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James River Romances
The Steeplechase
Martha Osborne fears for her six-year-old brother, who was shuffled off to boarding school when his British mother departed to England. Set in Hampton Roads, Virginia, in the build-up to the War of 1812, expert rider Martha plans to substitute for her older brother in a “race to the steeple” to win the prize—and a bet with Phillip Paulson, equestrian trainer at Yorkview Academy, to help have her little brother returned home. When Phillip stumbles upon the real reasons behind the secret race he finds he may not be able to keep his end of the bargain. Can he save Martha and her brother? And will his heart be lost in the process?
156 pages, Paperback
First published February 4, 2016
About the author
Carrie Fancett Pagels
41 books700 followersCarrie Fancett Pagels is a multi-award-winning, bestselling, multi-published author of Christian fiction. She resides with her family in the Historic Triangle of Virginia, but hails from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan--where she loves to visit often.
You can follow Carrie on BookBub at bit.ly/35wBSk3
You can follow Carrie on BookBub at bit.ly/35wBSk3
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
February 8, 2016
The Steeplechase: Christian Historical Romance Novella (A Love's Sporting Chance)*****
by Carrie Fancett Pagels
Williamsburg, Virginia....1810
Martha Osborne fears for her six-year-old brother, Johnny, who was shuffled off to a boarding school when his British mother departed to England. She doesn't understand how her father would go along with her stepmother's wishes and hopes to find a way to bring him home...to her. While in town she learns of an upcoming horse race,”race to the steeple”, with a large cash prize and meets a very handsome man—her “guardian angel?”. That prize money will help her in her plans to open a stable of her own, supporting herself and Johnny. Only one drawback, women are not allowed to race—she comes up with a plan...she will race.
Yorktown, Virginia....
Phillip Paulson, an equestrian trainer at the Yorkview Academy, forms a friendship with one of the students, Johnny. Phillip wonders why the owner of the academy—his brother, George—would allow such a young boy to attend and hopes to get Johnny back home with his family.
Martha and Phillip make a bet on the outcome of the race that will help bring her little brother home. However, Phillip stumbles upon some unsettling information that could, not only end their bargain, but bring about events that would affect them all.
I love the characters and the story-line in this heartwarming novella. Little Johnny quickly wove his way into my heart. Martha has a tender heart and will do whatever it takes to protect her family. I could feel the tensions Phillip sees in the events building-up to the War of 1812 and his desire to protect those he loves. There are a few surprises—some had me on the edge of my seat, unexpected twists, intrigue coupled with dangerous situations and secrets to the story-line and I like the strong faith element woven throughout the story. It would be great to see a follow-up novella with these characters—hint, hint Carrie Fancett Pagels!
~I had the honor of being a Beta reader for this novella, this is my honest review~
by Carrie Fancett Pagels
Williamsburg, Virginia....1810
Martha Osborne fears for her six-year-old brother, Johnny, who was shuffled off to a boarding school when his British mother departed to England. She doesn't understand how her father would go along with her stepmother's wishes and hopes to find a way to bring him home...to her. While in town she learns of an upcoming horse race,”race to the steeple”, with a large cash prize and meets a very handsome man—her “guardian angel?”. That prize money will help her in her plans to open a stable of her own, supporting herself and Johnny. Only one drawback, women are not allowed to race—she comes up with a plan...she will race.
Yorktown, Virginia....
Phillip Paulson, an equestrian trainer at the Yorkview Academy, forms a friendship with one of the students, Johnny. Phillip wonders why the owner of the academy—his brother, George—would allow such a young boy to attend and hopes to get Johnny back home with his family.
Martha and Phillip make a bet on the outcome of the race that will help bring her little brother home. However, Phillip stumbles upon some unsettling information that could, not only end their bargain, but bring about events that would affect them all.
I love the characters and the story-line in this heartwarming novella. Little Johnny quickly wove his way into my heart. Martha has a tender heart and will do whatever it takes to protect her family. I could feel the tensions Phillip sees in the events building-up to the War of 1812 and his desire to protect those he loves. There are a few surprises—some had me on the edge of my seat, unexpected twists, intrigue coupled with dangerous situations and secrets to the story-line and I like the strong faith element woven throughout the story. It would be great to see a follow-up novella with these characters—hint, hint Carrie Fancett Pagels!
~I had the honor of being a Beta reader for this novella, this is my honest review~
March 9, 2016
With a sweep of her pen, er quill rather, author Carrie Fancett Pagels has written an intriguing story of our country's history leading up to the war of 1812. Excitement and romance are in the air as Americans celebrate their freedom from British rule and signs of a new nation being rebuilt are everywhere. However, under the guise of gaiety, parties, frippery, and trips to the theater—emerges an underlying fear—as rumors of another war and spies are whispered about, and young Americans are being kidnapped to fight for the British navy.
Martha Osborne of Virginia is terribly concerned for her six-year-old brother, Johnny, who has been sent off to boarding school while her stepmother continually travels back and forth to her homeland of England. Her one desire is to somehow earn enough money to retrieve her brother from school and put a deposit on the livery and cottage she hopes to run. Oh, to be out from under her stepmother's berating tongue and to be able to ride her horse to her heart's content. Praying for God to send her an angel, it appears her prayers have been answered as the handsome Phillip Paulson—equestrian trainer at Yorkview Academy and premier horseman in all of Virginia—enters her life. But can he be trusted during these unsettling times—or for that matter can anyone? An expert rider, Martha decides to enter the race to the steeple in lieu of her brother, Christopher, as the prize money will be enough to accomplish her goals. She enters into a bet with Phillip, but as danger begins to nip at her heels will the price be too high to pay?
Carrie Fancett Pagels has written an outstanding, detailed story that is so jam-packed it reads like a full length novel. Action, intrigue, spies, breathtaking romance—it's all in there! I found the concept of the steeplechase in historical times fascinating, and wasn't aware there were no rules and that maps were actually drawn out beforehand to aid in a swift race to the church steeple! Ms. Pagels descriptive imagery of the countryside, opulent plantations, and the sights and scents of the busy malodorous docks, all lend to the exhilarating aura of colonial Virginia! With some surprises and as many twists and turns as a steeplechase map...be sure to order your copy of one of my fave novellas today!
Martha Osborne of Virginia is terribly concerned for her six-year-old brother, Johnny, who has been sent off to boarding school while her stepmother continually travels back and forth to her homeland of England. Her one desire is to somehow earn enough money to retrieve her brother from school and put a deposit on the livery and cottage she hopes to run. Oh, to be out from under her stepmother's berating tongue and to be able to ride her horse to her heart's content. Praying for God to send her an angel, it appears her prayers have been answered as the handsome Phillip Paulson—equestrian trainer at Yorkview Academy and premier horseman in all of Virginia—enters her life. But can he be trusted during these unsettling times—or for that matter can anyone? An expert rider, Martha decides to enter the race to the steeple in lieu of her brother, Christopher, as the prize money will be enough to accomplish her goals. She enters into a bet with Phillip, but as danger begins to nip at her heels will the price be too high to pay?
Carrie Fancett Pagels has written an outstanding, detailed story that is so jam-packed it reads like a full length novel. Action, intrigue, spies, breathtaking romance—it's all in there! I found the concept of the steeplechase in historical times fascinating, and wasn't aware there were no rules and that maps were actually drawn out beforehand to aid in a swift race to the church steeple! Ms. Pagels descriptive imagery of the countryside, opulent plantations, and the sights and scents of the busy malodorous docks, all lend to the exhilarating aura of colonial Virginia! With some surprises and as many twists and turns as a steeplechase map...be sure to order your copy of one of my fave novellas today!
February 12, 2016
The Steeplechase by Carrie Fancett Pagels is a good old fashioned Christian historical romantic adventure. There is something for everyone - a handsome hero, a brave and beautiful heroine, sibling rivalry, sibling bonding, a dastardly villain, talk of spies and duelling. I really enjoyed it and could not put it down.
The story is set in America in 1810. Any meetings or friendship with the British is viewed with suspicion. Martha's stepmother is British so the whole family is viewed with caution. She is visiting her family in England. Martha is relieved to be free from her constant demands. There is something about her like the stepmother in Cinderella, even though the reader does not meet her, it is implied.
There is a beautiful bond between Martha and her stepbrother six year old Johnny. Abandoned at school, it seems like only Martha cares that he is unhappy. Her desire is to have Johnny home again. Carrie Fancett Pagels in her writing has delightfully captured Johnny's character and personality.
The nurturing theme can also be seen in Phillip, Johnny's riding teacher. He too sees Johnny's unhappiness and befriends him.
God is present within the novel. Martha looks to Him to protect Johnny when she cannot. She also believes in angels looking out for her. Carrie Fancett Pagels shows that sometimes angels come in the guise of men.
Martha is very much a modern woman and seeking to be independent. This streak can lead her into trouble though.
The Steeplechase is a fabulous old fashioned tale. It has intrigue. It has wicked men who worm their way into situations. It has a hero and heroine. And it has God. Download a copy today. Prepare for your heart to race through this nineteenth century adventure.
I received this book for free in exchange for a fair and honest review. No monetary compensation was received and all views expressed are my own.
The story is set in America in 1810. Any meetings or friendship with the British is viewed with suspicion. Martha's stepmother is British so the whole family is viewed with caution. She is visiting her family in England. Martha is relieved to be free from her constant demands. There is something about her like the stepmother in Cinderella, even though the reader does not meet her, it is implied.
There is a beautiful bond between Martha and her stepbrother six year old Johnny. Abandoned at school, it seems like only Martha cares that he is unhappy. Her desire is to have Johnny home again. Carrie Fancett Pagels in her writing has delightfully captured Johnny's character and personality.
The nurturing theme can also be seen in Phillip, Johnny's riding teacher. He too sees Johnny's unhappiness and befriends him.
God is present within the novel. Martha looks to Him to protect Johnny when she cannot. She also believes in angels looking out for her. Carrie Fancett Pagels shows that sometimes angels come in the guise of men.
Martha is very much a modern woman and seeking to be independent. This streak can lead her into trouble though.
The Steeplechase is a fabulous old fashioned tale. It has intrigue. It has wicked men who worm their way into situations. It has a hero and heroine. And it has God. Download a copy today. Prepare for your heart to race through this nineteenth century adventure.
I received this book for free in exchange for a fair and honest review. No monetary compensation was received and all views expressed are my own.
February 9, 2016
I so enjoyed this book of Carrie Fancett Pagels. Her vivid descriptions of places and events can stir the imagination and make you feel as though you too were witnessing and living in the events of the books.
The 1810 time period shows a still somewhat fledgling young country and the events and feelings that still existed from a time recently passed when feelings of old wounds perhaps were not completely healed. How will this affect Martha Osbourne and a family whose father remarries an English woman who spends much of her time in England?
The Steeplechase has many twists and you will enjoy this book very much. The author is a very talented writer of historical fiction, which is quickly becoming one of my favorite genres.
Disclosure: I received a PDF version of this book from the author for my honest review.
The 1810 time period shows a still somewhat fledgling young country and the events and feelings that still existed from a time recently passed when feelings of old wounds perhaps were not completely healed. How will this affect Martha Osbourne and a family whose father remarries an English woman who spends much of her time in England?
The Steeplechase has many twists and you will enjoy this book very much. The author is a very talented writer of historical fiction, which is quickly becoming one of my favorite genres.
Disclosure: I received a PDF version of this book from the author for my honest review.
February 10, 2016
Carrie Fancett Pagels’ novella, The Steeplechase, in the Love’s Sporting Chance Novella Collection is a sweet short story in a fun novella collection. This story is set in Virginia and is leading up to the War of 1812. Martha Osborne is determined to participate in a race in her older brother’s place in hopes of winning the reward money so she can bring her young six-year-old brother home from boarding school. This story thrives with the theme of family and even has a bit of romance too. I would recommend this story to readers that enjoy historical novellas.
Series: Love’s Sporting Chance
Genre: historical, romance, Christian
Publisher: Forget me Not Romances, a division of Winged
Publication date: February 4, 2016
Number of pages: 114
Content Rating: PG
Book Rating: 5 stars
A review copy of this book was provided by Pagels’ Pals.
Series: Love’s Sporting Chance
Genre: historical, romance, Christian
Publisher: Forget me Not Romances, a division of Winged
Publication date: February 4, 2016
Number of pages: 114
Content Rating: PG
Book Rating: 5 stars
A review copy of this book was provided by Pagels’ Pals.
February 7, 2016
Fall 1810 – a beautiful season in Virginia. A wonderful time for a long carriage ride, or perhaps a race on horseback. The Commonwealth was still young, but thriving. Unfortunately there still were those who sympathized with the British. Martha Osborne found herself in such an awkward place. Since her mother had passed away, her father had remarried a British lady, who seemed to think spending time in England was preferred to being with her family, especially her young son, Johnny. Did this mean the Osborne family were British sympathizers?
How do a steeplechase, a horse breeder, an academy for boys and the militia figure into this wonderful story? Read on to discover all.
How do a steeplechase, a horse breeder, an academy for boys and the militia figure into this wonderful story? Read on to discover all.
March 9, 2016
Fast-paced and romance
Note: A better review is forthcoming.
The Steeplechase is a fast-paced, well thought out story. There were a lot of twists and turns. But one thing remained steady- their love.
The Steeplechase is one of the books I love, I cannot choose a favorite. Carrie knows how to write her characters to the lot.
Carrie is one author that will you need to keep your eye on...she's rising in her writing!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Note: A better review is forthcoming.
The Steeplechase is a fast-paced, well thought out story. There were a lot of twists and turns. But one thing remained steady- their love.
The Steeplechase is one of the books I love, I cannot choose a favorite. Carrie knows how to write her characters to the lot.
Carrie is one author that will you need to keep your eye on...she's rising in her writing!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
July 6, 2016
Carrie, I just wanted you to know that really enjoyed The Steeplechase.
I totally love horses and have been raised around them since I was a little girl. It was one of the reasons I wanted to read this book. it has been awhile since I've read a book based on a horse race Or just horses altogether
I had to snicker through some parts of the book. My that Johnny has a lot of energy! I definitely could use some!
I imagined myself as Martha. But, I couldn't imagine myself in the dressing attire of those days.
I didn't like Tarleton from the beginning. I had a feeling there wasn't something quite right with him.
my my I love Phillip though! His personality was just awesome! I loved his gentle nature and loved how he wanted to look for the best in people. He's my hero for certain and for sure!!!
I think the message for this author is God's timing is perfect. He has a reason for placing ppl right where they need to be!! God will work things out in his own time and he does!!
we just need to open and willingness to receive him when he does reveal them
Also, I really enjoyed reading about the times 1810. I believe it to be two years until the War of 1812. And most of all, one of my favorite places Williamsburg, Va.
My family and I visited it in 2005 and we really enjoyed it! it felt like I was traveling back in time! my son got one of those tried cornered hats and he looked like someone from 1776 lol!.
Thanks Carrie for a great read! you will be added to my long list of favorite authors!
I received a copy of this book from The Book Club Network in exchange for an honest review
I totally love horses and have been raised around them since I was a little girl. It was one of the reasons I wanted to read this book. it has been awhile since I've read a book based on a horse race Or just horses altogether
I had to snicker through some parts of the book. My that Johnny has a lot of energy! I definitely could use some!
I imagined myself as Martha. But, I couldn't imagine myself in the dressing attire of those days.
I didn't like Tarleton from the beginning. I had a feeling there wasn't something quite right with him.
my my I love Phillip though! His personality was just awesome! I loved his gentle nature and loved how he wanted to look for the best in people. He's my hero for certain and for sure!!!
I think the message for this author is God's timing is perfect. He has a reason for placing ppl right where they need to be!! God will work things out in his own time and he does!!
we just need to open and willingness to receive him when he does reveal them
Also, I really enjoyed reading about the times 1810. I believe it to be two years until the War of 1812. And most of all, one of my favorite places Williamsburg, Va.
My family and I visited it in 2005 and we really enjoyed it! it felt like I was traveling back in time! my son got one of those tried cornered hats and he looked like someone from 1776 lol!.
Thanks Carrie for a great read! you will be added to my long list of favorite authors!
I received a copy of this book from The Book Club Network in exchange for an honest review
September 19, 2016
"Steeplechase" by author Carrie Fancett Pagels is a 156 page Christian historical romance novella. "A Love's Sporting Chance Novella" is written on the front cover. The book takes place in Williamsburg, Virginia in post Revolutionary War and on the verge of the War of 1812.
This is the story of Miss Martha Osborne and Phillip Paulson, her brother’s riding teacher at boarding school. Martha's mother is deceased and her father, a professor, has remarried. He has children by his new wife. She is suspected of being a spy and makes trips back to England and is often gone for months sometimes taking one or more of the children with her. Martha needs money to support herself and young half brother so that they can get away from their father and his wife. The Steeplechase could provide that but it is for men only.
Author Pagels has done a nice job with this story. It is well research and well thought. The characters are well rounded and realistic. Some are lovable and others are not. Her description of the sights, tastes, and smells of that time in historical Virginia are vivid and transported me there. The dialogue was genuine and flowed evenly. There is prayer and a Christian element in her story. She writes a fast paced, action, romance that provides information on horse racing and Williamsburg. She includes twists and turns to make this a page turner you won't want to put down.
I would recommend this quick read to anyone that likes Christian, historical fiction. I rated this 4 out of 5 stars. A copy of this book was given to me in exchange for my honest review by The Book Club Network.
This is the story of Miss Martha Osborne and Phillip Paulson, her brother’s riding teacher at boarding school. Martha's mother is deceased and her father, a professor, has remarried. He has children by his new wife. She is suspected of being a spy and makes trips back to England and is often gone for months sometimes taking one or more of the children with her. Martha needs money to support herself and young half brother so that they can get away from their father and his wife. The Steeplechase could provide that but it is for men only.
Author Pagels has done a nice job with this story. It is well research and well thought. The characters are well rounded and realistic. Some are lovable and others are not. Her description of the sights, tastes, and smells of that time in historical Virginia are vivid and transported me there. The dialogue was genuine and flowed evenly. There is prayer and a Christian element in her story. She writes a fast paced, action, romance that provides information on horse racing and Williamsburg. She includes twists and turns to make this a page turner you won't want to put down.
I would recommend this quick read to anyone that likes Christian, historical fiction. I rated this 4 out of 5 stars. A copy of this book was given to me in exchange for my honest review by The Book Club Network.
February 8, 2016
The Steeplechase is an excellent historical romance novella, which I thoroughly enjoyed. I love the historic elements, which paint a clear picture of life and attitudes of America’s citizens in Tidewater Virginia in 1810. It is interesting to see that some are still loyal to Britain. The author does an exceptional job at portraying the mindset of men and women toward each other and also toward people of different classes.
Even though this book is short, the main characters are well developed. I found it easy to like and appreciate both Martha and Phillip. Young Johnny is a sweetheart. Graham is quite a despicable character, even though he attempts to portray himself in a more favorable light.
I love the ending of this moving story. It turns out to be better than either Martha or Phillip hoped or dreamed.
If you like historical romance, I think you will enjoy The Steeplechase by Carrie Fancett Pagels.
Disclosure: I received a PDF version of this book from the author for my honest review.
Even though this book is short, the main characters are well developed. I found it easy to like and appreciate both Martha and Phillip. Young Johnny is a sweetheart. Graham is quite a despicable character, even though he attempts to portray himself in a more favorable light.
I love the ending of this moving story. It turns out to be better than either Martha or Phillip hoped or dreamed.
If you like historical romance, I think you will enjoy The Steeplechase by Carrie Fancett Pagels.
Disclosure: I received a PDF version of this book from the author for my honest review.
May 17, 2016
This is a detailed and complicated story. There was so much developing throughout the plot, I would have loved for this novella to be developed into a full length novel. With so many characters I was a bit overwhelmed in the early stages of the story, but as I became more comfortable with the plot and characters I found myself truly drawn into the book.
The characters within this novella are well depicted, and believable. This author has a talent for descriptive elements, and developing charming relationships. There is nothing ordinary in Ms. Pagel's books. A deep and intricate plot is woven throughout.
As stated, I would like to see Ms. Pagels develop her novellas with even more substance to draw her stories into full length novels.
Disclaimer: Thank you to Carrie Fancett Pagels for gifting me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All expressed opinions are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
The characters within this novella are well depicted, and believable. This author has a talent for descriptive elements, and developing charming relationships. There is nothing ordinary in Ms. Pagel's books. A deep and intricate plot is woven throughout.
As stated, I would like to see Ms. Pagels develop her novellas with even more substance to draw her stories into full length novels.
Disclaimer: Thank you to Carrie Fancett Pagels for gifting me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All expressed opinions are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
April 18, 2016
Carrie Fancett Pagels has written another “Keep-you-on-the-edge-of-your-seat” story that precedes the War of 1812.
Out of concern for her little brother, Martha Osborne devises a plan to bring him home by entering and winning The Steeplechase, a race that women are not allowed to participate in. What she doesn’t count on are her growing feelings for fellow entrant Phillip Paulson. When Phillip discovers what Martha plans to do, he offers to help her IF she wins the race, with plans of courting the lovely lady in the process. But when another rival vies for Martha’s affections, Phillip inadvertently learns of a possible plot to aid the British, bringing with it rumors of war.
Ms. Pagels packed it all into one story: spies, intrigue, mystery and of course…romance, all wrapped up in a fast paced adventure that’s sure to make you want more.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Out of concern for her little brother, Martha Osborne devises a plan to bring him home by entering and winning The Steeplechase, a race that women are not allowed to participate in. What she doesn’t count on are her growing feelings for fellow entrant Phillip Paulson. When Phillip discovers what Martha plans to do, he offers to help her IF she wins the race, with plans of courting the lovely lady in the process. But when another rival vies for Martha’s affections, Phillip inadvertently learns of a possible plot to aid the British, bringing with it rumors of war.
Ms. Pagels packed it all into one story: spies, intrigue, mystery and of course…romance, all wrapped up in a fast paced adventure that’s sure to make you want more.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
July 6, 2016
Didn't want the story to stop!
I absolutely loved this story of Martha and Phillip! My attention was grabbed from the very beginning and I found myself not wanting to put the story down! It was an easy read and the author did a wonderful job in keeping the language and writing within the time period of the story.
Martha was my favorite character. I loved her braveness throughout this book. It was not too often back then that you saw a bold female such as her and I am glad the author chose to give her this personality. Her goal was always to do what she thought best for herself and her brother, even competing in a race that was typically for men! I loved that she always thought to check with God before she did things as I think it is important for a heroine to do that in a Christian novel.
My only complaint was that the story ended too soon, although I understand that is what novellas are - short. I do hope to see Martha and Phillip in the future!!
I absolutely loved this story of Martha and Phillip! My attention was grabbed from the very beginning and I found myself not wanting to put the story down! It was an easy read and the author did a wonderful job in keeping the language and writing within the time period of the story.
Martha was my favorite character. I loved her braveness throughout this book. It was not too often back then that you saw a bold female such as her and I am glad the author chose to give her this personality. Her goal was always to do what she thought best for herself and her brother, even competing in a race that was typically for men! I loved that she always thought to check with God before she did things as I think it is important for a heroine to do that in a Christian novel.
My only complaint was that the story ended too soon, although I understand that is what novellas are - short. I do hope to see Martha and Phillip in the future!!
August 3, 2016
The Steeplechase is a novella set in the build up to the War of 1812 in England. Martha Osborne rides a horse better than the men in her area. She learned as child while her mother was still alive. Now that her father has remarried and his new wife has sent her little brother away to a boarding school, life has changed for her. She misses him but most of all wants to bring him home. She hears of a steeplechase race that could gain her the finances to reunite herself with her brother. She begins scheming of a way to enter this race since women are not allowed to participate. She feels God has turned his back on her. Will she obtain her goal and see God's goodness to her?
I received a copy of The Steeplechase from The Book Club Network and the author. I have given my honest review in exchange.
I received a copy of The Steeplechase from The Book Club Network and the author. I have given my honest review in exchange.
February 9, 2016
Carrie Fancett Pagels always delights me with her stories, and The Steeplechase is one of my very favorites! Set in Virginia in 1810, the history of this place and time come to life as you turn the pages of the story. Martha Osborne and Phillip Paulson are endearing characters, and I reveled in the excitement, intrigue, and romance of their story. Theirs is not just any romance, I might add, but one worthy of a sigh and a smile. I loved this novella and long to read more about these special characters and continue their story. The Steeplechase is a wonderfully engaging story and a highly recommended read!
March 4, 2016
The Steeplechase is a Historical Romance written by Carrie Fancett Pagels. I fully enjoyed reading this novella as I have others of Carrie's. The characters are well written and make you feel like you are back in that time period. Plenty of action and adventure to keep you turning pages O and did I mention a almost murder? A story that has twists in it you will not want to put it down once you start reading. Martha is out to protect her family. There is even a trader in the family! See there is so much packed in this novella you will want to read it. Looking forward to what is to come by Carrie.
July 30, 2016
Carrie Fancett Pagels has done it again! "The Steeplechase" is one of those books that will keep you on the edge of your seat during a historical period of time. This book is a story of mystery, romance, history and oh, my gracious is this really happening kind of moments? It's fast paced and you'll be sad to see it end, but no doubt, this story will not leave your mind as you will find Martha in your head and Phillip in your heart! Get ready to go on an adventure as you embark on an adventure.
Thank you to the Book Club Network for providing me a complimentary copy. I give this book 5/5 stars. My review can be found on Amazon, Goodreads and CBD.
Thank you to the Book Club Network for providing me a complimentary copy. I give this book 5/5 stars. My review can be found on Amazon, Goodreads and CBD.
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March 5, 2016The Steeplechase is a Love’s Sporting Chance novella by Carrie Fancett Pagels. This is such a wonderful story based here in Hampton Roads, Virginia in 1812. That really brought the story to life for me since I am from Hampton Roads, Virginia. I felt as though I was traveling right along with the characters in this story and experiencing everything right along with them. There are characters that you will absolutely love and others that you want to hate. Be sure to order your copy of The Steeplechase today. 5 stars.
February 8, 2016
This historical Inspiritional romance is a well written and fast moving novella. i love the way that the author, Carrie Pagels, has written the plot with so many different twists. The second son isn't left out of an inheritance, the wicked step-mother, and the innocent children receiving the love they deserve. Once again, CARRIE has given us an awesome read. I was given a copy for an honest review.
February 8, 2016
Fast paced and fun
Carrie never disappoints. The Steeplechase is short, sweet and totally worth the read. As with all of Carrie's stories, this one flows in a way that keeps you reading until you finish reading the book. It always amazes me how an author can write such a complete story in a few chapters. Phillip and Martha are great characters and I just know that you will fall in love with their story as I have.
I reviewed this book with no obligation to write a positive review.
March 5, 2016
This is historical novella that was a heartwarming read. Carrie does a exceptional job of capturing the spirit and feel of Virginia in the 1800's and written a story with wonderful characters and a story line that I thoroughly enjoyed. This is one of my favorite authors of historical fiction and is another one by her that I certainly recommend. I was given a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
August 5, 2016
Ms. Carrie Fancett Pagels masterfully transports the reader back in time to Hampton Roads, Virginia, in the build-up to the War of 1812. The Steeplechase is a fascinating story filled with intrigue and secrets. I highly recommend this book.
March 5, 2016
I truly enjoyed this story set in the time of 1810, a period leading up to the war of 1812 in America. It was very easy to enter into the story as Carrie is such an excellent writer. Gives an insight into the intrigue of spying and emotions leading up to a war. Highly recommend this story.
January 30, 2019
An American historical novel set in the early 1800s when some still held British sympathies and tried to undermine the new nation. Martha Osborne of Virginia is caught up in the intrigue. Why does her stepmother travel to England so often while her father remains home? Why was her young brother sent away to boarding school? She determines to enter a horse race and win the prize money in order to afford to move into her own place and take in her brother. The main problem? She’s a woman and the entrants are all men. Whom can she trust? This tale takes readers back to the time and place. It’s a short book. I wish it were longer with a bit more development and details, but it leaves you longing for more.
February 24, 2024
This book is not something I would have grabbed on my own as Christian romance is definitely not a genre I usually read. My book club picked this and we will have the honor of having a visit from the author when we discuss it, so that should be interesting. I enjoyed the local connection as the story's setting is in my backyard, so to speak. However, the book felt a bit cheesy to me at times - but that's probably just because I don't generally enjoy romance books. I did like the book more than I expected I would and give it a solid 3 1/2 stars.
September 20, 2020
I really enjoyed reading this book and leaning about some of the things that led up to the War of 1812. I loved the character of Martha, who just wanted to bring her little brother back home. And Phillip, who wanted to help her. There was quite a bit of secrecy and intrigue going on, but it was beautifully wrapped up at the end. I would recommend this book.
December 25, 2017
Great story involving family devotion and historical horse riding. The author brings the characters to life with wonderful descriptions and details. For all who enjoy history and horses, this is a must read.
July 26, 2018
I loved this book!! Great story!! Starting to like this author's books!!
May 27, 2026
Loved this story so much just wished it were longer!
February 19, 2022
The Steeplechase: A Love’s Sporting Chance Novella by Carrie Fancett Pagels
Williamsburg, Virginia....1810
Martha Osborne fears for her six-year-old brother, Johnny, who was shuffled off to a boarding school when his British mother departed to England. She doesn't understand how her father would go along with her stepmother's wishes and hopes to find a way to bring him home...to her. While in town she learns of an upcoming horse race,"race to the steeple", with a large cash prize and meets a very handsome man—her “guardian angel?”. That prize money will help her in her plans to open a stable of her own, supporting herself and Johnny. Only one drawback, women are not allowed to race—she comes up with a plan...she will race.
Yorktown, Virginia....
Phillip Paulson, an equestrian trainer at the Yorkview Academy, forms a friendship with one of the students, Johnny. Phillip wonders why the owner of the academy—his brother, George—would allow such a young boy to attend and hopes to get Johnny back home with his family.
Martha and Phillip make a bet on the outcome of the race that will help bring her little brother home. However, Phillip stumbles upon some unsettling information that could, not only end their bargain, but bring about events that would affect them all.
I love the characters and the storyline in this heartwarming novella. Little Johnny quickly wove his way into my heart. Martha has a tender heart and will do whatever it takes to protect her family. I could feel the tensions Phillip sees in the events building-up to the War of 1812 and his desire to protect those he loves. There are a few surprises—some had me on the edge of my seat, unexpected twists, intrigue coupled with dangerous situations and secrets to the storyline and I like the strong faith element woven throughout the story. It would be great to see a follow-up novella with these characters—hint, hint Carrie Fancett Pagels!
~I bought a copy and I had the honor of being a Beta reader for this novella and I received a PDF ARC copy of this book from the author/publisher (no monetary gain were exchanged), this is my honest review~
Williamsburg, Virginia....1810
Martha Osborne fears for her six-year-old brother, Johnny, who was shuffled off to a boarding school when his British mother departed to England. She doesn't understand how her father would go along with her stepmother's wishes and hopes to find a way to bring him home...to her. While in town she learns of an upcoming horse race,"race to the steeple", with a large cash prize and meets a very handsome man—her “guardian angel?”. That prize money will help her in her plans to open a stable of her own, supporting herself and Johnny. Only one drawback, women are not allowed to race—she comes up with a plan...she will race.
Yorktown, Virginia....
Phillip Paulson, an equestrian trainer at the Yorkview Academy, forms a friendship with one of the students, Johnny. Phillip wonders why the owner of the academy—his brother, George—would allow such a young boy to attend and hopes to get Johnny back home with his family.
Martha and Phillip make a bet on the outcome of the race that will help bring her little brother home. However, Phillip stumbles upon some unsettling information that could, not only end their bargain, but bring about events that would affect them all.
I love the characters and the storyline in this heartwarming novella. Little Johnny quickly wove his way into my heart. Martha has a tender heart and will do whatever it takes to protect her family. I could feel the tensions Phillip sees in the events building-up to the War of 1812 and his desire to protect those he loves. There are a few surprises—some had me on the edge of my seat, unexpected twists, intrigue coupled with dangerous situations and secrets to the storyline and I like the strong faith element woven throughout the story. It would be great to see a follow-up novella with these characters—hint, hint Carrie Fancett Pagels!
~I bought a copy and I had the honor of being a Beta reader for this novella and I received a PDF ARC copy of this book from the author/publisher (no monetary gain were exchanged), this is my honest review~
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