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San Antonio #3
Accepted
Against the backdrop of the Civil War, spirited Quenby Martin despises the monotony and restrictions imposed on women. Then San Antonio’s most respectable widow befriends her. Unbeknownst to Quenby, her genteel companion harbors a life-risking secret.
Soon after, Quenby meets Jonathan Campbell, a Texan farmer struggling to make ends meet, and eagerly offers her help. Despite Jonathan’s reservations about trusting his future livelihood to the pretty young know-it-all, he accepts. As their relationship develops, Quenby’s confidence and knowledge lures Jonathan in.
Quen draws the attention of a bounty hunter, whose charms cannot hide his evil intentions. Danger puts Quen’s wavering belief in God to the test. With the hunter on her heels, she embarks on an important mission that inadvertently involves Jonathan in a web of kidnapping and murder. His efforts to keep her safe expose his growing feelings.
Will Quenby have enough courage to face the perils of standing up for what she believes in? And at what cost?
Immerse yourself in the Texas frontier in book three of the San Antonio series that vividly depicts love, faith, and bravery amid shifting societal times.
Soon after, Quenby meets Jonathan Campbell, a Texan farmer struggling to make ends meet, and eagerly offers her help. Despite Jonathan’s reservations about trusting his future livelihood to the pretty young know-it-all, he accepts. As their relationship develops, Quenby’s confidence and knowledge lures Jonathan in.
Quen draws the attention of a bounty hunter, whose charms cannot hide his evil intentions. Danger puts Quen’s wavering belief in God to the test. With the hunter on her heels, she embarks on an important mission that inadvertently involves Jonathan in a web of kidnapping and murder. His efforts to keep her safe expose his growing feelings.
Will Quenby have enough courage to face the perils of standing up for what she believes in? And at what cost?
Immerse yourself in the Texas frontier in book three of the San Antonio series that vividly depicts love, faith, and bravery amid shifting societal times.
299 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 24, 2023
2 people are currently reading
11 people want to read
About the author
Paula Peckham
29 books78 followersA fifth-generation Texan, Paula Peckham graduated from the University of Texas in Arlington and taught math at Burleson High School for 19 years. She and her husband, John, divide their time between their home in Burleson and their casita in Rio Bravo, Mexico.
Follow her on BookBub as well for the latest on sales. https://www.bookbub.com/profile/41405...
Her debut novel, Protected, was an ACFW Genesis semi-finalist in 2020 and won a gold medal in the Global Book Awards in 2022. She also writes short stories, novellas, and poems. Book two in the series, A Father's Gift, was published in August 2022. It won third place in the 2023 Selah awards. Book three, Accepted, will be out in October 2023.
She has contributions in the 2021 release Christmas Love Through the Ages, and Texas Heirloom Ornament.
She is president of ACFW DFW and is a member of Unleashing the Next Chapter.
She has spoken at ACFW, Unleashing the Next Chapter, and the Carrollton League of Writers. For more about Paula and her books, follow her at paulapeckham.com.
Twitter: https://twitter.com/PaulaPeckham
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulajopeck...
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@paulapeckham?...
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/ppeckham/bo...
Follow her on BookBub as well for the latest on sales. https://www.bookbub.com/profile/41405...
Her debut novel, Protected, was an ACFW Genesis semi-finalist in 2020 and won a gold medal in the Global Book Awards in 2022. She also writes short stories, novellas, and poems. Book two in the series, A Father's Gift, was published in August 2022. It won third place in the 2023 Selah awards. Book three, Accepted, will be out in October 2023.
She has contributions in the 2021 release Christmas Love Through the Ages, and Texas Heirloom Ornament.
She is president of ACFW DFW and is a member of Unleashing the Next Chapter.
She has spoken at ACFW, Unleashing the Next Chapter, and the Carrollton League of Writers. For more about Paula and her books, follow her at paulapeckham.com.
Twitter: https://twitter.com/PaulaPeckham
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulajopeck...
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@paulapeckham?...
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/ppeckham/bo...
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
October 24, 2023
Now and again a book comes along that makes you lie in bed and refuse to get up until you have read the very last page. This is one such book.
Quenby Martin is living in Texas during the Civil War. She is trying to do what is right and putting her faith in God.
This is a really enjoyable read and perfect for any fans of historical fiction. I look forward to reading more of Paula Peckham’s books. I won't give away the ending but it tied up the story nicely. Many thanks to the author for a complimentary copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Quenby Martin is living in Texas during the Civil War. She is trying to do what is right and putting her faith in God.
This is a really enjoyable read and perfect for any fans of historical fiction. I look forward to reading more of Paula Peckham’s books. I won't give away the ending but it tied up the story nicely. Many thanks to the author for a complimentary copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
October 18, 2023
1. Where and when is the setting?
San Antonio, Texas (1864)
2. What do potential readers need to know most about the main character?
Jonathan Campbell sought the expertise of none other than Quen, whom he envisioned as Quinn, to effectively organize his financial matters. With utmost confidence, Quen embraced the opportunity to assist Jonathan in streamlining his finances.
3. Which supporting character caught your interest the most?
In her insightful observations of life in Texas, Quenby Martin couldn’t help but recognize a striking disparity compared to her experiences in Nigeria. It was clear that Texas had a distinct social dynamic that set it apart. Remarkably, the absence of black servants in Nigeria contrasted sharply with the presence of a different societal landscape in Texas. With a glimmer of hope, Quenby Martin contemplated the possibility of finding solace in browsing through Mrs. Lancaster’s esteemed library in San Antonio.
4. (for Christian fiction) Are there spiritual truths to be gleaned from the story?
“This world is full of evil things, bad people. Enough to make you want to
curl up and die. But now and again, one comes along who hears the Word of God, who listens to
what Jesus said. And that person hands you the rope that pulls you from the pit. The rope Jesus
created when he died.”
5. For whom would you recommend this book?
I believe that this book may be a fresh and exciting read, especially for fans of historical romance. It may not be a familiar choice for me personally, but I do recommend giving it a try.
6. Why did you give it the star rating you did?
I confidently give Accepted a rating of 3 out of 5 stars due to its inability to captivate my attention.
7. Does the title ask a question that must be answered?
Absolutely! Can one be assured of their acceptance?
Disclaimer: I received a copy from the author. This in no way affects my review. All thoughts are my own.
San Antonio, Texas (1864)
2. What do potential readers need to know most about the main character?
Jonathan Campbell sought the expertise of none other than Quen, whom he envisioned as Quinn, to effectively organize his financial matters. With utmost confidence, Quen embraced the opportunity to assist Jonathan in streamlining his finances.
3. Which supporting character caught your interest the most?
In her insightful observations of life in Texas, Quenby Martin couldn’t help but recognize a striking disparity compared to her experiences in Nigeria. It was clear that Texas had a distinct social dynamic that set it apart. Remarkably, the absence of black servants in Nigeria contrasted sharply with the presence of a different societal landscape in Texas. With a glimmer of hope, Quenby Martin contemplated the possibility of finding solace in browsing through Mrs. Lancaster’s esteemed library in San Antonio.
4. (for Christian fiction) Are there spiritual truths to be gleaned from the story?
“This world is full of evil things, bad people. Enough to make you want to
curl up and die. But now and again, one comes along who hears the Word of God, who listens to
what Jesus said. And that person hands you the rope that pulls you from the pit. The rope Jesus
created when he died.”
5. For whom would you recommend this book?
I believe that this book may be a fresh and exciting read, especially for fans of historical romance. It may not be a familiar choice for me personally, but I do recommend giving it a try.
6. Why did you give it the star rating you did?
I confidently give Accepted a rating of 3 out of 5 stars due to its inability to captivate my attention.
7. Does the title ask a question that must be answered?
Absolutely! Can one be assured of their acceptance?
Disclaimer: I received a copy from the author. This in no way affects my review. All thoughts are my own.
October 16, 2023
Accepted is the first book I have read by Paula Peckham. I was honored to receive a Reader’s copy from the author. It is book 3 in a series and it is so very well written. I have not read the previous two, which I absolutely will, but I was able to read it as a standalone.
While it is often light and humorous, the book dealt with some serious issues. It speaks of the love of God without being preachy. There were parts of the book that caused me to hold my breath. And parts that made me giggle. And parts that made me grab a tissue. The characters and the locale were well drawn and believable. I’ve often wondered what was going on in the other states during the Civil War. This book, set in Texas at the edges of the Civil War, satisfies some of that curiosity. I was impressed with the ideas the cotton farmers came up with to get their crops around the embargo by the Union Army.
Quen had experienced total acceptance and love from the villagers in Nigeria where her parents were missionaries. In San Antonio she sees prejudice for the first time. She is horrified by the way black people are treated. When she encounters a truly slimy bounty hunter she is first attracted by his good looks and then repelled by his actions.
Having enjoyed much freedom in the mission field, Quenby felt imprisoned by the restrictions her family and society placed on her in San Antonio. Her parents are judgmental and withhold their love from strong-willed Quen but not from her compliant younger sister. Because of this, she has become skeptical of the love of God. Quen devises a plan to circumvent restrictions of her parents to help others. She is assisted in this by a most unconventional widow and a rancher’s wife who is even more unconventional. I was so happy when she realized that God accepted her just the way she was; and she accepted His gift of salvation.
While it is often light and humorous, the book dealt with some serious issues. It speaks of the love of God without being preachy. There were parts of the book that caused me to hold my breath. And parts that made me giggle. And parts that made me grab a tissue. The characters and the locale were well drawn and believable. I’ve often wondered what was going on in the other states during the Civil War. This book, set in Texas at the edges of the Civil War, satisfies some of that curiosity. I was impressed with the ideas the cotton farmers came up with to get their crops around the embargo by the Union Army.
Quen had experienced total acceptance and love from the villagers in Nigeria where her parents were missionaries. In San Antonio she sees prejudice for the first time. She is horrified by the way black people are treated. When she encounters a truly slimy bounty hunter she is first attracted by his good looks and then repelled by his actions.
Having enjoyed much freedom in the mission field, Quenby felt imprisoned by the restrictions her family and society placed on her in San Antonio. Her parents are judgmental and withhold their love from strong-willed Quen but not from her compliant younger sister. Because of this, she has become skeptical of the love of God. Quen devises a plan to circumvent restrictions of her parents to help others. She is assisted in this by a most unconventional widow and a rancher’s wife who is even more unconventional. I was so happy when she realized that God accepted her just the way she was; and she accepted His gift of salvation.
October 30, 2023
When Quenby’s family moves from their missionary life in Africa to mid 19th century San Antonio, the cultural adjustment is large. Her preachy father, her upright, social climbing mother, and her playful, ribbon-loving little sister, all seem to adjust fine. But the intelligent, curious Quenby, having had to give up her school teacher job on the mission, is at a loose end, bored, and anxious to do more than sip tea with her mother’s friends.
Secretly railing against the confines of a young woman’s life, she leaps at the chance to help Jonathan, a local farmer, sort out his financial troubles.
But is Jonathan grateful for having the outspoken and quick-to-act Quenby pry into his affairs, and discover a secret he’s carried and been ashamed of all his life? Not one bit.
And then there’s the other business Quenby finds herself involved in, with far more at stake than a farm. But Quenby is nothing if not resourceful, and with a great deal of sometimes misguided pluck, she steps up to the challenges. In the process, she learns a lot about herself, her faith, and the true meaning of love.
As with her other novels in this series, Ms Peckham gives us flawed characters who come alive to the extent we often want to take them aside and offer some ‘kind advice’; an historical setting which makes you feel you are there in the frontier town and the surrounding countryside; and a plot which twists this way and that, often with your heart in your mouth over what might happen next. There is real history here, too, which is very much integral to the tale and gives the reader insights into the horrors faced by African American slaves and those who tried to help them.
Accepted is a well-paced tale with humour, drama, emotion, history and humanity – and a lot of love, not only the romantic kind.
Highly recommended.
Secretly railing against the confines of a young woman’s life, she leaps at the chance to help Jonathan, a local farmer, sort out his financial troubles.
But is Jonathan grateful for having the outspoken and quick-to-act Quenby pry into his affairs, and discover a secret he’s carried and been ashamed of all his life? Not one bit.
And then there’s the other business Quenby finds herself involved in, with far more at stake than a farm. But Quenby is nothing if not resourceful, and with a great deal of sometimes misguided pluck, she steps up to the challenges. In the process, she learns a lot about herself, her faith, and the true meaning of love.
As with her other novels in this series, Ms Peckham gives us flawed characters who come alive to the extent we often want to take them aside and offer some ‘kind advice’; an historical setting which makes you feel you are there in the frontier town and the surrounding countryside; and a plot which twists this way and that, often with your heart in your mouth over what might happen next. There is real history here, too, which is very much integral to the tale and gives the reader insights into the horrors faced by African American slaves and those who tried to help them.
Accepted is a well-paced tale with humour, drama, emotion, history and humanity – and a lot of love, not only the romantic kind.
Highly recommended.
October 26, 2023
In 1864, in San Antonio, Texas, Jonathan Campbell struggled to keep his family's farm afloat financially after the death of his father. Feeling the responsibility to care for his widowed mother and his younger siblings, Jonathan begrudgingly agrees to help, which comes in the pint-size form of Quenby Martin, a genteel young woman who just returned from missionary work in Nigeria. She's smart, cultured, and sassy-everything Jonathan isn't.
Feeling stifled by the conventions placed on women, Quenby yearned for something to give her life meaning. A friendship with the town's most respectable widow and the dark secret she harbored may bring Quen more excitement than she can handle.
Set against the backdrop of the Civil War, Jonathan and Quenby's relationship grows despite both their reservations. She then catches the eye of a vile bounty hunter with less-than-respectable intentions. When Quen finds herself in the wrong place at the wrong time, she is thrust into the world of escaped slaves. She must rely on her belief in God and Jonathan to keep her from danger.
Paula Peckham's latest historical romance novel, Accepted, is a gripping novel that readers won't want to put down. Her gift for developing believable characters, realistic settings, and intricate plot twists make this book a delight from beginning to end. I highly recommend Accepted to historical fiction and romance fans, but anyone who enjoys a great read won't be disappointed with this book. Be sure to check out other titles by this author.
Feeling stifled by the conventions placed on women, Quenby yearned for something to give her life meaning. A friendship with the town's most respectable widow and the dark secret she harbored may bring Quen more excitement than she can handle.
Set against the backdrop of the Civil War, Jonathan and Quenby's relationship grows despite both their reservations. She then catches the eye of a vile bounty hunter with less-than-respectable intentions. When Quen finds herself in the wrong place at the wrong time, she is thrust into the world of escaped slaves. She must rely on her belief in God and Jonathan to keep her from danger.
Paula Peckham's latest historical romance novel, Accepted, is a gripping novel that readers won't want to put down. Her gift for developing believable characters, realistic settings, and intricate plot twists make this book a delight from beginning to end. I highly recommend Accepted to historical fiction and romance fans, but anyone who enjoys a great read won't be disappointed with this book. Be sure to check out other titles by this author.
October 26, 2023
Accepted by author Paula Peckham is Book 3 in her San Antonio Series. Even though it is the third in a series, it may be read as a standalone without any problems. This Christian historical romance is filled with suspense, adventure, danger, kidnapping, murder, and romance.
Paula Peckham is a new author to me. I enjoyed her style of writing, it flowed nicely. Her characters were easy to engage and believable. Her deft pen brought them to life on the pages.
This is the story of feisty Quenby Martin. Raised in Nigeria by missionary parents, she is now living in San Antonio, Texas just as the Civil War has begun. It is a bit of an adjustment for her, especially the prejudice in Texas. This is also the tale of Jonathan Campbell, a struggling farmer who Quenby offers to help.
The author has researched the era and area of her story well as is evidenced in the details she provides. I was able to glean some information about the Civil War and Texas from reading this. My emotions were all over as I immersed myself in Accepted. There were so light-hearted moments and Christian messages, too.
I truly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it. Lovers of historical, Civil War, and Texas fiction will be fans of it. It gets a 5 out of 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided by the publisher, but these are my honest words.
Paula Peckham is a new author to me. I enjoyed her style of writing, it flowed nicely. Her characters were easy to engage and believable. Her deft pen brought them to life on the pages.
This is the story of feisty Quenby Martin. Raised in Nigeria by missionary parents, she is now living in San Antonio, Texas just as the Civil War has begun. It is a bit of an adjustment for her, especially the prejudice in Texas. This is also the tale of Jonathan Campbell, a struggling farmer who Quenby offers to help.
The author has researched the era and area of her story well as is evidenced in the details she provides. I was able to glean some information about the Civil War and Texas from reading this. My emotions were all over as I immersed myself in Accepted. There were so light-hearted moments and Christian messages, too.
I truly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it. Lovers of historical, Civil War, and Texas fiction will be fans of it. It gets a 5 out of 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided by the publisher, but these are my honest words.
October 25, 2023
Accepted by Paula Peckham is a simultaneously funny, heart warming, heart wrenching, and well researched book. Historical romance is not usually my chosen genre to read but Paula Peckham has such a clear, poetic style to her writing, I have enjoyed her San Antonio Series books, and Accepted is very much included in that count. All books in the San Antonio series can be read as standalones, but each has favorite characters visiting in and out.
Quenby has become one of my favorite characters and scenes such as this had me laughing out loud.
“In point of fact, Hans is a gosling.” The pleased tone of her voice affected him like fingernails
on a chalkboard. “I rescued him from certain death.”
Jonathan gritted his teeth. Could someone rescue him from her?”
I love a well-written book, but one that makes me learn new things is even better. Accepted is such a book. Tough subjects are handled with care.
Although I received an advanced reader copy, I was under no obligation for a review, positive or otherwise.
Quenby has become one of my favorite characters and scenes such as this had me laughing out loud.
“In point of fact, Hans is a gosling.” The pleased tone of her voice affected him like fingernails
on a chalkboard. “I rescued him from certain death.”
Jonathan gritted his teeth. Could someone rescue him from her?”
I love a well-written book, but one that makes me learn new things is even better. Accepted is such a book. Tough subjects are handled with care.
Although I received an advanced reader copy, I was under no obligation for a review, positive or otherwise.
October 26, 2023
I really enjoyed reading this book! I love the setting of Texas in 1864! I also enjoyed the imagery regarding Africa! Paula Peckham brought the country of Nigeria to life!!
The book opens with a quandary. Jonathan has a mishap with an order and realizes that he might need help. Enter Quenby! She's feeling a little lost. She'd had a purpose in Africa. There's definitely some sparks between Jonathan and Quenby! I enjoyed how their relationship progressed! I also liked that Quenby rescued animals!
An important issue is brought up. Slavery. As Quenby becomes involved with a huge secret, her faith becomes stronger! There's some intense moments, and a good friend is lost. The reminder that God knows best is clearly presented!
All in all, this is an interesting book! I am definitely going to purchase the other books by Paula Peckham!
I was provided a copy of the book from the author/publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The book opens with a quandary. Jonathan has a mishap with an order and realizes that he might need help. Enter Quenby! She's feeling a little lost. She'd had a purpose in Africa. There's definitely some sparks between Jonathan and Quenby! I enjoyed how their relationship progressed! I also liked that Quenby rescued animals!
An important issue is brought up. Slavery. As Quenby becomes involved with a huge secret, her faith becomes stronger! There's some intense moments, and a good friend is lost. The reminder that God knows best is clearly presented!
All in all, this is an interesting book! I am definitely going to purchase the other books by Paula Peckham!
I was provided a copy of the book from the author/publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 24, 2023
Accepted by Paula Babb Peckham should go straight to your buy-and-read list—not the infamous To Be Read stack. This beautiful story is also a romance, while being a significant historical novel. The setting is Texas during the US Civil War, where political views transform into life-saving urgency. Yes, the handsome farmer and the lovely Quenby Martin, who recently moved from the mission field of Nigeria, will come to respect each other. And eventually more. Keep reading. But the people whose lives illustrate what freedom and love are will aid her struggle to find her place in America apart from her righteous but cold parents. A deep and meaningful novel, it illuminates eternal truths in the lives and words of its characters. You will laugh and cry and finally pray over this story. I was privileged to read the ARC of this book without obligation to rate or review.
October 26, 2023
This book covered some interesting topics as they dealt with the San Antonio area of Texas during the Civil War Era. Quen and Jonathan's story wrapped around these topics and showed the hardships that occurred in this period both to African Americans and those that helped them. Jonathan has difficulty with his bookkeeping skills for his farm and finds himself with an unexpected helper. This is a Christian read and enjoyable reading but shows the doubts that can hinder our trust in the love of God. The storyline was realistic and engaging. Although this is the first time I have read any of this author's works, I will be on the lookout for more of her writing. I received a complimentary copy of this book but was under no obligation to post a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 13, 2023
This was a fun read, but it did deal with some powerful subjects, from learning problems to slavery.
Loved how we are offered a missionaries daughter, having lived in Nigeria, and how she ends up helping a farmer that has a problem with his finances. Watch how this cleaver girl goes about helping him, and maybe winning his heart?
There is also danger, and people who go to great lengths to hurt others! This is Civil War time, and the cotton farmers are hurting with embargo, I loved how this was handled!
I found the flavored butters interesting, what a great idea!
Finding lost families to fighting hate crimes, there is never a dull moment, and thus a page turner looking for answers!
I received this book through Elk Lake Publishing, and was not required to give a positive review.
Loved how we are offered a missionaries daughter, having lived in Nigeria, and how she ends up helping a farmer that has a problem with his finances. Watch how this cleaver girl goes about helping him, and maybe winning his heart?
There is also danger, and people who go to great lengths to hurt others! This is Civil War time, and the cotton farmers are hurting with embargo, I loved how this was handled!
I found the flavored butters interesting, what a great idea!
Finding lost families to fighting hate crimes, there is never a dull moment, and thus a page turner looking for answers!
I received this book through Elk Lake Publishing, and was not required to give a positive review.
October 18, 2023
Quenby Martin has had the unique privilege of growing up as a missionary kid in Africa. Moving back to the USA around 1864 introduces her to a life where not everyone is treated equally. Life for a Black person in Texas seemed vastly different from what she’d witnessed in Africa. However was she to deal with this?
Searching for a sense of worth brings her into the lives of a number of wonderful characters. Will she be able to make a difference in the lives around her? A story of learning to love in spite of loss and growing in faith, regardless of the circumstances.
An early copy of the San Antonio Series Book 3 was received through Elk Lake Publishing. These observations are my own and were in no way solicited.
Searching for a sense of worth brings her into the lives of a number of wonderful characters. Will she be able to make a difference in the lives around her? A story of learning to love in spite of loss and growing in faith, regardless of the circumstances.
An early copy of the San Antonio Series Book 3 was received through Elk Lake Publishing. These observations are my own and were in no way solicited.
October 24, 2023
This is a new author for me which I really enjoyed. I look forward to seeing what is next for this author. This is the third book in this series, I look forward to going back and reading the rest of the books in this series. I enjoyed how the author used details to pull me into the story from the start. The characters are connectable, relateable and they took me on a historical journey of love and faith. I enjoyed the characters and what they added to the story. Quen is a great character that is my favorite of the story. She had me hoping they would find their HEA. She made the story easy to read and hard to put down. A fast paced, engaging story you don't want to miss for sure. This is a must read story and I highly recommend it.
October 25, 2023
This faith-filled novel offers a captivating mix of romance and historical depth, set against the backdrop of Civil War-era Texas. Jonathan and Quen's relatable struggles as they navigate love, loss, and faith add depth to this heartwarming story.
The author's vivid portrayal of the moral battles of the time will challenge your thinking and open your eyes to the dangers faced by both African Americans and those who dared to help them.
This emotionally charged narrative will keep you enthralled with its unexpected twists and turns, blending beauty and heartbreak seamlessly.
Disclaimer: I received this book from the author but was under no obligation to provide a review. Opinions expressed here are my own.
The author's vivid portrayal of the moral battles of the time will challenge your thinking and open your eyes to the dangers faced by both African Americans and those who dared to help them.
This emotionally charged narrative will keep you enthralled with its unexpected twists and turns, blending beauty and heartbreak seamlessly.
Disclaimer: I received this book from the author but was under no obligation to provide a review. Opinions expressed here are my own.
October 24, 2023
Paula Babb Peckham writes literary fiction with vivid descriptions that make the setting come alive. Quenby Martin is not very likable in the beginning. She is a sesquipedalian--one who shows off by using big words. Her superior attitude is actually a cover for her insecurities. As a missionary's daughter, she knows about God, but she doesn't know Him. However, like all good Christian fiction, Quen is beautifully redeemed. The hero, Jonathan Campbell also struggles with some insecurity because of his learning disabilities. He is a hard-working, faithful Christian who grows in his faith through trials. This is a sweet love story in the midst of turbulent times.
November 9, 2023
Quenby Martin uses her mathematical mind to avoid being shoved into marriage by her mother. In her search for a job, she meets Johnathan who desperately needs an accountant like her. With the help of a duck and a very handsome donkey, Quen succeeds in proving it. Quen’s let-me-fix-it attitude collides with neighbors, villains, and those needing protection.
As the daughter of a former missionary in Africa, she is fueled by her love for all God’s children and unwittingly draws Jonathan into a web of kidnapping and murder.
Paula Peckham's characters jump off the page and work their way into your heart, especially the donkey. I rated this book high on my list of favorites, and I highly recommend it.
As the daughter of a former missionary in Africa, she is fueled by her love for all God’s children and unwittingly draws Jonathan into a web of kidnapping and murder.
Paula Peckham's characters jump off the page and work their way into your heart, especially the donkey. I rated this book high on my list of favorites, and I highly recommend it.
October 23, 2023
So much packed within the covers of this book. If you want conflict - check. Relationships and their secrets and other issues - check. And if you want page-turning, breath holding suspense - another check. The story brings you right into the world it's written in and you hover over the action as it evolves in the pages.
I highly recommend this book.
Disclaimer: I received a digital copy from the publisher with no expectation in return. The thoughts above are my own and shared them voluntarily.
I highly recommend this book.
Disclaimer: I received a digital copy from the publisher with no expectation in return. The thoughts above are my own and shared them voluntarily.
October 28, 2023
While I haven't read the previous books in this series, I found that this one worked well as a stand alone novel.
I enjoyed Quenby and her humor, as she moves from being a missionary kid to living in Texas. I can only imagine what it must have been like to go to a different culture! The author does a wonderful job of sharing her struggles and triumphs that go along with being in a different country. I loved this story and the characters!
I received a complimentary copy of this books. This is my honest review.
I enjoyed Quenby and her humor, as she moves from being a missionary kid to living in Texas. I can only imagine what it must have been like to go to a different culture! The author does a wonderful job of sharing her struggles and triumphs that go along with being in a different country. I loved this story and the characters!
I received a complimentary copy of this books. This is my honest review.
October 17, 2023
Just finished Paul Peckham's new release 'Accepted.' I was engaged from the first chapter and read it straight through in two sittings-much to my family's chagrin. ;)
Queenly Martin, a missionary's daughter who grew up in Nigeria, moves with her family to San Antonio, TX, just as the Civil War is getting underway. She learns about the plight of the African American in Texas and discovers she can help. Romance also sneaks up on our young heroine. Fun read!
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publishers. My comments are an independent and honest review.
Queenly Martin, a missionary's daughter who grew up in Nigeria, moves with her family to San Antonio, TX, just as the Civil War is getting underway. She learns about the plight of the African American in Texas and discovers she can help. Romance also sneaks up on our young heroine. Fun read!
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publishers. My comments are an independent and honest review.
December 28, 2023
I truly enjoyed the main story arc in this book.
However, the other side arcs were disturbing. Yes, I am very aware that slavery was terrible and that there were such men as runners, but I hate reading about it. I also don't listen to true crime podcasts or watch television shows about serial killers. My soft heart just wants to avoid these topics.
I believe the book was well-researched and well-written, but I might shy away from books with the same topic in the future.
However, the other side arcs were disturbing. Yes, I am very aware that slavery was terrible and that there were such men as runners, but I hate reading about it. I also don't listen to true crime podcasts or watch television shows about serial killers. My soft heart just wants to avoid these topics.
I believe the book was well-researched and well-written, but I might shy away from books with the same topic in the future.
February 3, 2024
I don't very often read historical romances, but I am very interested in the Civil War era. This book captivated me from the start. Interesting characters. Witty moments. Dangerous times. Tragic times. Hard times. Wavering and unwavering faith in God. I loved it.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from Hidden Gems.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from Hidden Gems.
October 15, 2023
Suspense, danger, relationships, secrets, and more set in a time of unrest and war. The characters come to life through vivid descriptions and actions. I could feel the dust on the road and the heartbeats of those people in peril. I received a complimentary copy of the book. No review was required.
October 22, 2023
Paula Peckham is a new-to-me author who I am thoroughly enjoying! The characters in Accepted are just delightful and once you start reading you will not be able to close the book until you have finished the last chapter! I am hoping that Ms. Peckham keeps her San Antonio series going.
October 31, 2023
Accepted by Paula Peckham
Congratulations to Paula on her 3rd installment of the San Antonio series! This historical romance is a delightful story of love, bravery, and even a few secrets to be discovered. You will not want to miss this Texas frontier gem!
(find her book on Amazon)
Congratulations to Paula on her 3rd installment of the San Antonio series! This historical romance is a delightful story of love, bravery, and even a few secrets to be discovered. You will not want to miss this Texas frontier gem!
(find her book on Amazon)
November 9, 2024
This is such a fantastic story! I couldn’t put it down. I laughed, I cried, and felt like I was part of the characters circle. So glad I found this new author. Her style of writing and story telling is more than 5 star worthy!
October 23, 2023
Read this book last week and it reminded me of our history and how I can change my way of thinking today. Different genre that I read but so glad I did. Recommend it.
October 25, 2023
I really enjoyed reading this beautifully written book. The well-paced story offers heart/wrenching drama, lots of laughs, and a satisfying romance. Highly recommend.
April 1, 2024
This book is set in the Civil War era about a young lady who can't seem to find a purpose in life. And her family won't let her do anything but tea parties and baking. So she learns how to sneak out and gets a job secretly and get involved in a much bigger and dangerous job. The Underground Railroad. But she's naive and it almost cost her her life.
This book was interesting. Also the church/life balance and how it is handled drives people (esp their kids) away from God because they don't see Him as love or mercy. It was a good interesting read. The only thing that I didn't like was the cover. It didn't represent the story well or the time era. Editing and flow of the story was fantastic though.
This book was interesting. Also the church/life balance and how it is handled drives people (esp their kids) away from God because they don't see Him as love or mercy. It was a good interesting read. The only thing that I didn't like was the cover. It didn't represent the story well or the time era. Editing and flow of the story was fantastic though.
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