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We Three Kings: A beautiful book blending historical and contemporary fiction into a multi-generational story you don’t want to miss.

We Three Kings beautifully blends historical and contemporary fiction into a multi-generational story.

*I received a free copy of this book through NetGalley. The review is my personal opinion.

We Three Kings is a novella that combines two of my favorite things: historical fiction and Christmas. What more could a Christmas-loving, history fanatic ask for?

The beauty of Christmas novellas is that they often combine the writings of several authors, and this one was no exception.

Star of Wonder is written by Crystal Caudill and takes place in 1884. Crystal’s expertise lies in the original workings of the Secret Service, and she brings this to life in her plot that introduces us to Aldrich Weise and Celestia Isaacs. She shows how trusting God and putting his will first could bring you the desires of your heart (Psalm 37:4).

Cara Putman’s Beauty Bright takes place in 1945 just after World War II. Cara’s expertise is World War II, and focusing on the aftermath of World War II in Germany was both humbling and astonishing to read. The Weise story continues as Aldrich’s grandson, Charles Weise becomes the hero of this tale. We learn through the hero and heroine that acts of love, no matter how small they may seem, make a difference.

The novella finishes with Angela Ruth Strong’s Perfect Light. I had not had the pleasure of reading her books prior to this writing, so I didn’t know what to expect from her. I was pleasantly surprised by how well she drew me into her story. She brings Charles’ great-grandson, Brendon Wise into this heartwarming story helping us realize that offered help is not always because one is weak but because one is loved.

What I liked about this book: I really liked the fact that the stories were so connected not only by the Wise (Weise) men and star theme but also by the family connection throughout. While the Weise family was introduced in Star of Wonder, each subsequent story made reference to the family member(s) of the previous book. This brought the feel of family history to the forefront of the novellas and tied the stories together.

Favorite characters:

Celestia Isaacs (Star of Wonder) – She carried just enough caution to blend with her independence in an era where independent females wasn’t the norm.

Captain Lillian Thorson (Beauty Bright) – In a time when women were still somewhat looked down upon, Captain Thorson held her ground as a woman in charge, yet also was able to be compassionate and open her heart to those in need.

Brendon Wise (Perfect Light) – He cared enough to not only offer assistance when he thought it was needed but to humbly ask for forgiveness when his generosity was misunderstood.

Who would like this book?

Anyone who enjoys blending history and contemporary, sweet Christmas stories with heartwarming messages, and those who enjoy following a family through generations and change.

Meet the Authors

Crystal Caudill is the author of “dangerously good historical romance,” with her work garnering awards from Romance Writers of America and ACFW. She is a stay-at-home mom and caregiver, and when she isn’t writing, Crystal can be found playing board games with her family, drinking hot tea, or reading other great books at her home outside Cincinnati, Ohio. Find out more at crystalcaudill.com.

The award-winning, best-selling author of more than 35 books, Cara Putman graduated college at 20 and completed her law degree at 27. FIRST for Women magazine called Shadowed by Grace “captivating” and a “novel with ‘the works.’” Cara is active at her church and a full-time Clinical Associate Professor on business and ethics to undergraduate and graduate students at Purdue University’s Krannert School of Management. Putman also practices law and was a second-generation homeschooling mom for twelve years. Putman obtained her Master’s in Business Administration from Krannert and her J.D. from George Mason University Antonin Scalia School of Law. She serves on the executive board of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), an organization she has served in various roles since 2007. She lives with her husband and four children in Indiana. You can connect with her online at: caraputman.com.

Angela Ruth Strong survived breast cancer, works as a flight attendant, and uses her own crazy life experiences as inspiration for the stories she writes. Her books have earned TOP PICK in Romantic Times, been nominated for a Christy, won the Cascade Award, and become Amazon bestsellers. She and her husband also got to play extras when her novel Finding Love in Big Sky was adapted for film. To help aspiring authors, Angela started IDAhope Writers where she lives in Idaho and blogs regularly on inspyromance and learnhowtowriteanovel.com.

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Shadows in the Mind’s Eye by Janyre Tromp

Charlotte Anne Mattas longs to turn back the clock. Before her husband, Sam, went to serve his country in the war, he was the man everyone could rely on – responsible, intelligent, and loving. But the person who’s come back to their family farm is very different from the protector Annie remembers. Sam’s experience in the Pacific theater has left him broken in ways no one can understand…but that everyone is learning to fear.

Tongues start wagging after Sam nearly kills his own brother. now when he claims to have seen men on the mountain when no one else has seen them, Annie isn’t the only one questioning his sanity and her safety. If there were criminals haunting the hills, there should be evidence beyond his claims. Is he really seeing what he says, or is his war-tortured mind conjuring ghosts?

Annie desperately wants to believe her husband. But between his irrational choices and his nightmares leaking into the daytime, she’s terrified he’s going mad. Can she trust God to heal Sam’s mental wounds – or will sticking by him mean keeping her marriage at the cost of her own life?

*I received a free copy of this book as part of the I Read with Audra promotional group for Shadows in the Mind’s Eye. The review below is from my personal opinion.

Janyre Tromp takes two relatively unknown aspects of American history and blends them into one. The Pacific theater of World War II is well known, however, the emotional toil held by those who fought has long been hidden from the general public. I found her use of Sam’s emotional state and the mystery behind his sightings an interesting way to present the story.

From the very beginning, the story takes us through the emotions of Sam and his wife, Annie. I generally read books based in the third person perspective, so her use of first person was interesting reading for me.

Favorite Characters

Sam Mattas: From my limited knowledge and experience, Sam’s character seems to bring a true veteran into the story. Love for his family, uncertainty of his place back home, and many other factors are apparent in the building of his character as the story progresses.

Annie Mattas: Annie’s view of Sam twists and turns, as would anyone’s view of their spouse after a traumatic event of the nature he experienced. Her questions concerning him, herself, and their relationship are heartfelt and raw, making her a lovable character.

Rosemary “Rosie” Mattas:  Rosie is Sam and Annie’s young daughter. While a minor character, her innocence and complete love and trust of those she views as close to her is so sweet. Even having never met her dad prior to the  story, she sees the good in him as well.

Dovie May Mattas: Dovie is Sam’s mother. Her no nonsense to her children and daughter-in-law allows the story more stability in the midst of all the questions coming to the surface. She had a lot of great advice for them (and for me as a reader).

Who Would Like This Book?

Those who want to see what the World War II veterans may have been experiencing upon their return home from the war. Those interested in the history of the Arkansas Mountain areas.

Audra Jennings is offering a Rafflecopter giveaway for this book. You can find the giveaway here.

https://www.audrajennings.com/2022/04/shadows-in-minds-eye-giveaway.html

Janyre Tromp is a historical novelist whose loves spinning tales that, at their core, hunt for beauty, even when it isn’t pretty. She’s the author of Shadows in the Mind’s Eye and coauthor of It’s a Wonderful Christmas.

She’s also a book editor, published children’s book author, and lives in Grand Rapids, Michigan with her family, two crazy cats, and a slightly eccentric Shetland Sheepdog. And if you ever meet in person, you pronounce that first name Jan-ear.

You can find her on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and her website, www.JanyreTromp.com (where you can grab a free copy of her novella Wide Open).

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Counterfeit Love by Crystal Caudill

Theresa Plane owes it to her beloved grandfather to save the family name – that means clearing their debt before she marries the wealthy and dashing Edward Greystone. But when a creditor’s threats lead her to stumble across a midnight meeting, Theresa discovers that Grandfather is hiding far more than the money he owes. Adn the secrets he kept now have Theresa trapped in a life-threatening fight for her home…and the truth.

After months of undercover work, Secret Service operative Broderick Cosgrove is about to uncover the identity of theleader of a notorious counterfeiting ring. That moment of triumph turns to horror, however, when he finds undeniable proof that his former fiancee, Theresa, is connected. He won’t believe the woman he loved is a willing participant. Protecting Theresa and proving her innocence may destroy his career, but that’s better than failing her twice in one lifetime.

Broderick and Theresa must form a partnership, but there’s no question they’re both keeping secrets. That lack of trust in one another, when there are dangerous criminals out for their blood, threatens their hearts, their faith, their very survival.

I was honored to be a part of Crystal Caudill’s launch team for Counterfeit Love, as well as  a part of the I Read with Audra blog tour. As part of these teams, I received a book from the publisher. The opinions below are my own.

I’m so excited to be able to share my thoughts on this book with you. Crystal Caudill’s debut novel, Counterfeit Love, did not disappoint.

Counterfeit Love takes you on an adventure through the streets of Cincinnati in 1884. Action-packed from the very first scene, it kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time.

Favorite Characters

Theresa Plane: Theresa’s commitment to family was a great part of her character. She loved her grandfather and wanted to help him in any way she could. However, her love for family didn’t keep her from searching for the truth.

Broderick Cosgrove: His love of Theresa and his desire to protect her were strong. I was glad to see him in her corner, despite what others may have told him to do.

What I Liked About the Book

As one who enjoys history, I loved all of the historical tidbits that flowed throughout the book. The counterfeiting ring played a huge role in the story, and I felt as though I was right in the middle of it all.

Who Would Like This Book?

Anyone who likes romantic suspense or historical stories would enjoy this book.

Would I Read It Again?

Probably. It held my attention, and I wanted to keep turning the pages. At the same time, I wanted to pace myself because I didn’t want it to end.

Good news, though. This is only the first book in her HIDDEN HEARTS OF THE GILDED AGE series. I’ve just got to wait a year to read the next one.

Be sure to check out crystalcaudill.com for bonus material that goes along with Counterfeit Love.

AUTHOR BIO

Crystal Caudill is the author of “dangerously good historical romance,” with her work garnering awards from Romance Writers of America and ACFW. She is a stay-at-home mom and caregiver, and when she isn’t writing, Crystal can be found playing board games with her family, drinking hot tea, or reading other great books at her home outside Cincinnati, Ohio. Find out more at crystalcaudill.com.

For a chance to win a copy of Counterfeit Love, please visit https://www.audrajennings.com/2022/03/win-copy-of-crystal-caudills.html.

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The Cryptographer’s Dilemma by Johnnie Alexander

In Crystal Caudill’s Unlocking the Past Reading Challenge, the December read was a book from your favorite time period. For me, it’s always been the World War II era. I chose The Cryptographer’s Dilemma by Johnnie Alexander.

Filled with  adventure and suspense, The Cryptographer’s Dilemma follows FBI cryptographer Eloise Mitchell and FBI agent Phillip Clayton on their investigation of a series of seemingly innocent  letters about dolls.  It takes them on a cross-country journey to find out what’s really going on.

Why I Liked This Book

While I love reading the heroics of the soldiers during this time, this book brought about a different form of heroics. The weapons used here were the minds of those working the case and their understandings of how everything worked together. While Eloise and Phillip were out on the journey, they enlisted help along the way, making it somewhat of a joint effort.

It also did an excellent job of tying up loose ends, not only for the story but for the characters’ backstories as well. I enjoyed seeing the growth of the characters, both major and minor, as the story progressed.

Favorite Character

Elosie Mitchell: I really liked Eloise, not only for her role as heroine but also for the change in her character. She is able to adapt quickly to her role in the mission and works through her feelings throughout the book.

Would I Read This Book Again?

Probably. I really liked the storyline and the characters. Everything lined up well and gave me satisfaction in the end.

Who Would Like This Book?

Those who enjoy reading books around the World War II era, the FBI, and those who like suspense.

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Donna’s Detour by Jo Huddleston

November’s read for Crystal Caudill’s Unlocking the Past Reading Challenge was to be set anytime after World War II. In keeping with the past, I chose to read about an era I hadn’t seen in historical fiction before, the 1950s.

The setting is great as it emphasizes what’s normally equated with the 50’s era. The local diner with the waitresses going between customers at the counter and sitting in booths and jukeboxes on the tables. Visualizing the waitresses’ uniforms and the way they handled their customers reminded me of Grease when the gang was hanging out at the diner. However, this one was more for people passing through than a hang-out for the locals.

What I Liked About the Book

It was a fun and easy read taking me to a time when women were on the verge of setting out on their own. It showed the strength of the main character, Donna, and the commitment to following her heart no matter how long it took.

My Favorite Characters

Donna Turner: Donna was so strong in her commitment to herself and her desire to branch out on her own. When she needed help, though she didn’t want to ask for it, she appreciated those who offered and wasn’t afraid to accept.

Tommy Crowley: I don’t want to go into too much detail here because it might spoil the story, but Tommy was a real gentleman to Donna and brought a happiness to her life that was missing.

Would I Read This Book Again?

Probably, if I needed something quick to read with a  happy ending.

Who Should Read This Book?

Those who like quick reads with happy endings. Those who want to experience the diner of the 50’s and want a fun read.

Jo Huddleston has written several books. Please visit her website at johuddleston.com to see other books she has to offer.

 

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A Promise Forged by Cara Putman

For my October read in Crystal Caudill’s Unlocking the Past Reading Challenge, I chose Cara Putman’s A Promise Forged.

Set in the summer of 1943, A Promise Forged brings to light the glimmer of hope placed within the American people at home during World War II, being able to watch America’s favorite pastime in a different way. This timeframe has always been a favorite of mine during history studies, but I’d never read about this aspect.

While reading this book, it brought to mind a favorite movie of mine during my high school days, A League of their Own. Mrs. Putman’s story pulled me into the heart of the field as she brought her characters to life.

What I Liked About the Book

Mrs. Putman brings World War II to life from a different perspective. It was fun to see the view of this timeframe from the players perspective as well as of someone who wanted to serve but couldn’t.

My Favorite Characters

Kat Miller: Katherine “Kat” Miller is the heroine of this story. The youngest on the team, she gets a lot of unwanted attention when all she really wants to do is play the game. Kat is a sweet young woman and her love for others shines forth throughout the story.

Jack Raymond: Jack’s a newspaper reporter assigned to cover the women’s ball games. Despite his resistance to it, he follows the team and brings a man’s view into it. It was fun to see the game from both points of view.

Would I Read This Book Again

Yes. This was a fun read and kept me engaged throughout the story. This is the first in a series titled Buckeye Promises. While I haven’t read the other books in the series, they are ones that I would be interested in reading as well.

If you’re a fan of World War II fiction and would like to read views from the American homefront, I recommend reading this book.

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Sorrento Girl by Dawn Klinge

My September read for the Unlocking the Past Reading Challenge was Sorrento Girl  by Dawn Klinge.

Courtesy of Dawn Klinge

Sorrento Girl takes us to Seattle, Washington, in the 1930s with a young woman named Ann Brooks. Ann is one of several young ladies who live in the Sorrento hotel while attending Seattle College. In the midst of the depression, many female teachers are losing their jobs if they’re married in order for the schools to save money. Ann longs to be a teacher, but when she finds herself attracted to Paul Lewis, she wonders how she’ll be able to make it work. Will she be able to pursue a teaching career.

What I Liked About It
I’m not very familiar with Seattle, but the history Mrs. Klinge brings through in her writing is really interesting. Ann has a good relationship with her friends, and they’re supportive of one another.

My Favorite Characters
Ann Brooks: Ann is someone who cares about people. Her care and concern for others are contagious and seem to rub off on those she’s around.

Rose Francis: Known to Ann as Aunt Rose, she was the motherly figure in Ann’s life. Rose encouraged Ann despite some setbacks in her own life and continued to be that gentle nudge to keep Ann going in the direction her heart led.

Would I Read This Book Again?
Probably. There are a lot of interesting aspects of the area and timeframe nestled within the pages of this book. It was a fun read and a fairly quick one. If you enjoy the Depression era, I would recommend you read this book.

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Tabitha by Vikki Kestell

For my August read in Crystal Caudill’s Unlocking the Past Reading Challenge, I chose to read the book Tabitha by Vikki Kestell.

Tabitha is a mix of memories of the character combined with her current situations just before and during World War I. She tells her story to allow readers to understand how she came into her situation and also to be a beacon of hope for other women within the story.

What I liked about the book
I have seen some books that give the back story to you in a way that makes you want to set the book aside. However, this one, incorporates another character named Rose into it early on as a means of someone to converse with. By Rose being there, it allows enough breaks to see just how Tabitha’s storytelling is affecting someone else. It really helps to understand Tabitha’s history and how so much rides upon it.

Favorite Characters
Tabitha Hale: Though reluctant at first to share her story, she pours it out in a way that will help so many to understand that with God’s help, you can rise from even the darkest pit. Her determination to reach her goal despite setbacks was nice to see.

Mason Carpenter: Though I didn’t mention him above, Mason is a great addition to the story. He doesn’t see Tabitha as she sees herself. He sees her for who she is when he knows her. His giving heart allows the reader to love him.

Would I read this book again?
Yes, this is another I have read before. It shows so much healing on Tabitha’s part, and the beauty of new beginnings. If you enjoy the World War I era and would like a glimpse into nursing during that time, I recommend you read this book.

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A Dangerous Legacy by Elizabeth Camden

My July read for Crystal Caudill’s Unlocking the Past Challenge was A Dangerous Legacy by Elizabeth Camden.

In A Dangerous Legacy, Lucy Drake is a telegraph operator for the Associated Press in New York. She and her brother, Nick, have been involved in a family dispute their entire lives, and they have had enough. It’s not until Lucy befriends a supervisor of the Reuters’ office, Sir Colin Beckwith, that they begin to make some progress.

However, when Colin befriends the opposite side of the dispute in exchange for a significant amount of money, Lucy doubts where his true loyalties lie. Will they be able to mend their differences and stop the family dispute once and for all?

What I liked most
Mrs. Camden blends history with mystery to keep her novels running. She kept me on the edge of my seat throughout the book. The characters were well written. There were twists and turns throughout which made it that much more fun to read.

My Favorite Characters
Lucy Drake: I liked her strong sense of self-confidence. There were times when it wavered, which showed her vulnerable side. She wasn’t afraid to stand up for what she believed and fought hard for what she viewed as important.

Colin Beckwith: He’s really a likable fellow from the beginning, even though Lucy doesn’t want to see him as such. He cares about what’s going on with her and allows her to see more than others have about him  in order to gain her trust.

Would I read it again?
Yes, I would. In fact, this was the second time I’ve read it. The fast pace is so much fun. I recommend this book to anyone who is interested in the Gilded Age time period.

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Banking on Love by Crystal Caudill

I finished reading Alice’s Journey West: Finding Her Way before the month of May ended. Knowing I only had a few days between time periods to continue Crystal Caudill’s Unlocking the Past Reading Challenge, I decided I would read her novella Banking on Love.

I have been a subscriber of her blog since January which is how I was able to receive her novella. She has offered it as a welcome gift in the past for new subscribers, so if you’re interested in it, please feel free to visit her blog and sign up for her mailing list.

Why I liked the book
This was a short story, so it was easy to read in a short amount of time. I easily finished it in a few twenty to thirty-minute reading segments.

Eunice’s desire to help her brother,  out of trouble quickly led her into trouble of her own. Crystal does an excellent job of showing the strained relationship of the siblings while also showing the desire Irvin has to protect his sister. I was drawn into the story quickly as I was able to not only read it but also felt like I was watching it unfold. 

Favorite Characters

Eunice was definitely a favorite. It was fun to see her no-nonsense personality quickly moved to compliance in order to help her brother. 

Eunice’s future husband, Arnold, was also a favorite of mine. Even though he was on the other side of the situation, they understood each other enough to communicate without words, and he was able to see his mission to completion without causing her harm.

This was such a fun piece to read. If you’d like to read her novella, you may download a copy at https://bookhip.com/RGLTQF after signing up for her newsletter.

One of the most rewarding parts of this journey is contacting authors. So far, those I have reached out to have been very helpful in allowing me to use their book cover photos. Crystal has been a wonderful encouragment. I’m excited to be able to invite you to her title reveal party of her new book and series.

Join Crystal for her Debut Novel’s Title Reveal

“You’re invited to a TITLE REVEAL PARTY!!!!
Crystal Caudill invites you to come party with her on her website and discover the titles of her debut series and novel. Come and stay as long as you like to pick up your free goody bag, play two fun title games, and enter to win a book from Crystal’s book giveaway pile. Don’t want to stay, but just want to know the titles? Come and you’ll find the link to her official titles without the fuss of a game to figure it out. Party runs from July 13th to July 20th (11:59 pm EST). 
www.CrystalCaudill.com/TitleRevealParty” 

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