The Underground Railroad Brides Collection 9 Couples Navigate the Road to Freedom Before the Civil War by Barbara Tifft Blakey, Ramona K. Cecil, Lynn A. Coleman, Cecelia Dowdy, Patty Smith Hall, Terri J. Haynes, Debby Lee, Darlene Panzera, Penny Zeller

Profile:

"Join the journey as nine couples employ daring resourcefulness that leads them along the Underground Railroad in search of freedom and justice for all."

Love Guides Hearts Along the Road to Freedom
 
Nine historical couples walk the road to love even as they dare to escape and help others break free from the injustices of slavery between 1849 and 1860. From Southern states of Georgia and South Carolina to above the Mason-Dixon Line in Indiana and Pennsylvania, they work within the network known as the Underground Railroad.
 
Emma Underground by Barbara Tifft Blakey
Follow the Christmas Star by Ramona K. Cecil
Under the Sails of Love by Lynn A. Coleman
The Bakery Bride by Cecelia Dowdy
Place of Refuge by Patty Smith Hall
Free to Love by Terri J. Haynes
The Winter Quilt by Debby Lee
The Song of Hearts Set Free by Darlene Panzera
Freedom’s Flight by Penny Zeller
 
There is hope for the future when people come together to fight evil, and when men and women find love in the midst of great challenges. And through it all, faith is the key to victory in these stories from nine inspiring Christian authors.
 
Emma Underground by Barbara Tifft Blakey 
Schenectady, New York—1851
Emma Trebor desires to reconcile with her husband, but he is hiding something from her. How could she know the investigator she hires is secretly a bounty hunter and her husband is his target?
 
Follow the Christmas Star by Ramona K. Cecil
Madison, Indiana—1850
Deeply involved in the abolitionist movement, Edith Applegate struggles to reconcile her desire to help bring people out of bondage and her growing affection for a former Southern slave owner.
 
Under the Sails of Love by Lynn A. Coleman
Savannah, Georgia—1860
Charlotte Kimbrel, a Southern Belle, has been smuggling slaves. Captain Zachery Browne’s ship sails slaves to freedom. Hostilities between the states are developing. Will Charlotte successfully travel the Underground Railroad by sea?
 
The Bakery Bride by Cecelia Dowdy
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania—1859
Grieving over her beau’s unjustified death, Ruth—a recently manumitted slave who is illiterate—assists her upper-class boss as an abolitionist. Can she heal from the pain of slavery and learn to love again?
 
Place of Refuge by Patty Smith Hall
Abbeville, South Carolina—1857
Underground conductor Hudson Wallace is surprised when Jorgine Emerson asks him to transport her slaves to freedom, but is it a trap? Can Jorgine’s deep conviction win Hudson over?
 
Free to Love by Terri J. Haynes
East Towson, Maryland—1850
Winnie is hiding a secret—Hiram, a fugitive. Their lives cross at an Underground Railroad station. Can they overcome danger and find freedom in love?
 
The Winter Quilt by Debby Lee
Newport, Indiana—1840
Relocated to an unfamiliar town, Coral Martin yearns for stability. Carpenter Josiah Williamson helps her find meaning working on the Underground Railroad. Will their love survive when forces threaten to tear them apart forever? 
 
The Song of Hearts Set Free by Darlene Panzera
Jersey City, New Jersey—1851
Budding abolitionist, Annie Morrison, discovers the man she’s fallen in love with may be a slave catcher in disguise.
 
Freedom’s Flight by Penny Zeller
Tennessee—1850s
When she discovers the handsome Reverend Matthias Sorenson assisting runaway slaves, can Annalise Van Houten convince him to allow her to help? Or will mistrust prove fatal for all involved?"

Title:  The Underground Railroad Brides Collection 9 Couples Navigate the Road to Freedom Before the Civil War
Authors:  Barbara Tifft Blakey, Ramona K. Cecil, Lynn A. Coleman, Cecelia Dowdy, Patty Smith Hall, Terri J. Haynes, Debby Lee, Darlene Panzera, Penny Zeller 
Publisher:   Barbour Books                                
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

" The Underground Railroad Brides Collection 9 Couples Navigate the Road to Freedom Before the Civil War"   By Authors:   Barbara Tifft Blakey, Ramona K. Cecil, Lynn A. Coleman, Cecelia Dowdy, Patty Smith Hall, Terri J. Haynes, Debby Lee, Darlene Panzera, Penny Zeller 

My Thoughts.....

"Nine historical couples walk the road to love even as they dare to escape and help others break free from the injustices of slavery between 1849 and 1860. From Southern states of Georgia and South Carolina to above the Mason-Dixon Line in Indiana and Pennsylvania, they work within the network known as the Underground Railroad."
 
Emma Underground by Barbara Tifft Blakey  
A beautiful love story as a wife who wants to reconciles with her husband.What had happened up to this point to caused this situation for Emma and Paul?

Follow the Christmas Star by Ramona K. Cecil
How will  'Edith Applegate struggles to reconcile her desire to help bring people out of bondage and her growing affection for a former Southern slave owner' all turn out for her in the end? 

Under the Sails of Love by Lynn A. Coleman
What happens when Charlotte Kimbrel finds herself  traveling the Underground Railroad by sea on Captain Zachery Browne’s ship?

The Bakery Bride by Cecelia Dowdy
Will Ruth be able to get over her grieving for Thomas?  Will she accept a new love as she heals from the pain of slavery and learn to love again? 

Place of Refuge by Patty Smith Hall
What will happen when Hudson Wallace is asked by Jorgine Emerson to help her transport her slaves to freedom?  

Free to Love by Terri J. Haynes
What happens as Winnie starts having feeling for the Hiram, who was a fugitive as their lives cross at an Underground Railroad station?   Will  they be able to  overcome danger and find freedom in love?

The Winter Quilt by Debby Lee
What happens when Coral Martin after moving with her parents will want to help Josiah Williamson with the working of the Underground Railroad movement?  

The Song of Hearts Set Free by Darlene Panzera 
Will Annie Morrison, discovers the man she’s fallen in love with may be a slave catcher in disguise?

Freedom’s Flight by Penny Zeller
Why did the Reverend Matthias Sorenson who assisted in runaway slaves need assurance that Annalise Van Houten is to be trusted?  

Now to get all of these questions and so much more answered you will have to pick up this  Barbour novella collections of  'The Underground Railroad Brides' to get all of the answers.  

I found each of these stories so very well written even though some of the reads for me were somewhat painful in all that its particular story was about.  It was very hard reading the lengths both the slaves [runner] and conductors went through in helping these slaves get their freedom.  I will also say I did learn a lot from the read especially in finding out how important Canada was the freed slave.  Overall I will say this was a pleasant read.   I would have liked to have known a little more about the  research accuracy  for each of these historical reads. However, one can tell from the reads that these authors really put in a lots of work in bringing all of this out to the reader in all of the reads having a HEA. So, we are given some history along with some clean sweet faith filled romances[love story] that will keep your interest turning the pages to see what will be coming next.  

Church Whore by Faith

Book Description....

"First Assembly Church is one of the newest mega churches in Greensboro, North Carolina. Unfortunately The Holy Spirit isn't the only spirit alive in First Assembly.

The Blanks family is the first family of First Assembly. Pastor Edwin Blanks II (Junior) is the head pastor. Along with his brothers, sisters and Mama Eloise, First Assembly is run like a well-oiled machine.

That is until the newest family at First Assembly enter the picture. The Harlot family, three identical triplets, Jezebel, Delilah, Tamar and matriarch Lilith make themselves at home at First Assembly. Temptation seems to be lurking around every corner and the members at First Assembly seem to forget that what's done in the dark will come to the light."

Title:  Church Whore

Author:  Faith

Publisher:  Pen Bullies LLC

Series: # 1

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: 5

Review:

"Church Whore" by Faith

My Thoughts....

Wow what a story that will definitely keep you on the edge of your seat!  What a group of characters who were the head of the church that would really cause one to really shake their heads saying what in the world.  I am aware that a lots of stuff go on in churches but this one...wow!  From the Blanks family of the First Assembly Church their were Pastor Edwin Jr, Edward,  Edmund, Edem, Lizzie, Elisa and Mama Eloise Banks. With the fellows and their wives [except for Edem] one would think that everyone would be happy paired off with their wives however, this wasn't the case at all.  Then to add another family that has just moved into their church congregation... the Harlot family with three identical triples...Jezebel, Delilah, Tamar [definitely living up to their names] and their matriarch Lilith and you will only be presented a well written read that is off the chain.  All that is left to say there is a whole lots of cheating going on and let's not leave out the drama of it all with some more characters that will keep your attention while you are turning the pages to see what is going on next. I will say that this story will have a lots of 'infidelity, betrayal and tragedy however be ready to also see some forgiveness, redemption and even love.  This is the first in this series read so the reader will be left with quite a cliffhanger and you will have to get 'Whore 2 and Whore 3' to get the rest of this story.  I will say that the title is quite a eye catcher and if you can get pass that you will see how well this author brings all of this out so well to the reader telling one good story.  

Church Whore 3 By: Faith

Book Description....

"The drama at First Assembly continues. The Blanks family has been in a constant battle with the Harlot’s. Can the Blanks survive the attacks from the Harlot family? Will they repent and turn from their lustful ways? Or will they succumb to snares of the enemy?
In this final installment of “Church Whore” the Blanks and the Harlots learn some powerful lessons. There are consequences to your actions, and the wages of sin is death."

Title:  Church Whore 3

Author:  Faith

Publisher:  Pen Bullies, LLC.

Series:  # 3

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five 

Review:

"Church Whore 3" By Faith

My Thoughts... 

Well we are at the ending and again be ready for quite a few surprises where one will see karma taking hold front and center.  If you can get passed the title and realize that these people where quite entertaining with some good and some bad. But in the world we live it....believe me this does and has happened in many of our churches.  I thought the author did a wonderful job at bringing us a quite interesting story of just what can happen Yes...in the church!  You will have to read the whole series to fully understand what all has gone on with this story of the  Blank family and also the Harlots. How it all comes together in the end was rather sad however as the saying goes... 'what is done in the ark will come to the light.'.  Will the Blank brothers finally get their lives together and do what is right and pleasing to God?  I loved the biblical references especially the songs were so very well presented.  You will have to pick up this series to get it all and so much more in this well written story. Would I recommend the series...YES! 

Church Whore 2 By: Faith

Book Description...

"The drama continues as the Blanks Family, a
prominent family in the community, and the Harlot Family
battle it out.

Secrets are revealed and sins of the past come back
to haunt them all. As each individual's faith is tested,
how will they stand against the trials and tribulations of
life while continuing to run one of the largest Mega
Churches in the city?

Will the power of love be able to overcome
sin?

Can the Blanks men pull it together and be the men of
God they are supposed to be?

Church Whore 2 takes you on a journey of sin,
redemption and the consequences of
both!"

Title:  Church Whore 2

Author:  Faith

Publisher:  Pen Bullies, LLC.

Series:  # 2

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Church Whore 2" by Faith

My Thoughts....

Oh my!  This story continues on with the Blank and that Harlot family where there is quite a lots going on that will keep you turning the pages to see what drama, humor and craziness is coming next.  I did enjoy seeing that their seem to be one brother trying to live the Godly life along with his wife.  Will these preacher ever get their lifes together and be only faithful to their wives?  I am not sure who I felt more sorrier for. I will say I did like the prayers and songs that were presented by the Blanks's family and Mama Eloise.   Now, be ready for another cliffhanger that will have you going for the next series..."Church Whore 3."

Hearts of Purpose: Real Life Stories from Ordinary Women Doing Extraordinary Things for the Glory of God by Gail G Nordskog

Book Description....


"Following the example of Joan of Arc, who sought God on her knees, received a directive from Him, and then stood and followed His leading, you too can be inspired and equipped to live out your purpose in first hearing from God and then taking your stand in following Him. Hearts of Purpose brings you nine real-life stories from ordinary women doing extraordinary things for the glory of God. These powerful stories are inspirational and reflective, and will help you open the door toward exploring His call in your own life.

As Gail Grace Nordskog professes, quoting Song of Solomon 2:4, "His banner over me is love." Just as Joan of Arc could step forth in full confidence under the banner of her calling, so we too have the banner of God's love over our lives. Nordskog reinforces this affirmation throughout her book, reminding readers of God's love: the touchstone that directs our hearts and lives."

Title:  Hearts of Purpose: Real Life Stories from Ordinary Women Doing Extraordinary Things for the Glory of God.
Author:  Gail G. Nordskog
Publisher:  Nordskog Publishing
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating:  Five
Review:

"Hearts of Purpose: Real Life Stories from Ordinary Women Doing Extraordinary Things for the Glory of God" by Gail G. Nordskog

My Thoughts......from this wonderful read...where each author brings their story alive.

These were beautifully  written stories about ten women on their remarkable journeys that made a 'great impression' on Gail Grace Nordfskog as well as to its readers.

I will introduce each other and offer up a discussion question.  Now, you will have to pick up this good read to see for yourself and be able to answer the questions that are offered up at the end of each ones section of their story.

First we have Chapter one with Mary Ann Ambroselli whose main focus was on 'Counseling on Keeping PreBorn Babies Alive.
Discussion Question:  This one caught my eye...Mary Ann suffered many losses in her family.  Have you ever wondered where God is when tragedy strikes?

Second Chapter we visit with Cindy Reynolds whose main forcus was 'Ministry to Orphans in Linjiang.
Discussion Question:What does this mean "If you depend upon Jesus, your enemy will become your Friend? I found this quite interesting!

Chapter Three...Audrey Forster whose focus was 'Worldwide Adoptions and Aid to Orphans.
Discussion Question:  When you reflect on your talents and gifts, what do they include?

Chapter Four:  Patricia Blanco Steele focus on:  Transforming the Lives of Abused Women and Children
Discussion Question:  In reading Trisha's thoughts on "Love," which items impact you the most?

Chapter Five:  Julie Dawson Focus:  To Bring Healing to the Nations through the Multiplication of Medical Ships and the Gospel of Jesus Christ. To Disciple Nations through Evangelism and the Multiplication of Leadership Schools for the South Pacific ad Asia
Discussion Question:  Do you believe that "all things work together for good:  Romans 8:28

Chapter Six:  Lisa Shidler focus:  Helping and Training Special Needs Orphans
Discussion Question:  In reading about special needs children, what stands out in your mind about them?

Chapter Seven:  Marilyn Pulis Minister, Ordained by the Assemblies of God Pulis Ministries
Focus on:  Spreading the Gospel
Discussion Question: When was the first time you felt the presence of the Lord?

Chapter Eight: Lili Vaehr:   CFO, MovieGuide &   Good News Communications Inc.
Focus on:  Biblical Guide to Movies and Entertainment
Discussion Question:  Instead of a question here I would like to just add Lil's Five Don'ts to Help You Succeed in Parenting, Marriage and Life..

Don't Create Your Walls
Don't Wait
Don't Compartmentalize
Don't Be Afraid
Don't Quit

Chapter Nine:  Nita Hanson Director, God's Hidden Treasures
Focus on:  Bringing Hope to the Forgotten
Discussion Question: Have you ever felt that you are a "mistake?"

Chapter Ten:  Sharon Daly President, The Mossy Foot Project, Ethiopia
Focus on:  Providing Mossy Foot Patients with Support through Education, Prevention, Medical Treatment, Vocational Training and a Message of Hope
Discussion Question:  I loved this one coming from the read....

"I have been in every moment of your past,
My hand formed you
I am with your now.
I will be with you in the future.
All tomorrows are in My hands.
Trust Me daily.
Trust Me moment by moment.
I am your life and your portion.
Trust me for everything.
I will never leave you or let you down?"

All that is left to say after reading and absorbing it all from these wonderful well written stories is to thank this author for presenting such a good reads to the readers.  I didn't know when I picked this read that I was about to receive so much from each one of the stories that will truly  stay with me forever.  I even tried to pick a favorite one but couldn't because each one of the reads touched me in different ways.

I loved the 'Two Pertinent Devotions in Closing from New Every Morning from the author of this book: Gail Grace Nordskog....  A Daily Devotional Glorify the Lord....Oh, magnify the Lord, with me, and let us exalt His name together. [Psalms 34:3] and If God Be For Us...When then shall we say to these things?  If god is for us, who can be against us? [Romans 8:31]

Thank you to the author and WNL for sending me your novel for me to give my honest opinion of its read.  These were truly "Real-life stories about ten ordinary women doing extraordinary things for the Glory of God."

The Red Church [Sheriff Frank Littlefield # 1] By: Scott Nicholson

Book Description....

"The church was constructed in the 1860s under the guidance
of Reverend Wendell McFall. His sermons declared the existence of God s Second Son- whose mission is to undo all of Jesus work on Earth. McFall had the church painted red to summon the First Son to defeat the Second. But when he sacrificed a child to support his rantings, his congregation hung him from the rafters of his own sanctuary...

For twenty years, the red church has stood empty. Crumbling to ruin, it has become a site for Halloween pranks and the setting for ghost stories- including one about the thing that lives in the bell tower, a creature being blamed for a brutal murder that occurred in the church s graveyard...

Now, Archer McFall has purchased the church to house his Temple of the Two Sons, whose zealous worshippers will stop at nothing to see the Second Son return to his rightful glory..."

Title:  The Red Church 

Author:  Scott Nicholson

Publisher: Smashwords Edition

Series:  Sheriff Frank Littlefield # 1]

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Four

Review:

"The Red Church" by Scott Nicholson

My Thoughts.... 

I will say this isn't my favorite genre but I took it on and after a few chapters I will say this was a interesting horror story with some deep fantasy /paranormal and  some suspenseful mystery.  I was even kept reading because it seemed like a compelling story in this small town that will definitely keep your attention all the way till the end following who had been murdered and what was going to happen next.  Be ready for a disturbing read, filled with the story of evil that is on loose in 'Whispering Pines,' scary to creepy.  Along with all of that their were some very interesting characters that will give the reader some read.  So, if you are looking for a novel of mystery, suspense along with a lot of scary things going on...then you have come to the right place because this author will give it to you and more.