Beatty – East Texas, 1881
Hannah Davis tries to get Mitch Kincaid, the man she secretly admires, elected sheriff by printing anonymous articles about his qualifications and sterling character. But will the truth win his heart or break hers?
Rating: 4 Stars
Thoughts: The Advocate discusses vote purchasing, which was when a politician bribed folks to vote for him by purchasing their vote. I found this interesting. The characters are well-developed and the plot fun. I did think Hannah a bit immature in the beginning, but she quickly grew on me. I enjoyed her tenacity and Mitch’s aloof grumpiness. I’ll definitely be investigating more books by Lorraine Beatty.
___
Too Many Secrets by Molly Noble Bull – Frio-Corners, Texas, 1882
Abigail Willoughby hides her feelings for Luke Conquest, the handsome cowboy who introduced her to her mail-order husband. How could she have guessed that her future husband was ninety-years-old?
Rating: 2 Stars
Thoughts: This has an interesting premise of a mail-order bride whose future husband has hidden his age from her. But it just wasn’t delivered in a way that garnered my attention. While this certainly had potential, the writing felt stilted and the characters awkward in their interactions with each other. The conversations also felt dry. I just couldn’t get into it.
___
Love in Store by Anita Mae Draper – Miles City, Montana, 1890
Hidden love notes hint at what’s in store for a reserved shopkeeper when a straight-talking spinster sneaks anonymous declarations of her affections among the shelves of his store.
Rating: 5 Stars
Thoughts: What happens when a reticent shopkeeper meets a straight-shooting young lady intent on making her affections know? Confusion, chaos, and humor. Despite the word count limit, the author did exceptionally well in developing character arcs, not only for the main characters, but secondary ones as well. Adam’s descriptions (e.g. “gaggle of women”, “catering to little vixens”) are hilarious and Janet’s straightforward ways are endearing. Touching moments, endeavors to build a list of eligible bachelors, and a beautiful faith message also earn this novella its five-star rating. Anita Mae Draper is another author whose books I’ll be looking into.
___
The Last Letter by CJ Dunham – Kansas,1865
The Civil War has taken everyone Emilia Davis loves. When she receives her dead fiancé’s last letter, she embarks on a journey into the Kansas frontier to fulfill his last wish. So who is sending her anonymous gifts?
Rating: 5
Thoughts: This was excellent. Emilia’s journey kept me eager to continue reading. Her faith, the hero’s sacrifice, and the plot were executed so well. What most endeared me to this novella was the strong adoption theme. Emilia’s determination and love for little Josiah is touching and elicits a lot of feels. I also liked how the importance of the heart over physical attraction was embedded in the story. This is another author whose books I’ll be looking into.
___
The Outcast’s Redemption by Jennifer Uhlarik – Blackwater, Texas, 1872
When a reformed rustler is framed for stealing cattle, his secret crush—the daughter of the disgraced lawman who arrested him—comes to his aid. But who really saves who?
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Thoughts: This novella is what hooked me on Jennifer Uhlarik’s writing. The plot is decidedly unique, the characters excellent, and the baddies chillingly evil. This was another novella where a lot happened in a short word count. This is packed with action, the struggle of forgiveness and redemption, and a sweet love story. The only complaint I have is Lucky’s use of whilst. For a man whose vernacular includes typical western speech, like ain’t, whole mess of, and sweetest gal, the use of whilst fit neither the story nor character. It's also not quite era-appropriate. This is a personal thing, though, as I just heartily dislike the word overall. It won't bother other readers.
___
Beside Still Waters by Becca Whitham – Lawton, Oklahoma, 1901
Sarah Maffey is receiving worrisome letters that make her feel vulnerable. Her handsome neighbor has vowed to keep her safe. . .or is he playing her for a fool?
Rating: 5 Stars
Thoughts: Besides Still Waters earns the reward for having the most humor. Sarah is a fun heroine, her feisty spirit, naivete about horses and plowing, and her hilarious commentary – both internal and aloud – had me laughing. This is a different spin on love letters from a secret admirer, and I liked the direction it was taken. I’ll definitely be adding more of this author’s books to my TBR.
___
The Princess of Polecat Creek by Kathleen Y’Barbo – Texas and Washington, DC, 1886
Scandal divided them. Two kidnappings and a wedding later, can a Texas cowboy turned Washington lawyer and the girl-next-door who secretly loved him since childhood save their marriage of inconvenience?
Rating: 2 Stars
Thoughts: This was another one I couldn’t bring myself to like. There are funny parts, and the shenanigans employed to steal Pearl from the train are amusing, but I just wasn’t impressed. Pearl is rather annoying, though her stubbornness makes her a more likable character than Deke, whom I found conniving, selfish, and overbearing. Other readers really liked this story, and you may as well, but I could barely finish it. It had potential, and I don’t know if it was just the execution of the story or the off-putting main characters, but Y’Barbo’s style and I don’t get along, it seems.
___
Love From Afar by Penny Zeller – Ellis Creek, Montana, 1880s
When secret love letters are written in a clandestine plot to bring two lonely hearts together, will love from a distance finally bloom into matrimonial bliss for Gabe and Meredith?
Rating: 5 Stars
Thoughts: Gabe and Meredith are endearing characters. Gabe is a reserved, tongue-tied mess around the extroverted Meredith who wishes he’d say more than two words to her. The clandestine plot and its instigators are the funniest, though. As an older sister, I could sympathize with Gabe and Meredith as they found themselves baffled and hesitant – at first – participants in a scheme cooked up by two mischievous best friends. Well-written, hilarious, and enjoyable.
***
Be sure to pick up a copy of this book. You're bound to find some authors you've not yet read, as well as potentially a new favorite author.
March 7, 2017
The Secret Admirer Romance Collection
A wonderful group of authors gathered together to write this collection of Novellas. Each story is an independent, stand-alone story tied together with the theme of a secret admirer.
My personal two standout favorites in this collection are “Love in Store” by Anita Mae Draper. Janet & Adam’s story stood out to me because of the characters and their personal struggle. Free-spirited Janet grew up without a mother, sheltered by her older brothers. Adam hides a world of regret and heartache behind a silent, withdrawn façade.
“The Last Letter” by CJ Dunham is also a captivating story that takes place at the end of the Civil war and follows Emilia, a courageous young woman. Everyone she loved and held dear has died, however, she finds that she is stronger and more capable than she at first imagined and that God hasn’t left her and has a special plan for her life.
All of the short stories found in this collection are sure to entertain you. This is just the book to toss into your beach bag when looking for a short story to enjoy.
A wonderful group of authors gathered together to write this collection of Novellas. Each story is an independent, stand-alone story tied together with the theme of a secret admirer.
My personal two standout favorites in this collection are “Love in Store” by Anita Mae Draper. Janet & Adam’s story stood out to me because of the characters and their personal struggle. Free-spirited Janet grew up without a mother, sheltered by her older brothers. Adam hides a world of regret and heartache behind a silent, withdrawn façade.
“The Last Letter” by CJ Dunham is also a captivating story that takes place at the end of the Civil war and follows Emilia, a courageous young woman. Everyone she loved and held dear has died, however, she finds that she is stronger and more capable than she at first imagined and that God hasn’t left her and has a special plan for her life.
All of the short stories found in this collection are sure to entertain you. This is just the book to toss into your beach bag when looking for a short story to enjoy.
March 31, 2017
Nine stories in this collection which I received free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review; thank you Netgalley! Each novella is reviewed below. Overall, an enjoyable read and worth the time. I agree with others in that it gets repetitive in some ways. Perhaps nine stories in one is too many. But for readers of sweet historical romance, this set fits the bill.
The Cost of a Heart by Amanda Barratt -- This story was a sweet, historical rendition of attraction between a newly-widowed individual with money and her long-time driver. I liked both of the main characters, including their dreams of teaching and aiding orphans. I hope they realize those dreams, but wonder how they will make it without her money. The parts about escaping expectations of others stayed with me. I would read a second installment of this storyline. 4 stars.
The Advocate by Lorraine Beatty -- Sweet story about falling in love with the sheriff. These characters were more one-dimensional than the first novella, and I was disappointed that the female lead was not actually a "reporter" with any experience or skill. Predictable. 2 stars.
Too Many Secrets by Molly Noble Bull -- This one had several twists and turns but wasn't my favorite. I didn't connect with the lead characters, and didn't like Ambrose at all for his dishonesty. The story wrapped up too quickly, although I understand that that is common with novellas. I just didn't believe they had time to really come to love each other. 2 stars.
Love in Store by Anita Mae Draper -- This story was engaging and fun. I liked both lead characters and felt Adam's discomfort in dealing with people before he started to change. The poetry was cute and simple, appropriate for the "authors". Loved Adam's Bible connection and the pastor's gift. 5 stars
The Last Letter by CJ Dunham -- This was also an excellent story with quite a few twists and turns for a novella length. The characters were believable and likable. The imagery with the orange blossoms and scent was wonderful. The story had similarities to Hidden Places by Lynn Austin. 5 stars
The Outcast’s Redemption by Jennifer Uhlarik -- Luke and Maisie are endearing characters. You really are rooting for them throughout the story. A happy change of heart for the sheriff. Vivid description of an unusual horse. An enjoyable story. 4 stars
Beside Still Waters by Becca Whitham -- Very honorable male lead; very hurt but courageous female lead. This story pointed out the rough conditions experienced by homesteaders trying to make a new start in Oklahoma, but left the reader with hope. The novella almost ended too soon -- I was going to recommend an epilogue, but I think this way leaves more open to imagination. 3 stars
The Princess of Polecat Creek by Kathleen Y’Barbo -- This story was somewhat unrealistic in how fast people changed their minds, even after lifelong bad decisions. I believe it would have been better as a full length novel, plus then the author could write each of the brothers' stories. 2.5 stars
Love from Afar by Penny Zeller -- This story was cute and I can easily imagine two pre-teens thinking up a ridiculous letter writing plan. Loved the miracle aspect with our male lead healing from childhood illness. Sweet ending and twists with several potential admirers. 4 stars.
The Cost of a Heart by Amanda Barratt -- This story was a sweet, historical rendition of attraction between a newly-widowed individual with money and her long-time driver. I liked both of the main characters, including their dreams of teaching and aiding orphans. I hope they realize those dreams, but wonder how they will make it without her money. The parts about escaping expectations of others stayed with me. I would read a second installment of this storyline. 4 stars.
The Advocate by Lorraine Beatty -- Sweet story about falling in love with the sheriff. These characters were more one-dimensional than the first novella, and I was disappointed that the female lead was not actually a "reporter" with any experience or skill. Predictable. 2 stars.
Too Many Secrets by Molly Noble Bull -- This one had several twists and turns but wasn't my favorite. I didn't connect with the lead characters, and didn't like Ambrose at all for his dishonesty. The story wrapped up too quickly, although I understand that that is common with novellas. I just didn't believe they had time to really come to love each other. 2 stars.
Love in Store by Anita Mae Draper -- This story was engaging and fun. I liked both lead characters and felt Adam's discomfort in dealing with people before he started to change. The poetry was cute and simple, appropriate for the "authors". Loved Adam's Bible connection and the pastor's gift. 5 stars
The Last Letter by CJ Dunham -- This was also an excellent story with quite a few twists and turns for a novella length. The characters were believable and likable. The imagery with the orange blossoms and scent was wonderful. The story had similarities to Hidden Places by Lynn Austin. 5 stars
The Outcast’s Redemption by Jennifer Uhlarik -- Luke and Maisie are endearing characters. You really are rooting for them throughout the story. A happy change of heart for the sheriff. Vivid description of an unusual horse. An enjoyable story. 4 stars
Beside Still Waters by Becca Whitham -- Very honorable male lead; very hurt but courageous female lead. This story pointed out the rough conditions experienced by homesteaders trying to make a new start in Oklahoma, but left the reader with hope. The novella almost ended too soon -- I was going to recommend an epilogue, but I think this way leaves more open to imagination. 3 stars
The Princess of Polecat Creek by Kathleen Y’Barbo -- This story was somewhat unrealistic in how fast people changed their minds, even after lifelong bad decisions. I believe it would have been better as a full length novel, plus then the author could write each of the brothers' stories. 2.5 stars
Love from Afar by Penny Zeller -- This story was cute and I can easily imagine two pre-teens thinking up a ridiculous letter writing plan. Loved the miracle aspect with our male lead healing from childhood illness. Sweet ending and twists with several potential admirers. 4 stars.
May 23, 2017
I received a free copy from NetGalley; this is my honest opinion.
From the start, the stories all fell off one stars for editing. When you get many authors put together to write about the same theme, you get all kinds of different genre or direction of a story. These are all inspirational but some authors push it too far as if they needed the extra words to reach their quota by putting full-length prayers or verses as fillers. I would have liked to have the synopsis of the story before each.
1. The cost of a heart ***: The story is sweet but predictable and unrealistic. There are too many prayers in this story, which I find in all of Barratt's books; the space could have been better used.
2. The advocate ****: Loved this story. Western, realistic, fun.
3. Too many secrets ***: Lots of prayers, a bit corny, predictable.
4. Love in store ****: Great story, great ending. Not too much prayers or sermon. Realistically repentant.
5. The last letter ****: Inspiring, poignant love story with a soldier.
6. The outcast's redemption ***: A real western with outlaws and cattle ringers. Realistic. Loved it.
7. Beside still waters ****: Great pioneers story. Loved it.
8. The princess of Polecat Creek ****: Cute, funny, sweet. Loved it.
9. Love from afar ****: Romantic and fun. Loved it.
From the start, the stories all fell off one stars for editing. When you get many authors put together to write about the same theme, you get all kinds of different genre or direction of a story. These are all inspirational but some authors push it too far as if they needed the extra words to reach their quota by putting full-length prayers or verses as fillers. I would have liked to have the synopsis of the story before each.
1. The cost of a heart ***: The story is sweet but predictable and unrealistic. There are too many prayers in this story, which I find in all of Barratt's books; the space could have been better used.
2. The advocate ****: Loved this story. Western, realistic, fun.
3. Too many secrets ***: Lots of prayers, a bit corny, predictable.
4. Love in store ****: Great story, great ending. Not too much prayers or sermon. Realistically repentant.
5. The last letter ****: Inspiring, poignant love story with a soldier.
6. The outcast's redemption ***: A real western with outlaws and cattle ringers. Realistic. Loved it.
7. Beside still waters ****: Great pioneers story. Loved it.
8. The princess of Polecat Creek ****: Cute, funny, sweet. Loved it.
9. Love from afar ****: Romantic and fun. Loved it.
June 11, 2020
9 Stories Rated Individually below:
The Cost of a ♡ - 4☆
Very enjoyable. An upstairs/downstairs romance with faith & prayer.
The Advocate - 4☆
Hannah & Mitch are enjoyable characters. A light sprinkling of faith in this story, but still good. One question never answered was the Pinkerton issue. Interesting that Aunt Polly could own the newspaper while people were opposed to female reporters. 🤔
Too Many Secrets - 2☆
Ridiculous and disjointed.
Love in Store - 4☆
I enjoyed it.
The Last Letter - 5☆
Excellent! Fully packed. Flows nicely.
The Outcast's Redemption - 4.5☆
Good story with a good ending.
Beside Still Waters - 4☆
I particularly like John. Another good story.
The Princess of Polecat Creek - 4☆
While I liked this one, unfortunately it felt rushed at the end. Still a pleasant read.
Love From Afar - 4.5☆
Oh! This one is good fun. I love the whole idea of this romance thanks to two meddling eleven-year-olds. Sweet story and a good way to end the book. I would love to see more of Tillie and her large vocabulary in a future book: "look at Noah Webster. His dictionary is one of my favorite books of all time." 📗😁
I purchased this book. All opinions are mine alone, without compensation or expectation.
The Cost of a ♡ - 4☆
Very enjoyable. An upstairs/downstairs romance with faith & prayer.
The Advocate - 4☆
Hannah & Mitch are enjoyable characters. A light sprinkling of faith in this story, but still good. One question never answered was the Pinkerton issue. Interesting that Aunt Polly could own the newspaper while people were opposed to female reporters. 🤔
Too Many Secrets - 2☆
Ridiculous and disjointed.
Love in Store - 4☆
I enjoyed it.
The Last Letter - 5☆
Excellent! Fully packed. Flows nicely.
The Outcast's Redemption - 4.5☆
Good story with a good ending.
Beside Still Waters - 4☆
I particularly like John. Another good story.
The Princess of Polecat Creek - 4☆
While I liked this one, unfortunately it felt rushed at the end. Still a pleasant read.
Love From Afar - 4.5☆
Oh! This one is good fun. I love the whole idea of this romance thanks to two meddling eleven-year-olds. Sweet story and a good way to end the book. I would love to see more of Tillie and her large vocabulary in a future book: "look at Noah Webster. His dictionary is one of my favorite books of all time." 📗😁
I purchased this book. All opinions are mine alone, without compensation or expectation.
May 7, 2017
A delightful collection of new romantic novellas with a wide variety of people and settings. Ranging from the 1860's to early 1900's, in New York and Boston to Kansas and Montana, with the elite rich to the working poor. Fun scenarios created by one person having a crush on another, but not knowing how to overcome a barrier, sometimes class, or past mistakes, shyness or family differences. Many of these would make good full-length novels!
I enjoyed them all, especially the ones with the gentlemen who were the strong, quiet, solid type, looking out for the ladies who needed help and protection sometimes. The tongue-tied shy ones like farmer Gabe in the last story, and cowboy Luke Tolliver, were especially endearing. Cyrus Holden in The Last Letter was my favorite though, with his quiet, sacrificial, faithful qualities, patiently helping Emilia. What a guy! The Advocate was a fun western too. Loved the ending on that one especially. Some sigh-worthy moments in them all when they reveal their true feelings.
(See comments below for more details on individual stories.)
Recommend for fans of Christian historical romances! 4.5 stars
(An e-book was provided by NetGalley and Barbour Publishing. All opinions are my own.)
I enjoyed them all, especially the ones with the gentlemen who were the strong, quiet, solid type, looking out for the ladies who needed help and protection sometimes. The tongue-tied shy ones like farmer Gabe in the last story, and cowboy Luke Tolliver, were especially endearing. Cyrus Holden in The Last Letter was my favorite though, with his quiet, sacrificial, faithful qualities, patiently helping Emilia. What a guy! The Advocate was a fun western too. Loved the ending on that one especially. Some sigh-worthy moments in them all when they reveal their true feelings.
(See comments below for more details on individual stories.)
Recommend for fans of Christian historical romances! 4.5 stars
(An e-book was provided by NetGalley and Barbour Publishing. All opinions are my own.)
March 4, 2017
When you collect nine authors who tell nine stories, you get some of the same kinds of stories, but all from a different perspective, and all have the right length to allow you to get away for an hour in the afternoon and escape the real world.
The problem with this format of reading is that the authors. who are ultimately qualified to write these stories, are hamstrung by the length of the narrative. Few authors are able to develop a plot as well as the personalities that populate the plot.
Barbour Publishing has the knack of finding the best of the best who can achieve this nearly impossible task of great stories that only take an hour to read. Each of the tales in this olio involve someone loving another from afar and finally finding his/her own true love. Part of the time, I read this before falling asleep, part of the time I read while I was exercising on my stationary bike.
Five Stars, Two Thumbs Up, and an anonymous love letter.
My Thanks to Barbour Books for allowing me to read and review this book.
The problem with this format of reading is that the authors. who are ultimately qualified to write these stories, are hamstrung by the length of the narrative. Few authors are able to develop a plot as well as the personalities that populate the plot.
Barbour Publishing has the knack of finding the best of the best who can achieve this nearly impossible task of great stories that only take an hour to read. Each of the tales in this olio involve someone loving another from afar and finally finding his/her own true love. Part of the time, I read this before falling asleep, part of the time I read while I was exercising on my stationary bike.
Five Stars, Two Thumbs Up, and an anonymous love letter.
My Thanks to Barbour Books for allowing me to read and review this book.
March 26, 2017
nine novellas which share a theme of secret admirers.
March 14, 2017
Thank you to the publisher and to Netgalley for sending me an ARC.
The Cost of a Heart by Amanda Barratt: 2⚝
The Advocate by Lorraine Beatty: 3⚝
Too Many Secrets by Molly Noble Bull: 2.5⚝
Love in Store by Anita Mae Draper: 3.5⚝
The Last Letter by CJ Dunham: 3.5⚝
The Outcast’s Redemption by Jennifer Uhlarik: 4.5⚝
Beside Still Waters by Becca Whitham: 2.5⚝
The Princess of Polecat Creek by Kathleen Y’Barbo: 1.5⚝
Love from Afar by Penny Zeller: 3.5⚝
In realtà ho letto questa raccolta per un semplice equivoco: volevo qualcosa di frizzante e romantico per distrarmi un po'.
Purtroppo, quando l'ho richiesto, non ho notato che si trattasse di letteratura cristiana e questo mi ha preso alla sprovvista e, in qualche caso, reso pesante la lettura.
Viene citata spesso la Bibbia, normalmente in maniera adeguata, ma in un caso proprio a sproposito, come se l'autrice dovesse arrivare a un numero preciso di parole e non sapesse come altro fare.
E' tutto molto fluff e caruccio, nulla di particolarmente coinvolgente o passionale.
Avrei preferito che ci fossero state altre ambientazioni a parte quelle western, ma ho apprezzato come di volta in volta se ne vedesse un aspetto diverso.
Mi aspettavo molte più lettere e regali segreti, quando in realtà non sono così presenti, ma in un caso sono rimasta colpita da come il filo conduttore, "l'ammiratore segreto", fosse usato in maniera originale.
Dato che sono novelle è inutile aspettarsi chissà che crescita dei personaggi e che sviluppo delle loro relazioni, perciò le storie che ho apprezzato di più sono quelle che lasciavano intendere che un sentimento d'affetto ci fosse già e che solo ora si tentasse di esprimerlo.
Di certo è una lettura da ombrellone, facile e spensierata.
The Cost of a Heart by Amanda Barratt: 2⚝
The Advocate by Lorraine Beatty: 3⚝
Too Many Secrets by Molly Noble Bull: 2.5⚝
Love in Store by Anita Mae Draper: 3.5⚝
The Last Letter by CJ Dunham: 3.5⚝
The Outcast’s Redemption by Jennifer Uhlarik: 4.5⚝
Beside Still Waters by Becca Whitham: 2.5⚝
The Princess of Polecat Creek by Kathleen Y’Barbo: 1.5⚝
Love from Afar by Penny Zeller: 3.5⚝
In realtà ho letto questa raccolta per un semplice equivoco: volevo qualcosa di frizzante e romantico per distrarmi un po'.
Purtroppo, quando l'ho richiesto, non ho notato che si trattasse di letteratura cristiana e questo mi ha preso alla sprovvista e, in qualche caso, reso pesante la lettura.
Viene citata spesso la Bibbia, normalmente in maniera adeguata, ma in un caso proprio a sproposito, come se l'autrice dovesse arrivare a un numero preciso di parole e non sapesse come altro fare.
E' tutto molto fluff e caruccio, nulla di particolarmente coinvolgente o passionale.
Avrei preferito che ci fossero state altre ambientazioni a parte quelle western, ma ho apprezzato come di volta in volta se ne vedesse un aspetto diverso.
Mi aspettavo molte più lettere e regali segreti, quando in realtà non sono così presenti, ma in un caso sono rimasta colpita da come il filo conduttore, "l'ammiratore segreto", fosse usato in maniera originale.
Dato che sono novelle è inutile aspettarsi chissà che crescita dei personaggi e che sviluppo delle loro relazioni, perciò le storie che ho apprezzato di più sono quelle che lasciavano intendere che un sentimento d'affetto ci fosse già e che solo ora si tentasse di esprimerlo.
Di certo è una lettura da ombrellone, facile e spensierata.
July 11, 2017
This was interesting mix of novellas with a secret admirer theme. I liked all of them some more than others.
The Cost of a Heart. It was okay. A story about socialite and her chauffeur after her husbands death. I would give it 2 stars individually. There was nothing about it that grabbed me.
The Advocate. I really liked this story. I liked the story line and the characters. It had humor and romance and I enjoyed the western setting. I would give this story 3.5 stars.
Too Many Secrets, was probably my least favorite of the set. It just seemed too implausible even for a novella which by definition needs to be wrapped up quickly. I would give this story 1.5 stars.
Love in Store was another just okay story. The premise was a little off for me and I didn't really connect with the characters. 2 stars.
The Last Letter was another story I loved. It had a great premise and I loved the scene when Emilia and Cyrus are reintroduced to each other in Kansas. Loved Josiah's character-he was probably my favorite in the story. 4.5 stars
The Outcast's Redemption was one of my favorites in the set. The characters were great and I loved the mystery angle to the story. 5 stars
Beside Still Waters. Loved this one. A socialite feels Boston when she is betrayed by her fiancee. She moves to Oklahoma to be a part of the land rush. Sparks fly between her and her new neighbor. It had some twists and turns and some suspenseful moments. Wonderful story. 5 stars.
Princess of Polecat Creek started off great. Loved some of the sparing between the characters. However as the story progressed it fell a little flat for me. 3.5 stars
Love From Afar was my absolute favorite of this set. I loved the premise of the set and the characters were very entertaining especially Tillie and Lulu. This was an adorable story and the timing and pacing of the story were spot on. I would love to see more from this author, particularly revisiting this town and these characters.
All in all a fun collection with a great theme!
The Cost of a Heart. It was okay. A story about socialite and her chauffeur after her husbands death. I would give it 2 stars individually. There was nothing about it that grabbed me.
The Advocate. I really liked this story. I liked the story line and the characters. It had humor and romance and I enjoyed the western setting. I would give this story 3.5 stars.
Too Many Secrets, was probably my least favorite of the set. It just seemed too implausible even for a novella which by definition needs to be wrapped up quickly. I would give this story 1.5 stars.
Love in Store was another just okay story. The premise was a little off for me and I didn't really connect with the characters. 2 stars.
The Last Letter was another story I loved. It had a great premise and I loved the scene when Emilia and Cyrus are reintroduced to each other in Kansas. Loved Josiah's character-he was probably my favorite in the story. 4.5 stars
The Outcast's Redemption was one of my favorites in the set. The characters were great and I loved the mystery angle to the story. 5 stars
Beside Still Waters. Loved this one. A socialite feels Boston when she is betrayed by her fiancee. She moves to Oklahoma to be a part of the land rush. Sparks fly between her and her new neighbor. It had some twists and turns and some suspenseful moments. Wonderful story. 5 stars.
Princess of Polecat Creek started off great. Loved some of the sparing between the characters. However as the story progressed it fell a little flat for me. 3.5 stars
Love From Afar was my absolute favorite of this set. I loved the premise of the set and the characters were very entertaining especially Tillie and Lulu. This was an adorable story and the timing and pacing of the story were spot on. I would love to see more from this author, particularly revisiting this town and these characters.
All in all a fun collection with a great theme!
July 4, 2017
It's always hard to read a collection of novellas written by multiple authors and review it. Barbour Publishing and the authors usually do a good job of holding the theme of the novellas together and generating a collection worth reading.
All the featured authors in this collection are new to me. I particularly enjoyed Beside Still Waters by Whitham and Love From Afar by Zeller. Both short stories were well-written and the characters were well-defined and well-portrayed. Both storylines carried themselves well and didn't feel rushed or incomplete.
All the novellas had a strong component of faith and prayer in them. Some storylines had interesting twists to what a "secret admirer" may be. The book was a quick and enjoyable read.
I received ARC of the book from Barbour Publishing via NetGalley. I was not required to write a favorable review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
All the featured authors in this collection are new to me. I particularly enjoyed Beside Still Waters by Whitham and Love From Afar by Zeller. Both short stories were well-written and the characters were well-defined and well-portrayed. Both storylines carried themselves well and didn't feel rushed or incomplete.
All the novellas had a strong component of faith and prayer in them. Some storylines had interesting twists to what a "secret admirer" may be. The book was a quick and enjoyable read.
I received ARC of the book from Barbour Publishing via NetGalley. I was not required to write a favorable review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
May 15, 2017
Oh my! What an absolute delight it was to read The Secret Admirer Romance Collection! This is a collection of short stories by 9 Christian fiction authors. What I love about the stories is that they are clean christian fiction and I don't have to worry about hiding what I am reading when my younger children come into the room. I even approve of my teens reading these stories. I love that I can read as much or as little at a time as I want to with these shorter stories yet that they are full stories and you don't feel like you are missing out on a complete story.
Highly recommended to all!
Pub Date 01 May 2017
Thank you to NetGalley and Barbour books for providing me with a review copy in exchange for my honest review!
Highly recommended to all!
Pub Date 01 May 2017
Thank you to NetGalley and Barbour books for providing me with a review copy in exchange for my honest review!
June 15, 2017
The Secret Admirer Romance Collection
This is a fun set of historical stories that take place in the late eighteen hundreds. Each has their own whimsical air that allows for smiles and a few happy tears. I enjoyed reading them and discovering love with nine different couples.
The first story is The Cost of a Heart by Amanda Barratt. In this story, Nathaniel Evans, chauffeur to Lily Montgomery, knows that they can never be together because they are of two different social classes. However, he has watched her struggle for years with loneliness at the hands of her late husband and after his passing. He vows to be her friend and hides his feelings. However, when she begins courting someone else, he discovers that she may be falling into a new painful trap. Can he help her overcome this or will their social differences remain between them?
In the next story, The Advocate by Lorraine Beatty, Hannah Davis journeys west to live with her aunt and help at her local newspaper. She had once read an article about the town sheriff, Mitch Kincaid, and couldn’t wait to meet him. The man she discovers is not the same one described in that long ago article though. This man is stubborn and doesn’t seem to like her, no matter how nice she tries to be. She decides to anonymously help him in his run for reelection as sheriff. She sends letters into the newspaper talking about what a great man he is and how the town should choose him. Will these letters finally bring her closer to her heart or will she head back home with her heart in her hands?
In Too Many Secrets by Molly Noble Bull, Abigail travels with her younger siblings to become a mail order bride. When she arrives in town, her soon to be husband’s neighbor, Luke, drives her out to her new home, where she discovers that her intended is in his nineties. While they wait for the preacher to come to town, she spends time in town and gets to know Luke more. However, she made a promise and she will stick to it. But oh how her heart longs for more. What will she do? How will her heart survive?
Love in Store by Anita Mae Draper is about a shopkeeper named Adam and a young lady who secretly admires him from afar. Janet decides to write him secret notes and leave them about his store in different places. At first, he believes they are for someone else, but soon realizes that they are meant for him. What will he do? He is not the marrying type, believing God can’t forgive him for his past. Will Janet help him find healing and love?
In The Last Letter by CJ Dunham, Emilia Davis has lost everyone she loves in the Civil War: her father, brother, and fiancé. The day the war ends, she receives a letter from her long dead fiancé, telling her that he wants them to live together in the west and create a new life for themselves. She sets out for the frontier, intent on fulfilling her last wishes. Along the way, she adopts a young boy named Josiah and meets Cyrus, a man with his own past and secrets to hide. Will the frontier bring new love or only more heartbreak for Emilia?
The Outcast’s Redemption by Jennifer Uhlarik combines cattle stealing, heartache, and romance in a tale to warm the heart. Maisie is the daughter of the former sheriff in town and, with the passing of her father, she works at a restaurant to help her family. Lucky is the quiet farmhand who comes to see her, but can’t ever get any words out when in her company. When cattle go missing in the area, Lucky’s past finds him. He was once a young boy who helped some cattle rustlers, but got through jail by writing back and forth with Maisie’s father. Now, he must prove his innocence and protect the girl he loves.
The next story, Beside Still Waters by Becca Whitham, is my favorite of them all. In the story, Sarah Maffey, an heiress, decides that she wants to head west. She sets out, against her father’s wishes, after learning of her fiancé’s infidelity. She discovers that homesteading is much harder than she anticipated. Only with the help of her neighbor, John, is she able to make a dent in the wilderness. When she starts to receive threatening notes, John, who is a former Texas Ranger, promises to keep her safe. Together, they try to determine who is responsible and what they want. Along the way, feelings begin to develop between them. When she is kidnapped, he must save her and pray that she can return his love.
In The Princess of Polecat Creek by Kathleen Y’Barbo, Pearl has loved Deke for as long as she can remember. When he left for college he promised to return for her and she has held tight to that promise. However, the two families have had a falling out over the years and her father forbids it. Deke’s family is also against it, hiding letters that she writes to him and keeping him away from her. When they finally meet again, unforeseen circumstances force them into marriage. She is ecstatic, he is worried. How can the two of them find the past they once shared and turn it into a future they both desire?
The final story, Love From Afar by Penny Zeller, is about Gabe and Meredith, who both secretly like each other, but don’t think the other could feel the same way. When their younger sisters decide to take matters into their own hands by writing love notes between them, will they finally find each other? Or will they be further apart? This story was also one of my favorites!
Lovers of historical fiction with a happy ending will enjoy these nine stories of romance. They are sweet stories and will make you smile.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
This is a fun set of historical stories that take place in the late eighteen hundreds. Each has their own whimsical air that allows for smiles and a few happy tears. I enjoyed reading them and discovering love with nine different couples.
The first story is The Cost of a Heart by Amanda Barratt. In this story, Nathaniel Evans, chauffeur to Lily Montgomery, knows that they can never be together because they are of two different social classes. However, he has watched her struggle for years with loneliness at the hands of her late husband and after his passing. He vows to be her friend and hides his feelings. However, when she begins courting someone else, he discovers that she may be falling into a new painful trap. Can he help her overcome this or will their social differences remain between them?
In the next story, The Advocate by Lorraine Beatty, Hannah Davis journeys west to live with her aunt and help at her local newspaper. She had once read an article about the town sheriff, Mitch Kincaid, and couldn’t wait to meet him. The man she discovers is not the same one described in that long ago article though. This man is stubborn and doesn’t seem to like her, no matter how nice she tries to be. She decides to anonymously help him in his run for reelection as sheriff. She sends letters into the newspaper talking about what a great man he is and how the town should choose him. Will these letters finally bring her closer to her heart or will she head back home with her heart in her hands?
In Too Many Secrets by Molly Noble Bull, Abigail travels with her younger siblings to become a mail order bride. When she arrives in town, her soon to be husband’s neighbor, Luke, drives her out to her new home, where she discovers that her intended is in his nineties. While they wait for the preacher to come to town, she spends time in town and gets to know Luke more. However, she made a promise and she will stick to it. But oh how her heart longs for more. What will she do? How will her heart survive?
Love in Store by Anita Mae Draper is about a shopkeeper named Adam and a young lady who secretly admires him from afar. Janet decides to write him secret notes and leave them about his store in different places. At first, he believes they are for someone else, but soon realizes that they are meant for him. What will he do? He is not the marrying type, believing God can’t forgive him for his past. Will Janet help him find healing and love?
In The Last Letter by CJ Dunham, Emilia Davis has lost everyone she loves in the Civil War: her father, brother, and fiancé. The day the war ends, she receives a letter from her long dead fiancé, telling her that he wants them to live together in the west and create a new life for themselves. She sets out for the frontier, intent on fulfilling her last wishes. Along the way, she adopts a young boy named Josiah and meets Cyrus, a man with his own past and secrets to hide. Will the frontier bring new love or only more heartbreak for Emilia?
The Outcast’s Redemption by Jennifer Uhlarik combines cattle stealing, heartache, and romance in a tale to warm the heart. Maisie is the daughter of the former sheriff in town and, with the passing of her father, she works at a restaurant to help her family. Lucky is the quiet farmhand who comes to see her, but can’t ever get any words out when in her company. When cattle go missing in the area, Lucky’s past finds him. He was once a young boy who helped some cattle rustlers, but got through jail by writing back and forth with Maisie’s father. Now, he must prove his innocence and protect the girl he loves.
The next story, Beside Still Waters by Becca Whitham, is my favorite of them all. In the story, Sarah Maffey, an heiress, decides that she wants to head west. She sets out, against her father’s wishes, after learning of her fiancé’s infidelity. She discovers that homesteading is much harder than she anticipated. Only with the help of her neighbor, John, is she able to make a dent in the wilderness. When she starts to receive threatening notes, John, who is a former Texas Ranger, promises to keep her safe. Together, they try to determine who is responsible and what they want. Along the way, feelings begin to develop between them. When she is kidnapped, he must save her and pray that she can return his love.
In The Princess of Polecat Creek by Kathleen Y’Barbo, Pearl has loved Deke for as long as she can remember. When he left for college he promised to return for her and she has held tight to that promise. However, the two families have had a falling out over the years and her father forbids it. Deke’s family is also against it, hiding letters that she writes to him and keeping him away from her. When they finally meet again, unforeseen circumstances force them into marriage. She is ecstatic, he is worried. How can the two of them find the past they once shared and turn it into a future they both desire?
The final story, Love From Afar by Penny Zeller, is about Gabe and Meredith, who both secretly like each other, but don’t think the other could feel the same way. When their younger sisters decide to take matters into their own hands by writing love notes between them, will they finally find each other? Or will they be further apart? This story was also one of my favorites!
Lovers of historical fiction with a happy ending will enjoy these nine stories of romance. They are sweet stories and will make you smile.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
April 22, 2022
This was a really cute set of stories. My favourite was "The Last Letter" but I also really enjoyed "Beside Still Waters" and "Love From Afar". Each story has a secret admirer aspect; some are done quite cleverly.
The collection is the following stories:
The Cost of a Heart by Amanda Barratt
The Advocate by Lorraine Beatty
Too Many Secrets by Molly Noble Bull
Love in Store by Anita Mae Draper
The Last Letter by C.J. Dunham
The Outcast's Redemption by Jennifer Uhlarik
Beside Still Waters by Becca Whitham
The Princess of Polecat Creek by Kathleen Y'Barbo
Love From Afar by Penny Zeller
The collection is the following stories:
The Cost of a Heart by Amanda Barratt
The Advocate by Lorraine Beatty
Too Many Secrets by Molly Noble Bull
Love in Store by Anita Mae Draper
The Last Letter by C.J. Dunham
The Outcast's Redemption by Jennifer Uhlarik
Beside Still Waters by Becca Whitham
The Princess of Polecat Creek by Kathleen Y'Barbo
Love From Afar by Penny Zeller
November 17, 2020
This was a very cute collection, and I appreciated the added bonus of the mystery and suspense, on top of the romance, especially in the final novella. Also, this collection gave a lot of room for redemption for the characters, which I appreciated!
July 5, 2020
I think I enjoyed every story in this collection. It was a very enjoyable read.
September 13, 2021
I only read the first story the Cost of a Heart. This review will only cover that story.
First things first the story is too short. Lots of people write short stories that are great, but not this one. The author tried to cram too much into the story and it all comes out too fast and jumbled.
Also the author added a lot of unnecessary details such as Lily and Evans dreams. Evans dreams of being a teacher, and Lily wants to build housing for immigrants. Both of these dreams never come true nor serve as motivation for either character. Another random detail is the head butler telling Evans he's watching him and not to get too close to Lily or he will throw him out. This never happens and the conversation could be taken out completely.
Lily and Evans don't spend a lot of time with each other on a personal level. Lily spends a whole lot more time with Kinsley and their friendship seems stronger. Yet the author wants a love triangle, and has Lily go back and forth between the two guys. It doesn't feel genuine and her interactions with Evans doesn't merit her feelings for him in the end of the story.
Whenever something shocking happens to one of the characters I don't feel anything for them, because I barely know them. The story the author was trying to write either needed to be simplified or needed to be longer.
Lily was mentally and physically abused by her deceased husband there entire marriage. This would have been a great opportunity for Evans to have come to her aid multiple times and that's where they could both have started to fall for each other, but that isn't mentioned.
I don't believe Lily sees anything more in Evans than a friend. At moments she will still call him a servant in her head. Author tried to make her seem like she was undecided but it came off as if she didn't really love Evans. Then all of a sudden at the end she wants to get married and it seems totally against her character.
In the end, Lily decides to marry Kinsley if he asks it. Evans decides to check in on Kinsley to see if he's as good of a guy as he says he is. Anyways he does and low and behold he's broke! Meaning he's just being nice to Lily so he can marry her and have all her money. Lily of course gets upset that her "servant" (yes she for some reason isn't calling him Evans anymore but servant) checked up in her private affairs unwarranted. Evans proclaims he loves her and kisses her randomly which leads to a well deserved slap. I think we all knew Kinsley was a shady character from the beginning I mean come on could you be more predictable?
She gets angry and throws Evans out when he tells her Kinsleys just after her money, but then goes to a party with Kinsley later and confronts him. Like why all the hysterics at Evans then if you believed him? It was just another way the author could add in suspense. Also Kinsley, the villian, is caught basically in the act and just kindly apologies and that makes everything okay?!
I'll be honest the last chapter I just skimmed through, I was over the stupid story by this time.
Maybe the worse part of the book isn't the character or plot or stupid antics, but she literally has God speak to Lily in the book. No just no, this is a Christian book and you barely said anything about the Lord, but now at the end he's speaking to you really? Come on! I skimmed some more and I guess Nathan and Lily got married at the end whoo hoo 😐 I'm glad it's over.
First things first the story is too short. Lots of people write short stories that are great, but not this one. The author tried to cram too much into the story and it all comes out too fast and jumbled.
Also the author added a lot of unnecessary details such as Lily and Evans dreams. Evans dreams of being a teacher, and Lily wants to build housing for immigrants. Both of these dreams never come true nor serve as motivation for either character. Another random detail is the head butler telling Evans he's watching him and not to get too close to Lily or he will throw him out. This never happens and the conversation could be taken out completely.
Lily and Evans don't spend a lot of time with each other on a personal level. Lily spends a whole lot more time with Kinsley and their friendship seems stronger. Yet the author wants a love triangle, and has Lily go back and forth between the two guys. It doesn't feel genuine and her interactions with Evans doesn't merit her feelings for him in the end of the story.
Whenever something shocking happens to one of the characters I don't feel anything for them, because I barely know them. The story the author was trying to write either needed to be simplified or needed to be longer.
Lily was mentally and physically abused by her deceased husband there entire marriage. This would have been a great opportunity for Evans to have come to her aid multiple times and that's where they could both have started to fall for each other, but that isn't mentioned.
I don't believe Lily sees anything more in Evans than a friend. At moments she will still call him a servant in her head. Author tried to make her seem like she was undecided but it came off as if she didn't really love Evans. Then all of a sudden at the end she wants to get married and it seems totally against her character.
In the end, Lily decides to marry Kinsley if he asks it. Evans decides to check in on Kinsley to see if he's as good of a guy as he says he is. Anyways he does and low and behold he's broke! Meaning he's just being nice to Lily so he can marry her and have all her money. Lily of course gets upset that her "servant" (yes she for some reason isn't calling him Evans anymore but servant) checked up in her private affairs unwarranted. Evans proclaims he loves her and kisses her randomly which leads to a well deserved slap. I think we all knew Kinsley was a shady character from the beginning I mean come on could you be more predictable?
She gets angry and throws Evans out when he tells her Kinsleys just after her money, but then goes to a party with Kinsley later and confronts him. Like why all the hysterics at Evans then if you believed him? It was just another way the author could add in suspense. Also Kinsley, the villian, is caught basically in the act and just kindly apologies and that makes everything okay?!
I'll be honest the last chapter I just skimmed through, I was over the stupid story by this time.
Maybe the worse part of the book isn't the character or plot or stupid antics, but she literally has God speak to Lily in the book. No just no, this is a Christian book and you barely said anything about the Lord, but now at the end he's speaking to you really? Come on! I skimmed some more and I guess Nathan and Lily got married at the end whoo hoo 😐 I'm glad it's over.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 17, 2017
The Secret Admirer Romance Collection is a book that makes you want to cuddle up on a couch or a window seat, boil a nice big cup of hot chocolate and spray a ton of whip cream on top and cuddle up next to your cuddliest pillow, teddy bear, boyfriend, girlfriend or spouse and start reading these touching, historical romances - each one - believe me or not - better than the other. There are 9 stories that set my heart aback. I was so absorbed in the reading I didn't hear my phone go off - now that's a book - it is a boundless in the differentiation in love stories. Not one was similar to the last - don't you get so sick of the same ole same ole? That isn't here - the authors are brave in their stories and how they tell them - the heart is the clear - cut subject object of the affection of these 9 stories. Your heart will be touched. You have stories of freedom and restarting of life and love it opens the heart and eyes of the characters, in some, some need a little extra help but these stories open hearts that have been closed or just lost - GOD uses all things to open or as a so called compass - lol - to love, or feel again or for the first time or for the right person. GOD is good - AMEN? I received a complimentary copy of this book; all the opinions in this review are all my own.
if you would like to read more of my Christian book reviews go to christianlybookreviewers.blogspot.com
if you would like to read more of my Christian book reviews go to christianlybookreviewers.blogspot.com
June 26, 2017
The stories in these nine novellas show the heroes’ and heroines’ faith in a higher power guiding them to find their true love.
In Love in Store by Anita Mae Draper, set in Miles City, Montana, 1890, the author’s focus is on Adam, the hero, finding forgiveness for himself.
Janet, the heroine, is drawn to Adam, although she doesn’t understand the reasons, she places her trust in her belief that God is guiding her actions.
After Adam changes his hardware store's name to 'The Emporium' and includes items the town's residents might want, not just what they think they need, “something for everyone, and the opportunity for anything,” his life also changes. The author shows, with her example of The Emporium, that a person’s vision is limited but God provides bigger and better options.
The nine stories in this collection are written about another time in history but they also highlight that men and women, then as now, want to find the best possible partner to love, and to that end they depend on their family, friends, and faith.
I enjoyed spending time with each novella, and contemplating the lessons of yesterday as they also apply to today.
In Love in Store by Anita Mae Draper, set in Miles City, Montana, 1890, the author’s focus is on Adam, the hero, finding forgiveness for himself.
Janet, the heroine, is drawn to Adam, although she doesn’t understand the reasons, she places her trust in her belief that God is guiding her actions.
After Adam changes his hardware store's name to 'The Emporium' and includes items the town's residents might want, not just what they think they need, “something for everyone, and the opportunity for anything,” his life also changes. The author shows, with her example of The Emporium, that a person’s vision is limited but God provides bigger and better options.
The nine stories in this collection are written about another time in history but they also highlight that men and women, then as now, want to find the best possible partner to love, and to that end they depend on their family, friends, and faith.
I enjoyed spending time with each novella, and contemplating the lessons of yesterday as they also apply to today.
July 2, 2017
4 Stars!
I very much enjoyed this collection of nine historical romance novellas. I loved the secret admirer aspect of these stories. I liked the unpredictability of who the secret admirer was too, it wasn't always a main character.
I don't feel the need to give a synopsis or even to review each novella in this collection. They are all good! I was excited to read this collection as it was written by some of my favorite authors as well as some new to me authors.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me a digital copy of this book. I have since purchased a paperback copy for myself.
I very much enjoyed this collection of nine historical romance novellas. I loved the secret admirer aspect of these stories. I liked the unpredictability of who the secret admirer was too, it wasn't always a main character.
I don't feel the need to give a synopsis or even to review each novella in this collection. They are all good! I was excited to read this collection as it was written by some of my favorite authors as well as some new to me authors.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me a digital copy of this book. I have since purchased a paperback copy for myself.
October 31, 2017
I really enjoy the themed romance collections much more than the common setting romance collections. With the theme Secret Admirer, I really like how there were so many different takes on the same idea! Made me feel for those shy people! And I liked that they were not your normal storybook stories. Seemed more real maybe? Of course I was also glad it always worked out for the couples, I mean who hasn't secretly admired someone? Great stories!
September 29, 2017
Hmmm...nope. Another one that is not for me. It's a different take on romance stories, so I suppose it will have it's fans. This has a more Christian bent to it, so it's a safe one for younger women. Nothing scandalous , just nice historic, chaste love.
April 25, 2018
Wonderful collection!. If you like historical romance(like myself). This is a must read.
April 1, 2018
I really enjoyed most of the novellas in this collection. There were a few (Too many secrets especially) that I did not. Sweet stories that were fun to read.
October 17, 2020
The nine separate short stories are each quick reads when you want to complete a story easily in one sitting (or are waiting for Amazon to bring new books.) The stories are fairly predictable.
March 28, 2017
I really loved the book. I really liked The Cost of a Heart by Amanda Barratt and The Last Letter by CJ Dunham I loved the last letter because it was different, unlike all the other books hers was written from a one point perspective not from the perspective of both, not to say that I don't like it written from both perspectives either but sometimes the mystery of who the heroine will end up with is lost as soon as we see things from the man's perspective.
Individual ratings :
The Cost of a Heart by Amanda Barratt***** Loved it
The Advocate by Lorraine Beatty **** Quite enjoyed it
Too Many Secrets by Molly Noble Bull*** It was interesting
Love in Store by Anita Mae Draper ***** I liked the story of forgiveness
The Last Letter by CJ Dunham***** Loved it!!!
The Outcast's Redemption by Jennifer Uhlarik***** I enjoyed it
Beside Still Waters by Becca Whitham ***** I enjoyed it
The Princess of Polecat Creek by Kathleen Y'Barbo*** I was surprised at how it tied in with the real life president Cleveland
Love from Afar by Penny Zeller*** A sweet story, was entertained by their younger sisters
All in all a great book I thoroughly enjoyed and almost didn't want to end.
I was given a copy of this book from NetGalley. I was under no obligation to give a positive review and this is my honest opinion. Thanks to Barbour for allowing me to read this book
Individual ratings :
The Cost of a Heart by Amanda Barratt***** Loved it
The Advocate by Lorraine Beatty **** Quite enjoyed it
Too Many Secrets by Molly Noble Bull*** It was interesting
Love in Store by Anita Mae Draper ***** I liked the story of forgiveness
The Last Letter by CJ Dunham***** Loved it!!!
The Outcast's Redemption by Jennifer Uhlarik***** I enjoyed it
Beside Still Waters by Becca Whitham ***** I enjoyed it
The Princess of Polecat Creek by Kathleen Y'Barbo*** I was surprised at how it tied in with the real life president Cleveland
Love from Afar by Penny Zeller*** A sweet story, was entertained by their younger sisters
All in all a great book I thoroughly enjoyed and almost didn't want to end.
I was given a copy of this book from NetGalley. I was under no obligation to give a positive review and this is my honest opinion. Thanks to Barbour for allowing me to read this book
September 15, 2017
Instead of reviewing a whole collection of stories, those within this book, I have chosen to review one of the many stories. This one is by Molly Noble Bull. I have read all the other stories in this collection and found them delightful, fun, as varied as you can get in a collection, and purposeful. I highly recommend this whole book. I enjoyed being able to sit down and in one setting finish a short story or novella.
Too Many Secrets, by Molly Noble Bull is a short story; and short stories, just by their nature, aren't as well developed as full-length books. In spite of this limitation, this author establishes the premise well, that two total strangers from different areas of the country and with obvious baggage from their pasts fall in love. She creates a good amount of conflict and satisfying resolution.
Luke, a rancher in Frio Corners, TX and Abby from Georgia face several obstacles, including totally unfounded gossip, faulty assumptions, and Abby's marriage to another man. Both of them doubt true love is ever going to be possible in their futures. The pastor and his wife in this story are a breath of fresh air, strong and caring, and are a great aid in relieving tension when it is most needed.
What I like most about this 40-page historical fiction is that the main characters are Christians who are so obviously flawed. In my opinion it is much easier to become a believer/follower in Jesus Christ than it is to put that faith to the test and walk in it from day to day. It is a process that takes a life time. So it was not surprising to me that both Luke and Abby jumped to conclusions way too quickly and too often in their early acquaintance. The supporting characters in the story also fell into the same trap, which in turn became a difficult trial for both of them. The author uses this conflict to develop her characters. Because of the brevity of the tale, some of the development may seem abrupt and too brief, especially near the conclusion. But it wasn't enough of a problem to deter my enjoyment of the piece.
The second thing I like about this story is that there is a good salvation message tucked within. Again, because of the brevity of the tome, this message may seem blunt to some readers. I also realize some readers may prefer a more vague reference to salvation, but that is a matter of preference, not something to be criticized. I like sermons, and I like simple, clear explanations, so this style of writing fits my own preferences. I get tired of reading so many fluff pieces where God is barely there in the lives of the people we want to get to know.
Finally, I have read other books by this author, which I would recommend as better representations of her writing abilities than this short piece. These books have well-developed characters who grow through circumstances of conflict and resolution. My two favorites are "When the Cowboy Rides Away" and "The Secret Place." It is my opinion that "Too Many Secrets" be enjoyed for what it is--a pleasant short read (just right for the beach!). I think it also has many seed ideas that could eventually take it into an intense suspenseful full-length novel. But then again, that's my opinion.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the author, Molly Noble Bull. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
Too Many Secrets, by Molly Noble Bull is a short story; and short stories, just by their nature, aren't as well developed as full-length books. In spite of this limitation, this author establishes the premise well, that two total strangers from different areas of the country and with obvious baggage from their pasts fall in love. She creates a good amount of conflict and satisfying resolution.
Luke, a rancher in Frio Corners, TX and Abby from Georgia face several obstacles, including totally unfounded gossip, faulty assumptions, and Abby's marriage to another man. Both of them doubt true love is ever going to be possible in their futures. The pastor and his wife in this story are a breath of fresh air, strong and caring, and are a great aid in relieving tension when it is most needed.
What I like most about this 40-page historical fiction is that the main characters are Christians who are so obviously flawed. In my opinion it is much easier to become a believer/follower in Jesus Christ than it is to put that faith to the test and walk in it from day to day. It is a process that takes a life time. So it was not surprising to me that both Luke and Abby jumped to conclusions way too quickly and too often in their early acquaintance. The supporting characters in the story also fell into the same trap, which in turn became a difficult trial for both of them. The author uses this conflict to develop her characters. Because of the brevity of the tale, some of the development may seem abrupt and too brief, especially near the conclusion. But it wasn't enough of a problem to deter my enjoyment of the piece.
The second thing I like about this story is that there is a good salvation message tucked within. Again, because of the brevity of the tome, this message may seem blunt to some readers. I also realize some readers may prefer a more vague reference to salvation, but that is a matter of preference, not something to be criticized. I like sermons, and I like simple, clear explanations, so this style of writing fits my own preferences. I get tired of reading so many fluff pieces where God is barely there in the lives of the people we want to get to know.
Finally, I have read other books by this author, which I would recommend as better representations of her writing abilities than this short piece. These books have well-developed characters who grow through circumstances of conflict and resolution. My two favorites are "When the Cowboy Rides Away" and "The Secret Place." It is my opinion that "Too Many Secrets" be enjoyed for what it is--a pleasant short read (just right for the beach!). I think it also has many seed ideas that could eventually take it into an intense suspenseful full-length novel. But then again, that's my opinion.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the author, Molly Noble Bull. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
May 2, 2017
Although I generally read contemporary romance, I enjoy Western historicals from time to time. This collection gave me a great Western fix and introduced me to some new authors as well as giving me a chance to read some of my favorites.
The common threads--besides being historical novellas--were the secret admirer theme and the Christian perspective.
Some were more obviously Christian than others, but I appreciate that all have a faith basis. I also enjoy secret admirer stories, so that aspect made these novellas fun reads.
There are a variety of settings and diversity of characters, and each reader will probably have some stories they especially like and some they don't enjoy as much. But overall Christian believers who like their reading material to be consistent with their faith and who enjoy historical romances will find plenty to like in this collection.
The common threads--besides being historical novellas--were the secret admirer theme and the Christian perspective.
Some were more obviously Christian than others, but I appreciate that all have a faith basis. I also enjoy secret admirer stories, so that aspect made these novellas fun reads.
There are a variety of settings and diversity of characters, and each reader will probably have some stories they especially like and some they don't enjoy as much. But overall Christian believers who like their reading material to be consistent with their faith and who enjoy historical romances will find plenty to like in this collection.
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