The Spark of Love by Amanda Cabot

For Alexandra Tarkington Texas holds the idea of freedom, new horizons and a special relationship with her father.  But things didn't turn out how she envisoned.  As rumor and suspicions follow her father he tries to get her to go back to the city.  But New York doesn't hold any allure for Alexandra any more.  She is determined to make her way in the West.  Unbenown to Alexandra the man that's captured her heart is also trying to capture her father in a possible corruption case.  As Alexandra forges her way by establishing relationships and gaining a reputation as the town's teacher she examines her motives, her heart's longing and what is really important. Set in the late 1850s Alexandra's story delves into what loyalty really means and what the cost of truth involves.

I received this book from the publishers but was not required to write a positive review.

The Prince and the Prodigal by Jill Eileen Smith

This is a different look at the popular Bible story of Joseph.  Seen from the viewpoint of Joseph but also of his brother Judah.  Detail is given to the religious traditions as well as cultural customs of the time to enrich the story.  There's a lot of complicated family interactions and relationships.  Some are hard for the modern reader to comprehend by Ms Smith takes time to develop the characters.  She also gives enough historical background to help the reader see and feel where each character is emotionally and what shapes their decisions.  Having the story of Judah gave a richer, deeper and more meaningful understanding to the story of Joseph for me.  The book kept very close to the Biblical account found in Genesis.  

I received this book from the publishers but was not required to write a positive review.

The Lady of Galway Manor by Jennifer Deibel

 The Lady of Galway Manor gives a glimpse into the unrest during 1920 in Ireland.  The friction and animosity between the British and Irish was intense.  This story demonstrates how this affected the daily lives of those people living in Ireland being "ruled" by British landlords.  The historical facts are built into a Romeo and Juliet type love story.  It takes a hard look at familial loyalty and love versus romantic love.  And asks what is true love?  The answers are found in these pages of an intriguing, action packed, story of love and loss.

I received this book from the publishers but was not required to write a positive review.