The Matchmaker Brides Collection by Kim Vogel Sawyer, Amanda Cobot, Diana Lesire Brandmeyer, Lisa Carter, Ramona K. Cecil, Lynn A Coleman, Susanne Dietze, Connie Stevens, Liz Tolsma

Here is the book summary:

Nine Meddling Matchmakers Find Love When They Least Expect It

Meet nine women of the late 1800s who have found themselves in the role of matchmaker. They think they have mastered the art of recognizing romantic potential in others, but when it comes to their own lives they have been unlucky in love. In small communities from Tennessee to Colorado, Wyoming to Indiana, love unexpectedly enters the women’s lives with men they never imagined marrying. But what will it take to get these ladies to say “I do”?

Home Grown Bride by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer
1876–Lebanon, Illinois
Emmie Mueller thinks the only way to leave Illinois and join her family in Kansas is to play matchmaker to the boarders who stand in the way of her grandmother selling her house. But tables are turned when the boarders attempt to match her with the newest man in town, Landon Knipp.

The Unmatched Bride by Amanda Cabot
1886–Cheyenne, Wyoming Territory
When a confirmed spinster matchmaker accepts an unusual assignment and helps a wealthy widower choose the right mate for his daughter, more than one couple finds true love.

Playing Possum by Lisa Carter
1895–Possum Trot, WY
Hoping to outplay, outwit, and outlast the Possum Trot matchmakers during the harvest festival, Cage Cooper proposes a pretend engagement to suffragette Theodosia Holland. Trouble is—in playing possum, they both may have gotten far more than they bargained for.

Hog Trough Bride by Ramona K. Cecil
1882–Honeytown, Indiana
Hoping to save her older sister from the humiliation of having to dance in the hog trough—a local custom when a younger sister beats her older sister to the altar—an aspiring bride engages in multiple matchmaking attempts with chaotic and surprising results.

The Tinman’s Match by Lynn A. Coleman
1880–On the road from Virginia to Tennessee
Josephine Woodley is surprised to find Xander Russell, a matchmaker, is an honorable man. Can she soften his tin heart enough for him to consider a match of his own?

Miss Matched by Susanne Dietze
1879–Emerald, Colorado
Brainy Grace Perkins applies scientific principles to play matchmaker for the singles in her small town. However, her hypothesis leaves out God’s role and matters of the heart, creating tangled results.

The Backfired Bride by Kim Vogel Sawyer
1889–Friendly, Kansas
Can a pair of single, inexperienced but well-meaning young people convince an older man and woman that marriage is better than remaining alone?

Sing of the Mercy by Connie Stevens
1876–Black Hills of Dakota Territory
A newly-elected mayor teams up with a hash house cook to turn a mining camp into a brand new town. Will they be able to transform the rough-edged miners into gentlemen, persuading prospective brides to consider matrimony?

A Match Made in Heaven by Liz Tolsma
1885–Detwiler, Iowa
Pastor Len Montgomery receives an unusual letter that turns him into the matchmaker he never wanted to be. But the match he most wants to make, the one with the town’s sweet and charming postmistress, may be out of his reach.

And now, my review:

I had the song “Matchmaker, Matchmaker” from Fiddler on the Roof singing in my head while enjoying this one!  What a great book full of 9 short stories!  Don’t let “short” stop you because each of these wonderful stories are well-developed and full of a great reads in-and-of themselves.  I love that about these great Barbour books.  For this book, the theme is Matchmaker and it’s a great idea to base some great reads on by some fantastic authors.  I really enjoyed finding out who in each story was the matchmaker and how it was played out, based on the time period of the 1800s.  Even the best intentions were sometimes realized surprises. 

I received this book in exchange for my review.

https://www.amazon.com/Matchmaker-Brides-Collection-Matchmakers-Romance-ebook/dp/B01N9O2VRW/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1490306646&sr=8-2&keywords=the+matchmakers+brides+collection

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-matchmaker-brides-collection-amanda-cabot/1123887424?ean=9781634099547

https://www.christianbook.com/matchmaker-collection-matchmakers-tables-romance-turned/amanda-cabot/9781634099547/pd/099547?event=ESRCG

Long Time Gone by Mary Connealy

Here is the book summary:

Connealy Combines Western Action and Charming Historical Romance

The Boden clan thought their problems had ended with the death of a dangerous enemy, but have they truly uncovered the real plot to take their New Mexico ranch? Rancher Justin Boden is now in charge. He is normally an unshakable and rugged man, but with his brother, Cole, shot and in mortal danger, even a tough man faces doubts. And it doesn't help that Angie DuPree, the assistant to the doctor trying to save Cole, is as distracting a woman as Justin ever laid eyes on.

With her and the doc's timely skills, Cole looks to be on the mend, and Justin and the rest of the Bodens can turn their attention back to the dangers facing them. It's clear now that everything that's occurred is part of a much bigger plot that could date back to a decades-old secret. Can they uncover all the pieces before danger closes in on them, or is the threat to the ranch even bigger than any of the Bodens could imagine?

And now, my review:

I really enjoy the writing style of this author and this book is another great one.  This book had me on the edge of my seat and hanging on for more.  The characters were well-developed and I liked the good ones and despised the bad.  Learning the history of a time in history where people did not like the border lines between Mexico and New Mexico were fascinating and intriguing.  So, the events to follow were overwhelming and well-written about by this author.  Sometimes downright intense!  I recommend this book!

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

https://www.amazon.com/Long-Time-Gone-Cimarron-Legacy/dp/076421182X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1489014502&sr=8-1&keywords=long+time+gone+mary+connealy

The Pony Express Romance Collection by a Variety of Authors

Here’s the book summary:

Nine historical romances revive the brief era of the Pony Express.

Join the race from Missouri, across the plains and mountains to California and back again as brave Pony Express riders and their supporters along the route work to get mail across country in just ten days. It is an outstanding task in the years 1860 to 1861, and only a few are up to the job. Faced with challenges of terrain, weather, hostile natives, sickness, and more, can these adventurous pioneers hold fast, and can they also find lasting love in the midst of daily trials?

A Place to Belong by Barbara Tifft Blakey
An Express rider promises to help fulfill Abigail’s dream to return to her childhood home. Jacob doesn’t trust him, but what other option does she have?

An Unlikely Hero by Mary Davis
BethAnn along with her little sister are running from a mistake and find security at a Pony Express station and love in the quiet affection of a shy Pony Express rider.

The Gambler’s Daughter by Darlene Franklin
Gambling debts drive Caroline Adams’s estranged father away from the Chelan Swing Station before her arrival. Can his replacement conquer the temptations goading them both to prove himself worthy of Caroline’s love?

Her Lonely Heart by Cynthia Hickey
Widow Sadie Mathewson wants to find love again. But when an injured pony express rider shows up at her station, love finds her in an unexpected way.

My Dear Adora by Maureen Lang
Chip Nolan must dispatch the letters his brother can’t after being left for dead on the Pony Express trail. One letter stands out, addressed to “My Dear Adora”— stirring Chip’s heart before he even meets its recipient.

Ride into My Heart by Debby Lee
Kimimela works at a Pony Express station where she struggles to cope with the death of her sister. When she’s kidnapped by gun smugglers, can her friend, Pony Express rider Gabe, rescue her in time?

Echoes of the Heart by Donna Schlachter
A mail order bride. A crippled stationmaster. No way out for either of them—except with each other. Can they surrender their hearts and find true love?

Abundance of the Heart by Connie Stevens
Unfulfilled goals haunt Fletcher and Mercy at a remote Nebraska outpost, but unexpected circumstances may offer a last-chance opportunity to pursue the dream of riding for the Pony Express.

Embattled Hearts by Pegg Thomas
Alannah Fagan escaped from a battle she wouldn’t survive. Stewart McCann left behind a battle he couldn’t face. Thrown together at Horseshoe Station, can they find something worth fighting for?

And now, my review:

This is an awesome historical fiction with loads of adventure about the Pony Express time in America.  Each story brings a great adventure and stands along really well.  They are perfect in length and all of them together make for a great book. I’m walking away with quite an appreciation of days long ago and brave riders.  I highly recommend this one!!

I received a copy of this book for my honest review.

https://www.amazon.com/Pony-Express-Romance-Collection-Inspiring/dp/1683221176/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1486781635&sr=1-1&keywords=the+pony+express+romance+collection

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-pony-express-romance-collection-barbara-tifft-blakey/1124440730?ean=9781683221173

https://www.christianbook.com/romance-collection-historic-delivers-inspiring-romances/barbara-blakey/9781683221173/pd/221177?event=ESRCG

The Pattern Artist by Nancy Moser

Let's begin with the summary:

Born into a life of hard work, English housemaid Annie Wood arrives in New York City in 1911 with her wealthy mistress. Wide-eyed with the possibilities America has to offer, Annie wonders if there’s more for her than a life of service. Annie chooses to risk everything, taps into courage she never knew she had, and goes off on her own, finding employment in the sewing department at Macy’s. While at Macy’s Annie catches the eye of a salesman at the Butterick Pattern Company. Through determination, hard work, and God’s leading, Annie discovers a hidden gift: she is a talented fashion designer—a pattern artist of the highest degree. As she runs from ghosts of the past and focuses on the future, Annie enters a creative world that takes her to the fashion houses of Paris and into a life of adventure, purpose, and love.

And now, my review:

If you like historical fiction you’re going to love this one!  What a delightful read!! This is a story penned with unexpected turns and delightful twists.  One that is hard to put down once started.  I really enjoyed the sewing theme throughout, the hope of the Savior directing the character’s lives/futures, and the surprises that came about.  It kept me reading for more.  This author has a way of painting pictures in her writing that stay with the reader and helps them experience much through the five senses. 

I highly recommend this one!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing in exchange for my honest review.

https://www.amazon.com/Pattern-Artist-Nancy-Moser-ebook/dp/B01HHJIK9O/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1483728721&sr=1-1&keywords=The+Pattern+Artist+by+Nancy+Moser

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-pattern-artist-nancy-moser/1123611033?ean=9781634097925

https://www.christianbook.com/the-pattern-artist-nancy-moser/9781634097925/pd/097925?event=ESRCG

Hope's Design by Dawn Kinzer

Let's start with the book summary:

Inspirational Historical Romance Novel

In 1904, Hope Andrews, an aspiring fashion designer, struggles with leaving New York City. But with no job, her parents leaving the country, and an abusive ex-fiancé refusing to accept their broken engagement, Hope doesn’t have much choice but to give in to her parents’ wishes that she move far away and live with her cousin indefinitely.

Talented Benjamin Greene can’t deny his passion for painting, but guilt over a painful incident in his past keeps him from sharing his gift. Instead, he devotes much of his days to helping his younger sibling rebuild a farm inherited from a great-uncle. Only his brother is aware that Ben spends his spare time in a studio on their property.

In the small rural town of Riverton, Wisconsin, Hope and Ben can’t help but be thrown together. But as feelings for each other deepen, tension thickens over how talent should be used. Their mutual passion for art brings them together, but will it also drive them apart?

BOOK CLUB MEMBERS: You’ll find 20+ questions included for discussion and reflection.

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Hope’s Design was written as a stand-alone novel, but some readers may appreciate parts of the story even more if having read Sarah’s Smile, Book 1 in The Daughters of Riverton series.

And now for my review:

Another GREAT read!! Book 2 in the series was a great continuation of the story from book 1, but could definitely stand alone.  The author has a way of making you want to come and sit with the characters over a cup of tea and talk about life.  There is a sense of longing to be part of a town that she paints in the book.  There are real life situations in the book that are penned through in a way that's realistic and enjoyable.  This is a book that once started, you never want to put down until you’re finished and it has left me longing for the next one in the series.  Being who God created you to be is a theme and I thought well played out by each person.  There's a sense of joy in seeing them embrace this truth.

I would highly recommend this book and this author.  I received a copy of the book from the author for my honest review.

https://www.amazon.com/Hopes-Design-Daughters-Riverton-Book-ebook/dp/B01LZS5VYQ/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1483724941&sr=1-1&keywords=hope%27s+design+by+dawn+kinzer

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/hopes-design-dawn-kinzer/1125041187?ean=9780997815412

Sarah's Smile by Dawn Kinzer

Let's begin with the book summary:

Inspirational Historical Romance Novel

Romance. Heartbreak. Scandal. Secrets. Second Chances.

In 1902, Sarah McCall is waiting to leave for the mission field when the man she once loved steps back into her life. Abandoned as a child by her mother and gambler father, she strives to overcome a tarnished history she didn’t create and a heartbreak she can’t forget.

Peter Caswell returns to his Wisconsin hometown a pastor, dedicated to his four-year-old daughter and new congregation. But no matter how hard he tries to move on with his life, he can’t forgive himself for his wife’s death.

When Sarah learns that Peter is returning to Riverton, the letter giving her departure date for Africa can’t come soon enough for her. They were best friends—she loved him and supported his dreams—but he married another and broke her heart. Although ten years have passed since he left Riverton, Peter hopes Sarah still cares enough to give him a second chance. But a charming newcomer pursues her affections—and Sarah’s childhood nemesis manipulates her way into Peter’s life. Will Sarah and Peter find their way to forgiveness and each other, or will past mistakes make a life together impossible?

And now for my review:

This is a story penned of an adventure of love. A novel, that once started, is hard to put down! I thought the plot was well thought out, with lots of twists and turns. The characters were well-developed and easy to get to know.

There is a message of forgiveness that is weaved throughout and is thought provoking. This book is highly flavored with romance which is a perfectly blended recipe to me in a Christian fiction.

I highly recommend this book and look forward to enjoying it again along with the ones to come in the series.

https://www.amazon.com/Sarahs-Smile-Daughters-Riverton-Book-ebook/dp/B01M0GA0LI/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1483724139&sr=1-1&keywords=sarah%27s+smile+dawn+kinzer

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/sarahs-smile-dawn-kinzer/1125041042?ean=9780997815405