In Honor’s Defense by Karen Witemeyer

About the Book

Book: In Honor’s Defense

Author: Karen Witemeyer

Genre: Historical Romance

Release date: June 7, 2022

Luke Davenport has been fighting all his life–for respect, for country, and for those unable to fight for themselves. But now that his Horsemen brothers are domesticated, he’s left alone to battle the wildness within. When an opportunity arises to take a job on his own, tracking down a group of rustlers, he jumps at the chance.

Damaris Baxter has mastered the art of invisibility. Plain and quiet, she hides in books and needlework, content to be overlooked. Until her brother dies suddenly, leaving her custody of her nephew. She moves to Texas to care for Nathaniel, determined to create the family for herself that she never thought she’d have and to give him the family he desperately needs.

When Nate finds himself knee-deep in trouble, Luke’s attempt to protect him leaves Damaris feeling indebted to the Horseman. But suspicions grow regarding the mysterious death of Damaris’s brother. And the more questions they ask, the more danger appears, threatening the family Luke may be unable to live without.

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

I love anything that Karen Witemeyer writes, and I especially love In Honor’s Defense! This is such a sweet story, though the sweetness is not always there, because some of the characters are just not likeable at all. Damaris was so happy that her brother left his son Nate in her custody, she goes from always trying to be invisible, to raising a teenager. But that was not always an easy job. It when Nate decides to pull a trick on Damaris that she meets Luke. Nate seems a troublemaker, but he is so bitter about things that’s been happening around his farm and sometimes Luke has to be the go-between to get Nate out of trouble. But the issues run much deeper than anyone every imagines. Someone wants Nate’s Land and will go to the extremes to get it.

Wow! What a story! I felt so bad for Nate, a teen who has lost his mom and dad. He has his own ideas of who is responsible,  but could it be someone else? I love these three character, and they have quickly pricked their way into my heart. It’s the secondary characters that make me want to scream. But they have their part in this story and it wouldn’t be what it is without them. There is so very much to this story that you need to read this book! I highly recommend In Honor’s Defence to anyone who loves a good clean Christian historical fiction.

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

For those who love to smile as they read, bestselling author Karen Witemeyer offers warmhearted historical romance with a flair for humor, feisty heroines, and swoon-worthy Texas heroes. Voted #1 Readers’ Favorite Christian Romance Author in 2019 by Family Fiction Magazine, Karen is a multiple award-winning author and a firm believer in the power of happy endings. She is an avid cross-stitcher, tea drinker, and gospel hymn singer who makes her home in Abilene, TX with her heroic husband who vanquishes laundry dragons and dirty dish villains whenever she’s on deadline.

More from Karen

Meet Luke and Damaris

As the Hanger’s Horsemen series comes to a close, I’m thrilled to introduce you to Luke Davenport and Damaris Baxter. If you haven’t read the other books in this series, don’t worry. This one stands on its own just fine.

Luke

Luke Davenport is a former cavalry officer who is part of an elite squad of men known as Hanger’s Horsemen. Haunted by the horrors of war, this group of Texas legends has spent the last few years fighting for justice on behalf of those who cannot fight for themselves. Luke is Matthew Hanger’s right-hand man, but when Matt retires the Horsemen in favor of a more settled life with his new wife, Luke is left feeling adrift. So when a solo job comes his way to track down rustled cattle, he jumps at the opportunity.

Known for his strength, his size, and his skill with his fists, I modeled Luke after a pair of football players, Howie Long and JJ Watt. He’s a man of action with a bit of wildness inside, yet his ability to memorize Scripture earned him the nickname Preach. He’s a godly man with scars, seeking to find his place as his Horsemen brothers move on to new phases of life.

Damaris

Damaris Baxter has been invisible her entire life. Plain of face and quiet of manner, she it’s the epitome of unremarkable. While she dares heroic feats and grand adventures between the covers of her favorite books, life outside the pages consists of little more than needlework and dull conversation with her great aunt. Until her brother dies under suspicious circumstances and she travels to Texas to care for her nephew. Determined that the “Texas Damaris” will be bolder and braver than her former self, she sets out to win the heart of a grieving boy and ends up mixed up in a dangerous murder plot with a handsome cowboy who actually sees her.

When creating Damaris’s character, I gave her two of my favorite hobbies—reading and cross-stitching. She shares other similarities with me as well. She’s a quiet person who dislikes making waves, but when family needs her, there’s nothing she won’t do to help. Her questionable baking skills might also have found some inspiration in my personal experience. Just ask my husband about my famous transparent chocolate chip cookies. 

Opposites Attract?

I love to explore what brings people together, and while it’s a common idea that opposites attract, I’ve always believed that there must be some core commonalities beneath the differences to bind a couple together for a lifetime. So, while Luke and Damaris seem to be stark opposites—he an adventure-seeking soldier used to solving problems with guns and fists; she a quiet, proper lady used to escaping problems with books and needlework—they actually have several core commonalities. They both crave belonging and family, they both value God’s Word, and they both have a strong, protective instinct toward those they care about. This core common ground is what serves as the foundation for their relationship.

Now that you’ve been introduced to Luke and Damaris, I hope you’ll join them on the adventure that leads them to love.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, June 25

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 25

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, June 26

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 26

Locks, Hooks and Books, June 27

Book Looks by Lisa, June 27

Where Faith and Books Meet, June 27

Bliss, Books & Jewels, June 28

Daysong Reflections, June 28

For Him and My Family, June 29

Jeanette’s Thoughts, June 29

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, June 30

Pause for Tales, June 30

lakesidelivingsite, June 30

Mypreciousbitsandmusings, July 1

Sylvan Musings, July 1

deb’s Book Review, July 2

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, July 2

Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, July 2

Babbling BeckyL’s Book Impressions, July 3

Bizwings Blog, July 3

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, July 4 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, July 4

Inklings and notions, July 5

Simple Harvest Reads, July 5 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

Connie’s History Classroom, July 6

SodbusterLiving, July 6

Texas Book-aholic, July 7

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, July 7

Through the Fire Blogs, July 7

Splashes of Joy, July 8

Melissa’s Bookshelf, July 8

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Karen is giving away a Hanger’s Horsemen prize bundle consisting of autographed copies of all three books in the series, a custom mug, and Horsemen swag!! (U.S. Only)

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/1f45c/in-honor-s-defense-celebration-tour-giveaway

A Match Made in Texas

There’s a secret matchmaker at work in frontier Texas!

In the small town of Dry Gulch, Texas, a good-hearted busybody just can’t keep herself from surreptitiously trying to match up women in dire straits with men of good character she hopes can help them. How is she to know she’s also giving each couple a little nudge toward love?

A Cowboy Unmatched
Neill isn’t sure who hired him to repair Clara’s roof–he only knows Clara desperately needs his help. Can he convince this stubborn widow to let down her guard and take another chance on love?

An Unforeseen Match
Hoping to earn an honest wage on his way to the land rush, Clayton ends up on Grace’s doorstep, lured by a classified ad. He may have signed on for more than he expected though–and he may have found the one woman who can keep him from moving on.

No Match for Love
Andrew can’t fathom how refined Lucy ended up as the caretaker to his dotty aunt, and somehow her arrival has prompted even more bizarre occurrences around the ranch. When they join forces to unearth the truth, will the attraction between Andrew and Lucy develop into more?

Meeting Her Match
When the tables are turned and a tenderhearted meddler becomes the beneficiary of a matchmaking scheme, her world is turned upside down. As her entire life changes, will she finally be able to tell the banker’s son how much she cares for him?

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

I just love this book. Each story is so sweet and special and there is no way I would pick a favorite? I mean, Karen Witemeyer, Connealy, Regina Jennings and Carol Cox are for of my top rated authors so I knew every story had to be top rated! And I love having a book with four novella’s because sometimes you just don’t have time for a full book.

Each of these stories turn out to be a beautiful love story. Though the couples don’t know it for a while. I enjoyed the matchmaking and the journey of each of these four couples. The all make for a Heartwarming read. If you don’t have time to read a big book at this time, check this one out. Or if you are like me and just need a shorter story for a while, this us an amazing one to check out!

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

---

THE AUTHORS

Photo courtesy of Amanda Carpenter

Karen Witemeyer

Voted #1 Reader’s Favorite Christian Romance Author of 2019 by Family Fiction Magazine, bestselling author Karen Witemeyer (www.karenwitemeyer.com) offers warmhearted historical romance with a flair for humor, feisty heroines, and swoon-worthy Texas…

Continue reading about Karen Witemeyer

Photo by: Ginger Murray Photography

Mary Connealy

Mary Connealy (www.maryconnealy.com) writes “romantic comedies with cowboys” and is celebrated for her fun, zany, action-packed style. She has more than half a million books in print. She’s the author of the High Sierra Sweethearts, Kincaid Brides,…

Continue reading about Mary Connealy

Photo by: Ginger Murray Photography

Regina Jennings

Regina Jennings (www.reginajennings.com) is a graduate of Oklahoma Baptist University with a degree in English and a minor in history. She’s the winner of the National Readers’ Choice Award, a two-time Golden Quill finalist and a finalist for the Oklahoma Book…

Continue reading about Regina Jennings

Photo by: A Portrait Park by J

Carol Cox

Native Arizonan Carol Cox has an abiding love for history, mystery, and romance. The author of more than 25 books, she believes in the power of story to convey spiritual truths. Carol lives with her husband and daughter in northern Arizona, where deer and…

Continue reading about Carol Cox

---

Resources

• ExcerptDownload PDF

Full Steam Ahead by Karen Witemeyer

 

About

When love simmers between a reclusive scientist and a wealthy debutante, will they abandon ship or is it full steam ahead?

Nicole Renard returns home to Galveston, Texas, to find her father deathly ill. Though she loves him, Nicole’s father has always focused on what she’s not. Not male. Not married. Not able to run Renard Shipping.

Vowing to find a suitable husband to give her father the heir he desires before it’s too late, Nicole sets out with the Renard family’s greatest treasure as her dowry: the highly coveted Lafitte Dagger. But her father’s rivals come after the dagger, forcing a change in Nicole’s plans.

After a boiler explosion aboard the Louisiana nearly took his life, Darius Thornton has been a man obsessed. He will do anything to stop even one more steamship disaster. Even if it means letting a female secretary into his secluded world.

Nicole is determined not to let her odd employer scare her off with his explosive experiments, yet when respect and mutual attraction grow between them, a new fear arises. How can she acquire an heir for her father when her heart belongs to another? And when her father’s rivals discover her hiding place, will she have to choose between that love and her family’s legacy?

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

Nicole should have been born a boy, that’s all there is too it! But she wasn’t, so she needed to figure out what to do about her father’s business. And with his health, it needed to be soon!

I love all Karen Witemeyer books! Her book, Head in the Clouds is the first book I ever won, and after reading it, I was hooked! And Full Steam Ahead is another awesome read by Ms. Witemeyer! I love the spunky Nichole and love that through circumstances, she ends up with Darius to help save her company as well as his own. There’s a lot of information, a lot of history about steam engines and how they work. It was all very interesting for me. The extensive research the author did is very obvious! But for me, the best thing here is the humor, I laughed and laughed, and laughed more as I read this book. It is fun, informative, enjoyable and entertaining all at the same time. I encourage you to pick up a copy if this book. Even though it’s been out for a few years, it’s still as amazing as it was in the beginning. And today it us free on Kindle Unlimited! You just can’t go wrong.

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

 

About Karen Witemeyer

For those who love to smile as they read, bestselling author Karen Witemeyer offers warm-hearted historical romances with a flair of humor, feisty heroines, and swoon-worthy Texas heroes. A transplant from California, Karen came to Texas for college, met a cowboy disguised as a computer nerd, married him, and never left the state that had become home.

Winner of the HOLT Medallion, ACFW Carol Award, Inspirational Reader’s Choice Award, National Reader’s Choice Award, and a finalist for both the RITA and Christy Awards, Karen is a firm believer in the power of happy endings. . . and ice cream. She also loves to reward her readers. Every month she gives away two inspirational historical novels to someone from her newsletter list and offers substantial bonus content on her website. To learn more about Karen and her books, or to join her subscriber list, please visit http://www.karenwitemeyer.com.

More Than Words Can Say by Karen Witemeyer

About the Book

Book: More Than Words Can Say

Author: Karen Witemeyer

Genre: Historical Romance

Release Date: May 7, 2019

After fulfilling a pledge to a dying friend, Zacharias Hamilton is finally free to live life on his own terms. No opportunities to disappoint those he cares about, just the quiet bachelor existence he’s always craved. Until fate snatches his freedom away once again when the baker of his favorite breakfast treat is railroaded by the city council. As hard as he tries to avoid getting involved, he can’t turn a blind eye to her predicament . . . or her adorable dimples. Abigail Kemp needs a man’s name on her bakery’s deed. A marriage of convenience seems the best solution . . . if it involves a man she can control. Not the stoic lumberman who oozes confidence without saying a word whenever he enters her shop. Control Zacharias Hamilton? She can’t even control her pulse when she’s around him. Once vows are spoken, Abigail’s troubles should be over. Yet threats to the bakery worsen, and darker dangers hound her sister. As trust grows between Zach and Abby, she finds she wants more than his rescue. She wants his heart.

Click here to purchase your copy.

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

From the first book I read by Karen Witemeyer,  she has been one of my all time favorite authors. I love how she snatches my attention from the first page and keeps it until I read the last word! I love the sweet stories with an historical setting and enough romance and humor to give the story a good balance. And for me, More Than Words Can Say is one of the best from Ms. WITEMEYER.

It was easy for me to fall in love with the two main characters, Abigail who is owner of the bakery and Zach, a partner at the sawmill. Zach enjoyed Abby’s sticky buns for breakfast and Zach was secretly attracted to Abby, but since he was finally free to live his life as a bachelor,  no one else knew this bit of news. But it was when Abby was forced to find a husband that things started to spiral out of control.

Such a sweet historical story. The characters created by Ms. Witemeyer are so adorable and loveable, as well as realistic. With things hitting them from every angle, it seemed nothing would turn out right. I like the feistiness of Abby, when she sets her mind to something, she will fight to carry it out. Abby takes readers on a journey with her that will rattle you for a good while. But it’s fun, enjoyable, and satisfying because the person with the right motives win in the end. This is a book for the historical fiction people out there, but I think anyone enjoying a good clean Christian read would love this book! I love that the gospel of Jesus is clearly in this book, but it’s in the every day lives of the characters, not in a preachy way. Author Karen Witemeyer does it best!

A copy of this book was given to me by the author or publisher. I am not required to write a positive review. The opinions here in this review are totally mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

About the Author

Winner of the HOLT Medallion and the Carol Award and a finalist for the RITA and Christy Award, bestselling author Karen Witemeyer writes historical romance to give the world more happily-ever-afters. Karen makes her home in Texas, with her husband and three children. Learn more about Karen and her books at www.karenwitemeyer.com.

More from Karen

Settings – Real or Imagined?

One of the key decisions an author has to make before she begins to write is selecting the setting for her story. And the first choice she faces is the question of whether to use a real or imagined location. Roughly half the stories I have written are set in fictional towns. The use of a fictional setting allows an author greater freedom to manipulate the environment of her characters to fit her plot. This provides a great deal of flexibility. However, there is something special about setting a story in a real place. First, readers who are familiar with that place never fail to get excited about seeing a town they recognize in print. Second, if an author can find historical photos and documents, she can add a wonderful layer of authenticity to her setting that might otherwise be missing. Third, an author may turn up fascinating tidbits when studying the history of her setting that find their way into the story and bring a flavor the author never could have supplied on her own. This was the case as I wrote More Than Words Can Say. All of the stories in my Patchwork Family series have been set in real places. Pecan Gap, Texas for More Than Meets the Eye, Honey Grove, Texas for More Than Words Can Say, and coming this fall we’ll travel to Gainesville, Texas for the concluding novella, More Than a Pretty Face. Researching each location brought its own unique discoveries, but I have to admit that researching the small town of Honey Grove brought this history-loving girl a special level of joy. For example, there is a legend about how the town got its name that I knew needed to be incorporated into my story. Legend has it that when Davy Crockett was on his way to join the fight at the Alamo, he stopped in a grove of trees and set up camp. There were so many bees in that in letters to family and friends, he called the place a “Honey Grove.” He carved his initials into one of the trees and intended to return and settle there after the war. Unfortunately, as we know, Crockett did not survive the Alamo and therefore did not return. One of his friends, Samuel A. Erwin, later found the grove and became the first settler in 1839. Many people recall seeing the initials carved into Crockett’s bee tree even into the early 1900s, which led me to believe that this legend was based in truth. It doesn’t play a pivotal role in my story, but if you watch for it, you’ll find it mentioned. Discovering the Honey Grove Preservation League’s website proved a tremendous boon. Their online historical resources are some of the best I have ever come across. Historical photos, newspaper articles, government records—it was like stepping through a time portal every time I visited. And I visited often. Thanks to the Preservation League, I was able to mention real people and places in my novel. Places like the Commercial Hotel, the home of James Gilmer that was built during my time period, Wilkins, Wood & Patteson Dry Goods, and Dora Galbraith Patteson’s millinery shop on the east side of the town square. While Zacharias Hamilton and Reuben Sinclair are completely fictitious characters, there really was a lumberyard located on the corner of Sixth Street and Rail Road. As fiction authors are wont to do, I did take a few liberties with Honey Grove’s history. To my knowledge, there was never any city ordinance banning women from owning businesses in town, which was a key plot point in More Than Words Can Say. In addition, Mayor Chester Longfellow was a complete invention of my imagination. The true mayor of Honey Grove during this time period was J.H. Smith, a man who served in that capacity from 1888-1897. He must have been a well-loved city official to hold office for nearly a decade. I paid brief homage to him by having him step back into office when my fictitious mayor resigned. I hope you enjoy stepping back in time with me into historic Honey Grove, Texas. Zach and Abigail might not have lived there in truth, but I like to believe their tale is a representation of the many amazing love stories have taken place in that sweet little town through the years.

Blog Stops

The Power of Words, June 15

She Lives to Read, June 15

Real World Bible Study, June 15

Carla Loves to Read, June 15

Baker kella, June 16

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, June 16

EmpowerMoms, June 16

Daysong Reflections, June 16

Through the Fire Blogs, June 17

Genesis 5020, June 17

Lighthouse Academy, June 17

Bigreadersite , June 17

Among the Reads, June 18

All-of-a-kind Mom, June 18

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, June 18

For The Love of Books, June 18

C Jane Read, June 19

Inspired By Fiction, June 19

Mary Hake, June 19

Hallie Reads, June 19

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, June 20

For Him and My Family, June 20

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, June 20

Living Life Free in Christ, June 20

Connect in Fiction, June 21

Jeanette’s Thoughts, June 21

Splashes of Joy, June 21

Pause for Tales, June 21

Stories By Gina , June 22

Worthy2Read, June 22

Blossoms and Blessings, June 22

Southern Gal Loves to Read, June 22

Christian Chick’s Thoughts, June 23

Connie’s History Classroom , June 23

Vicky Sluiter, June 23

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 23

Wishful Endings, June 24

Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, June 24

Simple Harvest Reads, June 24 (Guest post from Mindy Houng)

Texas Book-aholic, June 24

A Baker’s Perspective, June 25

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 25

amandainpa , June 25

janicesbookreviews, June 25

Britt Reads Fiction, June 26

Quiet Quilter, June 26

Older & Smarter?, June 26

A Reader’s Brain, June 26

LifeofLiterature, June 27

Chas Ray’s Book Nerd Corner , June 27

Christian Bookshelf Reviews, June 27

Inklings and notions, June 27

Emily Yager, June 28

Lukewarm Tea, June 28

By The Book, June 28

The Becca Files, June 28

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Karen is giving away a grand prize that includes More Than Words Can Say, More Than Meets the Eye, and a $20 Panera Bread gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter. https://promosimple.com/ps/e4f4/more-than-words-can-say-celebration-tour-giveaway

 

A Worthy Pursuit by Karen Witemeyer

ABOUT THIS BOOK

Named one of the best western romances of 2015 by True West Magazine

Stone Hammond is the best tracker in Texas. He never comes home empty-handed. So when a wealthy railroad investor hires him to find his abducted granddaughter, Stone eagerly accepts.

Charlotte Atherton, former headmistress of Sullivan’s Academy for Exceptional Youths, will do anything to keep her charges safe, especially the little girl entrusted to her care after her mother’s death. Charlotte promised Lily’s mother she’d keep the girl away from her unscrupulous grandfather, and nothing will stop Charlotte from fulfilling that pledge. Not even the handsome bounty hunter with surprisingly honest eyes who comes looking for them.

When the teacher he’s after produces documentation that shows she’s the little girl’s legal guardian, Stone must reevaluate everything he’s been led to believe. Is Miss Atherton villain or victim? She acts more like a loving mother than an abductress, and the children in her care clearly adore her.

Then a new danger threatens, and Charlotte is forced to trust the man sent to destroy her. Stone becomes determined to protect what he once sought to tear apart. Besides, he’s ready to start a new pursuit: winning Charlotte’s heart.

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

BUY THIS BOOK

READ AN EXCERPT

About Karen

After growing up in California, Karen moved to Texas to attend Abilene Christian University where she earned bachelor and master’s degrees in Psychology. It was also there that she met and married her own Texas hero. He roped her in good, for she has lived in Texas ever since. In fact, she fell so in love with this rugged land of sweeping sunsets and enduring pioneer spirit, that she incorporates it into the pages of her novels, setting her stories in the small towns of a state that burgeoned into greatness in the mid- to late1800s.

A life-long bookworm, Karen is living her dream by writing novels. Her books have consistently hit bestseller lists and have garnered awards such as the ACFW Carol Award, the Holt Medallion, and the Inspirational Reader’s Choice Award. In addition, she is a multiple RITA and National Reader’s Choice finalist. Karen is also a sought-after speaker for national writing conferences and regional workshops.

Karen’s favorite aspect of her writing life is hearing from readers. Nothing encourages her heart more. She’d love to hear from you. You can contact her here.

Litfuse presents….Stealing the Preacher by Karen Witemeyer…PLUS Kindle Fire Giveaway

Book Info

About Stealing the Preacher:A cowboy who wants to be a preacher. An outlaw’s daughter who wants to change his mind. On his way to interview for a position at a church in the Piney Woods of Texas, Crockett Archer can’t believe it when he’s forced off the train by an outlaw and presented to the man’s daughter as the preacher she requested for her birthday. He’s determined to escape-which would be much easier if he could stop thinking about Joanna Robbins and her unexpected request.For months, Joanna had prayed for a minister. A man to breathe life back into the abandoned church at the heart of her community. A man to assist her in fulfilling a promise to her dying mother. But just when it seems her prayers have been answered, it turns out the parson is there against his will and has dreams of his own calling him elsewhere. Is there any way she can convince Crockett he ended up right where he was supposed to be? With her signature blend of humor, history, and lively western romance, two-time RITA Award finalist and bestselling author Karen Witemeyer delivers a Texas love story sure to steal your heart. Purchase a copy here: http://ow.ly/lnKcM MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK Looking for a new preacher? Why not hold up a train and steal him at gunpoint? Karen Witemeyer gives us and interesting, enjoyable, witty, funny story that will sure be the height of your entertainment this summer in Stealing the Preacher. Joanna’s outlaw father was willing to do anything to give her what she wants, including holding up a train and stealing Crockett Archer. Only Crockett  can’t stay in the little Texas Community of Piney Woods because he’s on a mission someplace else as a preacher candidate. But as he gets to know the people in Piney Woods, he’s drawn to the need for someone to take over the little church that hasn’t had a preacher for quite a while. But what about this other church, the one who is waiting on his arrival to vote on whether or not they want him as their own preacher. Well, its all unfolded between the pages of the wonderful book! First of all, I LOVE this cover. I am so glad Bethany House decided to change it! And Karen Witemeyer is at it again with her awesome, humorous writing style. As I read Stealing the Preacher, I fell in love with the people of Piney Woods, and was really hoping that Crockett would decide to change his mind and be their new preacher, especially since he was so different from most preachers, and he identified with these people so well. With all of the twists and turns, and the adorable, unique characters, why not come on board with the rest of us and enjoy this wonderful summer, and well really, anytime read from Ms. Whitemeyer and Bethany House. You will sure be happy you decided to try this one. And while you are at it, check out the other books by Karen Witemeyer. I’ve read all of Karen’s books, and each one gets better and better! She is definitely high on my favorite authors list! I received this book from the publisher Bethany House, and  Litfuse to read and review.  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, Part 55. Meet Karen:Two-time RITA finalist and winner of the coveted HOLT Medallion and ACFW Carol Award, CBA bestselling author Karen Witemeyer writes historical romance because she believes that the world needs more happily-ever-afters. She is an avid cross-stitcher, shower singer, and bakes a mean apple cobbler. Karen makes her home in Abilene, Texas, with her husband and three children. Learn more about Karen and her books at http://www.karenwitemeyer.com. Find out more about Karen athttp://www.karenwitemeyer.com.

Book Trailer
Stealing The Preacher book trailer

Karen Witemeyer is “kindling” the excitement for Stealing the Preacher (Bethany House) with a Kindle Fire Giveaway and connecting with readers at her June 18th Facebook Author Chat Party!

One winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire
• Stealing the Preacher by Karen Witemeyer 
  

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends at 4pm on June 18th. Winner will be announced at the “Stealing the Preacher” Facebook Author Chat Party on June 18th. Connect with Karen for an evening of book chat, trivia, laughter, and more! Karen will also share an exclusive look at her next book and give away books and other fun prizes throughout the evening.

So grab your copy of Stealing the Preacher and join Karen on the evening of June 18th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven’t read the book, don’t let that stop you from coming!)

Don’t miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 18th!

CFBA Presents Karen Witemeyer and Short-Straw Bride

This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingShort-Straw BrideBethany House Publishers (June 1, 2012)byKaren WitemeyerABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Karen Witemeyer is a deacon’s wife and mother of three who believes the world needs more happily-ever-afters. To that end, she combines her love of bygone eras with her passion for helping women mature in Christ to craft historical romance novels that lift the spirit and nurture the soul.

After growing up in California, Karen moved to Texas to attend Abilene Christian University where she earned bachelor and master’s degrees in Psychology. It was also there that she met and married her own Texas hero. He roped her in good, for she has lived in Texas ever since. In fact, she fell so in love with this rugged land of sweeping sunsets and enduring pioneer spirit, that she incorporates it into the pages of her novels, setting her stories in the small towns of a state that burgeoned into greatness in the mid- to late1800s.

Karen is living her dream by writing Christian historical romance novels for Bethany House.

ABOUT THE BOOK

No one steps on Archer land. Not if they value their life. But when Meredith Hayes overhears a lethal plot to burn the Archer brothers off their ranch, a twelve-year-old debt compels her to take the risk.

Fourteen years of constant vigilance hardens a man. Yet when Travis Archer confronts a female trespasser with the same vivid blue eyes as the courageous young girl he once aided, he can’t bring himself to send her away. And when an act of sacrifice leaves her injured and her reputation in shreds, gratitude and guilt send him riding to her rescue once again.

if you would like to read the first chapter of Short-Straw Bride, go HERE.

 

 

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

I’m reading this book, and will post the review by the due time Friday. I Love, Love Karen Witemeyer’s books and this one is no different….its AWESOME!

 

To Win Her Heart By Karen Witemeyer Book Review

To Win Her Heart by Karen Witemeyer

• Paperback: 347 pages
• Publisher: Bethany House (May 1, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0764207571
• ISBN-13: 978-0764207570
• Product Dimensions: 8.5 x 5.4 x 1 inchesA blacksmith with a criminal past. A librarian with pacifist ideals. Do they have a fighting chance at finding love?
  Having completed his sentence for the unintentional crime that derailed his youthful plans for fame and fortune, Levi Grant looks to start over in the town of Spencer, Texas. Spencer needs a blacksmith, a trade he learned at his father’s knee, and he needs a place where no one knows his past. But small towns leave little room for secrets. . . .

Eden Spencer has sworn off men, choosing instead to devote her time to the lending library she runs. When a mountain-sized stranger walks through her door and asks to borrow a book, she steals herself against the attraction he provokes. His halting speech and hesitant manner leave her doubting his intelligence. Yet as the mysteries of the town’s new blacksmith unfold, Eden discovers hidden depths in him that tempt her heart.
Levi’s renewed commitment to his faith leads Eden to believe she’s finally found a man of honor and integrity, a man worthy of her love. But when the truth about his prodigal past comes to light, can this tarnished hero find a way to win back the librarian’s affections?

About the Author

Karen Witemeyer is a deacon’s wife and mother of three who believes the world needs more happily-ever-afters. To that end, she combines her love of bygone eras with her passion for helping women mature in Christ to craft historical romance novels that lift the spirit and nurture the soul.

After growing up in California, Karen moved to Texas to attend Abilene Christian University where she earned bachelor and master’s degrees in Psychology.
It was also there that she met and married her own Texas hero. He roped her in good, for she has lived in Texas ever since. In fact, she fell so in love with this rugged land of sweeping sunsets and enduring pioneer spirit, that she incorporates it into the pages of her novels, setting her stories in the small towns of a state that burgeoned into greatness in the mid- to -late 1800’s. Karen is living her dream by writing Christian historical romance novels for Bethany House. When she visited her publisher back in January of 2010, she was interviewed by the staff.

 

MY REVIEW
Levi Grant really wants the new blacksmith job in Spencer, Texas and with the help of the Pastor and his wife he just might have a good chance at it. He is determined to work hard and make a go of it this time. His 2 years in prison not only taught him a valuable lesson, while there he found the only One who could change a man’s heart and life, The Lord. All he asks of the town’s developers’ daughter Eden is one month to prove himself. He cannot change his past, but he can make sure he is an honorable man for now and the future. As the days go by, he decides to try out the lending library operated by Eden, to give him something to occupy his mind. But boy is this a big mistake! The more he is around Eden, the more his feelings start to grow for her. And there is no way she will have him when she finds out about his horrible past. Why she’s even made mention of those horrible prisoners that brought their hardships on themselves. If and when Eden does find out about him, he can forget about pursuing a relationship with her.

Since her parents no longer live in Spencer, Eden now lives in their house and runs a lending library with the many books she and her dad have purchased. She decided to move back to Spencer after the shocking breakup with her fiancé . She is absolutely finished with men, and has accepted the fact that she will always be single and she is happy with her decision. That is until this huge mountain size stranger shows up in town to be the new blacksmith. And of all things starts spending his lunch breaks in her lending library. Something about him just gets under her skin, and she can’t figure out what it is. Of course she can’t trust him because she no longer trusts men. But as the story unfolds, she seems to be losing her heart to him, and oh dear, what is she going to do about that.

I loved this book from the beginning. I love Karen Witemeyer’s unique way of writing historical fiction. It’s funny and witty, loving and  heartwarming and it a most wonderful and relaxing read. Her extensive research of the historical times and events for the setting of the book, as well  as her genius way of creating unforgettable characters makes the story real and believable. Of course my favorite characters are Levi and Eden. I love Eden’s beautiful personality, not thriving on her father’s wealth. And Levi had my heart from the beginning. He has a kind and love heart, and wants to do what is honorable, even with his defective speech. And my heart was mush when he said ‘pleasthe’ to Eden at one point in the book.

This is a must read for those liking historical fiction, and really if you don’t care for historical stories, I think you will really love this book too! Even though it is historical fiction, you get a feel to today’s world too when reading. So I encourage you to run out and pick up a copy of Karen Witemeyer’s “To Win Her Heart” and read it!

A heartfelt thank you to Baker Books for providing me a copy of this book to read and review. The opinions and the review are mine only. I was not required or expected to give a positive review. I just loved it, and wrote what I felt!

You can purchase a copy of Karen’s book at the following online stores:

AMAZON

BOOKS A MILLION

CBD

GOODREADS

AND THE PUBLISHER BETHANY HOUSE

Book Review: Head in the Clouds By: Karen Witemeyer

This was my first book by Karen Witemeyer, and I LOVED IT! I love her fun style of writing. I just couldn’t help falling in love with Adelaide and Gideon. Adelaide was fun, and spunky, but when she set her mind to something, she was bound and determined to do it! She was a gal that knew what she wanted, and wasn’t afraid to go after it, even though she might be a bit clumsy in the going. Going after what she thought was her man didn’t turn out like she thought it would. That’s what landed her at Gideon’s Sheep Farm interviewing for a job as Governess to his 5 year old daughter. Her mouth also seemed to get her into a lot of trouble too…..like in saying before you think! But it always seemed to turn out for her good.

Gideon…..well he was just adorable from the beginning. I loved him from the first time he saw Adelaide  in the barn. Though his and Adelaide’s first few meeting were kind of awkward, he seemed to adore her from the beginning. I just loved Karen’s way of bringing them together in a fun enjoyable way that made you just want to keep reading to see what would happen next. But would Gideon hire Adelaide over the two older and more experienced ladies that were also at the farm for the interview? Even though Adelaide had taught school for a few years, was she capable of taking care of this 5 year old that couldn’t speak?

I admired both Gideon and Adelaide’s relationship with the Lord, and their willingness to seek Him in every decision they needed to make. The way they trusted the Lord when Isabella’s uncle came to claim the child and her inheritance.

This was only Karen Witemeyer’s second book, but I had to check her website again to make sure she had only written 2 books! She truly writes like an experienced writer, and I will sure be reading her first book “Tailor-Made Bride” and also her third book “To Win Her Heart” coming in April 2011.

You can find Karen here:   http://www.karenwitemeyer.com/books.html