While Love Stirs

The Gregory Sisters #2

by Lorna Seilstad

After graduating from Fannie Farmer's School of Cookery in 1910, Charlotte Gregory is ready to stir things up. She is thrilled to have the opportunity to travel, lecture, and give cooking demonstrations on the very latest kitchen revolution--the gas stove--and certainly doesn't mind that the gas company has hired the handsome Lewis Mathis to perform at her lectures. Lewis encourages her work, especially her crusade to introduce fresh, appetizing, nutritious food to those convalescing in hospitals. But young hospital superintendent Dr. Joel Brooks is not convinced any changes should be made--especially by this outspoken young woman.

When Charlotte and Joel are coerced into planning a fund-raising gala for the hospital, will this combustible pair explode?

Fan favorite Lorna Seilstad is back with a breezy, lighthearted love triangle that will keep readers guessing. Attention to historic detail adorns the timeless story of a young woman looking for true love and making her way in a rapidly changing world.

Genres: Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction, Romance, Historical Romance, Christian, Historical, Fiction

354 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 29, 2014

About the author

For 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!

Reviews

[Lindsey (Books for Christian Girls) · Rating 3 out of 5]

About this book:

“Take one lovely young woman.
Add two ambitious young men.
Stir . . . and stand back.
As a graduate of Fannie Farmer's School of Cookery, Charlotte Gregory is thrilled to have the opportunity to travel, lecture, and give cooking demonstrations on the very latest kitchen revolution--the gas stove. And she certainly doesn't mind that the gas company has hired the kindhearted Lewis Mathis to entertain at her lectures.
Lewis encourages Charlotte's work, especially her crusade to introduce fresh, appetizing, nutritious food to those convalescing in hospitals. But young hospital superintendent Dr. Joel Brooks is not convinced any changes should be made--especially by this outspoken young woman.
When Charlotte and Joel are coerced into planning a fund-raising gala for the hospital, will this combustible pair explode?
Follow the second Gregory sister as she looks for true love and makes her way in a rapidly changing world in this breezy, lighthearted love triangle that will keep you guessing.”


Series: Book #2 in “The Gregory Sisters” series. Review of Book #1 Here! and Book #3, Here!


Spiritual Content- Ephesians 3:20 at the beginning; Scriptures are mentioned & quoted; Prayers & Blessings over food; Church going; Talks about God, His plans, faiths, & praying; ‘H’s are not capital when referring to God; Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers, praying, thanking God, & blessings over food; Mentions of those in the Bible; Mentions of churches, church going, services, ministers, sermons, & hymns; Mentions of blessings & being blessed; A mention of a godly person; A mention of a godsend.


Negative Content- Minor cussing including: an ‘idiot’ and a ‘stupid’; A bit of sarcasm & eye rolling; Pain, Injuries, Being hit, & Passing out (barely-above-not-detailed); An explosion (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of deaths, dying, & illnesses; Mentions of pain, injuries, & cutting a finger accidentally; Mentions of an explosion; Mentions of protestors throwing things, being hit, & passing out; Mentions of a tornado & injuries; Mentions of drinking; Mentions of embezzlement & thieves; Mentions of lies, lying, & liars; A few mentions of a cigar & smoking; A couple mentions of criminals & threating; A couple mentions of rumors; A mention of a (possible) murder; A mention of a war; A mention of carcasses at a butcher’s shop;
*Note: A few mentions of a scary movie.


Sexual Content- two lips-to-finger-touches, a hand kiss, a cheek kiss, two forehead kisses, three semi-detailed kisses, and a border-line semi-detailed // detailed kiss; Remembering kisses (barely-above-not-detailed); Touches, Embraces, Nearness, Shivers, Butterflies, & Blushes (up to semi-detailed); Remembering Touches & Warmth (barely-above-not-detailed); Noticing (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of kisses & kissing; A few mentions of finding a fiancée kissing a friend; A few mentions of jealousy; A few mentions of hand holding; A couple mentions of married couples kissing; A couple mentions of cuddling with someone; A couple mentions of swooning; A couple mentions of flirting; A couple mentions of reputations; A mention of a man being called delicious; A mention of men in Michelangelo’s paintings; A mention of knowing about the birds and the bees; Love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: A few mentions of tight corsets; A mention of men who have lost their wives in childbirth.

-Charlotte Gregory
-Joel Brooks
P.O.V. switches between them & Tessa
Set in 1910
340 pages

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Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Three Stars
Hmm. Not quite as I remembered. Charlotte was fun (a bit too stubborn, but that’s become the norm for Christian Fiction leading ladies) but, Joel got mad/upset too easily at Charlotte in my opinion, so I wasn’t really a fan of him. Another mention of the main girl’s corset being too tight in an odd situation. Overall, this series has it’s cute points, but the romance leans to the upper semi-detailed side at times.


Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...


*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.

[Mardell · Rating 5 out of 5]

While Love Stirs, the latest from Lorna Seilstad cooks up some little known history about Fannie Farmer. Our story unfolds in Saint Paul, Minnesota with our heroine, Charlotte Gregory is about to apply for a position in the kitchen of the Million-Dollar Hotel. She is a recent graduate of Miss Farmer's School of Cookery and can't wait to meet the chef, who no doubt will hire her on the spot. It is 1910, an era where special decorum was observed by young ladies entering hotels unescorted! When she finally has the chance to enter the kitchen, she is shocked by the unsanitary conditions and even more appalled at the arrogance of the chef who will, under no circumstance, have a woman working in his kitchen! After a ruckus, she is tossed out and runs into a handsome young man with bottle green eyes....

She is soon causing a stir when she visits her sister at the hospital....and as fate often has it, Charlotte encounters this young man again, as the doctor who delivered her niece. Hannah is eating a thin broth that barely has any nutrition for a young woman convalescing childbirth. On a mission to ensure patients are fed nutritious meals, she butts heads with Dr. Joel Brooks, who won't budge on menu plans. He is a controlling personality who seems to be set in his ways for someone so young.


Determined to find a job using her education, she enters a contest using the latest kitchen innovation, the gas range. She lands a job traveling around Minnesota by train, demonstrating how this marvelous stove can revolution the lives of the average housewife. She has colorful experiences with her traveling companions; a young singer named Lewis and her chaperone Molly, including being schedule in the midst of a strike against the gas company!



Through it all, she continually runs into Dr. Brooks, a man who she begins to understand is much more than a controlling personality. Just as she begins to understand him, he begins to see that she is more than a woman who surrounds herself with trouble and chaos.

I liked this book because it is a lesson in why we need to take people with more than just what we initially perceive. How often do we just see one side of a story? While Dr. Brooks seems aloof to better nutrition for patients, there is another side to his story that reveals his personality. We may see Charlotte as impatient for change, we learn what motivates her. Can these two stop long enough to see what the other person is truly about? Read While Love Stirs and find out. This second volume in the Gregory Sister's series leaves me ready to search for book one...When Love Calls....coming soon to my library.

[Rachelle Cobb · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lorna writes in an engaging, humorous, but heart-stirring style. That's a talented combination, and I truly enjoyed While Love Stirs.

I love that Charlotte is an independent woman. Educated. With ideas of her own about what she wishes to do with her life. Rare during that time period but very relevant (and relatable!) to today (and to me, new graduate that I am!).

Joel had my heart from the first. Poor Lewis never had a chance (though I wish him well, because he proved himself a real sweetheart). But strong Joel's OCD tendencies were hysterical. I even texted a friend midway through reading the book that I'd never encountered a hero with his need for organization. Charlotte, on the other hand, is a free spirit, and she is not afraid to speak her mind. The combination made for highly entertaining reading.

What I Didn't Like As Much

About two-thirds through the book, the pacing picked up significantly, and for a while I felt a little lost with all that was happening. A lot was going on that felt slightly contrived, but romances are a hit with me when there is an external conflict besides the couple's, ahem, combustibiltiy. I enjoyed that this author threw in so many conflicts like that.

I've enjoyed the few books of Lorna's that I've read in the past, and I recommend this one! A gem among Christian fiction, to be sure, and going on my keeper shelf.

[Iola · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second Lorna Seilstad book I’ve read—the other was her début novel, Making Waves, and I wasn’t overly impressed by it. The writing wasn't bad, but I didn’t like the heroine at all, and I couldn’t stomach the thought of reading further books in the series if she was featured. However, While Love Stirs is part of a new series, so I hoped it would be better.

It was. While Love Stirs is the story of Charlotte Gregory, recent graduate of Fannie Farmer’s School of Cookery. She is seeking employment as a chef (chef = stirs, get it?), but none of the restaurants in St Paul’s are interested in hiring a woman chef. Charlotte is an intelligent if opinionated woman (which puts her streets ahead of the heroine of Making Waves), with feminist tendencies and she doesn’t want to be controlled by any man.

Joel Brooks is a doctor at the local hospital (this was a little confusing. At first he seemed to be on the maternity ward, then he was looking after a woman with suspected cancer, then a stroke patient). Anyway, he has a run-in with Charlotte about the appropriate diet for a new mother (Charlotte’s sister). I didn’t like Joel at first because of his pathological need to have complete control over his environment, and I didn’t see him getting past that (Freud would have a field day with Joel’s OCD). However, but he grew on me as he grew on Charlotte.

This is actually the second book in The Gregory Sisters series. The first was the story of Charlotte’s older sister, attorney Hannah, although you don’t need to read the first in order to understand or enjoy this (I hadn’t). The writing and research was well done (with a couple of unimportant glitches), and I was impressed by the medical knowledge.

The minor characters were well written, and while I found characters like Kathleen and Nurse Pierce rather annoying, that was the point. The one character I didn’t like was Tessa, Charlotte’s younger sister. Tessa was too flighty (partly because she was young, but I didn’t realise how young she was because I haven’t read the first book).

I enjoyed While Love Stirs, but it’s still not a book I’d bother to reread. I also thought the Christian aspects were too understated (perhaps a reaction to the reviews of Making Waves which suggested it was too preachy). All in all, it’s a solid historical Christian romance, but with nothing to make it stand out above all the others in the genre.

Thanks to Revell and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.

[Reet Champion · Rating 3 out of 5]

Food is Charlotte Gregory's life. It's nutritional values as well as it's being the source of her income (hopefully) has made her a champion of food. And no bull-headed doctor named Joel Brooks is going to tell her she doesn't know what she's talking about. Because she does. And he doesn't. Let him make his false assumptions of her history and knowledge. If he chooses to be a near-sighted, orderly, neat freak that his problem. But then why does her mind forever stray to the well-meaning doctor?

Oh what to say. After a disastrous streak of book choices I thought this was going to be the title to break that. It wasn't. I thought, at first, it was going to be pretty good but gosh was I wrong. It's a pretty clean read, but the plot and characters are not very strong. They are just a tad stereotypical. Midway through the book they were even beginning to annoy me. Charlotte and Joel are forever butting heads moments before and/or after growing mushy over each other. *signal to begin rolling eyes* So, yeah, rather annoying. I probably would have enjoyed it more if the author had chosen to focus on Charlotte's story only (and another career - I mean I've - half the time inadvertently - picked up so many books in 2013 and in the last year that have either female cooks, actresses or female detectives and their inability to be accepted because of their gender. It's really being beat to death by writers.). Instead Charlotte's younger sister also has lengthy segments scattered throughout the book and it was very distracting. At that particular moment I was more interested in following Charlotte's life and had no interest whatsoever in Tessa's desire for the limelight. But, hey, what doesn't appeal to me usually appeals to a good deal of people. I'm just finicky. If you're considering this book go ahead and dive in. You'll probably enjoy it.

DISCLAIMER: In accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising” we would like to note that we received an electronic copy of “While Love Stirs”  provided by the publishers Revell, through NetGalley.com in exchange for our honest review.

reetchampionbookreviews.wordpress.com

[Carrie Pagels · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book from Net Galley as a download and I'll be purchasing a copy, also. This would make a GREAT summer read! I did not read the first Gregory sisters book but now I want to.

Charlotte is a Fanny Farmer Cooking School graduate who was previously in a relationship with an extremely controlling young man. She wants nothing to do with someone remotely like him. Enter Dr. Joel, who is an alpha male all the way, with a dose of OCD thrown in. Reading this book was like enjoying a perfectly prepared banquet!

I am guessing younger sister, Tessa, might be getting her own book because she had a storyline in this one doing clerical work/actress/detective!

This is a turn of the century Christian historical romance set in Minnesota. There is not a huge spiritual arc for either of the main characters but I liked that their faith was strong and got them through their difficulties.

Bibliotherapy elements: Jealousy (by two competitors), danger from natural disasters and from manmade ones, not letting the past rule the future, some OCD elements with the doctor, nutrition, and I think in one of the jealous situations the heroine was using her head and not the Holy Spirit to guide her but I also think that antagonist had to stay in as a plot element, and that was used as a spiritual element to show just because you "think" something is the Christian thing to do it isn't always so. Another bibliotherapy element well done was the heroine having two suitors, one who would have been "settling" for less than God's best for her.


Highly recommend! Don't plan on getting anything else done while you are reading this book--it is a real page turner!!!

[Rachel Brand · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 out of 5

Having recently graduated from Fannie Farmer’s School of Cookery, Charlotte Gregory is excited at the prospect of being able to use her cooking skills in a real kitchen—maybe even one at a prestigious hotel. But after all of her attempts to obtain a job are turned down due to the fact that women are not welcome in most hotel kitchens, Charlotte feels dejected. Will she ever get the chance to use the skills she obtained in cookery school? She knows that cooking and nutrition are her calling, but even the doctor she attempts to talk to at a local hospital makes her knowledge feel unwanted. When the opportunity arises for Charlotte to display her cooking skills in a competition run by the gas company, she hopes this is her true chance to shine.

Dr Joel Brooks is slowly rising through the ranks at his hospital, and hopes to one day become superintendent. Unlike some of his colleagues, Joel wants the best for his patients—whether they can afford it or not. His main concern is providing the best service he can, often donating extra time and money to those who need it, like the children at the orphanage where he volunteers after work. When Charlotte Gregory approaches him to suggest a complete overhaul of the hospital’s cooking services, he attempts to brush her ideas aside. The hospital’s funds are already stretched to their limit, and he doesn’t see how new menus would truly benefit his patients’ health. But Charlotte won’t let go of the idea, and as he continues to run into her around town, Joel begins to wonder if he should pay attention to the persistent cook. But can two people so stubborn and set in their ways find a way to work together—not only for the benefit of Joel’s patients, but also their future?

I fell in love with Lorna Seilstad’s writing when I read When Love Calls last year, and I’ve been anxiously anticipating the next instalment in the Gregory Sisters series ever since. While Love Stirs picks up the three sisters’ stories a few months down the line, with Charlotte visiting Hannah in hospital after the birth of her first child. Even if you haven’t read the first book in the series, enough is summarised to give the new reader an idea of the principal characters and their respective backgrounds. I enjoyed the opportunity to catch up with Hannah and Lincoln again, and I’m intrigued to see where the author takes the youngest Gregory sister, Tessa, in the final book in the series.

As fun as it was to revisit these sisters, I didn’t find While Love Stirs quite as compelling as its predecessor. The first book had been impossible to put down, with its engaging storyline and rich historical details. While it’s evident that the author put a lot of research into the second volume in the series, the story just didn’t draw me in quite the same. I won’t deny that I found the details about Charlotte’s studies in cooking and nutrition absolutely fascinating. I love to cook and I’m constantly on the lookout for new recipes to experiment with, so it was interesting to learn about the recipes that were popular in 1910, as well as the techniques and cooking styles. Since Charlotte enters a competition run by the gas company, it was also intriguing to learn about the introduction of the gas cooker, and the massive impact this had on cooking. While I don’t mind having an electric oven, a gas hob is something I refuse to compromise on, and it was something my husband and I specifically looked for when we moved house last year.

Perhaps this aspect of this novel might not be fascinating to those who aren’t so interested in cooking and its history, but Charlotte’s struggles to prove herself in the world of cooking and nutrition certainly transcend the world of food. Like her lawyer sister, Charlotte is striving to get ahead in a male-dominated arena. From being forced to enter a hotel via the side entrance, to being laughed at by male chefs, to being expected to settle for just cooking for her own husband and family, Charlotte’s struggles are representative of those faced by many women in this era.

Charlotte and Joel’s romance is your typical “opposites attract” situation. They butt heads early in the novel over the issue of the nutritional standards at Joel’s hospital, and this puts them at odds for a large part of the novel, even as they fight their growing attraction for each other. Even if their story is relatively predictable, it made for a sweet and fun read. I think I would have got more wrapped up in their story if it weren’t for the way in which it was told. The author frequently switches perspective in scenes featuring Joel and Charlotte, and while I could tell that this was intended to build suspense, it often felt like the scenes in this novel ended far too soon, not giving us enough time to care about one character or the other. Additionally, some of the scenes were so short that I felt like I barely got a chance to get a feel of the situation before I was flipped into a different perspective or scenario.

This leads me to another issue I had with While Love Stirs. While I enjoyed the insights into Charlotte’s life I’d received alongside Hannah’s story in When Love Calls, the snippets of Tessa’s life that I saw in this novel often felt out of place. The scenes were mostly short and clipped, and didn’t mesh well with the main storyline until the very end of the book, and even then I still wasn’t terribly interested in the sub-plot. While I appreciated the chance to learn more about Tessa in anticipation of her book, I wondered if there was a better way to flesh out her character, without taking time away from the main plot.

The message in While Love Stirs is a relatively simple one about learning to trust God and not feeling the need to be completely in control of your life. Charlotte has trust issues from an earlier relationship that was explored in the first book in the series, and it emerges that Joel has experienced something similar as well. Additionally, Joel displays a lot of the symptoms of OCD—needing everything in his office to be organised and displayed in a precise manner. While the physical manifestations of Joel’s need to be in control never go away, both he and Charlotte learn to lean on God’s understanding rather than their own when making major life decisions. I’m sure this is something that we all need to be reminded of. That said, there were continual references throughout the novel to the Biblical story of the widow and the jar of oil, and letting God fill up your vessels and provide for you. I could vaguely see how this related to the main storyline, but the references often felt forced, like they were put into the story to make it seem more spiritual. I think the message worked fine without these references.

Although While Love Stirs wasn’t quite as compelling or well-written as the first novel in the Gregory Sisters series, it was still a sweet, fun romance packed with rich historical details. I’ll be on the lookout for the final volume in the series to find out what happens to the youngest Gregory sister.

Review title provided by Revell.

[Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...) · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book has an interesting plot and plenty of historical details, but the main characters were difficult for me to connect with. Charlotte is passionate about the craft and science of cooking, and is single-minded in meeting her goals. Her purposes are to benefit others in need, but her methods, personality, and inner thoughts come across as self-absorbed, entitled, unyielding, and judgemental. After the manner she continued to treat Joel, it didn't seem natural that he would have a friendly or romantic interest in her, especially when he is so arrogantly dismissive of her ideas. I suppose it was meant to be an enemies-to-lovers trope, but I didn't feel that the shift made sense amid their fighting and patronizing that fell short of banter. It was also disappointing the way she treated Lewis. I was most intrigued by the era of moving from wood stoves to gas lines in homes and communities.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

[Staci · Rating 4 out of 5]

1910 Minnesota

This second of the series is about sister Charlotte. After having a controlling ex-fiance, she is sensitive to any type of controlling behavior. Her career goal is to run a commercial kitchen, but there isn't a lot of support for women in that role.

Dr Joel Brooks thrives on order. He and Charlotte clash immediately. It was fun to watch their romance blossom.

Can't wait for Tessa's story in book three!

[ASC Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great sequel! From the book description I was a little worried about this one. I usually don't like love triangles because I get so twisted up if the heroine doesn't end up with the one I fell in love with and liked better! So I'm usually in a state of anxiety (LOL!), but for me there was no question who Charlotte belonged with and should end up with from the beginning! I LOVE Charlotte as a character! In When Love Calls she worried and frustrated me with her relationship with George, so I was really cheering for her from the start. And I was SO happy when she grew into a spunky young woman, with a mind of her own, and a passion with fierceness to back it up! In this sequel though she is still struggling to find where God wants her to be exactly and how He wants he to use her gifts and talent. Since I don't really want to give anything away I'll just say that I LOVE who Charlotte ends up with. He is an amazing God led man, with his own quirks, who is excellent for her! :) Tessa the youngest has always been one of my favorite characters also and I CAN NOT wait for her story! Spunky and feisty as ever she thinks she's found her dream and calling in While Love Stirs and plows right into it with all her wit, tenacity, and imagination! I truly can not wait to see where Lorna leads this feisty young lady! The pace is nice, there are some slips, but then it would pick back up and the dialogue is FANTASTIC and humorous!!! From the competition, to the lectures, to the ball I really enjoy this book. And in the mix of all of this lies a great mystery with many twists and turns that blew me away! I do wish that there were a few more actual cooking scenes accompanying he demonstrations instead of just mentioning them at times, but maybe that's just me. I just really loved the cooking demos and found them fascinating, as the gas stoves were the new and latest thing back then! I recommend this read and overall think it is a fantastic sequel that has made it to my Favorite Books List!!!

Songs: "He Leadeth Me" by The Cluster Pluckers, "Hail! Hail! The Gangs All Here" by Classic Carnival Circus Calliope Music, "By The Light Of The Silvery Moon" by Doris Day, and "Butterfly Waltz" by Brian Crain

Songs etc. May be changed and/or added in the future. ~ASC

Ephesians 3:20, Proverbs 16:9, 2 Kings 4, Psalm 37:4

~ASC

*I requested and received this book from Revell for the purpose of reviewing it. This in now way affected my opinion and the above are my true thoughts and feelings about While Love Stirs. ~ASC

[Loraine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 2 in The Gregory Sisters series continues the rollicking hilarity and warmth of the first. Charlotte Gregory, the middle sister, is the focus of this book. Older sister, Hannah, is married and has finished her law degree. Younger sister, Tessa, isn't sure what she wants to be and changes her mind weekly. Tessa and Charlotte are living with Aunt Sam, Hannah's husband's aunt. Charlotte has just graduated from Fanny Farmer's School of Cookery and her desire is to become a Chef, but no head chef in the St Paul area will even consider a WOMAN for a chef: Go home and be a chef for a husband is their repeated reply.

Charlotte's feisty, independent, "never give up" attitude sparkles throughout this book even when she clashes with the esteemed, Dr. Joel Brooks, the doctor who delivers her older sister's baby. When it comes to love, Charlotte and Joel have both been burned by previous fiancees and are trying not to make the same mistake. Charlotte's fear of any man controlling her and Joel's fear of being burned again along with his OCD temperament make for flying sparks and an interesting relationship.

Seilstad creates unique characters who are ambitious and full of the frailties of life and places them in both funny and warm situations. She leads them to realize that the only way to work out relationships is through compromise, love, and faith. Can't wait to read the last book in the series and discover what happens to Tessa.

FAVORITE QUOTES: "If you don't like something, than you should either be quiet about it or be willing to do something to change it."

"God doesn't want us to settle for what's in front of our face. He wants to bless us with things beyond our imagination."

"If a man loves you, he won't try to make you into something you're not."

"Control is your lifeline, buy your lifeline should be the Lord."

"I suppose most people do want to be liked, but you have to realized you can't make everyone happy. The only one you should want to please is the Lord."

[Brandi (Rambles of a SAHM) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm not a great cook, but I sure do enjoy the tastes and smells of a delectable dinner. I also enjoy a great historical romance. While Love Stirs combines those two elements to make you salivate over the delicious food and swoon over the budding romances.

Charlotte has finished her culinary education but is finding it next to impossible to secure a job with a restaurant. The year is 1910 and it is still very much a man's world. Not one of the chefs she has applied with will even consider employing her because she is a woman.

Meanwhile, Charlotte's older sister Hannah has given birth to a beautiful baby girl. During a visit to the hospital Charlotte meets the very handsome but very set in his ways Dr. Joel Brooks. When they clash over the hospital's menu sparks begin to fly. How can she find such an irritating man to be so appealing?

After winning a cooking competition Charlotte is offered a job doing cooking demonstrations and selling gas stoves to women in the Saint Paul, Minnesota area. The gas company has also hired Lewis Mathis to provide entertainment during the cooking demonstrations. Lewis is a kind, talented and mild mannered man. Charlotte isn't as attracted to him as the irritating Dr. Brooks, but should she discount such a nice guy?

This second installment of the Gregory sister's story is a fun and romantic story with a bit of a mystery thrown in. Although it is the second book in the series it is entirely possible to read it as a stand-alone book. If you are reading it with your book club there is a Reading Group Guide that you can download.

I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

While Love Stirs is the second book in The Gregory Sisters series, but can stand alone if you have not yet read When Love Calls. I have read both of these books and they are enjoyable stories.

I had a little bit of trouble connecting with Charlotte and Joel in the beginning of the story, but that quickly changed and I found myself very interested in this book. The characters are well-written and following their journey is entertaining. As is true in real life, the events of our past influence the way we look at and react to the situations we find ourselves in. This is definitely true with Charlotte and Joel. Charlotte was once in a relationship with a very controlling young man. She has vowed never to allow herself to be tied to someone who might try to control her. Joel was once betrayed by an unfaithful fiancé and has trouble with the idea of putting his heart on the line with another woman. Putting their pasts behind them will be a very real challenge to these two strong-willed characters.

I found this story to be full of very interesting details and I really enjoyed all of the cooking tidbits that are added into the book. The secondary characters are interesting, as well, and I look forward to reading the final book in the series when it releases.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Baker Publishing Group in exchange for an honest review, which I have given.

You can read this review on my blog at:
http://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.co...

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read several of Lorna Seilstad’s books, and they just keep getting better and better. The title of this book is a real play on word; with the main character a graduate of Fanny Farmer’s Cooking School, and that would be Charlotte Gregory, whom we met in When Love Calls. Now don’t worry if you haven’t read the first book in this series, you can get caught up really quick in this book, but don’t deprive yourself of another great book.
With this book we find a young woman trying to make her way in a man’s world. She even wants to help at hospitals get patients back on their feet with more nutritious meals. Loved the way she also included flowers, and arrangements to entice their appetites.
We also have a young doctor, who is making his way in taking charge at the local hospital. Somehow the tools he needs in his business, microscopes, are not the priority, and the allotted funds are missing? He has also been burned in the romance area, by a cheating fiancé.
Put these two type A personalities together, and you guessed it, a lot of bickering. There is also another young man in the picture here. Lewis, a sweet talented young man, who has a passion for Charlotte, he seems to be there and anticipates her needs, but can he capture her heart?
You will really chuckle at some of the antics here, I never wanted it to end, and with one more sister in the family, I hope we will have another book.

I received this book through the Revell Book Blogger Tour, and was not required to give a positive review.

[Shari Larsen · Rating 4 out of 5]

After graduating from Fannie Farmer's School of Cookery in 1910, Charlotte Gregory is ready to take on the world. She is excited to have the opportunity to travel, give lectures on nutrition, and give cooking cooking demonstrations on the newest kitchen revolution, the gas stove. It doesn't hurt that the gas company has hired the handsome singer Lewis Mathis to perform at her lectures. Lewis encourages her work, especially introducing fresh, nutritious and appetizing food to patients in hospitals. But young hospital superintendent Dr. Joel Brook doesn't think those changes are needed, even if the tight budget he has to work with would allow it.


Every time Charlotte and Joel are together, they argue; what will happen when they are forced to work together on a fund raiser for the hospital?


This is the 2nd book in The Gregory Sisters series, but it is also a story that can stand alone. I enjoyed this story because of the author's attention to historical detail. There was indeed a real Fannie Farmer, and she had a cooking school; she is also credited with writing the first cook book using standardized measurements.


I actually enjoyed the secondary story in this book, about Charlotte's younger sister Tessa getting a job at a theater and into trouble, more than the main story about Charlotte. I'm looking forward to the 3rd book in this series when Tessa will be get to be the "star" of the story.

[JoJo Sutis · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Gregory sisters are back!!!
Isn’t this cover just gorgeous???
I enjoyed this second installment in Lorna Seilstad’s series so much.
If you haven’t read book 1 yet, When Love Calls…no worries! These books can be enjoyed as stand-alones.
Cooking was a big part of my life growing up, so I was delighted that this was a theme throughout the novel!
I loved Charlotte and Dr. Joel so much. I love when characters clash and then are forced to work together. Charlotte being the middle sister, definitely has that head-strong determination to make her mark on the world, but she is very much a people pleaser and I could totally relate to her in that! I think readers with sisters will appreciate the relationship dynamics of this story. Joel’s character really impressed on me the fact that words have power…to be used for good or bad, and to choose my words carefully.
I got totally immersed in the story and lives of the characters, I couldn’t stop reading. Other characters added so much to the story- love memorable characters like this!
This was a really fun book and historically rich! I cannot wait for Tessa’s story. Definitely looking forward to Seilstad’s next release in this series.

[Holly (2 Kids and Tired) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Charlotte Gregory is a feisty young cook, recently graduated from cooking school. Wanting to make a name for herself, she struggles to find a restaurant that will hire her. After winning a cooking contest, she is offered a joy traveling for the gas company and demonstrating the newest kitchen invention, the gas stove.

Meeting Dr. Joel Brooks at the hospital after her sister has given birth, Charlotte does not endear herself to the young doctor with her suggestions for improving the hospital food. Joel and Charlotte, however, are thrown together as they plan a gala for the hospital and they find themselves drawn towards one another.

Add in a spirited younger sister and kind-hearted aunt and a jealous cooking contestant, this is one delightful story with a terrific mix of history, drama and romance with a generous dash of humor.

I have never been disappointed in Lorna Seilstad and the first novel in this series, When Love Calls, is one of my favorites. I was thrilled when this one became available. Second in the Gregory Sisters series, the novel stands alone just fine, but it's always a richer story if you read them in order.

[Courtney Clark · Rating 4 out of 5]

Today I’m happy to share my review of author Lorna Seilstad’s latest, While Love Stirs, for Revell Publishers’ “Revell Reads Blog Tour”.

With humor and flair, Lorna combines historical details, like the real-life Fannie Farmer’s School, with heartfelt characters. Charlotte and Joel’s banter is entertaining. Their opposite and in-charge personalities immediately cause them to spar, while Charlotte’s independent antics get her in sticky and hilarious situations. This proves quite entertaining as Charlotte and her friends and family go through one scrape after another.

A thread of faith ties each character’s story together, stressing that God places dreams in our hearts for a reason, but He may carry them out differently than we plan. Though I usually like a little more drama and conflict in a novel, this is a nice lighthearted story. It’s a feel-good kind of romance, with sweet characters and a fun plot. It would make a great and fun summer read.


Note: Thank you to Revell Publishers for providing a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Abbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Charlotte graduated from Fannie Farmer’s school of Cookery and hopes to get a job at a restaurant, but not many people are willing to hire a woman. When the opportunity to work for the gas company and do lectures and demonstrations of the new gas stove she jumps at the chance. Charlotte also wants to teach hospital’s better nutrition for patience’s yet the hospital superintendent is not interested and sparks fly. When Charlotte’s aunt puts her and Joel in charge of a gala for the hospital things really get interesting!

This is book two of The Gregory Sisters series. I really enjoyed this book.

What I liked: Charlotte and Joel were both interesting characters and I enjoyed the story. The story had a good plot and well-developed characters which made it an easy read.

What I did not like: This book was very well written and there was not much I did not like.

Over all I loved this book and I am looking forward to the third book in the series.

http://abbiesreadingcorner.com/2014/0...

[Barb · Rating 3 out of 5]

“While Love Stirs” by Lorna Seilstad is a sweet novel about the difficulty of women seeking a role in what was forever a man’s world. Charlotte Gregory has graduated from cookery school and has visions of becoming a chef in a major restaurant. Her hopes are dashed when she finds that those restaurants are headed by men who are not willing to give her a chance to prove herself. Her sister is in the hospital recovering from childbirth. When Charlotte visits, she is appalled at the food that the hospital serves. She has had training in nutrition and especially for the ill. She is adamant that she could provide a menu that would help, not hinder, the recuperative progress of the patients. Her sister Hannah’s doctor, Dr. Joel Brooks, is not agreeable to her demands. However, through the story his attitude changes with a little help from Charlotte.

I think you’ll enjoy this sweet story about a young woman seeking to prove herself and also about the two men who vie for her attentions.

You can find this review on my blog at http://wp.me/p2pjIt-ch.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

While Love Stirs starts off slightly humorous . I really did find the book interesting. I loved the character of Charlotte. She is such a strong woman and would not back down from anyone. Charlotte is smart, witty, and fun. I, also, warn the reader that Charlotte is a fantastic cook and there is a lot of reading about her delicious dishes she makes. Every time I had to put the book down, I found myself going for a snack.
I really did enjoy this book and look forward to more by this author and will go back to reading the first book of the series.
5 stars.

[AJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn't think this book would be released until next month, so I was delighted to find it already on my local bookstore's shelf! And this story did not disappoint. It's been months since a book held me so captive that I finished it in one sitting. Loved this story! A perfectly-measured blend of romance, history, drama, suspense, humor, and heart. This is the third Lorna Seilstad novel I've loved, and I'm thrilled to say this author has officially earned a place on my "Must Read" list.

[Patti · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a sweet story that I truly enjoyed. I had read the first book in this series awhile back and loved that one. When I saw this one at our local library I thought I would take a chance and I am glad I did! It a story of growing to trust and overcoming personal beliefs and obstacles to learn to love someone else. It's about struggling with what really is the "right" course for a person. Go with a dream or settle for what is available? It's an enjoyable read. Looking forward to book three!

[Virginia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review to Come!!

[Kate Campos · Rating 4 out of 5]

*I received a copy for review from the publisher through Booklist.

[Daniela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Much better than the first one!!! Loved it!

[Michelle Kidwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

While Love Stirs
A Novel
by Lorna Seilstad
Pub DateMay 06 2014
Revell
Christian| Romance


I am reviewing a copy of While Love Stirs from Revell and Netgalley:


Charlotte Gregory is ready to stir things up after graduating from Fannie Farmer's School of Cookery in 1910. Charlotte is thrilled by the opportunity to travel in order to give demonstrations on the very latest kitchen revolution, the gas stove and certainly doesn't mind that the gas company has hired the handsome Lewis Mathis to perform at her lectures. Lewis encourages her work, especially in trying to introduce fresh, appetizing and nutricious food for those recovering in the hospital. The young superintendent of the hospital Dr. Joel Brooks does not feel these changes are necessary, especially not by an outspoken woman.


Will Charolette and Joel's combustible relationship explode when they're forced into planning the hospital's fund-raising gala?



I give While Love Stirs five out of five stars!


Happy Reading!

[Bethany · Rating 3 out of 5]

I had never had the opportunity to read this author prior to requesting While Love Stirs, so I really didn't know how I'd like this book. Really the only thing that made me want to read it was how the main character, Charlotte was a chef. Since I share that common interest, I thought it'd be a neat book to read as I also love to craft things in the kitchen. So that's the main attraction I had to the book, and what made me decide to review it. While I'm happy I was able to read this book, I probably won't be re-reading it; but consider it a nice light one-time read.

Now don't get me wrong, I did enjoy this book, I just felt like it was more in the middle range for me, as far as how much I enjoyed it. When I requested to review this book I knew that it was the second in a series, and that I'd not read the first book. Normally I am very big on reading books in order, but these novels are stand-alone novels about sisters (each book is about a different sister, so it's not necessary to read them in order, though it certainly does enhance the reading experience). I didn't have a problem reading this book without reading the first book in the series titled When Love Calls which is about the oldest Gregory sister. However if I had to do it over, I'd prefer to read the books in order as there is are characters that I assumed were in the first book that I would have enjoyed already knowing coming into the second book.

I really enjoyed how this book was focused on a chef, and found that unique and a great opportunity for a truly enjoyable plot. I loved all the scenes where Charlotte baked, and being that her personality is so spunky and strong-willed I found it to be a humorous addition to her love for food. Her personality was very unique and rather bold, so that added a aspect of excitement to the novel. However I felt like at times the plot was rather simple and somewhat slow. I also wished there would have been more baking involved in the novel, as I was really hopping for a good thread of it in the novel since that is what made me want to read the book in the first place. I realized that the main plot was Charlotte and the love triangle she was in, and that the baking was a small bit that was only a minor portion of the novel. To some extend that is to be expected, I'd just have enjoyed seeing more baking scenes.

Another thing I will comment on is Charlotte's personality. I always enjoy a good spunky and opinionated character, but I felt like Charlotte was occasionally overly feminist in thought at times, by trying to be superior to men and not accept offers of gentlemanly conduct. I just didn't like the attitude that was behind the feminist attitude and would have enjoyed seeing a more head-strong lady who though opinionated, was still feminine at the same time.

Overall, I enjoyed this book as a one-time read, and was glad to have read it; though there were a few disappointing aspects to me. While I was neither overly fond or overly displeased with this novel, I'd say it was a middle-range novel for me. However others with different reading styles might really enjoy this novel. So I recommend you give it a try if you are able!

D I S C L A I M E R :: I received a complementary review copy of While Love Stirs from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. I was not paid to write this review. All thoughts expressed in my review are my completely honest, my own and unbiased.

[Bethany Baldwin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Where to start with this book? Well, from the beginning I wasn't entirely certain. I'm not the most romantic of readers, so I wasn't sure what to think of this book when I requested it, but it intrigued me enough that I did. Boy was I in for a pleasant surprise! This wasn't your average historical romance, that's for sure. There were nights when I had decided to read one chapter before going to sleep, and instead I found myself reading 'just one more' for several chapters more. If a book can keep me up late, it's a keeper.

First there's the plot. I love food. I mean, if you don't then I don't see how you're living right now. The main character is an accomplished cook, and the book showcases her abilities... describing delightful foods that are liable to make your mouth water. Mmm. But in 1910 it's hard for a woman to find a professional cooking position--especially as a chef. She runs into Doctor Joel Brooks and immediately the fire starts popping. Those two just don't mesh well at all! Exciting things start to happen. She gets a traveling job and meets a sweet young man with a beautiful voice, but she can't seem to avoid the man she can't speak to without getting into an argument. And THEN she has to plan a charity ball with him? Uh oh! Besides the main plot, there is also an interesting subplot regarding to Charlotte's younger sister, Tessa, and the shenanigans she gets herself into at the local theater. I found this subplot just are riveting as the main plot, and I admit, that may be because of my love of the arts (and Peter Pan!!!! which is featured in the story.)

The characters were equally enjoyable. I found myself feeling for them in their moments of disappointment, heart ache, and joy. Charlotte was a fun character. While she was feisty, she also had a heart for service that isn't always shown in a novel. Joel was also interesting. Sometimes I wanted to shake him, but he had many admirable qualities himself. Tessa was my favorite, I think. Maybe because she's similar to me in some ways. I can't wait to see her story.

I liked how the book wasn't just fluff as you so often see. There's was a deeper message, including how some of the characters had a need to control their situations, and what comes of that, and how God always knows how to fill our vessels when we need them. I enjoyed seeing how little strings were dropped in the beginning or middle of the book that you wouldn't really think about, but at the end everything found itself tied up and making sense. I find that an admirable quality. I also liked all the history incorporated into the story. I didn't know when I requested this book that it was a sequel, and now I know I need to get the first one. Though this one was stand alone, I enjoyed it so much, I want to read the first.

So yes, I enjoyed this book! And I will be passing it on to my mother to see if she agrees with my hypothesis.

[Kathleen E. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sunday, June 1, 2014
While Love Stirs by Lorna Seilstad, © 2014
The Gregory Sisters Series, Book 2

Assumptions. How do we battle ourselves with knowledge we do not have? Change does not come easy for the chefs at the restaurants Charlotte Gregory hopes to be employed with, nor for the doctor her older sister, Hannah, has with her newborn baby. Charlotte hopes to advise better nutrition for the patients, in the maternity ward and elsewhere in the hospital. Getting married and having a family is what she is advised to do and become a homemaker. With an aunt like Aunt Sam, how could she be expected to be any different? Once quiet, she now stands up for what she believes is right for the betterment of others.

Hoping to become recognized as the up-to-date graduate of Fannie Farmer's School of Cookery, Charlotte becomes part of a cooking contest her younger sister, Tessa, sees in the newspaper that is sponsored by the local gas company to present their new gas stove. To no avail, she leaves without an offer for employment.

Dr. Joel Brooks backed by his nurse sister, Mattie, decides to go to ask Charlotte to come and speak to the nurses about dietary measures for the hospital staff to incorporate beyond just using what is in their supply kitchen. While there, Joel, supposing she has lived a life of luxury, insults Charlotte and is ordered to leave.

Is it possible for them to come to terms and work together successfully? With Dr. Brooks being considered for a permanent position within the hospital, he is uneasy employing a new standard from what has always been done. Will he find the hospital is not the only recipient of her newfangled ideas in his orderly world?

This is the story of the second Gregory sister. Book 1 in the series, When Love Calls, highlighted older sister Hannah's story. Very enjoyable, I like Lorna Seilstad's writings, and the historical happenings in the early 1900s. Aunt Sam is beyond her times with her suffrage meetings and bloomer-wearing outfits. Fun and fast moving, I highly recommend The Gregory Sisters series. Book 3, leaves young sister Tessa to explore her wings.

As a graduate of Fannie Farmer's School of Cookery, Charlotte Gregory is excited to give healthy cooking classes to profit many a kitchen.

Now unto him that is able to do exceeding
abundantly above all that we ask or think.
--Ephesians 3:20

Lorna Seilstad
A history buff, antique collector, and freelance graphic designer, Lorna Seilstad is the author of When Love Calls and the Lake Manawa Summers series. A former high school English and journalism teacher, she has won several online writing contests and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers. Lorna lives in Iowa with her husband. Learn more at lornaseilstad.com.

***Thank you to Revell Reads Fiction for sending me a copy of Lorna Seilstad's While Love Stirs, book 2 in The Gregory Sisters series. This review was written in my own words. No other compensation was received.***