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Lake Manawa Summers #2
A Great Catch
It is the beginning of a new century at Lake Manawa Resort in Iowa, but some things never change. When 22-year-old Emily Graham's meddlesome aunts and grandmother take it upon themselves to find her a husband among the resort guests, the spunky suffragist is determined to politely decline each and every suitor. She has neither the time nor the need for a man in her busy life.Carter Stockton, a recent college graduate and pitcher for the Manawa Owls baseball team, intends to enjoy every minute of the summer at Lake Manawa, Iowa, before he is forced into the straitlaced business world of his father. When Emily crashes into Carter at a roller skating rink, neither could guess what would come next. Will Carter strike out? Or will Emily cast her vote for a love that might cost her dreams?The perfect summer novel, A Great Catch will enchant readers with its breezy setting and endearing characters.
385 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 26, 2011
43 people are currently reading
928 people want to read
About the author
Lorna Seilstad
20 books244 followersFor as long as I can remember, I loved writing. I even dreamed in plots. I also grew up attending antique auctions nearly every weekend, so history was as much a part of my life as chores on our farm in Iowa, reading books, and playing with Barbies.
So, writing historical romances fit perfectly. Times may change, the style of clothes, the way we speak, but the common threads that unite us remain the same. Couples fall in love. Injustices
happen. We fight for what we believe in. We struggle. We endure. We grow.
After graduating from York College in York, Nebraska with an A.A. and then receiving a B.S.Ed. from Lubbock Christian University, I met and married the love of my life, David. God had
written our love story, and I knew from the moment we met that he was the one. It was not love at first sight by any means, but I was so sure he was "it" that I wrote that I'd met the man I would marry in my diary. We pledged our hearts to one another two and half years later.
I taught high school English until my oldest child was born. After that I began my career as a professional wiper. I wiped noses, counter tops, tiny tushes, tears, and scraped knees.
Deciding that my children were now older and less in need of my constant supervision, I started pursuing my first love again --writing. After joining American Christian Fiction Writers, I found a wonderful critique group and began studying the craft of writing.
David and I have three children ages 18, 16, and 11. We also work in youth ministry and teach youth and adult Bible classes.
Thank you so much for stopping by, friend!
So, writing historical romances fit perfectly. Times may change, the style of clothes, the way we speak, but the common threads that unite us remain the same. Couples fall in love. Injustices
happen. We fight for what we believe in. We struggle. We endure. We grow.
After graduating from York College in York, Nebraska with an A.A. and then receiving a B.S.Ed. from Lubbock Christian University, I met and married the love of my life, David. God had
written our love story, and I knew from the moment we met that he was the one. It was not love at first sight by any means, but I was so sure he was "it" that I wrote that I'd met the man I would marry in my diary. We pledged our hearts to one another two and half years later.
I taught high school English until my oldest child was born. After that I began my career as a professional wiper. I wiped noses, counter tops, tiny tushes, tears, and scraped knees.
Deciding that my children were now older and less in need of my constant supervision, I started pursuing my first love again --writing. After joining American Christian Fiction Writers, I found a wonderful critique group and began studying the craft of writing.
David and I have three children ages 18, 16, and 11. We also work in youth ministry and teach youth and adult Bible classes.
Thank you so much for stopping by, friend!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
July 6, 2017
I really enjoyed this summery read. It was perfect reading while celebrating July 4th, too, because a part of the story takes place during Independence Day. I am giving this novel five stars for several reasons. It was fun; it made me laugh throughout the book. It challenged me spiritually; the theme of daily devotions and prayer and to allow God to control your daily activities, was a blessing to me. I also learned some interesting historical facts about woman's suffrage and all the effort that woman made so that I can freely vote today. The fact that Carter, the main hero of the story, reminded me of my own sweet husband was just an added bonus, for me. All in all, I thought this was a good read. I would recommend it to those who enjoy light hearted, romantic comedy, with stronger spiritual themes.
August 2, 2016
Council Bluffs, Iowa, 1901
A Great Catch is the perfect beach or vacation read: fun, breezy, and featuring characters on vacation and enjoying summer themselves. I loved journeying back to the Lake Manawa resort in Iowa (after having read book 1, Making Waves, two years ago) and following the characters on another diverting summer adventure.
Although I'm not the biggest fan of the suffragette heroine, Miss Emily Graham was great for the most part, when her stubbornness and mule-headed attitude weren't grating on my nerves too much (just because a woman is a suffragette doesn't mean she needs to be annoying! She can be determined and a good fighter for her cause without always been so bloody stubborn. Urgh.) She was a little too headstrong and obstinate for my tastes, but her romance with baseball player Carter Stockton was highly entertaining and I was rarely bored.
I find baseball much less fascinating than sailing (which was featured in Making Waves) , so I wasn't that much "into" all the baseball parts, but I did love the idea that Emily had to learn to play and become a part of Carter's team as part of a bargain she struck with him. Carter was a really chill, easy-going young man who proved the perfect match for Emily because he was able to slow her down, make her relax, and encourage her to re-evaluate her priorities.
A Great Catch is certainly a light-hearted and typical Christian romance, but it did have some really good points about losing sight of what's truly important and letting God take control of our lives. I found the book preachier than its predecessor however, and was a little annoyed that the spiritual aspect felt forced and didn't exactly flow naturally. It felt as though Emily "had" to have a problem with God just because she was so hardworking and dedicated to her cause. While I appreciated the idea, Emily didn't act enough in a way that hinted at her broken relationship with God, so every time one or other of the characters would comment on her lack of faith, it sounded ridiculous because it felt too exaggerated. Yes, she could have prayed more and probably shouldn't skip church services in order to work, but guys, really, calm down. She just needed to be gently brought back on the right track, and although it did happen, it certainly wasn't done "gently", and I just think there could have been less fuss about that, and overall better character development.
But for all that it was a still a pretty good book which I really enjoyed reading out in the sun, and just reading about people on vacation immediately makes one feel on vacation, and it was very pleasant. :)
3.5 stars
A Great Catch is the perfect beach or vacation read: fun, breezy, and featuring characters on vacation and enjoying summer themselves. I loved journeying back to the Lake Manawa resort in Iowa (after having read book 1, Making Waves, two years ago) and following the characters on another diverting summer adventure.
Although I'm not the biggest fan of the suffragette heroine, Miss Emily Graham was great for the most part, when her stubbornness and mule-headed attitude weren't grating on my nerves too much (just because a woman is a suffragette doesn't mean she needs to be annoying! She can be determined and a good fighter for her cause without always been so bloody stubborn. Urgh.) She was a little too headstrong and obstinate for my tastes, but her romance with baseball player Carter Stockton was highly entertaining and I was rarely bored.
I find baseball much less fascinating than sailing (which was featured in Making Waves) , so I wasn't that much "into" all the baseball parts, but I did love the idea that Emily had to learn to play and become a part of Carter's team as part of a bargain she struck with him. Carter was a really chill, easy-going young man who proved the perfect match for Emily because he was able to slow her down, make her relax, and encourage her to re-evaluate her priorities.
A Great Catch is certainly a light-hearted and typical Christian romance, but it did have some really good points about losing sight of what's truly important and letting God take control of our lives. I found the book preachier than its predecessor however, and was a little annoyed that the spiritual aspect felt forced and didn't exactly flow naturally. It felt as though Emily "had" to have a problem with God just because she was so hardworking and dedicated to her cause. While I appreciated the idea, Emily didn't act enough in a way that hinted at her broken relationship with God, so every time one or other of the characters would comment on her lack of faith, it sounded ridiculous because it felt too exaggerated. Yes, she could have prayed more and probably shouldn't skip church services in order to work, but guys, really, calm down. She just needed to be gently brought back on the right track, and although it did happen, it certainly wasn't done "gently", and I just think there could have been less fuss about that, and overall better character development.
But for all that it was a still a pretty good book which I really enjoyed reading out in the sun, and just reading about people on vacation immediately makes one feel on vacation, and it was very pleasant. :)
3.5 stars
May 15, 2011
A home run hitter!
Lorna Seilstad knows how to write characters and a story to match that always make me smile…and teach core lessons on faith and life.
Emily and Carter fit together like a ball in a glove-problem is neither one want to acknowledge that fact. Circumstances toss them together and pull them apart, tension ran thick through the story and if it wasn’t just angst, it was comical and romantic (I won’t go into depth about the kisses…sigh).
I got such a kick out the trio of sisters, Emily’s aunts and grandmother. What a hoot they are! Such character packed into the few scenes they dominate. I love the setting, I could stay in Lake Manawa for pages and pages, the setting becomes another character and as the local rain beat over my head, I was far away on the white beaches or dancing under the lights of the gazebo.
When did baseball turn romantic? It did in “A Great Catch”. As Carter teaches Emily to play, not only did I laugh, but I sighed.
The full circle journey of Emily and Carter’s faith is well played out with a strong message that doesn’t take the story over, but rather enriches it.
I could go on and on, but suffice to say, it’s a lovely read, thoroughly enjoyable cover to cover, don’t delay in getting yourself a copy!
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers for my copy to review.
**Available May 2011 at your local bookstore from Revell Publishers, a division of Baker Publishing Group**
Lorna Seilstad knows how to write characters and a story to match that always make me smile…and teach core lessons on faith and life.
Emily and Carter fit together like a ball in a glove-problem is neither one want to acknowledge that fact. Circumstances toss them together and pull them apart, tension ran thick through the story and if it wasn’t just angst, it was comical and romantic (I won’t go into depth about the kisses…sigh).
I got such a kick out the trio of sisters, Emily’s aunts and grandmother. What a hoot they are! Such character packed into the few scenes they dominate. I love the setting, I could stay in Lake Manawa for pages and pages, the setting becomes another character and as the local rain beat over my head, I was far away on the white beaches or dancing under the lights of the gazebo.
When did baseball turn romantic? It did in “A Great Catch”. As Carter teaches Emily to play, not only did I laugh, but I sighed.
The full circle journey of Emily and Carter’s faith is well played out with a strong message that doesn’t take the story over, but rather enriches it.
I could go on and on, but suffice to say, it’s a lovely read, thoroughly enjoyable cover to cover, don’t delay in getting yourself a copy!
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers for my copy to review.
**Available May 2011 at your local bookstore from Revell Publishers, a division of Baker Publishing Group**
May 31, 2011
LOL!! That’s what instantly pops into my head whenever I think of Lorna’s first book, Making Waves. And she does not disappoint with her second book, A Great Catch! In fact, I think I was ROTFLOL through many parts of the book! My normal genre to read is suspense or tense action, but taking a break from all that and picking up one of Lorna’s books always promises light heartened amusement. When I received A Great Catch, I knew I was going to have a fun time reading it. And I was not disappointed!
It was so much fun to see some characters from Making Waves in this second book! As in the first book, I really like Marguerite! The main character for this book, Emily, was great and very humorous with her clumsy ways…but I’m afraid I didn’t connect with her as much as I did with Marguerite in Making Waves. I think it’s probably because I was completely annoyed at Emily’s “woman can do anything a man can do” and “don’t any man try to tell me what to do” attitude. But since this is just my personal opinions that set my teeth on edge around Emily sometimes, I am pretty sure that she will become a favorite with other fans just like Marguerite. :-) Carter was just awesome. I loved his patience with Emily and his determination to teach her a few “lessons”. I was laughing out loud when he made her promise to obey him as he taught her how to play baseball. One of my favorite parts in the book!
As before, Lorna has mixed in the humor and romance with a bit of a mystery toward the end. It’s a really nice mix to the books and keeps the readers guessing. I was a bit disappointed that both Carter and Emily let such vague accusations completely separate them, but I suppose it works to thicken the plot! Emily’s two aunts were pretty humorous and their constant barrage about bringing her suitors added to the storyline. I was laughing in my seat when they introduced her to balding Marion Wormsley. Wow! :-P
As I have said often when referring to Lorna Seilstad’s work, the thing that stands out most to me is her writing style. Light. Witty. Funny. It’s just SO much fun to read! It takes no effort for me to pick up one of her books and fly through the pages. There was nothing questionable in this book that I would need to point out. There is one very humorous time when Emily is given ‘bust food’ to help her in securing a husband The things that unfolded surrounding that tin can was laugh-out-loud funny!!
If I ever want to just relax, enjoy the moment in life, and have some serious laughing fits, Lorna Seilstad’s book is the one I would instantly grab for. Her Lake of Manawa Summers series is such a great read—with great lessons interwoven into the plot—that I end the book with a reluctant sigh to leave the characters. Seriously, if you haven’t read either of Lorna’s awesome books, you need to!
It was so much fun to see some characters from Making Waves in this second book! As in the first book, I really like Marguerite! The main character for this book, Emily, was great and very humorous with her clumsy ways…but I’m afraid I didn’t connect with her as much as I did with Marguerite in Making Waves. I think it’s probably because I was completely annoyed at Emily’s “woman can do anything a man can do” and “don’t any man try to tell me what to do” attitude. But since this is just my personal opinions that set my teeth on edge around Emily sometimes, I am pretty sure that she will become a favorite with other fans just like Marguerite. :-) Carter was just awesome. I loved his patience with Emily and his determination to teach her a few “lessons”. I was laughing out loud when he made her promise to obey him as he taught her how to play baseball. One of my favorite parts in the book!
As before, Lorna has mixed in the humor and romance with a bit of a mystery toward the end. It’s a really nice mix to the books and keeps the readers guessing. I was a bit disappointed that both Carter and Emily let such vague accusations completely separate them, but I suppose it works to thicken the plot! Emily’s two aunts were pretty humorous and their constant barrage about bringing her suitors added to the storyline. I was laughing in my seat when they introduced her to balding Marion Wormsley. Wow! :-P
As I have said often when referring to Lorna Seilstad’s work, the thing that stands out most to me is her writing style. Light. Witty. Funny. It’s just SO much fun to read! It takes no effort for me to pick up one of her books and fly through the pages. There was nothing questionable in this book that I would need to point out. There is one very humorous time when Emily is given ‘bust food’ to help her in securing a husband The things that unfolded surrounding that tin can was laugh-out-loud funny!!
If I ever want to just relax, enjoy the moment in life, and have some serious laughing fits, Lorna Seilstad’s book is the one I would instantly grab for. Her Lake of Manawa Summers series is such a great read—with great lessons interwoven into the plot—that I end the book with a reluctant sigh to leave the characters. Seriously, if you haven’t read either of Lorna’s awesome books, you need to!
May 28, 2024
A Great Catch was just an okay read for me. I really liked Carter, but found Emily annoying at times. She was so busy with the suffrage movement, but didn't delegate some responsibilities to others to help ease the load. She just came across too "I can do everything" to me. I got tired of that storyline. I guessed the twist of who was behind the missing funds, but the baseball game scene was unexpected.
May 30, 2011
Ever since reading Making Waves last year by this very talented author, I have been eagerly anticipating a return to Lake Manawa with a book called A Great Catch. Well....let's just say that I wish I could go back 100 years, and take up permanent residence there! It's such a unique little place that is full of fun and adventure waiting to be experienced.
The beginning of this delightful story was laugh-out-loud hilarious! Emily's two aunts were a piece of work with their matchmaking and nosiness...and boy, some of the fellas they wanted to set her up with had some of the goofiest names I've ever heard of! Thank goodness that a certain Mr. Wormsley made a quick appearance along with a hasty exit because I knew he was not the one to assure Emily's future happiness.
And then, there was Carter. My, my, my...he'd make any girl's heart go to pitter-patterin'! His attraction to Emily was the sweetest thing, too. He didn't run off despite her horrible clumsiness, and even volunteered to teach her how to play baseball--definitely took a big risk there!
The biggest lesson I took from this book was that we should be cautious not to get too busy with "stuff." For example, Emily was busy with being the president of her local suffragist organization, and that carried a load of responsibilities. She was busy writing articles for local newspapers, giving speeches, and organizing a huge baseball event with a ladies baseball team. Oh, and then there's Carter, and the makings of a promising relationship. And through it all, her sweet grandmother kept asking her, "What about God, Emily?" It took her awhile to recognize that God had fallen to last place on her list of priorities, but she soon realized that He had never left her side.
Lorna has created such an exciting place at Lake Manawa with neighborly people that are so much fun to read about! I was so happy to read about some of the characters from book one, too...made me feel like I'd never left. :o) I imagine it'll be another year before I'll get to make another trip to Lake Manawa, but I'll have my bags packed and ready to go when the time comes!
The beginning of this delightful story was laugh-out-loud hilarious! Emily's two aunts were a piece of work with their matchmaking and nosiness...and boy, some of the fellas they wanted to set her up with had some of the goofiest names I've ever heard of! Thank goodness that a certain Mr. Wormsley made a quick appearance along with a hasty exit because I knew he was not the one to assure Emily's future happiness.
And then, there was Carter. My, my, my...he'd make any girl's heart go to pitter-patterin'! His attraction to Emily was the sweetest thing, too. He didn't run off despite her horrible clumsiness, and even volunteered to teach her how to play baseball--definitely took a big risk there!
The biggest lesson I took from this book was that we should be cautious not to get too busy with "stuff." For example, Emily was busy with being the president of her local suffragist organization, and that carried a load of responsibilities. She was busy writing articles for local newspapers, giving speeches, and organizing a huge baseball event with a ladies baseball team. Oh, and then there's Carter, and the makings of a promising relationship. And through it all, her sweet grandmother kept asking her, "What about God, Emily?" It took her awhile to recognize that God had fallen to last place on her list of priorities, but she soon realized that He had never left her side.
Lorna has created such an exciting place at Lake Manawa with neighborly people that are so much fun to read about! I was so happy to read about some of the characters from book one, too...made me feel like I'd never left. :o) I imagine it'll be another year before I'll get to make another trip to Lake Manawa, but I'll have my bags packed and ready to go when the time comes!
June 13, 2013
Official rating 3.5 stars
A great sequel! I really enjoyed catching up on old friends and meeting new while "spending the summer" at this wonderful lakeside resort called Manawa! I did get tired of hearing so much about women's suffrage, but I knew going into this book that it would be included, so it didn't ruin the story for me. I'm looking forward to book 3: The Ride of Her Life
A great sequel! I really enjoyed catching up on old friends and meeting new while "spending the summer" at this wonderful lakeside resort called Manawa! I did get tired of hearing so much about women's suffrage, but I knew going into this book that it would be included, so it didn't ruin the story for me. I'm looking forward to book 3: The Ride of Her Life
June 21, 2023
What a perfect read for summertime! When a suffragist meets a local baseball player, sparks fly! Along with the story line and many doses of humor sprinkled throughout, this second book in the Lake Manawa Summers series had a great deal of depth, as Emily Graham dealt with issues impacting her self-esteem and threw herself into projects to overcome her perceived deficits. Carter Stockton, a man of faith, provided much encouragement in her endeavors and tried to help her grow in her spiritual walk. An unfolding mystery added to the enjoyment along with the blossoming romance, inspirational messages, and Emily’s quirky aunts.
Great story!
Great story!
August 27, 2011
Story Description:
She wants to change the world.
He wants to change her mind.
It’s the beginning of a new century at Lake Manawa resort in Iowa, but some things never change. When Emily Graham’s meddlesome aunts and grandmother take it upon themselves to find her a husband among the resort guests, the spunky suffragist is determined to politely decline each and every suitor. She has neither the time nor the need for a man in her busy life.
Carter Stockton, a recent college graduate and a pitcher for the Manawa Owls baseball team, intends to enjoy every minute of the summer before he is forced into the straitlaced business world of his father.
When their worlds collide, neither Emily nor Carter could have guessed what would come next. Will Carter strike out? Or will Emily cast her vote for a love that might cost her dreams? The perfect summer novel, A Great Catch will enchant you with its breezy setting and endearing characters.
My Review:
The story is set in 1901 at the Lake Manawa resort in Iowa. Emily Graham is a single twenty-two-year-old who is an astute and confident young woman who knows what she wants. She is adept at realizing her goals and won’t stop until they are achieved. Emily is a big believer of women’s right to vote or run for office, but doesn’t have the time nor the desire for a man.
Emily’s aunts and grandmother decide that she does indeed need a man in her life and set about finding her one among the young men who are frequenting the resort, but Emily plans to put the kibosh on that. However, when she runs into Carter Stockton, a recent graduate from college, she has no idea what is going to happen in her life. Is this situation something Emily can control or does fate intervene and cost her her dreams?
I loved Emily, although she was a deeply confident young lady, there was also an air of innocence about her. I loved how in one part of the book where she is speaking to a man named Mr. Fletcher about printing an article regarding women’s rights and Emily thanks him for being a supporter. He corrects her and tells Emily he’s not a supporter that it’s just merely “news” and that’s what he reports. They have a bit more conversation and Emily ends up “slamming” the door behind her when she walks out and is bothered by the fact that she can imagine Mr. Fletcher “grumbling about emotional woman” but says she didn’t really care. Then she says: “If I didn’t need the free press opportunity his newspaper offered, I would happily never grace Irwin Fletcher’s presence again.” Two minutes later she is standing in the town’s bank smiling at the gentleman who held the door open for her, at the teller’s she walks past and the people she is at the bank to see. I just got a kick out of her trying to be so tough when really underneath she is a sweet, innocent, young woman.
I didn’t realize that this novel is part of a series called: “The Lake Manawa Summer” series and would very much be interested in reading the first book in the series titled: “Making Waves.”
“Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”
She wants to change the world.
He wants to change her mind.
It’s the beginning of a new century at Lake Manawa resort in Iowa, but some things never change. When Emily Graham’s meddlesome aunts and grandmother take it upon themselves to find her a husband among the resort guests, the spunky suffragist is determined to politely decline each and every suitor. She has neither the time nor the need for a man in her busy life.
Carter Stockton, a recent college graduate and a pitcher for the Manawa Owls baseball team, intends to enjoy every minute of the summer before he is forced into the straitlaced business world of his father.
When their worlds collide, neither Emily nor Carter could have guessed what would come next. Will Carter strike out? Or will Emily cast her vote for a love that might cost her dreams? The perfect summer novel, A Great Catch will enchant you with its breezy setting and endearing characters.
My Review:
The story is set in 1901 at the Lake Manawa resort in Iowa. Emily Graham is a single twenty-two-year-old who is an astute and confident young woman who knows what she wants. She is adept at realizing her goals and won’t stop until they are achieved. Emily is a big believer of women’s right to vote or run for office, but doesn’t have the time nor the desire for a man.
Emily’s aunts and grandmother decide that she does indeed need a man in her life and set about finding her one among the young men who are frequenting the resort, but Emily plans to put the kibosh on that. However, when she runs into Carter Stockton, a recent graduate from college, she has no idea what is going to happen in her life. Is this situation something Emily can control or does fate intervene and cost her her dreams?
I loved Emily, although she was a deeply confident young lady, there was also an air of innocence about her. I loved how in one part of the book where she is speaking to a man named Mr. Fletcher about printing an article regarding women’s rights and Emily thanks him for being a supporter. He corrects her and tells Emily he’s not a supporter that it’s just merely “news” and that’s what he reports. They have a bit more conversation and Emily ends up “slamming” the door behind her when she walks out and is bothered by the fact that she can imagine Mr. Fletcher “grumbling about emotional woman” but says she didn’t really care. Then she says: “If I didn’t need the free press opportunity his newspaper offered, I would happily never grace Irwin Fletcher’s presence again.” Two minutes later she is standing in the town’s bank smiling at the gentleman who held the door open for her, at the teller’s she walks past and the people she is at the bank to see. I just got a kick out of her trying to be so tough when really underneath she is a sweet, innocent, young woman.
I didn’t realize that this novel is part of a series called: “The Lake Manawa Summer” series and would very much be interested in reading the first book in the series titled: “Making Waves.”
“Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”
May 30, 2011
More like 4.5 stars...
This book not only has an adorable, spunky cover, but the story inside is adorable, too. The heroine is stubborn to a fault, but then again, the hero is, too. Together they make sparks fly for a number of reasons. The romantic thread in this story is delightful. What I loved about this book was how it deal with the topics of assumptions, loyalty, and speaking the truth in love.
Not only did I find this love story endearing, but was delighted to discover that it had quite a bit of depth to it for such a light-hearted storyline. Emily believed things about herself that over time turned into self-fulfilling prophesy. Carter felt the need to prove his worth to the world as well, but for different reasons. Both had struggles with their ability to trust. I loved how they learned from each other.
I found Carter to be an endearing hero. Emily was easy to identify with as well, especially if you bury yourself in work to avoid dealing with the pain in your life. She kept finding herself too busy to spend time with God and to read the Bible. Ouch. But isn't that true for many of us? We get so consumed with tasks and getting things done that we forget to spend time with the Lord.
All in all I enjoyed this story. I've read about four or five novels dealing with women's right to vote and working toward that goal. I've also read a few stories about baseball at the turn of the century. This story was intriguing because it contained both. I would definitely recommend it. Plus, I really enjoyed the Lake Manawa setting and seeing characters again from the first book in the series. This novel could easily be read as a stand-alone title.
This book not only has an adorable, spunky cover, but the story inside is adorable, too. The heroine is stubborn to a fault, but then again, the hero is, too. Together they make sparks fly for a number of reasons. The romantic thread in this story is delightful. What I loved about this book was how it deal with the topics of assumptions, loyalty, and speaking the truth in love.
Not only did I find this love story endearing, but was delighted to discover that it had quite a bit of depth to it for such a light-hearted storyline. Emily believed things about herself that over time turned into self-fulfilling prophesy. Carter felt the need to prove his worth to the world as well, but for different reasons. Both had struggles with their ability to trust. I loved how they learned from each other.
I found Carter to be an endearing hero. Emily was easy to identify with as well, especially if you bury yourself in work to avoid dealing with the pain in your life. She kept finding herself too busy to spend time with God and to read the Bible. Ouch. But isn't that true for many of us? We get so consumed with tasks and getting things done that we forget to spend time with the Lord.
All in all I enjoyed this story. I've read about four or five novels dealing with women's right to vote and working toward that goal. I've also read a few stories about baseball at the turn of the century. This story was intriguing because it contained both. I would definitely recommend it. Plus, I really enjoyed the Lake Manawa setting and seeing characters again from the first book in the series. This novel could easily be read as a stand-alone title.
December 31, 2015
Emily has ambitious plans. In her role as president of her women's group, she works hard to help the women of Iowa gain the right to vote. She lives with her grandmother and two great aunts, all with plans to see her married, which is entertaining in itself.
Emily meets carefree athlete Carter, who plays for the new baseball team. She's not sure if she has time for him or not. Emily comes up with a plan to get attention for her platform - invite a women's baseball team to play against Carter's team. Carter sees a way to spend time with Emily by agreeing, with his own demands. Carter has his work cut out for him to get his team on board with the controversal idea, teach Emily how to play ball, and keep Emily safe from hacklers and her mishaps. When Emily has time to stop and think, she realizes Carter is gold, even if she has a hard time believing he really sees anything special in her to love.
This is a fun story. As always, Lorna Seilstad is brillant with scene descriptions and relationships, ones sweet and caring that resonate as what comprises lasting love (while working out the issues/obstacles). I also love the friendships among the women.
One thing I would like to see, is more than a slap on the hand for the people who did some pretty rotten stuff. Grandma Kate is suppose to come across forgiving, but... I want accountability, pure and simple. Maybe because I've seen people get a pass, a scolding, a rationalized excuse because of who they are, when what they did was flat out wrong.
Emily meets carefree athlete Carter, who plays for the new baseball team. She's not sure if she has time for him or not. Emily comes up with a plan to get attention for her platform - invite a women's baseball team to play against Carter's team. Carter sees a way to spend time with Emily by agreeing, with his own demands. Carter has his work cut out for him to get his team on board with the controversal idea, teach Emily how to play ball, and keep Emily safe from hacklers and her mishaps. When Emily has time to stop and think, she realizes Carter is gold, even if she has a hard time believing he really sees anything special in her to love.
This is a fun story. As always, Lorna Seilstad is brillant with scene descriptions and relationships, ones sweet and caring that resonate as what comprises lasting love (while working out the issues/obstacles). I also love the friendships among the women.
One thing I would like to see, is more than a slap on the hand for the people who did some pretty rotten stuff. Grandma Kate is suppose to come across forgiving, but... I want accountability, pure and simple. Maybe because I've seen people get a pass, a scolding, a rationalized excuse because of who they are, when what they did was flat out wrong.
May 28, 2011
Since my 81-year-old mother is the ultimate baseball fan, I was drawn to Lorna Seilstad’s book featuring one of the Bloomer Girls or, in layman’s terms, a lady baseball player. A Great Catch is a charming romantic comedy featuring suffragist Emily Graham and rich boy turned baseball player Carter Stockton. Emily meets Carter when she crashes into him at a roller skating rink. Emily is a bit unsure of herself and a complete klutz while Carter is confident and athletic. Of course, they’re destined to be together!
The story is set during 1901 in Lake Manawa, Iowa, a beautiful resort in America’s heartland. Though Emily and Carter enjoy the typical summer activities—baseball, swimming, picnicking, strolling along the boardwalk–along with their fellow townsfolk, they have more on their minds than having fun. There’s a mystery to solve, bullies to deal with, Emily’s meddling aunts to avoid, and a question to answer: are they ready to spend the rest of their lives together?
I enjoyed this lighthearted romantic book. Reading about a slower-paced, simpler life warmed my heart and left me with a smile on my face. Lorna does a great job of investing her characters with life, recreating the time period, and weaving inspirational truths into her story.
The story is set during 1901 in Lake Manawa, Iowa, a beautiful resort in America’s heartland. Though Emily and Carter enjoy the typical summer activities—baseball, swimming, picnicking, strolling along the boardwalk–along with their fellow townsfolk, they have more on their minds than having fun. There’s a mystery to solve, bullies to deal with, Emily’s meddling aunts to avoid, and a question to answer: are they ready to spend the rest of their lives together?
I enjoyed this lighthearted romantic book. Reading about a slower-paced, simpler life warmed my heart and left me with a smile on my face. Lorna does a great job of investing her characters with life, recreating the time period, and weaving inspirational truths into her story.
May 31, 2011
I am a big fan of covers. Yes, book covers:) If they are really eye catching or not, that is. That is why I just knew this book was going to be great! A Great Catch has one of the best covers I have ever seen on a book. Historical fiction is one of my favorite genres and is only surpassed by mystery. But this book really has a wonderful cover that makes you want to read the book.
In this series, Lorna has done a wonderful job. The first book, Making Waves, was well written and quite interesting. This one follows in the same vein and was quite entertaining. There is not a lot of in-depth thought but I really liked the history. It shows a lot of the mind set back then and how women were looked upon. Emily was quite klutzy, which I thought was kind of funny. Many times today the books portray perfect women with the perfect figure who are graceful as can be. Not the case in this book. I also loved her aunt's! They are really hysterical and quite interesting. You will just have to read this book to find out more:) I also liked that characters from the first book, Making Waves, show up in this one.
Overall, I was really impressed with the style of this book. The characters were very like-able and the plot was great. I can't wait to read the next book!
In this series, Lorna has done a wonderful job. The first book, Making Waves, was well written and quite interesting. This one follows in the same vein and was quite entertaining. There is not a lot of in-depth thought but I really liked the history. It shows a lot of the mind set back then and how women were looked upon. Emily was quite klutzy, which I thought was kind of funny. Many times today the books portray perfect women with the perfect figure who are graceful as can be. Not the case in this book. I also loved her aunt's! They are really hysterical and quite interesting. You will just have to read this book to find out more:) I also liked that characters from the first book, Making Waves, show up in this one.
Overall, I was really impressed with the style of this book. The characters were very like-able and the plot was great. I can't wait to read the next book!
May 29, 2011
Emily Graham is more interested in fighting for women’s rights to vote than finding a husband. Unfortunately, for her, Emily’s Aunts will not let Emily become a spinster. They aim to find Emily a suitor.
Carter Stockton is the pitcher for the Manawa Owls baseball team. He knows Emily but in the past she was always Martin’s sister. Now that she is grown up, Carter is looking at her in a new way…as a woman. Carter plans to show Emily that she needs a man in her life. It is up to Emily to vote for the right choice.
A Great Catch is book two in the Lake Manawa Summers series. It can be read as a stand alone novel. Emily would lose her head if I was not attached to her body. She is a klutz. Lucky for her that it worked in her favor. If she had not fallen and Carter was not there to catch her fall at the ice skating pond, than, Emily might not have noticed Carter. I loved Carter. He had this boyish charm about him but at the same time, he was a gentleman. IT was funny to see Carter try and get under Emily’s skin. Of course, he got everything that was coming to him, even the bumps and bruises he endured from Emily. A Great Catch swings and hits a home run!
Carter Stockton is the pitcher for the Manawa Owls baseball team. He knows Emily but in the past she was always Martin’s sister. Now that she is grown up, Carter is looking at her in a new way…as a woman. Carter plans to show Emily that she needs a man in her life. It is up to Emily to vote for the right choice.
A Great Catch is book two in the Lake Manawa Summers series. It can be read as a stand alone novel. Emily would lose her head if I was not attached to her body. She is a klutz. Lucky for her that it worked in her favor. If she had not fallen and Carter was not there to catch her fall at the ice skating pond, than, Emily might not have noticed Carter. I loved Carter. He had this boyish charm about him but at the same time, he was a gentleman. IT was funny to see Carter try and get under Emily’s skin. Of course, he got everything that was coming to him, even the bumps and bruises he endured from Emily. A Great Catch swings and hits a home run!
August 30, 2013
Another fun story. Love this authors humor and her talent of pulling the reader into the story. What fun it would have been to live in that time period. Well, part of it, anyway. I loved the characters. Emily and Carter were awesome and what fun to chuckle at the differences between the two aunts and grandmother! This was a great book two in this series and I'm glad I finally got around to reading it.
March 11, 2012
A Great Catch is just as entertaining as Making Waves! If you haven't read Book One, you're missing something. Love it!
September 5, 2017
While I enjoyed A Great Catch to some extent, it didn't live quite up to my expectations. For one thing, I didn't even remember Emily Graham from Making Waves, so I had no connection to her. I'm sure she was in that book; she must have been too vanilla of a character for me to notice.
In addition to that, I'm not fond of suffragette characters 90% of the time. There's a certain obnoxious quality to Emily that I just didn't appreciate. I'm also not much of a baseball fan and this entire book revolved around baseball and Emily bringing one of the Bloomer Girl baseball teams to Lake Manawa for a game. Now, I thought the Bloomer Girls was a fascinating bit of history, but it wasn't really enough to hold my attention. I found myself wanting to race through the book to the finish so I could start on the 3rd, which stars Lilly, Marguerite's maid, from Making Waves.
Carter was too pushy with his intentions, another aspect that bored me. I guess I just wasn't sure why this story was needed when it felt much more important to tell Lilly's tale instead. And once again the reader had to contend with a heroine who wants to go her own way instead of God's way and has to be drawn back into the fold and reminded that God calls according to His purpose. I don't know, it just felt a tad cliched after having almost the exact same faith issue fed me in Making Waves.
Oh well, I guess you can't win them all. I guess I just loved Trip and Marguerite so much from Making Waves, that A Great Catch never stood a chance. It's not that the book was bad, and there's a good chance someone who loves suffragettes and/or baseball will love this book. It just didn't work for me.
In addition to that, I'm not fond of suffragette characters 90% of the time. There's a certain obnoxious quality to Emily that I just didn't appreciate. I'm also not much of a baseball fan and this entire book revolved around baseball and Emily bringing one of the Bloomer Girl baseball teams to Lake Manawa for a game. Now, I thought the Bloomer Girls was a fascinating bit of history, but it wasn't really enough to hold my attention. I found myself wanting to race through the book to the finish so I could start on the 3rd, which stars Lilly, Marguerite's maid, from Making Waves.
Carter was too pushy with his intentions, another aspect that bored me. I guess I just wasn't sure why this story was needed when it felt much more important to tell Lilly's tale instead. And once again the reader had to contend with a heroine who wants to go her own way instead of God's way and has to be drawn back into the fold and reminded that God calls according to His purpose. I don't know, it just felt a tad cliched after having almost the exact same faith issue fed me in Making Waves.
Oh well, I guess you can't win them all. I guess I just loved Trip and Marguerite so much from Making Waves, that A Great Catch never stood a chance. It's not that the book was bad, and there's a good chance someone who loves suffragettes and/or baseball will love this book. It just didn't work for me.
April 8, 2019
I keep trying Seilstad's books, but I guess they are not for me. Like Marguerite Westing in Making Waves, this novel's heroine Emily Graham is short on faith and long on self-absorption (at least she had a more selfless goal), but I found her less annoying at times than her friend who stars in the first novel. Her love interest baseball player Carter Stockton was ok, but I wasn't overly impressed with him. Though he was more appealing than Marguerite's Trip. Emily's grandmother was winsome though her meddlesome aunts were obnoxious and like the other novel, this one contains anachronisms in dialogue, description and character behavior that detract from the story.
March 3, 2018
To me, this book spoke to me as a modern woman—the heroine is busy all the time and is trying to figure out how to balance work that’s important to her with her wish of having a spouse and a family.
She’s also admirable because she pushes through her fears both physically (baseball, bowling, etc) and socially (being made fun of by her insecure nemesis).
I wish there was an easier way through these situations—you can’t pray away everything.
Again, this book had a slight dark element which was fun as well.
She’s also admirable because she pushes through her fears both physically (baseball, bowling, etc) and socially (being made fun of by her insecure nemesis).
I wish there was an easier way through these situations—you can’t pray away everything.
Again, this book had a slight dark element which was fun as well.
December 5, 2024
This book was entertaining but not spectacular. I liked all the baseball references and I haven't read a historical book where baseball was such a large part of the plot so that was kind of fun. Especially reading about the girls teams. The main character is a suffragette so there is a lot of talk of feminism and how she can balance that while falling in love. There was an underlying mystery throughout the book and things take a left turn at the end which I found a bit bizarre and I didn't really think it fit.
It was okay and I think I would recommend it for a light summer read.
It was okay and I think I would recommend it for a light summer read.
November 23, 2025
Back in June 2021, we read the first book in this series, and after all the "heavier" books I've read lately I decided it was time for some fluff. It was easy to pick up less than a year later and I remembered all the characters!
I debated going ahead and reading the third and final book in the series, but I believe I'm going to go ahead and start on our Book Club book for this month ~ it looks fun!
I debated going ahead and reading the third and final book in the series, but I believe I'm going to go ahead and start on our Book Club book for this month ~ it looks fun!
May 5, 2018
Emily was so annoying it was difficult to enjoy this novel. She wants to prove women can do anything then she keeps passing out & needing to be saved/carried constantly. A strong independent woman knows how to take care of herself & not push herself past the brink of exhaustion- - Emily seemed to prove the chauvinistic men’s point constantly. Just boo on Emily.
March 22, 2019
A fantastic story of how God can work His will into our lives
Even when we forget about Him, or feel we are too busy He is always there, ready to lead us! Even in her fiction stories, I love the way Miss Lorna let's us see how God works in our lives. Thank you for your words Lorna Seilstad!
Even when we forget about Him, or feel we are too busy He is always there, ready to lead us! Even in her fiction stories, I love the way Miss Lorna let's us see how God works in our lives. Thank you for your words Lorna Seilstad!
July 13, 2018
Beautifully written. It gave me something to enjoy reading about and also made me think and do a little bit of self reflection. I am definitely going to be finding the other books in this series to read.
April 12, 2025
While I want to go back in time and visit Lake Manawa during the early 1900's because of this book series, I did not care for the Emily and her self-centered tendencies. Carter on the other hand, was a jewel of character and made the book fun and endearing.
August 27, 2018
Another great read from author Lorna Seilstad. Love her way of entwining history, God, romance & laughter for an amazing story. Wonderful summer story.
March 28, 2020
A great book!
This book was a hard one to put down! It had humor, true history, jealousy, pride, greed, hopes, dreams, love and God's love. A fantastic book.
This book was a hard one to put down! It had humor, true history, jealousy, pride, greed, hopes, dreams, love and God's love. A fantastic book.
May 4, 2021
Meh. 2.75
April 30, 2022
Okay but not great.
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