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Lessons on Love
4 Teachers Find More Than They Bargained for in Their Contracts
Something Old, Something New by Kathleen L. Maher
New York, 1840s
Her father’s sudden death makes Gilda Jacobs the new schoolmaster, but to teach Christian curriculum she partners with fire-and-brimstone revivalist Joshua Blake, who learns a lesson in love.
Love in Any Language by Susanne Dietze
Kansas, 1870
Mary Clarence teaches English to the children of Swedish immigrants, but when her favorite students’ widowed father, Kristofer Nilsson, is accused of robbery, she’s determined to clear his name.
In Desperate Straits by Carrie Fancett Pagels
Mackinac Island, Michigan, 1894
Desperate for work, Margaret Hadley dresses as a young man to secure a dray driver’s position. When soldiers at the fort threaten her, Mackinac Island’s newest teacher, Jesse Huntington, intervenes.
A Song in the Night by Rita Gerlach
Virginia, 1904
Karin Wiles longs to share the uplifting power of music with children. But when she seeks to improve a poorly run school and include orphans, Nathaniel Archer delivers harsh words of opposition from the school board.
Something Old, Something New by Kathleen L. Maher
New York, 1840s
Her father’s sudden death makes Gilda Jacobs the new schoolmaster, but to teach Christian curriculum she partners with fire-and-brimstone revivalist Joshua Blake, who learns a lesson in love.
Love in Any Language by Susanne Dietze
Kansas, 1870
Mary Clarence teaches English to the children of Swedish immigrants, but when her favorite students’ widowed father, Kristofer Nilsson, is accused of robbery, she’s determined to clear his name.
In Desperate Straits by Carrie Fancett Pagels
Mackinac Island, Michigan, 1894
Desperate for work, Margaret Hadley dresses as a young man to secure a dray driver’s position. When soldiers at the fort threaten her, Mackinac Island’s newest teacher, Jesse Huntington, intervenes.
A Song in the Night by Rita Gerlach
Virginia, 1904
Karin Wiles longs to share the uplifting power of music with children. But when she seeks to improve a poorly run school and include orphans, Nathaniel Archer delivers harsh words of opposition from the school board.
448 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2019
7 people are currently reading
124 people want to read
About the author
Susanne Dietze
57 books724 followersSusanne Dietze began writing love stories in high school, casting her friends in the starring roles. Today, she's an award-winning, RITA®-nominated author who's seen her work on the Publisher's Weekly and ECPA Bestseller Lists for Inspirational Fiction. Married to a pastor and the mom of two, Susanne lives in California and loves fancy-schmancy tea parties, the beach, and curling up on the couch with a costume drama. You can visit her on her website, www.susannedietze.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
October 27, 2019
Oh my, I loved these novella length stories so much.
The author's are established Christian authors and their stories make the readers feel real emotion as the characters go through different life experiences bound by the common thread of being a teacher. All have the possibility of finding love.
One of the teachers is even a male.
Two of the stories have readers learning customs from other countries, one of the stories has readers returning to beautiful Mackinac Island (oh how much I want to visit here) and the in the last we learn about a devastating Baltimore fire in 1904.
This I do believe is my favorite novella collection I've read.
Looking forward to seeing what these talented authors will come up with next.
Published October 1st 2019 by Barbour Books.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
The author's are established Christian authors and their stories make the readers feel real emotion as the characters go through different life experiences bound by the common thread of being a teacher. All have the possibility of finding love.
One of the teachers is even a male.
Two of the stories have readers learning customs from other countries, one of the stories has readers returning to beautiful Mackinac Island (oh how much I want to visit here) and the in the last we learn about a devastating Baltimore fire in 1904.
This I do believe is my favorite novella collection I've read.
Looking forward to seeing what these talented authors will come up with next.
Published October 1st 2019 by Barbour Books.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
September 25, 2019
A quality collection of new novellas! Set from 1840 to 1904 they have a common thread of teaching, but are all quite unique. Three women and one man endeavor to help support their families by teaching and reach out to help others in their communities, finding a special relationship on the way.
The women in these entertaining stories were no wilting flowers, for sure. They all showed a lot of determined 'backbone' to earn a living and use their talents to help others. The men they paired up with were also good characters, willing to go the extra mile to help them achieve their goals, overcoming prejudice, unfair accusations, and other hardships along the way. I enjoyed all of them and appreciated the research that went into each one to make it feel more authentic. I especially liked the pair in Susanne Dietze's story who had a language barrier to overcome as well. The mystery in that story made it quite intriguing too. It was fun to see characters from Carrie Fancett Pagels' other books pop in on her Mackinac Island story also.
"Everyone was broken...Everyone sinned and was a sheep in need of a Shepherd."
The spiritual theme of forgiveness and extending grace to people was a strong one in some tales, plus learning to trust in God.
Recommend to readers who enjoy historical Christian romances. 4.5 stars
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.)
The women in these entertaining stories were no wilting flowers, for sure. They all showed a lot of determined 'backbone' to earn a living and use their talents to help others. The men they paired up with were also good characters, willing to go the extra mile to help them achieve their goals, overcoming prejudice, unfair accusations, and other hardships along the way. I enjoyed all of them and appreciated the research that went into each one to make it feel more authentic. I especially liked the pair in Susanne Dietze's story who had a language barrier to overcome as well. The mystery in that story made it quite intriguing too. It was fun to see characters from Carrie Fancett Pagels' other books pop in on her Mackinac Island story also.
"Everyone was broken...Everyone sinned and was a sheep in need of a Shepherd."
The spiritual theme of forgiveness and extending grace to people was a strong one in some tales, plus learning to trust in God.
Recommend to readers who enjoy historical Christian romances. 4.5 stars
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.)
July 22, 2019
From curriculum to mystery to family and more, each story brings unique situations. The teachers all face different circumstances and have the possibility of finding love. I enjoyed reading stories with strong willed women characters. They were determined and dedicated. Great read. I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required.
October 1, 2019
I really enjoyed this collection! It resonated with me as I had great and great-great aunts that were teachers in this time period. This is a collection of stories about strong women who do what they must to provide for themselves and their families.
"Something Old, Something New" is a mixing of cultures. After working as her father's assistant, Gilda fights to take his place as the schoolmaster. The Mayor has other ideas. I enjoyed how the Jewish and Christian cultures were blended in the end.
"Love in Any Language" is another blending of cultures and deals with some prejudice against Swedish immigrants as they were not allowed to attend school unless they could speak English.
I really liked how Mary steps up and starts a little English school in her parent's home for those students. I loved how and why Kristopher made a Dala horse for Mary.
"In Desperate Straits" may have been my favorite of the four stories. Summer on Macinac Island! I loved how Maggie disguises herself as a young man to keep the job that usually goes to one of her brothers as they are unable to work this year. Of course, she is found out but those people keep her secret and even help her keep her job. She is a very skilled dray driver. Jesse and his family permanently moved to their summer home on the island where he continues to look for work. I loved it when Jesse says; "Because I'm a teacher and I've learned some lessons on love."
"A Song in the Night" Karien and her friend Liza lose their jobs when the academy they teach at abruptly closes. Then lose everything in the Baltimore Fire. This story set in 1904, really shows some of the ridiculous rules that female teachers had to abide by. I liked how Karien pushes for change when she applies for a new position.
*I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. A review was not required. The opinion expressed is entirely my own.
*I later received a paperback copy as a gift from a sweet friend.
"Something Old, Something New" is a mixing of cultures. After working as her father's assistant, Gilda fights to take his place as the schoolmaster. The Mayor has other ideas. I enjoyed how the Jewish and Christian cultures were blended in the end.
"Love in Any Language" is another blending of cultures and deals with some prejudice against Swedish immigrants as they were not allowed to attend school unless they could speak English.
I really liked how Mary steps up and starts a little English school in her parent's home for those students. I loved how and why Kristopher made a Dala horse for Mary.
"In Desperate Straits" may have been my favorite of the four stories. Summer on Macinac Island! I loved how Maggie disguises herself as a young man to keep the job that usually goes to one of her brothers as they are unable to work this year. Of course, she is found out but those people keep her secret and even help her keep her job. She is a very skilled dray driver. Jesse and his family permanently moved to their summer home on the island where he continues to look for work. I loved it when Jesse says; "Because I'm a teacher and I've learned some lessons on love."
"A Song in the Night" Karien and her friend Liza lose their jobs when the academy they teach at abruptly closes. Then lose everything in the Baltimore Fire. This story set in 1904, really shows some of the ridiculous rules that female teachers had to abide by. I liked how Karien pushes for change when she applies for a new position.
*I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. A review was not required. The opinion expressed is entirely my own.
*I later received a paperback copy as a gift from a sweet friend.
October 4, 2019
Lessons on Love is a collection of four novellas from Barbour Publishing with the themes each being centered on school teachers during the time period of the mid-19th century and early 20th century. I love these collections as they are easy to read one story at a time and when they are written by authors you love, it's a great book! The stories each have a schoolteacher as one of the main characters and yet each one is different--a Jewish gal taking on the classroom after her father dies, a young woman who teaches English to Swedish immigrants, a young man who desperately needs a job to care for his mother and sisters, and a young music teacher who loses her job. Readers are treated to background information that adds such great interest to the stories--Jewish customs, Pen and Ink Alphabet books, the fact that most women teachers were not allowed to date or be married, Percheron horses and Mackinac Island, and a disastrous fire in Baltimore. The vibrant characters are realistic and relatable with their flaws as well as their strengths being portrayed. Each author has their own seemingly effortless style of writing that draws the reader into her story. Stories of forgiveness, family, faith and a little romance as well! I was given a complimentary copy of the book and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.
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September 5, 2019
Lessons on Love is a collection of historical romance novellas. It is a themed collection celebrating teachers—male and female. The novellas are as follows: Something Old, Something New by Kathleen Maher; Love in Any Language by Susanne Dietze; In Desperate Straits by Carrie Fancett Pagels; and A Song in the Night by Rita Gerlach.
The first novella features a Jewish heroine, Gilda. The family (her mother and sisters) have been financially struggling since her father’s death. She’s a teacher—a good one—but her job has been threatened. Joshua Blake, a Christian, could potentially take her position. Right now they are co-teaching. But though they seemingly come from different backgrounds and cultures, there is undeniably something there between them. Will these two make a match of it?!
Love in Any Language is a super sweet story about a young woman, a former teacher named Mary, who teaches an immigrant and his children English. She teaches immigrant children from several families, I believe, but only one catches her eye and captures her heart—Kristofer Nilsson.
In Desperate Straits is by far my least favorite novella in this collection—dare I say any collection?! It features Maggie Hadley and Jesse Huntington. Her family raises horses. His family buts them. She catches his eye. When his family goes from wealthy to dirt-poor, he seeks a teaching job. Maggie disguises herself as a young boy so she can get a job as a driver and send her wages back home. Her disguise doesn’t fool him...and love predictably follows.
A Song in the Night may just be my favorite. Maybe. Karien Wiles is a music teacher at a well-respected academy in Baltimore. But on the day she just happens to trip and fall in the snow—only to be “rescued“ by a dashing young man, Nathan Archer—she loses her job when the whole academy closes. Will she find another teaching job...or will she find a love worth settling down for. The main point of this one being that a woman couldn’t have both—a husband and a job.
The first story I would rate 5/5.
The second story I would rate 5/5.
The third story I would rate 1/5.
The fourth story I would rate 5/5.
It is interesting that I read the first novella in one sitting, same with the second and fourth. But that third story was dragging and flat. It took me about three weeks to make it through. I am not sure what it was about it—the cross dressing, the horses, the lack of school setting, the melodrama—that made it so not my cup of tea.
The first novella features a Jewish heroine, Gilda. The family (her mother and sisters) have been financially struggling since her father’s death. She’s a teacher—a good one—but her job has been threatened. Joshua Blake, a Christian, could potentially take her position. Right now they are co-teaching. But though they seemingly come from different backgrounds and cultures, there is undeniably something there between them. Will these two make a match of it?!
Love in Any Language is a super sweet story about a young woman, a former teacher named Mary, who teaches an immigrant and his children English. She teaches immigrant children from several families, I believe, but only one catches her eye and captures her heart—Kristofer Nilsson.
In Desperate Straits is by far my least favorite novella in this collection—dare I say any collection?! It features Maggie Hadley and Jesse Huntington. Her family raises horses. His family buts them. She catches his eye. When his family goes from wealthy to dirt-poor, he seeks a teaching job. Maggie disguises herself as a young boy so she can get a job as a driver and send her wages back home. Her disguise doesn’t fool him...and love predictably follows.
A Song in the Night may just be my favorite. Maybe. Karien Wiles is a music teacher at a well-respected academy in Baltimore. But on the day she just happens to trip and fall in the snow—only to be “rescued“ by a dashing young man, Nathan Archer—she loses her job when the whole academy closes. Will she find another teaching job...or will she find a love worth settling down for. The main point of this one being that a woman couldn’t have both—a husband and a job.
The first story I would rate 5/5.
The second story I would rate 5/5.
The third story I would rate 1/5.
The fourth story I would rate 5/5.
It is interesting that I read the first novella in one sitting, same with the second and fourth. But that third story was dragging and flat. It took me about three weeks to make it through. I am not sure what it was about it—the cross dressing, the horses, the lack of school setting, the melodrama—that made it so not my cup of tea.
November 8, 2023
Lessons on Love: 4 Schoolteachers Find More Than They Bargained for in Their Contracts
I always enjoy novella collections by Barbour. They have changed the book format of the novella collections, but I like it even though I will miss the older format (which I loved). There are four novellas in this collection written by four gifted authors bringing their own unique writing style to their story. The stories are set in the time periods of 1840, 1870, 1894 and 1904 and cover several states: Maryland, New York, Kansas, and Michigan.
It is interesting to learn of some of the strict rules and responsibilities the school teachers must agree to and follow. Each of these teachers face challenges and unexpected events and must make decisions that may change the course of their teaching career and their lives. I enjoyed reading about the Jewish traditions and different cultures the teacher deals with in Something Old, Something New and overcoming language barriers in Love in Any Language. We are transported back to Mackinac Island (I want to visit someday) with an unusual dray driver and meet up with a few characters from Carrie Pagels’ other books in In Desperate Straits. A Song in the Night gives detail in the midst of the great Baltimore fire and the effects on the teachers and their families. I especially enjoyed the faith elements woven within each story. Each story is filled with historical detail woven among their fictional story-line and brings history to life. A couple authors included notes with historical information pertaining to their story, which is always interesting. A fun, heartwarming novella collection.
1. Something Old, Something New by Kathleen L. Maher
Cortlandt, Westchester County, New York, 1840
2. Love in Any Language by Susanne Dietze
Riley County, Kansas, 1870
3. In Desperate Straits by Carrie Fancett Pagels
Hadley Percheron Farm, Pickford, Michigan / Mackinac Island, Michigan, 1894
4. A Song in the Night by Rita Gerlach
Baltimore, Maryland, 1904
~I received a copy of this book from one of the authors/publisher and also and e-copy via NetGalley (no monetary gain were exchanged), this is my honest review~
I always enjoy novella collections by Barbour. They have changed the book format of the novella collections, but I like it even though I will miss the older format (which I loved). There are four novellas in this collection written by four gifted authors bringing their own unique writing style to their story. The stories are set in the time periods of 1840, 1870, 1894 and 1904 and cover several states: Maryland, New York, Kansas, and Michigan.
It is interesting to learn of some of the strict rules and responsibilities the school teachers must agree to and follow. Each of these teachers face challenges and unexpected events and must make decisions that may change the course of their teaching career and their lives. I enjoyed reading about the Jewish traditions and different cultures the teacher deals with in Something Old, Something New and overcoming language barriers in Love in Any Language. We are transported back to Mackinac Island (I want to visit someday) with an unusual dray driver and meet up with a few characters from Carrie Pagels’ other books in In Desperate Straits. A Song in the Night gives detail in the midst of the great Baltimore fire and the effects on the teachers and their families. I especially enjoyed the faith elements woven within each story. Each story is filled with historical detail woven among their fictional story-line and brings history to life. A couple authors included notes with historical information pertaining to their story, which is always interesting. A fun, heartwarming novella collection.
1. Something Old, Something New by Kathleen L. Maher
Cortlandt, Westchester County, New York, 1840
2. Love in Any Language by Susanne Dietze
Riley County, Kansas, 1870
3. In Desperate Straits by Carrie Fancett Pagels
Hadley Percheron Farm, Pickford, Michigan / Mackinac Island, Michigan, 1894
4. A Song in the Night by Rita Gerlach
Baltimore, Maryland, 1904
~I received a copy of this book from one of the authors/publisher and also and e-copy via NetGalley (no monetary gain were exchanged), this is my honest review~
September 28, 2019
Lessons on Love is a novella collection by Barbour in a new format.
I like the length of these novellas. We get the benefit of a better fleshed out story.
Something Old, Something New by Kathleen Maher was a real treat to read. I learned about Jewish traditions and how different cultures might have gotten along in the 1800s in Westchester County, New York. It was fun to see how the author wove the customs into the story. There is a bit of mystery to the romance.
Love in Any Language by Susanne Dietze takes place in 1870 among Swedish immigrants. Mary gets to teach the English language to the Swedish children after she is dismissed from her teaching position because of nepotism. The mystery here involves missing items and someone is wrongly accused. Ms. Dietze has spun a relatable cast of characters and a warm, homey story.
In Desperate Straits by Carrie Fancette Pagels is set in Ms. Pagels favorite spot— Mackinac Island. It was such fun visiting Mackinac again through this story. I took a trip long ago and even though this was about 1894, I was transported to the Island. The sweet story involves Percheron horses and a girl disguised in order to get a job driving a Dray wagon. And we get to meet a few characters from Ms. Pagels’ other books.
A Song in the Night by Rita Gerlach is set in 1904 Virginia and Baltimore, Maryland. Karien and Liza are teachers who have just lost their livelihood due to the Academy being shut down. When the great Baltimore fire consumes everything, they must find a way to support themselves and Karien’s mother. The author uses great descriptions of the area and times. Can sweet romance be found in the midst of tragedy? See what comes when a female teacher balks at the ingrained rules of teachers staying single or losing her job.
* I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
I like the length of these novellas. We get the benefit of a better fleshed out story.
Something Old, Something New by Kathleen Maher was a real treat to read. I learned about Jewish traditions and how different cultures might have gotten along in the 1800s in Westchester County, New York. It was fun to see how the author wove the customs into the story. There is a bit of mystery to the romance.
Love in Any Language by Susanne Dietze takes place in 1870 among Swedish immigrants. Mary gets to teach the English language to the Swedish children after she is dismissed from her teaching position because of nepotism. The mystery here involves missing items and someone is wrongly accused. Ms. Dietze has spun a relatable cast of characters and a warm, homey story.
In Desperate Straits by Carrie Fancette Pagels is set in Ms. Pagels favorite spot— Mackinac Island. It was such fun visiting Mackinac again through this story. I took a trip long ago and even though this was about 1894, I was transported to the Island. The sweet story involves Percheron horses and a girl disguised in order to get a job driving a Dray wagon. And we get to meet a few characters from Ms. Pagels’ other books.
A Song in the Night by Rita Gerlach is set in 1904 Virginia and Baltimore, Maryland. Karien and Liza are teachers who have just lost their livelihood due to the Academy being shut down. When the great Baltimore fire consumes everything, they must find a way to support themselves and Karien’s mother. The author uses great descriptions of the area and times. Can sweet romance be found in the midst of tragedy? See what comes when a female teacher balks at the ingrained rules of teachers staying single or losing her job.
* I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
August 2, 2019
Lessons on Love: 4 Schoolteachers Find More Than They Bargained for in Their Contracts is a collection of four stories by four talented authors. These stories include:
Something Old, Something New by Kathleen L. Maher - Gilda Jacobs becomes a school master in 1840s New York
Love in Any Language by Susanne Dietze - Mary Clarence teaches school in 1870 Kansas to immigrants from Sweden.
Kansas, 1870
In Desperate Straits by Carrie Fancett Pagels - Margaret Hadley finds herself acting as a man to get work, gets into trouble and gets help from the town's new teacher, Jesse Huntington in 1894 at Mackinac Island
A Song in the Night by Rita Gerlach - In 1904, Karin Wiles teaches at a Virginia school
I enjoyed every one of these stories. I can not pick my favorite. All four are great short reads. I highly recommend this collection. I am giving it five stars.
Something Old, Something New by Kathleen L. Maher - Gilda Jacobs becomes a school master in 1840s New York
Love in Any Language by Susanne Dietze - Mary Clarence teaches school in 1870 Kansas to immigrants from Sweden.
Kansas, 1870
In Desperate Straits by Carrie Fancett Pagels - Margaret Hadley finds herself acting as a man to get work, gets into trouble and gets help from the town's new teacher, Jesse Huntington in 1894 at Mackinac Island
A Song in the Night by Rita Gerlach - In 1904, Karin Wiles teaches at a Virginia school
I enjoyed every one of these stories. I can not pick my favorite. All four are great short reads. I highly recommend this collection. I am giving it five stars.
October 28, 2019
A wonderfully heartwarming novella collection! Each story contained unique characters within an engaging plot...sometimes poignant, sometimes sweet. Every story left me wanting more from these characters, and I didn't want to leave when it was time to say goodbye. I love these novella collections from Barbour. The authors from this collection didn't disappoint, and I absolutely can't wait for them to do another one! This is one for my bookshelf because I'll keep coming back to it!
I received a complimentary copy of Lessons on Love but was not required to leave a review.
I received a complimentary copy of Lessons on Love but was not required to leave a review.
September 30, 2019
I loved the common theme of teaching, yet all of the stories are so different. I loved them! Having read stories from each of these authors before, I knew I was in for a treat! Each story was so unique! This is a book that I will definitely be reading again! I definitely recommend it!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
July 22, 2019
A story about 4 teachers who endure unexpected circumstances. I recommend to all who enjoy Historic romance.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review from Net Galley.,
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review from Net Galley.,
September 18, 2019
What a lovely way to spend a few hours, losing yourself in the woes and triumphs of yesteryear.
Something Old, Something New - Kathleen L. Maher
1840 - New York
Finding herself as the sole provider for the family, Gilda is sure that she will continue teaching the children in the school her father started. However, the school board feels that a female cannot deal with the discipline in the classroom. Will she lose her position and thus her livelihood to the young man they bring in or will he teach her something she never knew?
Love in Any Language - Susanne Dietze
1870 - Kansas
Mary Clarence has been replaced by a less than desirable male schoolteacher who discriminates against the new students from Sweden. Realizing that the lack of English is one of the problems, she beings to teach these children in her parents home. The process of teaching always brings learning with it. For Mary, it is a lesson in trusting that the Lord has her best in mind.
In Desperate Straits - Carrie Fancett Pagels
1893 - Michigan
If you have visited Mackinac Island, you have seen the gorgeous Percheron horses that pull the drays and carriages around the island. Having a contract with the island, and no healthy brother to be a driver, Maggie Hadley finds herself impersonating a young male to be a dray driver, since females are not allowed. Jesse Huntington, having lost his father and all their wealth comes to be the teacher at the island school - only problem - he has met Maggie before she became Mickey. Will he keep her secret?
A Song in the Night - Rita Gerlach
Maryland - 1904
The world as she knows it is crashing around her. Karien Wiles, an accomplished pianist and music teacher, must suddenly make decisions that will affect not only her life, but also the life of her widowed mother. Will leaving Baltimore for Refuge, Virginia bring the teaching challenge she is looking for and become a place for her mother to start over?
I thoroughly enjoyed all four of these novellas. It really is hard to imagine living in a world when a woman was not allowed to do what she was good at, just because she wasn’t a man. I have to wonder how well many of us would have done in those circumstances.
This ARC was received through Barbour Publishing and NetGalley. The five star rating was not solicited. All impressions and opinions are my own.
Something Old, Something New - Kathleen L. Maher
1840 - New York
Finding herself as the sole provider for the family, Gilda is sure that she will continue teaching the children in the school her father started. However, the school board feels that a female cannot deal with the discipline in the classroom. Will she lose her position and thus her livelihood to the young man they bring in or will he teach her something she never knew?
Love in Any Language - Susanne Dietze
1870 - Kansas
Mary Clarence has been replaced by a less than desirable male schoolteacher who discriminates against the new students from Sweden. Realizing that the lack of English is one of the problems, she beings to teach these children in her parents home. The process of teaching always brings learning with it. For Mary, it is a lesson in trusting that the Lord has her best in mind.
In Desperate Straits - Carrie Fancett Pagels
1893 - Michigan
If you have visited Mackinac Island, you have seen the gorgeous Percheron horses that pull the drays and carriages around the island. Having a contract with the island, and no healthy brother to be a driver, Maggie Hadley finds herself impersonating a young male to be a dray driver, since females are not allowed. Jesse Huntington, having lost his father and all their wealth comes to be the teacher at the island school - only problem - he has met Maggie before she became Mickey. Will he keep her secret?
A Song in the Night - Rita Gerlach
Maryland - 1904
The world as she knows it is crashing around her. Karien Wiles, an accomplished pianist and music teacher, must suddenly make decisions that will affect not only her life, but also the life of her widowed mother. Will leaving Baltimore for Refuge, Virginia bring the teaching challenge she is looking for and become a place for her mother to start over?
I thoroughly enjoyed all four of these novellas. It really is hard to imagine living in a world when a woman was not allowed to do what she was good at, just because she wasn’t a man. I have to wonder how well many of us would have done in those circumstances.
This ARC was received through Barbour Publishing and NetGalley. The five star rating was not solicited. All impressions and opinions are my own.
October 1, 2019
I loved these four stories!
My grandmother was a teacher in the late 1800's and the first one I knew! My sister, aunt, niece were all schoolteachers. I only taught in Sunday School and in my work. Having that background I appreciated all that the teachers in the stories experienced.
Lessons on love was realistic to me, so real that that came to life as I read. Sorrow, romance, emptiness, challenges, foreign language barriers, unemployment, depression, no work for women, strict rules are only some of the lessons in this fine book.
All four are so good, it is difficult to pick a favorite.
I received an advance reader copy from the author. Opinions are my own. A review was not required.
My grandmother was a teacher in the late 1800's and the first one I knew! My sister, aunt, niece were all schoolteachers. I only taught in Sunday School and in my work. Having that background I appreciated all that the teachers in the stories experienced.
Lessons on love was realistic to me, so real that that came to life as I read. Sorrow, romance, emptiness, challenges, foreign language barriers, unemployment, depression, no work for women, strict rules are only some of the lessons in this fine book.
All four are so good, it is difficult to pick a favorite.
I received an advance reader copy from the author. Opinions are my own. A review was not required.
September 30, 2019
Lovely stories
This is a nice collection of short stories written by four wonderful authors. Each story introduces a teacher, which I enjoyed a lot....having taught Sunday School for 25+ years. Strong characters and vivid descriptions help to move each story along, allowing the reader to truly envision each scene. These stories take place between 1840 and 1904, when teaching was totally different from today. They had some pretty strict rules. I enjoyed these stories, but I also learned quite a bit. I highly recommend this collection.
I was given a copy of this book by one of the authors, but was under no obligation to write a review.
This is a nice collection of short stories written by four wonderful authors. Each story introduces a teacher, which I enjoyed a lot....having taught Sunday School for 25+ years. Strong characters and vivid descriptions help to move each story along, allowing the reader to truly envision each scene. These stories take place between 1840 and 1904, when teaching was totally different from today. They had some pretty strict rules. I enjoyed these stories, but I also learned quite a bit. I highly recommend this collection.
I was given a copy of this book by one of the authors, but was under no obligation to write a review.
October 1, 2019
Each one of these books in this collection is very well done. An interesting look at what female schoolteachers had to contend with in order to be able to teach. The one story concerning a male teacher showed the difference to be rather significant. I highly recommend this collection. I received an advance reader copy from the author. Opinions are my own.
January 2, 2020
This is an easy to read, faith-based collection of historical romances written by four talented authors. I enjoyed all four stories. The narratives were interesting and well-written depicting life in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s and especially the mores that society required of teachers. The characters, although diverse from story to story, are believable and engaging. As a teacher, I am always touched and somewhat amazed at stories about the trials and barriers those teachers had to overcome or "live with" just to do what they loved! These authors did an excellent job of capturing my attention and keeping it through each story. I highly recommend this book.
September 25, 2019
So far I have been able to read two of the novellas in this collection. It’s a good collection. I did find one of the novellas to be almost incomplete on its writing. I needed more complete information. Or maybe an just missed it. I would recommend this collection. I like that it’s highlights teachers. I look forward to finishing this novella collection. I was given a copy of this book from NetGalley. All views stated are my own.
December 2, 2019
An anthology containing four stories focusing on love.
“Something Old, Something New” where two people of different faiths, Judaism and Christianity, must work together in unity as they teach the children of a small town in upper New York State along the Hudson River and near the Erie Canal.
This is a story not only of two different faiths, it is also a story of two peoples, two educators and two families that split apart because two people each of a different faith united as one. You can find out what happens by reading this incredible story!
“Love in Any Language” is about Swedish emigrants who have emigrated to Riley, Kansas. Because they cannot speak English their children are send home from school, denied an education all because the teacher is unqualified to help them learn and continue to teach all the children their usual curriculum. One woman takes on the responsibility to help them learn English as well as try also to write the State Superintendent of Public Instruction about this situation.
“In Desperate Straits” is about the depression of the 1890’s in Michigan. A family who has a stable of Percheron’s they raise and sell is facing hard times. Their youngest child, a girl, takes a job as a dray driver to help with finances. Of course women do not work out of the home much, but never in such an occupation. Reading this story had me laughing and angry both yet all turns out well.
“A Song in the Night” is about a music teacher in the early 1900’s. Teachers if women were not allowed to marry or in some states were not even allowed to be seen with any male not of her immediate family. She loses her job and gains a male friend all on the same day. Will she continue seeking employment in a field that discourages women from marrying or continuing seeing her friend?
All of these stories are filled with rules for women, how they should act, who they should speak to, what jobs they should seek, and even told they should to spend more time in the home and kitchen to develop skills to help them attract a husband not work outside the home.
The authors have done extensive research as is evidence by their remarks either prefaced before beginning or at the end of their story. Doing so makes for greater clarity and gives us, the reader, a sharper image to envision.
I thank the authors, NetGalley and Barbour Publishing for allowing me to read this book.
“Something Old, Something New” where two people of different faiths, Judaism and Christianity, must work together in unity as they teach the children of a small town in upper New York State along the Hudson River and near the Erie Canal.
This is a story not only of two different faiths, it is also a story of two peoples, two educators and two families that split apart because two people each of a different faith united as one. You can find out what happens by reading this incredible story!
“Love in Any Language” is about Swedish emigrants who have emigrated to Riley, Kansas. Because they cannot speak English their children are send home from school, denied an education all because the teacher is unqualified to help them learn and continue to teach all the children their usual curriculum. One woman takes on the responsibility to help them learn English as well as try also to write the State Superintendent of Public Instruction about this situation.
“In Desperate Straits” is about the depression of the 1890’s in Michigan. A family who has a stable of Percheron’s they raise and sell is facing hard times. Their youngest child, a girl, takes a job as a dray driver to help with finances. Of course women do not work out of the home much, but never in such an occupation. Reading this story had me laughing and angry both yet all turns out well.
“A Song in the Night” is about a music teacher in the early 1900’s. Teachers if women were not allowed to marry or in some states were not even allowed to be seen with any male not of her immediate family. She loses her job and gains a male friend all on the same day. Will she continue seeking employment in a field that discourages women from marrying or continuing seeing her friend?
All of these stories are filled with rules for women, how they should act, who they should speak to, what jobs they should seek, and even told they should to spend more time in the home and kitchen to develop skills to help them attract a husband not work outside the home.
The authors have done extensive research as is evidence by their remarks either prefaced before beginning or at the end of their story. Doing so makes for greater clarity and gives us, the reader, a sharper image to envision.
I thank the authors, NetGalley and Barbour Publishing for allowing me to read this book.
March 11, 2021
Four teachers find more than they bargained for in their contracts!
Something Old, Something New by Kathleen L. Maher
This story is set in Westchester County, New York in 1840. Gilda Jacobs takes over as schoolmaster after her father’s death teaching Jewish children. Along comes Joshua Blake, a Gentile who wishes become a preacher & has also been partnered with her to teach the Christian curriculum in the classroom. I enjoyed learning more about the Jewish customs and way of life in this story. Seeing tradition played out through Gilda's eyes was very interesting to me. I also loved Joshua's gentle but firm way of teaching the Jewish people about faith in Jesus and his passion for the calling God placed on his life. The forbidden romantic spark between these two was palatable, and I really loved how the author brought them together at the end. Making two cultures see eye to eye wasn't an easy task, but it's what kept me turning pages!
Love in Any Language by Susanne Dietz
Kansas 1870
Mary Clarence is an outspoken young lady who learns that Swedish children have been denied schooling because they can't speak English. She takes matters into her own hands and teaches them at her home. It doesn't hurt that she's also attracted to Kristofer Nilsson—her favorite students widowed father! When Kristofer is accused of stealing, Mary sets out to prove his innocence, thus sealing their hearts together. His girls Britta and Agata added their sweetness, giggles and light to the story. I really enjoyed all that happened in this story and also learning a bit about the Swedish culture.
In Desperate Straits by Carrie Fancett Pagels
Mackinac Island, Michigan, 1894
One of Carrie Pagels favorite places to visit is Mackinac Island Michigan. So the area is well researched, which in turn makes the story come alive! Margaret Hadley pretends to one of her brothers in order to get work as a dray driver in desperate times. Jessie Huntington met her when his dad purchased two of her families Percheron horses about a year ago. Unfortunately, I was unable to connect with this story or the characters & didn't finish reading it. It wasn't due to the authors writing, I found Pagels to be an excellent story teller!
A Song in the Night by Rita Gerlach
This takes place in Virginia 1904 and is a story of Karien Wiles, a music teacher at The Margaret Brent Academy. After it closes down and then the great fire of Baltimore devastates the city, she & another teacher Liza must find a way to survive. A promise of romance brings a bright spot and a future. I really enjoyed this story and getting to know the characters!
All these novellas brought their own unique flavor to the table and spotlighted the authors storytelling abilities. I think anyone who loves reading historical fiction will enjoy Lessons on Love!
*I received a complimentary digital copy from Netgalley and was not obligated to leave a favorable review. All opinions expressed here are mine. *
Something Old, Something New by Kathleen L. Maher
This story is set in Westchester County, New York in 1840. Gilda Jacobs takes over as schoolmaster after her father’s death teaching Jewish children. Along comes Joshua Blake, a Gentile who wishes become a preacher & has also been partnered with her to teach the Christian curriculum in the classroom. I enjoyed learning more about the Jewish customs and way of life in this story. Seeing tradition played out through Gilda's eyes was very interesting to me. I also loved Joshua's gentle but firm way of teaching the Jewish people about faith in Jesus and his passion for the calling God placed on his life. The forbidden romantic spark between these two was palatable, and I really loved how the author brought them together at the end. Making two cultures see eye to eye wasn't an easy task, but it's what kept me turning pages!
Love in Any Language by Susanne Dietz
Kansas 1870
Mary Clarence is an outspoken young lady who learns that Swedish children have been denied schooling because they can't speak English. She takes matters into her own hands and teaches them at her home. It doesn't hurt that she's also attracted to Kristofer Nilsson—her favorite students widowed father! When Kristofer is accused of stealing, Mary sets out to prove his innocence, thus sealing their hearts together. His girls Britta and Agata added their sweetness, giggles and light to the story. I really enjoyed all that happened in this story and also learning a bit about the Swedish culture.
In Desperate Straits by Carrie Fancett Pagels
Mackinac Island, Michigan, 1894
One of Carrie Pagels favorite places to visit is Mackinac Island Michigan. So the area is well researched, which in turn makes the story come alive! Margaret Hadley pretends to one of her brothers in order to get work as a dray driver in desperate times. Jessie Huntington met her when his dad purchased two of her families Percheron horses about a year ago. Unfortunately, I was unable to connect with this story or the characters & didn't finish reading it. It wasn't due to the authors writing, I found Pagels to be an excellent story teller!
A Song in the Night by Rita Gerlach
This takes place in Virginia 1904 and is a story of Karien Wiles, a music teacher at The Margaret Brent Academy. After it closes down and then the great fire of Baltimore devastates the city, she & another teacher Liza must find a way to survive. A promise of romance brings a bright spot and a future. I really enjoyed this story and getting to know the characters!
All these novellas brought their own unique flavor to the table and spotlighted the authors storytelling abilities. I think anyone who loves reading historical fiction will enjoy Lessons on Love!
*I received a complimentary digital copy from Netgalley and was not obligated to leave a favorable review. All opinions expressed here are mine. *
August 28, 2019
I absolutely love reading these authors, and especially when they are grouped together to bring readers a group of novellas that teach various people about love. Beginning in an era when teachers were not allowed to be married, each story becomes more modern until the early 1900s.
One of the teachers had her job taken from her by nepotism on the school board, but she found a way to continue teaching--by teaching the Norwegian children to read, write, and speak English.
One of the teachers loses her job when the school closes down. She was a music teacher and she was supporting her mother and her sister with her salary. A man she met at the closing of the school sets her up to play a piano concert and many parents attending ask her to teach their children privately.
These are just two of the four high quality novellas contained in this anthology. Barbour always puts out a quality product and this certainly fits that bill. Five Stars, Two Thumbs Up, and teacher to fill in your blanks.
My thanks go to Barbour Publishing and NetGalley.com for providing this galley for me to read and review.
One of the teachers had her job taken from her by nepotism on the school board, but she found a way to continue teaching--by teaching the Norwegian children to read, write, and speak English.
One of the teachers loses her job when the school closes down. She was a music teacher and she was supporting her mother and her sister with her salary. A man she met at the closing of the school sets her up to play a piano concert and many parents attending ask her to teach their children privately.
These are just two of the four high quality novellas contained in this anthology. Barbour always puts out a quality product and this certainly fits that bill. Five Stars, Two Thumbs Up, and teacher to fill in your blanks.
My thanks go to Barbour Publishing and NetGalley.com for providing this galley for me to read and review.
September 23, 2019
I loved each and every one of these stories!! The authors that wrote them well, I just love them.
Each story has a charm of it's own and each woman had a teaching style all her own.
Did you know that back in those days teachers were not allowed to marry? If they did, she would have to quit and the school board would hire someone else.
When I went to visit the Little House museum site in Kansas they had a list of rules that the teacher had to follow. I didn't mean to but I had to laugh at some of them simply because they were ridiculous!
These authors have done such a nice job and in such short novellas too.
Two of the stories I enjoyed most was In Desperate Straights and Something New and Something Old. I liked Carrie's story because it takes place on Mackinac Island my most favorite place in the whole world. Kathleen's I loved because it was about Gilda and what all she endured while supporting her family. She's my kind of heroine.
I like the others too. A song in the Night I liked because it had music in it. You see, music is a big part of my life as well. I play in an orchestra something that my mother passed on to me and I passed on to my son. Music has a way of relaxing me as well as reading. It is the coolest part of education.
I think the one I disliked was Love in any language. Part of the reason is just how people that didn't speak English shouldn't be denied an education. English is hard enough to learn as it is without someone making it harder. Education should be for everyone! Mary certainly had her work cut out for her.
I admired Mary. Mary is spunky and knows how to get the job done!
Family is the keyword and in many places if you don't have family working anywhere then chances are it will be hard to find a job. Yes, I know it is unfair. In today's world it's still pretty much like that especially in small towns.
It was a pleasant way to spend the weekend while your husband is at work and your son has his earbuds in all weekend. Yep, peace and quiet just how I like an afternoon to spend with my books.
I highly recommend this book. I was sorry to see it end. I give this book 5 stars!
My thanks to Netgalley. All opinions are my own and NO compensations were recieved
Each story has a charm of it's own and each woman had a teaching style all her own.
Did you know that back in those days teachers were not allowed to marry? If they did, she would have to quit and the school board would hire someone else.
When I went to visit the Little House museum site in Kansas they had a list of rules that the teacher had to follow. I didn't mean to but I had to laugh at some of them simply because they were ridiculous!
These authors have done such a nice job and in such short novellas too.
Two of the stories I enjoyed most was In Desperate Straights and Something New and Something Old. I liked Carrie's story because it takes place on Mackinac Island my most favorite place in the whole world. Kathleen's I loved because it was about Gilda and what all she endured while supporting her family. She's my kind of heroine.
I like the others too. A song in the Night I liked because it had music in it. You see, music is a big part of my life as well. I play in an orchestra something that my mother passed on to me and I passed on to my son. Music has a way of relaxing me as well as reading. It is the coolest part of education.
I think the one I disliked was Love in any language. Part of the reason is just how people that didn't speak English shouldn't be denied an education. English is hard enough to learn as it is without someone making it harder. Education should be for everyone! Mary certainly had her work cut out for her.
I admired Mary. Mary is spunky and knows how to get the job done!
Family is the keyword and in many places if you don't have family working anywhere then chances are it will be hard to find a job. Yes, I know it is unfair. In today's world it's still pretty much like that especially in small towns.
It was a pleasant way to spend the weekend while your husband is at work and your son has his earbuds in all weekend. Yep, peace and quiet just how I like an afternoon to spend with my books.
I highly recommend this book. I was sorry to see it end. I give this book 5 stars!
My thanks to Netgalley. All opinions are my own and NO compensations were recieved
August 9, 2019
This well written collection of novellas takes place between the late 1800's and 1904. Each story is unique and brings its own circumstances regarding teaching. The rules for women teachers during this time period were very strict. Not only could a woman not marry and keep her position. In many cases she could not even talk to a man, unless it was a doctor and she was sick. The man must be a close relative, father, brother or such. They could also talk to their clergy. No one else. They didn't want them to be temped into having a relationship and therefore marry. They were losing too many well trained teachers. I enjoyed each of these novellas. I enjoy this type of collection, it is a good way to try out a new author. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Books through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
October 16, 2019
A wonderful collection of novellas! Taking place from the mid 1800's to the early 1900's each novella centers around teachers and the circumstances they face which is more than just teaching. I found this collection very interesting as my grandmother was a one room school teacher. I can remember her relating some of the different situations she faced but as a young teen/adult I didn't grasp the "lesson" she was trying to teach me. As I was reading this very interesting book I couldn't help but wish I had written down some of her stories. This book made me appreciate more what she lived through. Teaching back then didn't end when closing the door at the end of the day.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review from Net Galley. This is my honest review.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review from Net Galley. This is my honest review.
August 9, 2019
Lessons of Love
By Susanne Dietze, Rita Gerlach, Kathleen L. Maher, Carrie Fancett Pagels
These novellas were well written and made a wonderful collection that was easy and fun to read. I appreciated each of the story’s as they were all unique. I think that I enjoyed, “In Desperate Straits” the most. Each of the women overcame their challenges with their faith stronger.
“Evil lurked in the heart of man that only God’s love and grace could ever overcome.”
I was provided with a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. For more book reviews visit my blog: https://simplyannehere.wordpress.com
By Susanne Dietze, Rita Gerlach, Kathleen L. Maher, Carrie Fancett Pagels
These novellas were well written and made a wonderful collection that was easy and fun to read. I appreciated each of the story’s as they were all unique. I think that I enjoyed, “In Desperate Straits” the most. Each of the women overcame their challenges with their faith stronger.
“Evil lurked in the heart of man that only God’s love and grace could ever overcome.”
I was provided with a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. For more book reviews visit my blog: https://simplyannehere.wordpress.com
October 19, 2019
Such an enjoyable book! I loved the history of the day. Women could only teach if they were single and there wasn’t a man available as a teacher. And of course men made better teachers. Sure glad we know better now!
The characters in this set of novellas are well developed and most of them are people I’d love to know. Times were hard in each story, but strong backbones made for people who didn’t quit. They pushed through hardships to come out the other side with much learned along the way.
With some intrigue and light romance, this is a must read if you enjoy historical fiction as I do.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
The characters in this set of novellas are well developed and most of them are people I’d love to know. Times were hard in each story, but strong backbones made for people who didn’t quit. They pushed through hardships to come out the other side with much learned along the way.
With some intrigue and light romance, this is a must read if you enjoy historical fiction as I do.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
November 8, 2019
If you enjoy inspirational historical romance then you’re sure to find a few pleasurable hours spent with these four school teachers while they address and work through challenges faced in and out of the classroom. With four unique writing styles, readers are sure to be entertained and encouraged by one or more of these courageous young teachers.
I have to mention the gorgeous cover. I love the cutout design. It’s one of the prettiest covers on my book shelf this year!
I was gifted a copy of the book. No review was required.
I have to mention the gorgeous cover. I love the cutout design. It’s one of the prettiest covers on my book shelf this year!
I was gifted a copy of the book. No review was required.
August 6, 2019
Lesson on Love is a good collection of historical romance novellas.. I enjoyed each selection.. each story is well written with an entertaining plot. Fans of historical romance will enjoy this book. Thanks to the publisher for my advance ebook. This is my unbiased review.
October 28, 2019
With guts, determination, and help from above, the heroines in these charming novellas featuring schoolteachers will capture your attention and your heart.
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