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Colonial Courtships
Head to Colonial Connecticut where unexpected adventure catches the Ingersoll brothers by surprise—and brings unexpected love into their lives. Nathaniel has his sights set on becoming a master figurehead carver, until he risks everything for a woman. Jonathan’s merchant trade and his new love are in jeopardy from a brother’s animosity. Micah expects to settle down to peace after a life of fighting on the frontier but finds a young woman hiding from an abductor. Alden is press-ganged into tending an ailing naval captain, then catches sight of the captain’s fetching niece. Will the unexpected end in four courtships?
352 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2012
5 people are currently reading
255 people want to read
About the author
Laurie Alice Eakes
56 books362 followersLaurie Alice Eakes used to lie in bed as a child telling herself stories so she didn’t wake anyone else up. Sometimes she shared her stories withothers; thus, when she decided to be a writer, she surprised no one. Family Guardian, her first book, won the National Readers Choice Award for Best Regency in 2007. In the past three years, she has sold six books to Baker/Revell, five of which are set during the Regency time period, four books to Barbour Publishing, as well as two novellas to Barbour Publishing and one to Baker/Revell. Seven of her books have been picked up by Thorndike Press for large print publication, and Lady in the Mist, her first book with Revell, was chosen for hardcover publication with Crossings Bookclub. She also teaches on-line writing courses and enjoys a speaking ministry that has taken her from the Gulf Coast to the East Coast.
Laurie Alice lives in Texas with her husband, two dogs and two cats, and is learning how to make tamales.
You can learn more about her and her work at http://www.lauriealiceeakes.com
Laurie Alice lives in Texas with her husband, two dogs and two cats, and is learning how to make tamales.
You can learn more about her and her work at http://www.lauriealiceeakes.com
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
January 17, 2022
Four Connecticut brother each find love where they least expect it. Four novellas that each cover one brother. Well written and quick to read, these novellas were penned by different authors, but they fit together beautifully and were quite enjoyable.
May 12, 2025
4 novellas: they weren't bad stories. By default, they felt a little rushed as most novellas do but I mostly enjoyed them. Definitely glimpses of patriarchal mindsets which would have been accurate for the time but cause me to bristle a little. the most annoying thing was the one brother who half the time was Micah and half the time was Micajah. Just pick one already. I hate interchangeable names for no good reason. Also, I've never heard of anyone called Micajah before this.
October 12, 2012
Life is full of the unexpected, don’t you think? That seems to be the over-riding theme of this 4-in-1 collection from Barbour’s Romancing America series, where each of the characters find that life has taken one or more turns they had not seen coming. Each of these authors takes those turns and gives them an extra twist in these tales of Early Americana.
Connecticut in the 18th century provides the setting for this group of stories about the Ingersoll brothers. They live in the town of Glassenbury up the Connecticut River, four young men whose father died an untimely death. Their mother operates the Red Griffin Inn, a popular boarding house, in an effort to see to the needs of herself and her sons. Their Uncle Phineas keeps an eye out for his nephews, as well as the entire town of Glassenbury. Against the backdrop of the French and Indian War, the lives and loves of the Ingersoll brothers take shape.
“Carving a Future” is the first novella in the collection, written by Carla Olson Gade. Constance Starling finds herself about to be sold as an indentured servant in America after a difficult passage from England, where she and a friend had been on an innocent errand too near the docks. Captain Smout was determined to make some coin on this woman, but she hadn’t weathered well. Nathaniel Ingersoll didn’t come to buy a slave, but when he sees Constance faint on the deck of Smout’s ship, he can’t help but interfere. Short on funds and a carver by trade, he bargains a new figurehead for Smout’s ship in exchange for Constance, whom he takes to his mother’s inn for recovery. Constance creates disasters as she’s never cooked or cleaned before, lending credence to her tale that she had been abducted from a life she wishes to return to. Is there any chance Nathaniel can convince her to carve a new future in America with him?
The next novella is “Trading Secrets” by Amber Stockton. The second Ingersoll brother, Jonathan, has inherited their father’s merchant ship, delivering goods up and down the Connecticut River. Forced ashore in an unfamiliar port due to a sudden storm (complete with flooding), he and his crew make their way to a nearby inn. The innkeepers’ daughter, Clara, takes an instant shine to Jonathan and he to her, but her brother, a former merchanter in his own right, has doubts about Jonathan’s character and believes Jonathan to be among the gang that maimed him. Before Jonathan can pursue Clara as his wife, he must clear his name and prove himself to be an honest, Godfearing man.
Laurie Alice Eakes wrote about the third brother in “Over a Barrel.” Injured in the wars, Micah Ingersoll has returned to Glassenbury and become the town baker. It’s something a guy with a limp can do, after all. What he doesn’t expect is for his flour barrel to make noise one morning–and to have a small child inside it. Sarah Carter has been running for a few weeks, trying to get her daughter to safety from the man who’s taken over her late husband’s plantation, but to Micah, it appears she’s kidnapped the child. How can Sarah prove herself to be honest when no one believes her and she needs to watch her back trail?
A few years go by before the fourth novella, “Impressed by Love,” takes place. Lisa Karon Richardson tells the story of the youngest brother, Alden, who has finally realized his dream of returning to Glassenbury to practice medicine. Sailors burst into his office and require his presence on their ship, part of the Royal Navy. Their captain has been severely injured in an attack and Alden’s skills are needed to save the man’s life. It takes a bit longer for Alden to realize the gig doesn’t end there, that he’s been pressed into service and is not free to leave. Phoebe Carlisle, the captain’s niece, ably helps Alden care for her uncle. When she realizes her impulsive orders have caused Alden’s detention, she is afraid to tell him. But as Alden falls for Phoebe, he finds his desire to escape fading. Will he abandon his medical practice–and the entire Ingersoll family–to stay onboard with the women he loves?
This collection takes place in the late 1700s, a different time period than many historicals and one I wasn’t particularly knowledgeable about (don’t forget I’m Canadian!) I found the stories interesting from that perspective. I also enjoyed cameo appearances by previous novellas’ characters, and watching their families grow and interact within the newer stories. If you enjoy this period of American history, I think you’ll like this collection.
Connecticut in the 18th century provides the setting for this group of stories about the Ingersoll brothers. They live in the town of Glassenbury up the Connecticut River, four young men whose father died an untimely death. Their mother operates the Red Griffin Inn, a popular boarding house, in an effort to see to the needs of herself and her sons. Their Uncle Phineas keeps an eye out for his nephews, as well as the entire town of Glassenbury. Against the backdrop of the French and Indian War, the lives and loves of the Ingersoll brothers take shape.
“Carving a Future” is the first novella in the collection, written by Carla Olson Gade. Constance Starling finds herself about to be sold as an indentured servant in America after a difficult passage from England, where she and a friend had been on an innocent errand too near the docks. Captain Smout was determined to make some coin on this woman, but she hadn’t weathered well. Nathaniel Ingersoll didn’t come to buy a slave, but when he sees Constance faint on the deck of Smout’s ship, he can’t help but interfere. Short on funds and a carver by trade, he bargains a new figurehead for Smout’s ship in exchange for Constance, whom he takes to his mother’s inn for recovery. Constance creates disasters as she’s never cooked or cleaned before, lending credence to her tale that she had been abducted from a life she wishes to return to. Is there any chance Nathaniel can convince her to carve a new future in America with him?
The next novella is “Trading Secrets” by Amber Stockton. The second Ingersoll brother, Jonathan, has inherited their father’s merchant ship, delivering goods up and down the Connecticut River. Forced ashore in an unfamiliar port due to a sudden storm (complete with flooding), he and his crew make their way to a nearby inn. The innkeepers’ daughter, Clara, takes an instant shine to Jonathan and he to her, but her brother, a former merchanter in his own right, has doubts about Jonathan’s character and believes Jonathan to be among the gang that maimed him. Before Jonathan can pursue Clara as his wife, he must clear his name and prove himself to be an honest, Godfearing man.
Laurie Alice Eakes wrote about the third brother in “Over a Barrel.” Injured in the wars, Micah Ingersoll has returned to Glassenbury and become the town baker. It’s something a guy with a limp can do, after all. What he doesn’t expect is for his flour barrel to make noise one morning–and to have a small child inside it. Sarah Carter has been running for a few weeks, trying to get her daughter to safety from the man who’s taken over her late husband’s plantation, but to Micah, it appears she’s kidnapped the child. How can Sarah prove herself to be honest when no one believes her and she needs to watch her back trail?
A few years go by before the fourth novella, “Impressed by Love,” takes place. Lisa Karon Richardson tells the story of the youngest brother, Alden, who has finally realized his dream of returning to Glassenbury to practice medicine. Sailors burst into his office and require his presence on their ship, part of the Royal Navy. Their captain has been severely injured in an attack and Alden’s skills are needed to save the man’s life. It takes a bit longer for Alden to realize the gig doesn’t end there, that he’s been pressed into service and is not free to leave. Phoebe Carlisle, the captain’s niece, ably helps Alden care for her uncle. When she realizes her impulsive orders have caused Alden’s detention, she is afraid to tell him. But as Alden falls for Phoebe, he finds his desire to escape fading. Will he abandon his medical practice–and the entire Ingersoll family–to stay onboard with the women he loves?
This collection takes place in the late 1700s, a different time period than many historicals and one I wasn’t particularly knowledgeable about (don’t forget I’m Canadian!) I found the stories interesting from that perspective. I also enjoyed cameo appearances by previous novellas’ characters, and watching their families grow and interact within the newer stories. If you enjoy this period of American history, I think you’ll like this collection.
June 27, 2020
This is a collection of four short historical romances written by different authors set in Connecticut in the years between 1753 and 1762 that features each of the four Ingersoll brothers. Each story covers between 80 to 100 pages, the first one being the longest of the four. The brothers are sons of their widowed mother who runs an inn and each is successful in his chosen trade. They are comfortably well-off but neither wealthy nor part of the aristocracy.
{u}Carving a Future{/u} by Carla Olsen Gade features the oldest Ingersoll brother, Nathaniel, a ship carver. He rescues Constance from an unscrupulous captain who had abducted her from England with the intention of selling her as a bondservant in the American colonies. The obstacles in the relationship between Nathaniel and Constance were small and easily overcome. I was left unimpressed by Constance who seemed weak and weepy.
{u}Trading Hearts{/u} by Amber Stockton features Jonathon, the second Ingersoll brother, a merchant captain. Clara, the heroine in the second story is much more capable and assertive than Constance. She is a hardworking young woman with a spirit and wit. She demonstrated wisdom, patience and determination in defense of Jonathon against her bitter and suspicious brother. Yet she forgave Samuel when he repented despite her natural initial reluctance to do so.
{u}Over a Barrel{/u} by Laura Alice Eakes features Micajah, the third Ingersoll brother, a baker. This story provides far more suspense and mystery than the first two stories combined. Laura does a great job of portraying Micah’s combined traits of tenderness and stubborn suspicion of Sara who hid her daughter in an empty flour barrel in the cellar of his bakery.
{u}Impressed by Love{/u} by Lisa Karon Richardson features the youngest Ingersoll brother, a physician, and Phoebe, the recently orphaned niece of a Royal Navy captain who was mortally injured in battle with the French. Thoughtless of the consequence to Alden and determined to save her uncle’s life, Phoebe’s instructions to the crew members result in Alden being forcibly impressed into the Royal Navy. Lisa shows Phoebe’s growth in self-awareness and humility by her repentance and what follows her decision to help Alden at any cost.
{u}Carving a Future{/u} by Carla Olsen Gade features the oldest Ingersoll brother, Nathaniel, a ship carver. He rescues Constance from an unscrupulous captain who had abducted her from England with the intention of selling her as a bondservant in the American colonies. The obstacles in the relationship between Nathaniel and Constance were small and easily overcome. I was left unimpressed by Constance who seemed weak and weepy.
{u}Trading Hearts{/u} by Amber Stockton features Jonathon, the second Ingersoll brother, a merchant captain. Clara, the heroine in the second story is much more capable and assertive than Constance. She is a hardworking young woman with a spirit and wit. She demonstrated wisdom, patience and determination in defense of Jonathon against her bitter and suspicious brother. Yet she forgave Samuel when he repented despite her natural initial reluctance to do so.
{u}Over a Barrel{/u} by Laura Alice Eakes features Micajah, the third Ingersoll brother, a baker. This story provides far more suspense and mystery than the first two stories combined. Laura does a great job of portraying Micah’s combined traits of tenderness and stubborn suspicion of Sara who hid her daughter in an empty flour barrel in the cellar of his bakery.
{u}Impressed by Love{/u} by Lisa Karon Richardson features the youngest Ingersoll brother, a physician, and Phoebe, the recently orphaned niece of a Royal Navy captain who was mortally injured in battle with the French. Thoughtless of the consequence to Alden and determined to save her uncle’s life, Phoebe’s instructions to the crew members result in Alden being forcibly impressed into the Royal Navy. Lisa shows Phoebe’s growth in self-awareness and humility by her repentance and what follows her decision to help Alden at any cost.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 9, 2017
Carving a Future by Carla Olson Gade
This is a good and interesting story filled with historic detail. It had been a while since I read a story set in the Colonial era, and I’d forgotten how much I enjoy this historic period of American history. The women are sweet and charming, but also industrious and sincere. I particularly like Lucy, who is the Ingersoll’s servant and becomes a good friend to Constance. I love all the cooking details and it was also fun learning about the figurehead carving trade.
Trading Hearts by Amber Stockton
This is a sweet story. I love the main male character, Jonathan. What a man of principle and integrity! He is such a great model for young men today, who often are lacking these characteristics. I like that even though he has these desirable attributes, he isn’t in the least bit stuffy or a “holier than thou” type person. I had to chuckle when I compared our young people today—in contact minute by minute with their friends, and the 5-month period that Jonathan and Clara spent writing letters to each other. How the world has changed in 300 years!
Over a Barrel by Laurie Alice Eakes
This interesting story really shows the plight of women in the mid-1700’s, especially widows. I enjoyed this fascinating story. It is enlightening to see the contrast between women’s lives today compared to those in Colonial America.
Impressed By Love by Lisa Karon Richardson
I enjoyed the story. I was a bit familiar with impressment into the navy, but this story really brings that practice home. I became quite emotionally involved in the lives of the characters and how this forced recruitment might affect not only the person being impressed, but also his family and others who depended upon him. My favorite aspect of Impressed By Love is the spiritual theme of trusting God in all circumstances.
This is a good and interesting story filled with historic detail. It had been a while since I read a story set in the Colonial era, and I’d forgotten how much I enjoy this historic period of American history. The women are sweet and charming, but also industrious and sincere. I particularly like Lucy, who is the Ingersoll’s servant and becomes a good friend to Constance. I love all the cooking details and it was also fun learning about the figurehead carving trade.
Trading Hearts by Amber Stockton
This is a sweet story. I love the main male character, Jonathan. What a man of principle and integrity! He is such a great model for young men today, who often are lacking these characteristics. I like that even though he has these desirable attributes, he isn’t in the least bit stuffy or a “holier than thou” type person. I had to chuckle when I compared our young people today—in contact minute by minute with their friends, and the 5-month period that Jonathan and Clara spent writing letters to each other. How the world has changed in 300 years!
Over a Barrel by Laurie Alice Eakes
This interesting story really shows the plight of women in the mid-1700’s, especially widows. I enjoyed this fascinating story. It is enlightening to see the contrast between women’s lives today compared to those in Colonial America.
Impressed By Love by Lisa Karon Richardson
I enjoyed the story. I was a bit familiar with impressment into the navy, but this story really brings that practice home. I became quite emotionally involved in the lives of the characters and how this forced recruitment might affect not only the person being impressed, but also his family and others who depended upon him. My favorite aspect of Impressed By Love is the spiritual theme of trusting God in all circumstances.
June 11, 2017
Sweet. no squeal factor but good clean fun stories.
December 21, 2020
I liked the first three stories the best. Good reads.
June 15, 2021
Four brothers find love in unusual ways. Their adventures in finding a wife are so enjoyable.
The historical setting and the way they lived and the way they talked makes it a great read.
The historical setting and the way they lived and the way they talked makes it a great read.
March 11, 2015
While the book wasn't bad, I found the stories to be short and the romance rushed.
It also lacked the spiritual content that I expect and enjoy in Christian fiction.
Carving A Future – Carla Olson Gade
Sweet, but oh, so short!
The story itself is really good. A young English woman forced into servitude and later rescued by a sweet American carver... sounds great, right?
I do have some complaints though...
First of all, Nathaniel was a bit too impulsive. He needs to learn to master his tongue. Though a bit brainless at times, he's a delightful and caring character.
Constance is kind and sensitive, but independent in her own way. She also makes a sweet, likeable character.
But that's just it. I don't see them as much more than book characters. I just didn't really... connect with these characters. It seems to me that the author was so busy with trying to condense the story that she didn't realize that she wasn't giving her characters room to breathe. To explore their emotions, and let the reader know how they felt. I really wish it was a full-sized novel – 97 pages just wasn't enough space. Unless it was the author's fault. Being unfamiliar with Carla Olson Gade, I can't judge her entire writings by this book. It didn't give me a very good first impression though.
Trading Hearts – Amber Stockton
Disappointing...
As before, cute story. Due to unfortunate weather, Captain Jonathon Ingersoll arrives at a convenient inn and meets attractive Clara Preston. Their romance buds, but will her brother's irrational hostility tear their relationship apart?
Just as your likely thinking now, it sounded interesting to me. But, as I said earlier, I was a bit disappointed. I felt the tension between the Clara and Samuel (her brother) and felt excitement. But I don't believe Amber Stockton wrote it right. She ended the threat too quickly and gently.
I also found Jonathon a little strange. He was always moving. There was one conversation where he would not sit still! From crossing his arms, to shrugging, to inspecting his fingernails. I thought the time when he “flattened his palm against his chest” to be a bit girly.
Clara wasn't a very bad character.
They fell in love much too quickly to be realistic. But I guess it has to be like that because the book is so short. (shoulder shrug)
Over A Barrel – Laurie Alice Eakes
I believe I enjoyed this one more than the previous two.
Micah's resentment towards Sarah added more action, but also made their romance seem even more rushed than usual. His disbelief in her after finding the paper was odd though.
I thought Eliza was sweet, spoiled though she is.
It was short, of course, but the story was sweet and I believe could've been a favorite of mine if it were longer and more developed.
Impressed By Love – Lisa Karon Richardson
Cute.
Though I believe Alden and Phoebe's relationship was faster than all the others, I really enjoyed the storyline and found that, under the short-writing-space circumstances, the author did a decent job in developing her characters.
Alden (I don't care for his name) is a doctor who was impressed into the British military by force (or should I say, by Phoebe Carlisle). He tries his best to escape but... Well, I probably shouldn't tell you the whole thing.
I did expect the transfusion part to be more romantic though. Oh well.
It also lacked the spiritual content that I expect and enjoy in Christian fiction.
Carving A Future – Carla Olson Gade
Sweet, but oh, so short!
The story itself is really good. A young English woman forced into servitude and later rescued by a sweet American carver... sounds great, right?
I do have some complaints though...
First of all, Nathaniel was a bit too impulsive. He needs to learn to master his tongue. Though a bit brainless at times, he's a delightful and caring character.
Constance is kind and sensitive, but independent in her own way. She also makes a sweet, likeable character.
But that's just it. I don't see them as much more than book characters. I just didn't really... connect with these characters. It seems to me that the author was so busy with trying to condense the story that she didn't realize that she wasn't giving her characters room to breathe. To explore their emotions, and let the reader know how they felt. I really wish it was a full-sized novel – 97 pages just wasn't enough space. Unless it was the author's fault. Being unfamiliar with Carla Olson Gade, I can't judge her entire writings by this book. It didn't give me a very good first impression though.
Trading Hearts – Amber Stockton
Disappointing...
As before, cute story. Due to unfortunate weather, Captain Jonathon Ingersoll arrives at a convenient inn and meets attractive Clara Preston. Their romance buds, but will her brother's irrational hostility tear their relationship apart?
Just as your likely thinking now, it sounded interesting to me. But, as I said earlier, I was a bit disappointed. I felt the tension between the Clara and Samuel (her brother) and felt excitement. But I don't believe Amber Stockton wrote it right. She ended the threat too quickly and gently.
I also found Jonathon a little strange. He was always moving. There was one conversation where he would not sit still! From crossing his arms, to shrugging, to inspecting his fingernails. I thought the time when he “flattened his palm against his chest” to be a bit girly.
Clara wasn't a very bad character.
They fell in love much too quickly to be realistic. But I guess it has to be like that because the book is so short. (shoulder shrug)
Over A Barrel – Laurie Alice Eakes
I believe I enjoyed this one more than the previous two.
Micah's resentment towards Sarah added more action, but also made their romance seem even more rushed than usual. His disbelief in her after finding the paper was odd though.
I thought Eliza was sweet, spoiled though she is.
It was short, of course, but the story was sweet and I believe could've been a favorite of mine if it were longer and more developed.
Impressed By Love – Lisa Karon Richardson
Cute.
Though I believe Alden and Phoebe's relationship was faster than all the others, I really enjoyed the storyline and found that, under the short-writing-space circumstances, the author did a decent job in developing her characters.
Alden (I don't care for his name) is a doctor who was impressed into the British military by force (or should I say, by Phoebe Carlisle). He tries his best to escape but... Well, I probably shouldn't tell you the whole thing.
I did expect the transfusion part to be more romantic though. Oh well.
October 19, 2012
This book is a collection of four novellas about four brothers and their mother who live in Glassenbury, Connecticut. Their mother had turned their large residence into the Red Griffin Inn when their father passed away in order to provide for her four sons.
In the first novella (Carving a Furture, by Carla Olson Gade), Nathaniel Ingersoll, journeyman figurehead carver, rescues a severely ill young woman (Constance) from a ship's captain, paying her indenture with all the coins he has left and his father's silver water flask to keep the captain from finishing her off.
He takes the unconscious Constance home for his mother's tender care, and then they find out the captain had no right to sell her bond--she had been kidnapped. Once she somewhat recovers, she demands her release.
Nathaniel's uncle and employer is more than a little upset at Nathaniel's expenditure. Constance can't cook, so his mother is also not pleased. But Nathaniel finds himself drawn to this young aristocrat--who, by the way, is also betrothed. Is there a way out of this mess?
The second book, Trading Hearts by Amber Stockton, is about the second son, Jonathan, captain of the river ship left to him by their father. He finds himself stormbound at the Higganum Inn where he meets Clara, the petite daughter of the owners. The attraction is instantaneous on both sides.
Clara's brother plans to throw a crimp in the romance. He thinks Jonathan is the author of all his troubles--a severe injury and a lost merchant ship.
Jonathan has convinced her parents he's worthy of Clara's attention, but her brother is a conundrum of a different color. Jonathan will have to stop the rumors her brother has begun to spread before his own trade route is ruined and before the budding relationship with Clara can be brought to a painful halt.
The third novella, Over a Barrel by Laurie Alice Eakes, begins with a small child found in a flour barrel in brother Micah's bakery. The child supposedly belongs to a pretty young woman, Sarah. There is a striking disresemblance between the young woman, Sarah, and the five-year-old screaming girl. Micah has his suspicions. He takes the woman and the child to his mother who is able to get the entire story from Sarah.
Micah is not so sure he believes her, but he puts Sarah to work in his bakery. A man searches for her and the child, claiming Sarah is his wife. Should Micah protect her or turn her over?
The final book, Impressed by Love by Lisa Karon Richardson, finds Aldon, the youngest of the brothers, a surgeon, impressed by a British ship to save the life of still another ship's captain, the uncle of orphaned Phoebe. Aldon believes he will be released once the captain is out of danger, but no--he is now a member of the British navy. But then, even if he were not, would he wish to leave the young beauty, Phoebe?
In the first novella (Carving a Furture, by Carla Olson Gade), Nathaniel Ingersoll, journeyman figurehead carver, rescues a severely ill young woman (Constance) from a ship's captain, paying her indenture with all the coins he has left and his father's silver water flask to keep the captain from finishing her off.
He takes the unconscious Constance home for his mother's tender care, and then they find out the captain had no right to sell her bond--she had been kidnapped. Once she somewhat recovers, she demands her release.
Nathaniel's uncle and employer is more than a little upset at Nathaniel's expenditure. Constance can't cook, so his mother is also not pleased. But Nathaniel finds himself drawn to this young aristocrat--who, by the way, is also betrothed. Is there a way out of this mess?
The second book, Trading Hearts by Amber Stockton, is about the second son, Jonathan, captain of the river ship left to him by their father. He finds himself stormbound at the Higganum Inn where he meets Clara, the petite daughter of the owners. The attraction is instantaneous on both sides.
Clara's brother plans to throw a crimp in the romance. He thinks Jonathan is the author of all his troubles--a severe injury and a lost merchant ship.
Jonathan has convinced her parents he's worthy of Clara's attention, but her brother is a conundrum of a different color. Jonathan will have to stop the rumors her brother has begun to spread before his own trade route is ruined and before the budding relationship with Clara can be brought to a painful halt.
The third novella, Over a Barrel by Laurie Alice Eakes, begins with a small child found in a flour barrel in brother Micah's bakery. The child supposedly belongs to a pretty young woman, Sarah. There is a striking disresemblance between the young woman, Sarah, and the five-year-old screaming girl. Micah has his suspicions. He takes the woman and the child to his mother who is able to get the entire story from Sarah.
Micah is not so sure he believes her, but he puts Sarah to work in his bakery. A man searches for her and the child, claiming Sarah is his wife. Should Micah protect her or turn her over?
The final book, Impressed by Love by Lisa Karon Richardson, finds Aldon, the youngest of the brothers, a surgeon, impressed by a British ship to save the life of still another ship's captain, the uncle of orphaned Phoebe. Aldon believes he will be released once the captain is out of danger, but no--he is now a member of the British navy. But then, even if he were not, would he wish to leave the young beauty, Phoebe?
November 5, 2012
Four brothers Nathaniel, Jonathan, Micah and Alden live in the mid 1700’s and are working to help keep the colonies going. Nathaniel is working at a carver and finds himself helping a woman who claims to be wrongly brought to the new world. Jonathan is the captain of a merchant ship and one stormy night takes refuge at an inn and finds a young woman who steals his heart. Micah is a baker and finds a child hiding in a barrel of flour. The mother claims to be on the run but can Micah find out the truth before its to late? Alden is a doctor who finds himself on a British war ship thanks to the Captains niece. Will he forgive her in time to find love?
Another book in the Romancing America line and it was a good read.
What I liked: I liked how the stories went in order and intertwined. I also find this time period interesting to read about. I thought all the characters where likeable and each story could have been a full book in itself. I also really liked the cover image of this book.
What I did not like: The 2nd story about Jonathan was kind of boring. It just needed something to give it some excitement and I would have liked it better.
Over all I enjoyed this book. Of the four stories I liked that last two the best and my favorite was the last one with Alden. That story could have easily been a stand alone novel. I like the Romancing America line because they can be read easily and are great books for those days you find yourself waiting on your kids at practice or waiting at the doctors office. Looking forward to reading more of these books.
http://abbiesreadingcorner.com/2012/1...
Another book in the Romancing America line and it was a good read.
What I liked: I liked how the stories went in order and intertwined. I also find this time period interesting to read about. I thought all the characters where likeable and each story could have been a full book in itself. I also really liked the cover image of this book.
What I did not like: The 2nd story about Jonathan was kind of boring. It just needed something to give it some excitement and I would have liked it better.
Over all I enjoyed this book. Of the four stories I liked that last two the best and my favorite was the last one with Alden. That story could have easily been a stand alone novel. I like the Romancing America line because they can be read easily and are great books for those days you find yourself waiting on your kids at practice or waiting at the doctors office. Looking forward to reading more of these books.
http://abbiesreadingcorner.com/2012/1...
February 24, 2013
This collection takes place in the late 1700s, a different time period than many historicals and one I wasn’t particularly knowledgeable about (don’t forget I’m Canadian!) I found the stories interesting from that perspective. I also enjoyed cameo appearances by previous novellas’ characters, and watching their families grow and interact within the newer stories. If you enjoy this period of American history, I think you’ll like this collection.
This book has four stories that take place in the 1700’s.over all very good stories. cant go wrong reading them..
Each story depicts the life of one of four brothers and their own personal search for purpose and love. These four ladies did a great job melding their stories together. Each author's unique style shows through her writing and after reading this book, I look forward to reading more from each of them. I invite you to partake of this wonderful book and get to know the Ingersoll brothers. You will feel like part of the family once you enter the beautiful Red Griffin Inn and meet the wonderful Mrs. Ingersoll, the matriarch of the family. As each brother embarks on his own destiny, you will find yourself captivated by the sights and sounds that emanate from these pages. It is a quick read, for you do not want to stop reading once you begin!
This book has four stories that take place in the 1700’s.over all very good stories. cant go wrong reading them..
Each story depicts the life of one of four brothers and their own personal search for purpose and love. These four ladies did a great job melding their stories together. Each author's unique style shows through her writing and after reading this book, I look forward to reading more from each of them. I invite you to partake of this wonderful book and get to know the Ingersoll brothers. You will feel like part of the family once you enter the beautiful Red Griffin Inn and meet the wonderful Mrs. Ingersoll, the matriarch of the family. As each brother embarks on his own destiny, you will find yourself captivated by the sights and sounds that emanate from these pages. It is a quick read, for you do not want to stop reading once you begin!
February 28, 2013
Book Title Colonial Courtships
Four in one collection
Book Author Laurie Alice Eakes
Carla Olson Gade
Lisa Karon Richardson
Amber Stockton
Publisher Barbour
Pub. Year 2012
Pages 350
Genre Fiction Christian Romance 
Ease of Read Very easy to read
ISBN 978-1-61626-694-3
I was attracted to this book because...
I won this book in an on-line contest. Romance is not usually my first choice in reading genre. I’m expanding my reading venues. I was intrigued by four authors writing the four stories about this one family.
This book was about
4 brothers in pre-Revoluntionary Connecticut crossing into manhood.
Things I liked about this book
The stories were well paced. There was painful conflict. The women characters were very strong individuals.
Why you should read this book
Very interesting insight into the struggles of everyday life in colonial Connecticut. These authors also showed how faith played a major role in the life decisions the characters were facing.
This book lived up to the back cover copy
The well written story summaries on the back cover provide just enough of a tease to draw you into the book’s pages.
Four in one collection
Book Author Laurie Alice Eakes
Carla Olson Gade
Lisa Karon Richardson
Amber Stockton
Publisher Barbour
Pub. Year 2012
Pages 350
Genre Fiction Christian Romance 
Ease of Read Very easy to read
ISBN 978-1-61626-694-3
I was attracted to this book because...
I won this book in an on-line contest. Romance is not usually my first choice in reading genre. I’m expanding my reading venues. I was intrigued by four authors writing the four stories about this one family.
This book was about
4 brothers in pre-Revoluntionary Connecticut crossing into manhood.
Things I liked about this book
The stories were well paced. There was painful conflict. The women characters were very strong individuals.
Why you should read this book
Very interesting insight into the struggles of everyday life in colonial Connecticut. These authors also showed how faith played a major role in the life decisions the characters were facing.
This book lived up to the back cover copy
The well written story summaries on the back cover provide just enough of a tease to draw you into the book’s pages.
January 21, 2013
My Review of 'COLONIAL COURTSHIPS' by Laurie Alice Eakes, Carla Olson Gade, Lisa Karon Richardson and Amber Stockton:
Why did I wait so long to read this book!! Colonial Courtships is four short stories that come together to make a wonderfully written novel. Each story depicts the life of one of four brothers and their own personal search for purpose and love. These four ladies did a great job melding their stories together. Each author's unique style shows through her writing and after reading this book, I look forward to reading more from each of them. I invite you to partake of this wonderful book and get to know the Ingersoll brothers. You will feel like part of the family once you enter the beautiful Red Griffin Inn and meet the wonderful Mrs. Ingersoll, the matriarch of the family. As each brother embarks on his own destiny, you will find yourself captivated by the sights and sounds that emanate from these pages. It is a quick read, for you do not want to stop reading once you begin!
I received my copy of Colonial Courtships as a gift from a Colonial Quills tea party. I wish to thank the ladies of CQ for not only a great party, but for a wonderful prize.
Why did I wait so long to read this book!! Colonial Courtships is four short stories that come together to make a wonderfully written novel. Each story depicts the life of one of four brothers and their own personal search for purpose and love. These four ladies did a great job melding their stories together. Each author's unique style shows through her writing and after reading this book, I look forward to reading more from each of them. I invite you to partake of this wonderful book and get to know the Ingersoll brothers. You will feel like part of the family once you enter the beautiful Red Griffin Inn and meet the wonderful Mrs. Ingersoll, the matriarch of the family. As each brother embarks on his own destiny, you will find yourself captivated by the sights and sounds that emanate from these pages. It is a quick read, for you do not want to stop reading once you begin!
I received my copy of Colonial Courtships as a gift from a Colonial Quills tea party. I wish to thank the ladies of CQ for not only a great party, but for a wonderful prize.
January 26, 2013
This book has four stories that take place in the 1700’s. It is not a time period I often read about but I was pleasantly surprised at how well the authors described their settings. I found each story to be thoughtful and the characters likeable. I really enjoyed the male characters in these stories. They were all written to be smart and likeable.
I gave this book 5/5 stars. I liked the time period and the stories were each so different in plot! The main characters conversations were all well written. There was one story that dragged a bit; this was due to not enough conversation and too much introspection! That said I still enjoyed the book and would recommend it to anyone who likes reading short yet detailed love stories.
I would like to thank the publisher for the copy of this book I enjoyed reading. I gave an honest review based on my opinion of what I read.
I gave this book 5/5 stars. I liked the time period and the stories were each so different in plot! The main characters conversations were all well written. There was one story that dragged a bit; this was due to not enough conversation and too much introspection! That said I still enjoyed the book and would recommend it to anyone who likes reading short yet detailed love stories.
I would like to thank the publisher for the copy of this book I enjoyed reading. I gave an honest review based on my opinion of what I read.
November 25, 2012
Title: Colonial Courtship
Author: Laurie Alice Eakes
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Rating: 4 ½ stars
Publisher: Barbour Books
Colonial Courtships is a novella collection, which includes four stories that follow four brothers prior to the American Revolution. I enjoyed each of the stories. I especially liked the fact that each story was about someone from the same family. Colonial Courtships was a short and quick read. I didn’t want it to end.
I received a copy of Colonial Courtships from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. The thoughts in this review are my own.
Published on October 1st 2012
Author: Laurie Alice Eakes
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Rating: 4 ½ stars
Publisher: Barbour Books
Colonial Courtships is a novella collection, which includes four stories that follow four brothers prior to the American Revolution. I enjoyed each of the stories. I especially liked the fact that each story was about someone from the same family. Colonial Courtships was a short and quick read. I didn’t want it to end.
I received a copy of Colonial Courtships from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. The thoughts in this review are my own.
Published on October 1st 2012
October 2, 2013
COLONIAL COURTSHIPS by authors, Carla Olson Gade, Amber Stockton, Lisa Karen Richardson and Laurie Alice Eakes. What a delightful book and so nicely complimented by each of the authors who each tied in one of the four sons into this charming tale during the 1700s, before America became it's on nation. This was a time when England ruled and the French fought for control. The book takes place in Conneticut with the Ingersoll family. Each of the four sons finds their bride. After each of the four parts of the book, there is a recipe that dated back to it's time, that was brought out in the story.
September 2, 2013
I really enjoyed getting to know the Ingersoll brothers of Connecticut as they learn a trade and strike out on their own in the year 1753. Each brother has a unique story of hardship and fortune learning that God is in control. They meet their wives through extraordinary circumstances and with the help of family.
September 8, 2014
I loved Carla Gade's and Eakes's the most...overall the four stories were amazing and I enjoyed reading it...
February 16, 2016
As always one or two of the small novellas in these books, lag behind.
But overall, I liked it.
But overall, I liked it.
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