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Irish Angel #1
Taştan Kalp
Geçmişi Karanlık Sırlarla Dolu Bir Kadın…
Geçmişinin gölgesinden kurtulmaya çalışan Laura Foster yeni bir hayat kurmak için Teksas, Glory'de şık bir pansiyon satın almıştır. Kasaba halkı onu zengin ve saygın bir dul olarak tanır ama Laura geçmişinin her an peşinde olduğunun farkındadır.
Onun Aşkı İçin Her Şeyi Feda Edebilecek Bir Adam…
Rahip Brand McCormick genç kadına aşkını itiraf edince Laura ondan kaçar çünkü geçmişi ortaya çıkarsa Brand'in saygınlığına da leke sürüleceğini bilir. Gerçi Brand'in hayatı için tek tehdit Laura'nın geçmişi değildir. Kasabaya bir yabancının gelmesiyle tüm sırların ortaya çıkma riski doğar. Laura, kalp kırıklığıyla sonuçlanabilecek bir seçim yapmak zorundadır: Glory'yi terk edip Brand'in geleceğini mi kurtaracaktır yoksa gerçekleri ona anlatarak itibarını ve kalbini tehlikeye mi atacaktır?
"Landis'in hünerli anlatımı okuru hikâyeye bağlayacak."
-Publishers Weekly-
(Tanıtım Bülteninden)
Geçmişinin gölgesinden kurtulmaya çalışan Laura Foster yeni bir hayat kurmak için Teksas, Glory'de şık bir pansiyon satın almıştır. Kasaba halkı onu zengin ve saygın bir dul olarak tanır ama Laura geçmişinin her an peşinde olduğunun farkındadır.
Onun Aşkı İçin Her Şeyi Feda Edebilecek Bir Adam…
Rahip Brand McCormick genç kadına aşkını itiraf edince Laura ondan kaçar çünkü geçmişi ortaya çıkarsa Brand'in saygınlığına da leke sürüleceğini bilir. Gerçi Brand'in hayatı için tek tehdit Laura'nın geçmişi değildir. Kasabaya bir yabancının gelmesiyle tüm sırların ortaya çıkma riski doğar. Laura, kalp kırıklığıyla sonuçlanabilecek bir seçim yapmak zorundadır: Glory'yi terk edip Brand'in geleceğini mi kurtaracaktır yoksa gerçekleri ona anlatarak itibarını ve kalbini tehlikeye mi atacaktır?
"Landis'in hünerli anlatımı okuru hikâyeye bağlayacak."
-Publishers Weekly-
(Tanıtım Bülteninden)
336 pages, Paperback
First published February 5, 2010
196 people are currently reading
1976 people want to read
About the author
Jill Marie Landis
76 books250 followersJILL MARIE LANDIS is the bestselling author of nearly thirty novels which have appeared on the NYT bestseller list, USA Today and other national bestseller lists. She has won numerous awards for her heartfelt characters and sweeping emotional historical romances that include SUMMER MOON and MAGNOLIA CREEK and the Irish Angels Series; HEART OF STONE, HEART OF LIES, and HEART OF GLASS. All of her Historical Romances are available in eBook format.
She is currently writing The Tiki Goddess Mysteries series which includes MAI TAI ONE ON, TWO TO MANGO, THREE TO GET LEI'D, TOO HOT FOUR HULA and HAWAII FIVE UH-OH! from Bell Bridge Books.
Toes in the sand and head in the clouds, she is living the dream in Hawaii with her husband, Steve. Jill Marie loves to spend hours at the beach reading or writing and she also loves dancing the hula.
She is currently writing The Tiki Goddess Mysteries series which includes MAI TAI ONE ON, TWO TO MANGO, THREE TO GET LEI'D, TOO HOT FOUR HULA and HAWAII FIVE UH-OH! from Bell Bridge Books.
Toes in the sand and head in the clouds, she is living the dream in Hawaii with her husband, Steve. Jill Marie loves to spend hours at the beach reading or writing and she also loves dancing the hula.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 161 reviews
August 29, 2019
..
Heart of Stone is the first novel in the Irish Angel Series by Jill Marie Landis. It commences with the life of four small female children, whose parents had died, leaving them with abominably, uncaring relatives. The hair-raising decisions made by their uncle changed their futures forever. Although the plotline is quite plausible in that day and age, it is not desirable.
In the first book of the Irish Angels series, we meet Laura Foster, a woman with the darkest of pasts, and Reverend Brand McCormick, a man with everything to lose by loving her. Having escaped a life she never chose, Laura Foster is finally living her dream. But even after four years of posing as a respectable widow in Glory, Texas, she is always afraid someone from her past might reveal her true identity.
This story focuses on the after-effects of the nightmare life handed Laura Foster as a child. Thankfully, the intricate details describing her childhood are left to the reader's imagination as we find the oldest child a grown woman in completely different circumstances, the opposite of where she started out. She was able to rise above the circumstances life handed her. Of course, there will always be some people who cannot see past your biggest mistake.
How Laura Foster'spirit continued to float so high after experiencing so much abuse and despair is beyond expectation. As a book of fiction, the characters are difficult for this reader to identify with.
Believing no man could love her if he knew the truth, Laura tries to resist Brand’s courtship. His reputation would be shattered if Laura’s former life is discovered. But it’s not only Laura’s past that threatens to bring him down—but it’s also his own. As they open their hearts to love and faith, will Laura and Brand find the depth and power of forgiveness from their community?
This book is able to stand on its own, although it does open the possibility of hope for the next book This is a clean and wholesome read with the exception to the references of the life lived previously. And the H.E.A. was a melding of good fortune for all.
..
Heart of Stone is the first novel in the Irish Angel Series by Jill Marie Landis. It commences with the life of four small female children, whose parents had died, leaving them with abominably, uncaring relatives. The hair-raising decisions made by their uncle changed their futures forever. Although the plotline is quite plausible in that day and age, it is not desirable.
In the first book of the Irish Angels series, we meet Laura Foster, a woman with the darkest of pasts, and Reverend Brand McCormick, a man with everything to lose by loving her. Having escaped a life she never chose, Laura Foster is finally living her dream. But even after four years of posing as a respectable widow in Glory, Texas, she is always afraid someone from her past might reveal her true identity.
This story focuses on the after-effects of the nightmare life handed Laura Foster as a child. Thankfully, the intricate details describing her childhood are left to the reader's imagination as we find the oldest child a grown woman in completely different circumstances, the opposite of where she started out. She was able to rise above the circumstances life handed her. Of course, there will always be some people who cannot see past your biggest mistake.
How Laura Foster'spirit continued to float so high after experiencing so much abuse and despair is beyond expectation. As a book of fiction, the characters are difficult for this reader to identify with.
Believing no man could love her if he knew the truth, Laura tries to resist Brand’s courtship. His reputation would be shattered if Laura’s former life is discovered. But it’s not only Laura’s past that threatens to bring him down—but it’s also his own. As they open their hearts to love and faith, will Laura and Brand find the depth and power of forgiveness from their community?
This book is able to stand on its own, although it does open the possibility of hope for the next book This is a clean and wholesome read with the exception to the references of the life lived previously. And the H.E.A. was a melding of good fortune for all.
..
March 12, 2010
Heart of Stone was a heartwarming read. Set in the 1870's in Texas, this novel had me under its spell from the first pages. The characters were proper and gentile, but still with the strength that you would expect from living it a tough time and place. I loved the main characters. Laura Foster was a hurt woman with a tarnished past, but she overcame it, and developed into a strong woman. Brand McCormick was the town preacher who had strong morals and a family. Both had strengths that were put to the test, making this story more that just a good read. It held two very distinctive messages... One - you can't hide the past, and two - practice what you preach.
I really enjoyed the storyline, the morals and lessons that were presented and the Faith that was talked about. It was an excellent example of what I would expect from Christian Historical Fiction. Jill Marie Landis wrote a beautiful story, and I'm really looking forward to book two!
Why I rated this as for older teens through adult - There are scenes and discussions of prostitution, abortion, and selling children into prostitution.
Oh, before I forget, I must warn you...you might want to keep a box of tissues handy. :)
I really enjoyed the storyline, the morals and lessons that were presented and the Faith that was talked about. It was an excellent example of what I would expect from Christian Historical Fiction. Jill Marie Landis wrote a beautiful story, and I'm really looking forward to book two!
Why I rated this as for older teens through adult - There are scenes and discussions of prostitution, abortion, and selling children into prostitution.
Oh, before I forget, I must warn you...you might want to keep a box of tissues handy. :)
January 29, 2012
Free Kindle download. I actually really liked the story but felt conflicted about it being Christian fiction because essentially the heroine lies about who she is throughout much of the story; the hero has something to hide about his past, too, and what makes these lies hard to take is their so-called respectability in their community. He's a reverend, and she's a well-respected "widow" with a spotless reputation.
Normally, I'd be fine with that set up — it makes for a good story. The heroine starting anew and trying to overcome her awful past, and the hero turning over a new leaf. That's fine. Even their hiding their past — that's fine, too. But it bothers me if the characters are Christian, and the genre is Christian fiction because then the word that comes to mind is Hypocrite. Sure, I understand the concept of turning over a new leaf, and I understand that people who have led bad lives or made bad choices may one day be "born again" and adopt Christianity, but for goodness sake be open about it and don't preach to or judge other people as if you've always been good.
There was especially no need for the heroine to hide her past because she was a victim — sold to a brothel by her own father. Who in the world could condemn you for that? Most people would feel sympathy and outrage on your behalf. And then for her to do everything she could to escape that life? Also admirable. But Christian or not, I would be open about who I was anyway because it takes power away from people looking to blackmail you.
So when the heroine's old partner ends up on her doorstep and threatens to out her to the town, I don't understand her leaving the town. Don't give in to the blackmail. Out yourself, then out the blackmailer. Meet the problem, the threat head on. Don't run away like a coward. If the town turns on you then, then consider leaving, but not before then.
Needless to say, I wasn't pleased with some of the characters' choices and couldn't really respect them as a result. They do come out in the open in the end, but it was so long after the fact, after it was far too late for them to have much of a choice anyway, that it didn't really matter to me.
Normally, I'd be fine with that set up — it makes for a good story. The heroine starting anew and trying to overcome her awful past, and the hero turning over a new leaf. That's fine. Even their hiding their past — that's fine, too. But it bothers me if the characters are Christian, and the genre is Christian fiction because then the word that comes to mind is Hypocrite. Sure, I understand the concept of turning over a new leaf, and I understand that people who have led bad lives or made bad choices may one day be "born again" and adopt Christianity, but for goodness sake be open about it and don't preach to or judge other people as if you've always been good.
There was especially no need for the heroine to hide her past because she was a victim — sold to a brothel by her own father. Who in the world could condemn you for that? Most people would feel sympathy and outrage on your behalf. And then for her to do everything she could to escape that life? Also admirable. But Christian or not, I would be open about who I was anyway because it takes power away from people looking to blackmail you.
So when the heroine's old partner ends up on her doorstep and threatens to out her to the town, I don't understand her leaving the town. Don't give in to the blackmail. Out yourself, then out the blackmailer. Meet the problem, the threat head on. Don't run away like a coward. If the town turns on you then, then consider leaving, but not before then.
Needless to say, I wasn't pleased with some of the characters' choices and couldn't really respect them as a result. They do come out in the open in the end, but it was so long after the fact, after it was far too late for them to have much of a choice anyway, that it didn't really matter to me.
September 15, 2019
4.5 stars
I absolutely loved this book, it was really sweet and full of good vibes and I really needed that, if you want something that will make your heart flutter non stop this book is for you
the book follows Laura who has a dark past she wishes to bury and Brandon who is a preacher, these two people are the exact opposite yet they need each other to forgive themselves from their pasts
so sweet, so cute and I will certainly continue on with the series to see what happened to Laura's sisters :)
I absolutely loved this book, it was really sweet and full of good vibes and I really needed that, if you want something that will make your heart flutter non stop this book is for you
the book follows Laura who has a dark past she wishes to bury and Brandon who is a preacher, these two people are the exact opposite yet they need each other to forgive themselves from their pasts
so sweet, so cute and I will certainly continue on with the series to see what happened to Laura's sisters :)
September 14, 2018
I feel indifferent towards this book. I don't know if it's the book's fault or my health.
September 29, 2010
Though the plot line is not completely predictable, I was slightly disappointed. I had trouble connecting with the characters and feeling their emotions. The basic story is a classic tale of forgiveness. Laura is a self-made young woman who was sold into prostitution as a child. She now owns a boardinghouse and desires only to live a normal life. Her love interest, Reverend Brand, is a lovesick suitor, who determinedly pursues her. She avoids him, in order to protect his reputation. But it turns out that he has a past of his own. The forgiveness background is based on the verse John 8:7 - "He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her." A personal believer in not judging people by their circumstances or mistakes, I greatly enjoyed the idea of the hypocritical first reactions of the townspeople and friends being replaced with grace. I truly thought these parts of the novel were well-written.
However, the romance slightly eluded me. The title, Heart of Stone, is supposed to be based on the idea that, in order to survive, Laura has walled herself off from everyone - completely void of emotion. I never felt that. She seemed caring to me from the beginning. I also had a hard time seeing the past Laura and the present Laura as the same person. In books with past/present contrasts (and in real life), putting a past behind oneself does not mean being completely free of it. Scars are always present, and healing is needed. Laura seemed almost two-dimensional, as one moment she is completely ashamed and putting up a facade and, the next, she is willing to tell everyone her story and live as a person unashamed. I understand that healing and forgiveness through the Lord is present, but even then, healing is not instantaneous. It's a process to learn to love oneself through Christ. I just thought it was a little too much of a snap-your-fingers-there's-a-change story. It is once she has had this change that she can open herself up to loving Brand. But since I did not really feel the change, the "love declaration" was a little flat for me as well.
Overall, I gave this book a 3/5. I enjoyed the story, and I am not sorry I read it. I probably will not read it again, but I might pick up the next book in the series with the hope that I can connect to those characters a little better. I recommend this novel for those who greatly enjoy Christian fiction and Christian romance. Those into mysteries and thrillers may be bored, so unless you are looking for laid-back paced plot, you may want to pass this one up. Those who enjoy Christian fiction will enjoy the plot, which is not completely predictable, and the backdrop of forgiveness.
However, the romance slightly eluded me. The title, Heart of Stone, is supposed to be based on the idea that, in order to survive, Laura has walled herself off from everyone - completely void of emotion. I never felt that. She seemed caring to me from the beginning. I also had a hard time seeing the past Laura and the present Laura as the same person. In books with past/present contrasts (and in real life), putting a past behind oneself does not mean being completely free of it. Scars are always present, and healing is needed. Laura seemed almost two-dimensional, as one moment she is completely ashamed and putting up a facade and, the next, she is willing to tell everyone her story and live as a person unashamed. I understand that healing and forgiveness through the Lord is present, but even then, healing is not instantaneous. It's a process to learn to love oneself through Christ. I just thought it was a little too much of a snap-your-fingers-there's-a-change story. It is once she has had this change that she can open herself up to loving Brand. But since I did not really feel the change, the "love declaration" was a little flat for me as well.
Overall, I gave this book a 3/5. I enjoyed the story, and I am not sorry I read it. I probably will not read it again, but I might pick up the next book in the series with the hope that I can connect to those characters a little better. I recommend this novel for those who greatly enjoy Christian fiction and Christian romance. Those into mysteries and thrillers may be bored, so unless you are looking for laid-back paced plot, you may want to pass this one up. Those who enjoy Christian fiction will enjoy the plot, which is not completely predictable, and the backdrop of forgiveness.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 24, 2020
Brilliant Story of an Irish lass Set in Old Texas
Set in the 1870s, this is the story of Laura Foster, an Irish girl who was sold into prostitution as a child. Having escaped New Orleans and a life she didn’t chose, Laura is finally living her dream of running a boarding house decked out in grand style. But even after four years of acting the respectable widow in Glory, Texas, she is always fearful that someone from her past might reveal her true identity.
One man falls in love with her: Reverend Brand McCormick, a man with everything to lose if he marries her. Believing it would only hurt him if he married her, Laura tries to resist Brand’s attentions. But the man loves her and will not be thwarted.
This is very well written and kept me turning pages. I loved the deep character development, the historical details that put the story in the right period and the charming children and side characters that provided a rich tapestry. The faith elements are very well done, too.
I highly recommend this tale, the first in the Irish Angel trilogy.
Set in the 1870s, this is the story of Laura Foster, an Irish girl who was sold into prostitution as a child. Having escaped New Orleans and a life she didn’t chose, Laura is finally living her dream of running a boarding house decked out in grand style. But even after four years of acting the respectable widow in Glory, Texas, she is always fearful that someone from her past might reveal her true identity.
One man falls in love with her: Reverend Brand McCormick, a man with everything to lose if he marries her. Believing it would only hurt him if he married her, Laura tries to resist Brand’s attentions. But the man loves her and will not be thwarted.
This is very well written and kept me turning pages. I loved the deep character development, the historical details that put the story in the right period and the charming children and side characters that provided a rich tapestry. The faith elements are very well done, too.
I highly recommend this tale, the first in the Irish Angel trilogy.
August 28, 2020
Can I just say Wow? I did not know what to expect because this is the first book by this author I have read or listened to.. But I am a devoted fan now to be sure! This story had so much depth and emotion and puzzle pieces that were never expected, I could not wait until the next words were uttered!
The narrator Renee Raudman was such a pleasure listening to with all of her different voices and inflections, it felt like I was watching a movie. The children voices were almost painful because their anguish came through as well as the adults.
This is a story of the horrors that a childhood could bring during this time period and even today with different variations and it will make you thankful.
Four sisters left after their parents passed away after their long journey from Ireland, when their terrible aunt and uncle took custody of them. Of course they had children of their own to try to support, but still,.. I am sure this did happen a lot.
This is Laura's story, the oldest and what happened to her. How she survived and finally found love that was hard won.
Amazing, just amazing. Cannot wait to listen to more!!
The narrator Renee Raudman was such a pleasure listening to with all of her different voices and inflections, it felt like I was watching a movie. The children voices were almost painful because their anguish came through as well as the adults.
This is a story of the horrors that a childhood could bring during this time period and even today with different variations and it will make you thankful.
Four sisters left after their parents passed away after their long journey from Ireland, when their terrible aunt and uncle took custody of them. Of course they had children of their own to try to support, but still,.. I am sure this did happen a lot.
This is Laura's story, the oldest and what happened to her. How she survived and finally found love that was hard won.
Amazing, just amazing. Cannot wait to listen to more!!
February 21, 2010
I received this book as an Advanced Review Copy, and thought I was getting a historical romance-it was a historical romance, but it's more in the genre of Christian Fiction. Once I got over the shock of this being an inspirational romance, I really liked the story. It was a sweet story with a good message-follow your heart, be willing to forgive those who have erred in their ways, and don't let others decide your fate for you. The characters were all likable, and the Reverends kids made me laugh with their antics. This book is set in the 1800s, and the author stayed true to the dialogue of the time-which was fine, but it was just hard to get used to all those reckons. :) If you're in the mood for something a little different, then I recommend reading this book.
November 19, 2016
Farklı bir hikaye idi. Fahişe ve Rahibin aşkı...Tavsiye ederim
March 24, 2010
The widow Laura Foster has made a place for herself in Glory, Texas as a respected member of this Christian community where she owns a boarding house that only caters to women and families. That would all change in an instant if her neighbors knew who the real Laura Foster was. Laura is not her real name, it's Lovie Lane, former New Orleans prostitute who was sold into sexual slavery along with her younger sister Megan, who was nine at the time. The Lane sisters, along with their two younger siblings, who were sent to an orphanage because their uncle and aunt couldn't afford to keep them, have been separated for over twenty years. Laura is haunted every day because she couldn't save her sisters, especially Megan. She was able to escape and make a life for herself and searches for her sisters so they can be reunited.
Laura pretty much keeps to herself but has a small group of friends, mainly Amelia Hawthorne who recently married the owner of the town paper. While Laura is shopping at the mercantile, she witnesses a father hitting his daughter. Laura can't stand abuse of any kind, especially of a child, and stops the man. Before the man can turn his rage on her, Reverend Brand McCormick, the minister of Glory's only church comes to her aid. Laura thanks the reverend, although she feels she could have handled herself. She expects Brand to go on his merry way, but he offers to walk her home. Laura is flustered because she doesn't want the attentions of any man, including a man of God such as Brand.
Brand can't understand why Laura is so skittish around him, but he's enamored with the widow and will try his very best in courting her. Brand is also a widow with two young children, his daughter Janie and son Sam. Brand is a bit sneaky and uses his adorable, but at times wild children to get on Laura's good side. She seems to have a weakness when it comes to them and soon Brand and his two offspring are inviting Laura to church events and socials. Laura makes excuses, but Brand is too insistent. Laura makes certain to set boundaries between her and the charming and handsome reverend. The town gossips think Laura would make a great wife for Brand, and he believes the same. He believes with a bit of hope and God on his side, as well as treating Laura with respect, she'll come around to his way of thinking.
But Laura's past, as well as Brand's catches up to them. Brand is confronted by the son he never knew about, and a man Laura was involved with years before wants to build his roots in Glory. He also wants Laura to become his partner in a new venture and is not above using blackmail. Laura feels all hope is lost and wants to run away and disappear again but Brand won't let her. He wants her by his side and won't let her leave him even as he must come to terms with his own faith and of Laura's that has been missing for so long.
Heart of Stone is the first book in Jill Marie Landis' Irish Angel Series. This is an inspirational Western romance set in the mid 1870's that has a lovely subtle romance between a fallen woman and a man who looks to God and his faith for living the right way of life. Readers who are wary of reading inspirational romance because they think the story will be too heavy on religious preaching and God and Jesus don't have to worry about that in Heart of Stone. Jill really incorporates faith and spiritualism very well within the story. The most important thing mentioned is the forgiving of one's self.
Laura's path for forgiveness is a long and hard one. It takes Brand to show her that she has nothing to be ashamed of. He's a great support and even when he has his own personal problems to deal with, he takes it all in stride. These two comfort and support one another as friends that eventually lead toward a tender romance between the two.
The first chapter is a very emotional and because of that I was hooked and needed to know what happens to the Lane sisters. It's so heartbreaking what occurs to Laura and Megan, knowing that these girls who are barely in their teens will be forced to give up their innocence because of greed.
There are a few kissing scenes and Laura's past is mentioned in a very mature and adult way. Heart of Stone is a recommend read for adults as well as older teens. Jill Marie Landis has a great skill at writing Western Romances, so those who feel the need for a nice frontier story should pick up Heart of Stone.
Laura pretty much keeps to herself but has a small group of friends, mainly Amelia Hawthorne who recently married the owner of the town paper. While Laura is shopping at the mercantile, she witnesses a father hitting his daughter. Laura can't stand abuse of any kind, especially of a child, and stops the man. Before the man can turn his rage on her, Reverend Brand McCormick, the minister of Glory's only church comes to her aid. Laura thanks the reverend, although she feels she could have handled herself. She expects Brand to go on his merry way, but he offers to walk her home. Laura is flustered because she doesn't want the attentions of any man, including a man of God such as Brand.
Brand can't understand why Laura is so skittish around him, but he's enamored with the widow and will try his very best in courting her. Brand is also a widow with two young children, his daughter Janie and son Sam. Brand is a bit sneaky and uses his adorable, but at times wild children to get on Laura's good side. She seems to have a weakness when it comes to them and soon Brand and his two offspring are inviting Laura to church events and socials. Laura makes excuses, but Brand is too insistent. Laura makes certain to set boundaries between her and the charming and handsome reverend. The town gossips think Laura would make a great wife for Brand, and he believes the same. He believes with a bit of hope and God on his side, as well as treating Laura with respect, she'll come around to his way of thinking.
But Laura's past, as well as Brand's catches up to them. Brand is confronted by the son he never knew about, and a man Laura was involved with years before wants to build his roots in Glory. He also wants Laura to become his partner in a new venture and is not above using blackmail. Laura feels all hope is lost and wants to run away and disappear again but Brand won't let her. He wants her by his side and won't let her leave him even as he must come to terms with his own faith and of Laura's that has been missing for so long.
Heart of Stone is the first book in Jill Marie Landis' Irish Angel Series. This is an inspirational Western romance set in the mid 1870's that has a lovely subtle romance between a fallen woman and a man who looks to God and his faith for living the right way of life. Readers who are wary of reading inspirational romance because they think the story will be too heavy on religious preaching and God and Jesus don't have to worry about that in Heart of Stone. Jill really incorporates faith and spiritualism very well within the story. The most important thing mentioned is the forgiving of one's self.
Laura's path for forgiveness is a long and hard one. It takes Brand to show her that she has nothing to be ashamed of. He's a great support and even when he has his own personal problems to deal with, he takes it all in stride. These two comfort and support one another as friends that eventually lead toward a tender romance between the two.
The first chapter is a very emotional and because of that I was hooked and needed to know what happens to the Lane sisters. It's so heartbreaking what occurs to Laura and Megan, knowing that these girls who are barely in their teens will be forced to give up their innocence because of greed.
There are a few kissing scenes and Laura's past is mentioned in a very mature and adult way. Heart of Stone is a recommend read for adults as well as older teens. Jill Marie Landis has a great skill at writing Western Romances, so those who feel the need for a nice frontier story should pick up Heart of Stone.
March 3, 2010
3.5 stars
When the Potato Famine hit Ireland, Laura Foster came to New Orleans with her family to find a better life. What they found was more poverty. When her parents died shortly after, Laura and her 3 sisters were divided up by her uncle, the two youngest were sent to an orphanage, Laura and her sister Megan were sold elsewhere.
Years later Laura has invented a new life, name and history and is living in Texas as a successful business owner and widow. When Reverend Brand McCormick begins courting Laura, she fears her past will ruin him and her.
Honestly, had I known this was an inspirational or religious historical romance I never would have ordered it; it’s just not my thing. I thought I was getting a regular historical romance and the story blurb on the back intrigued me. Moments before reading I stumbled on a review stating the religious aspect of the story and I was not happy, but I decided to read it anyway.
Three quarters of the book I was happy with, the religious part of it really didn’t overwhelm me or color my enjoyment. I was loving the story, the characters and the shady past of Laura and Brand. It’s a very human story, emotional, heart breaking and real. I was so enjoying it I had made up my mind to order the next book in the series so I could find out what happened to Laura’s sister Megan.
Then the last quarter of the book, the church got in my way. It just got too religious and saccharine for my tastes and that made the story drag for me and I started to lose interest.
That being said, had God and a few of the hypocritical church people been left out of the story I would have absolutely loved it. And I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys the religious and inspirational romances. It has a great message about pasts shaping who we are now, and how forgiveness in oneself is essential before you can seek and get forgiveness elsewhere.
Cherise Everhard, March 2010
When the Potato Famine hit Ireland, Laura Foster came to New Orleans with her family to find a better life. What they found was more poverty. When her parents died shortly after, Laura and her 3 sisters were divided up by her uncle, the two youngest were sent to an orphanage, Laura and her sister Megan were sold elsewhere.
Years later Laura has invented a new life, name and history and is living in Texas as a successful business owner and widow. When Reverend Brand McCormick begins courting Laura, she fears her past will ruin him and her.
Honestly, had I known this was an inspirational or religious historical romance I never would have ordered it; it’s just not my thing. I thought I was getting a regular historical romance and the story blurb on the back intrigued me. Moments before reading I stumbled on a review stating the religious aspect of the story and I was not happy, but I decided to read it anyway.
Three quarters of the book I was happy with, the religious part of it really didn’t overwhelm me or color my enjoyment. I was loving the story, the characters and the shady past of Laura and Brand. It’s a very human story, emotional, heart breaking and real. I was so enjoying it I had made up my mind to order the next book in the series so I could find out what happened to Laura’s sister Megan.
Then the last quarter of the book, the church got in my way. It just got too religious and saccharine for my tastes and that made the story drag for me and I started to lose interest.
That being said, had God and a few of the hypocritical church people been left out of the story I would have absolutely loved it. And I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys the religious and inspirational romances. It has a great message about pasts shaping who we are now, and how forgiveness in oneself is essential before you can seek and get forgiveness elsewhere.
Cherise Everhard, March 2010
December 30, 2010
Book One in the Irish Angels Series, Heart of Stone transports readers back to the 1800’s where eleven-year-old Lovie Lane is sold to a brothel by her cruel Uncle Tim.
Orphaned by their parents who came to America following the blight in Ireland, Lovie and her sisters are betrayed by the family who promised to protect them. Innocence ruined, as she grows up in the brothel Lovie becomes a determined young woman who plots her escape from the life she detests.
Fast forwarding several years, as an adult Lovie is now “Laura Foster”. Her community of Glory, Texas only knows her as the wealthy widow who runs the local boarding house and Laura has worked very hard to put the past behind her. Laura lives a quiet, peaceful life and plans to keep it that way. When Reverend Brand McCormick takes an interest in Laura and wants to court her, Laura knows she has to put him off and keep her past a secret. Laura is still haunted by not only her past, but the memories of her younger sisters and not knowing whatever became of them.
The story has plenty of twists and turns to keep readers turning the pages, wondering if Laura will ever tell Brand about her past. Just when she appears to be mustering the courage to share her deepest, darkest secret she backs down. Brand has a few secrets of his own which adds to the suspense of this story and makes his character more believable. I liked the constant “tension” between Brand and Laura in this story. Every time I thought they were finally making headway with their relationship, another crisis arose.
Although the story is a little predictable, its still a good read for those who like historical fiction and romance. It’s clean and entertaining and I’ve seen other reviews comparing it to Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers.
The second book in this series, Heart of Lies should be available February 2011.
Orphaned by their parents who came to America following the blight in Ireland, Lovie and her sisters are betrayed by the family who promised to protect them. Innocence ruined, as she grows up in the brothel Lovie becomes a determined young woman who plots her escape from the life she detests.
Fast forwarding several years, as an adult Lovie is now “Laura Foster”. Her community of Glory, Texas only knows her as the wealthy widow who runs the local boarding house and Laura has worked very hard to put the past behind her. Laura lives a quiet, peaceful life and plans to keep it that way. When Reverend Brand McCormick takes an interest in Laura and wants to court her, Laura knows she has to put him off and keep her past a secret. Laura is still haunted by not only her past, but the memories of her younger sisters and not knowing whatever became of them.
The story has plenty of twists and turns to keep readers turning the pages, wondering if Laura will ever tell Brand about her past. Just when she appears to be mustering the courage to share her deepest, darkest secret she backs down. Brand has a few secrets of his own which adds to the suspense of this story and makes his character more believable. I liked the constant “tension” between Brand and Laura in this story. Every time I thought they were finally making headway with their relationship, another crisis arose.
Although the story is a little predictable, its still a good read for those who like historical fiction and romance. It’s clean and entertaining and I’ve seen other reviews comparing it to Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers.
The second book in this series, Heart of Lies should be available February 2011.
September 25, 2014
3 1/2
I enjoyed this just as I expected too, since I love Jill Marie Landis' style. I personally think the second book,Heart of Lies in this series is better, I liked the characters more and the scenery. This one was good, we have strong characters, unexpected happenings and suspense. But it was dark and not really my kind of plot. Lovie/Laura is a former prostitute who now has established for herself a name, Mrs, Foster, the Widow Foster. No one knows her past and she intends to keep it that way. But the preacher in her small town is not only wanting to court her, but he is hiding his own past which could separate them both for good.
I did enjoy this book, but I admit the hero wasn't someone I could read about all day and the heroine was sweet but not particularly memorable. What kept me reading was the suspense and this author's writing skill. One thing, it kinda unusual that the heroine is in her thirty's and still a gorgeous beauty, despite having lived rough so long.
PG rating although we are told a bit about Laura's past we aren't shown it in any detail. A few swears which is odd for christen fiction. A few punches, nothing else.
I enjoyed this just as I expected too, since I love Jill Marie Landis' style. I personally think the second book,Heart of Lies in this series is better, I liked the characters more and the scenery. This one was good, we have strong characters, unexpected happenings and suspense. But it was dark and not really my kind of plot. Lovie/Laura is a former prostitute who now has established for herself a name, Mrs, Foster, the Widow Foster. No one knows her past and she intends to keep it that way. But the preacher in her small town is not only wanting to court her, but he is hiding his own past which could separate them both for good.
I did enjoy this book, but I admit the hero wasn't someone I could read about all day and the heroine was sweet but not particularly memorable. What kept me reading was the suspense and this author's writing skill. One thing, it kinda unusual that the heroine is in her thirty's and still a gorgeous beauty, despite having lived rough so long.
PG rating although we are told a bit about Laura's past we aren't shown it in any detail. A few swears which is odd for christen fiction. A few punches, nothing else.
April 30, 2010
I enjoyed this story of a former prostitute pulling herself out of that lifestyle and trying to make an honest living by herself. Jill Marie Landis has a comfortable reading style and makes it easy to get to know the characters and see their personalities. The only disappointment I had was the curse word that was added to the dialogue of the villain. Yes, I'm being picky since it was mild (the "d" word) but I don't want Christian publishers to start down this slippery slope. They allowed one in this book so the next they will allow two, etc. If I want to read a book with cuss words, I can find plenty of them on the secular bookshelves. I buy Christian fiction because I want to avoid cussing and sex scenes as much as possible. Some, I'm sure, will argue that it helped to show us the evil side of the villain but there was no reason for that here. Jill Marie Landis did a good job of showing that he was the villain without throwing in cursing to tip us off. In my view, it was totally unnecessary. Off my soapbox now....
The overall theme of forgiveness, both from others and for ourselves, was very inspiring.
The overall theme of forgiveness, both from others and for ourselves, was very inspiring.
February 21, 2011
I loved, loved, loved this book. It was a sweet story of redemption, forgiveness and unconditional love.
Lovie has recently landed in New Orleans with her parents and 3 sisters. They have come all the way from Ireland. The only person they know is their father's brother and his wife and 2 kids, but their uncle is lazy and not an honorzlbe man like their father. When Lovie's parents die their uncle sells the 2 oldest girls Lovie 11, and Meaghan 9 to a brothel. The minute they are taken in the brothel it is the last time they see one another. We believe the 2 younger sisters are taken to an orphanage.
We see Lovie 20 years later. She has moved to Texas and has a new identity. She is a respectable widow lady with a respectable boarding house where only single women and families may stay. No single men. Lovie has not given up hope and has retained a Pinkerton man to look for her sister Meaghan. Meanwhile the preacher in Glory, Tx has taken an interest in Lovie. He is widowed with 2 children and has a Huge secret himself that know one in town knows.
Well worth the read. This is a good romance, but it is not steamy (no sex scenes).
I have this on my Nook.
Lovie has recently landed in New Orleans with her parents and 3 sisters. They have come all the way from Ireland. The only person they know is their father's brother and his wife and 2 kids, but their uncle is lazy and not an honorzlbe man like their father. When Lovie's parents die their uncle sells the 2 oldest girls Lovie 11, and Meaghan 9 to a brothel. The minute they are taken in the brothel it is the last time they see one another. We believe the 2 younger sisters are taken to an orphanage.
We see Lovie 20 years later. She has moved to Texas and has a new identity. She is a respectable widow lady with a respectable boarding house where only single women and families may stay. No single men. Lovie has not given up hope and has retained a Pinkerton man to look for her sister Meaghan. Meanwhile the preacher in Glory, Tx has taken an interest in Lovie. He is widowed with 2 children and has a Huge secret himself that know one in town knows.
Well worth the read. This is a good romance, but it is not steamy (no sex scenes).
I have this on my Nook.
March 16, 2010
Alright people here we go: Normally I don't think of Romance and Christian Fiction being closely entwined. The author manages to do that and do it well in this book! I like the main character Laura...she was such a multi dimensional character who perseveres while trying to overcome her past. The love factor in this book is just good...there's no better way to put it. It's good and it's kind, and you just wanted to fall in love yourself. This book has you laughing at times and crying at others, and all the while feeling for these characters. In my opinion, I saw this as a story of love, forgiveness, redemption, and following where your heart leads. I think this book can be enjoyed by a wide circle of readers, and appreciated for it's story.
It's book one in the Irish Angels Series so I look forward to seeing what happens to the other players in the story.
It's book one in the Irish Angels Series so I look forward to seeing what happens to the other players in the story.
February 27, 2012
My thoughts: I'm going to skip the narrative on this book and just go straight to what I thought of it. I liked it, but didn't love it.
The author did a good job with the sensitive subject of prostitution. But the reason that I didn't love it was because there was something lacking. The faith in Laura (Lovie) felt forced. There was a point in the books that she submits to Christ, but after that, the jump was too sudden. I felt that the end of the book was a "hurry up and get this thing finished".
This is just my opinion. Over all it was a good read and as I said, I liked it.
The author did a good job with the sensitive subject of prostitution. But the reason that I didn't love it was because there was something lacking. The faith in Laura (Lovie) felt forced. There was a point in the books that she submits to Christ, but after that, the jump was too sudden. I felt that the end of the book was a "hurry up and get this thing finished".
This is just my opinion. Over all it was a good read and as I said, I liked it.
September 6, 2013
I didn't like this book very much. Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers had a similar plot and did it a thousand times better. The characters didn't have much personality. All I got from Brand was that he couldn't take no for an answer (can I please stop reading books about this, it's annoying in real life and not romantic) and from Laura I got nothing at all. And not because she closed herself off, I just had no sense that she was anything but words on a page. I'll pass on future installments.
April 19, 2011
How many times do we put on our judgmental attitudes and attribute that to being righteous? This premise has been done before, but it mostly held my interest, and there was even a twist thrown in.
March 21, 2012
I've read worse!
January 25, 2021
This series is the story of 4 sisters who immigrated from Ireland to the New Orleans Irish Channel in the 1870’s. When their parents contract yellow fever and die, the sisters are separated. Ten-year-old Lovie is sold to a brothel, eight-year-old Megan is sold to a street criminal who trains his ‘tribe’ to survive by any available means, and the two youngest girls are left at an orphanage.
Heart of Stone is Lovie’s story. She manages to escape a horrid life in New Orleans, changes her name to Laura Foster, and makes a respectable life for herself in Glory, Texas. This small town where everyone knows everything about everyone else is the worst place to have your past come back to haunt you. That is just what happens when the town preacher finds himself falling for her.
Heart of Lies is Megan’s story. Her name is changed to Maddie when she is taken into the tribe of street criminals and made to forget her past. After the leader of the ‘tribe’ dies, Maddie lives in a Louisiana swamp cabin eking out a meager existence as a muskrat trapper. She gets caught up in a kidnapping scheme orchestrated by twin brothers she lives with who were a part of the ‘tribe’ that held them all captive. This series of events leads to murder, and Maddie finds herself on the run. Using some of the tricks she learned as a street criminal helps her evade the Pinkerton who is searching for Laura’s sister and is also hired to find the kidnapped child.
Heart of Glass continues the sisters’ stories in Reconstruction-era New Orleans and at a sugar plantation outside the city. Katie Keene is the third sister who is adopted by a wealthy family and given all the advantages money can buy. She becomes an architect and returns to Louisiana to lend her skills to restoring the home of a childhood friend hoping to rekindle friendships in the process. Her best friend Ammalie suddenly dies of consumption after Katie promises to raise her two orphaned children as her own.
Talented narration and excellent story telling captivated my attention from beginning to end. Deep character development and careful attention to historical detail adeptly portray the struggles of life in the south during this era. Persistent love and faith and the indomitable human spirit evident in this clean, heartwarming historical romance series deserves a five-star rating.
Availability: Book
Rating: ***** Stars (I loved it)
Reviewer: Lynette, Programming Administrator
ARE YOU AND THIS SERIES A GOOD MATCH?
DISCOVER MORE WITH NOVELIST APPEALS!
GENRE: Christian Historical Romances
TONE: Heartwarming; Homespun; Moving
LOCATION: Louisiana
TIME PERIOD: 1870s; 19th Century
SUBJECT: Christian Men; Irish in the United States; Kidnapping; Men Recluses; Orphans; Pinkerton's National Detective Agency; Plantation Houses; Secrets; Women Architects
Heart of Stone is Lovie’s story. She manages to escape a horrid life in New Orleans, changes her name to Laura Foster, and makes a respectable life for herself in Glory, Texas. This small town where everyone knows everything about everyone else is the worst place to have your past come back to haunt you. That is just what happens when the town preacher finds himself falling for her.
Heart of Lies is Megan’s story. Her name is changed to Maddie when she is taken into the tribe of street criminals and made to forget her past. After the leader of the ‘tribe’ dies, Maddie lives in a Louisiana swamp cabin eking out a meager existence as a muskrat trapper. She gets caught up in a kidnapping scheme orchestrated by twin brothers she lives with who were a part of the ‘tribe’ that held them all captive. This series of events leads to murder, and Maddie finds herself on the run. Using some of the tricks she learned as a street criminal helps her evade the Pinkerton who is searching for Laura’s sister and is also hired to find the kidnapped child.
Heart of Glass continues the sisters’ stories in Reconstruction-era New Orleans and at a sugar plantation outside the city. Katie Keene is the third sister who is adopted by a wealthy family and given all the advantages money can buy. She becomes an architect and returns to Louisiana to lend her skills to restoring the home of a childhood friend hoping to rekindle friendships in the process. Her best friend Ammalie suddenly dies of consumption after Katie promises to raise her two orphaned children as her own.
Talented narration and excellent story telling captivated my attention from beginning to end. Deep character development and careful attention to historical detail adeptly portray the struggles of life in the south during this era. Persistent love and faith and the indomitable human spirit evident in this clean, heartwarming historical romance series deserves a five-star rating.
Availability: Book
Rating: ***** Stars (I loved it)
Reviewer: Lynette, Programming Administrator
ARE YOU AND THIS SERIES A GOOD MATCH?
DISCOVER MORE WITH NOVELIST APPEALS!
GENRE: Christian Historical Romances
TONE: Heartwarming; Homespun; Moving
LOCATION: Louisiana
TIME PERIOD: 1870s; 19th Century
SUBJECT: Christian Men; Irish in the United States; Kidnapping; Men Recluses; Orphans; Pinkerton's National Detective Agency; Plantation Houses; Secrets; Women Architects
May 11, 2019
First, this story is about a young girl sold into prostitution after both her parents die. She lives fifteen years in this situation but manages to be shrewd enough to find a way out and start her life over. I liked the story of someone overcoming difficult situations and beating the odds.
However, I can’ stop thinking about how this is still happening today. The sex trade across the world is a horrific realty.
Second, I struggle with the idea of a young woman who while her heart is hardened, she is still generous, kind, and caring. The reality of a young woman still beautiful, generous, and caring after living such a life of brutality doesn’t quite add up.
While the author attempted to show Laura as a shrewd businesswoman whose moral compass somehow remained intact. The reality is at ten years old, she would have learned survival skills that did not include being kind and caring as such traits would have been a sign of weakness and made her prey to the other women and men in that world, she grew up in. For those who have lived a life of such abuse and have learned to detach, usually suffer from personality disorders, even mental health issues that were not present in the Laura.
Third, the author did a great job of showing the narrow mindedness of some of the towns people and how people are quick to judge others without knowing all the facts. There’s a wonderful lesson here that we need to extend grace and compassion towards others. Being quick to judge and point fingers keeps people like Laura from finding freedom.
The secondary plots were very well woven into the story and the tension of Laura keeping her secret kept me listening. (I listened to the audiobook.) The writing is very good as the author does a good job with setting, weaving the story together, and the pacing is good. The narration was very well done with the different voices and inflections.
In closing, I’m giving this the rating I am because goal, motive, and conflict are maintained throughout the story and kept me engaged. And while in reality Laura probably would’ve had more to overcome than just a hardened heart, I must keep in mind that this is a story of fiction.
However, I can’ stop thinking about how this is still happening today. The sex trade across the world is a horrific realty.
Second, I struggle with the idea of a young woman who while her heart is hardened, she is still generous, kind, and caring. The reality of a young woman still beautiful, generous, and caring after living such a life of brutality doesn’t quite add up.
While the author attempted to show Laura as a shrewd businesswoman whose moral compass somehow remained intact. The reality is at ten years old, she would have learned survival skills that did not include being kind and caring as such traits would have been a sign of weakness and made her prey to the other women and men in that world, she grew up in. For those who have lived a life of such abuse and have learned to detach, usually suffer from personality disorders, even mental health issues that were not present in the Laura.
Third, the author did a great job of showing the narrow mindedness of some of the towns people and how people are quick to judge others without knowing all the facts. There’s a wonderful lesson here that we need to extend grace and compassion towards others. Being quick to judge and point fingers keeps people like Laura from finding freedom.
The secondary plots were very well woven into the story and the tension of Laura keeping her secret kept me listening. (I listened to the audiobook.) The writing is very good as the author does a good job with setting, weaving the story together, and the pacing is good. The narration was very well done with the different voices and inflections.
In closing, I’m giving this the rating I am because goal, motive, and conflict are maintained throughout the story and kept me engaged. And while in reality Laura probably would’ve had more to overcome than just a hardened heart, I must keep in mind that this is a story of fiction.
August 4, 2017
I love it when I find a good writer
Ms Landis is a good writer weaving sorrow, love, pain with the exact right humor at the right time. I avoided picking up my Kindle today because I *knew* what would happen. I started this book just last night.
I chucked more than once and guffaw at one point. Characters with depth. People with no character at all but did have the Title.
A sweet cat called "Peaches". A horse named ... ah, shall we say appropriately.
I do not to give anything away about this delightful story. One final word. And there is one. Let me just say that the word when defined ...
Nope. Won't tell you more. Really enjoyed this book and definitely want to read #2 in the series.
Ms Landis is a good writer weaving sorrow, love, pain with the exact right humor at the right time. I avoided picking up my Kindle today because I *knew* what would happen. I started this book just last night.
I chucked more than once and guffaw at one point. Characters with depth. People with no character at all but did have the Title.
A sweet cat called "Peaches". A horse named ... ah, shall we say appropriately.
I do not to give anything away about this delightful story. One final word. And there is one. Let me just say that the word when defined ...
Nope. Won't tell you more. Really enjoyed this book and definitely want to read #2 in the series.
August 16, 2018
Laura Foster had the type of childhood no one should have. Her father and mother have died shortly after arriving here from Ireland. Her uncle, who promised her parents he would take care of the four girls and make sure they stay together, sold her and her sister to a brothel. Laura has no idea what happened to the two littlest sisters. It has taken her years to get over her tarnished past, but she finally has, so she thinks. She is the respectable owner of a lovely boarding house with a new name in a new town. Brand McCormick the hero, is the widowed pastor of this little town. He also has his secrets. Through in the pastors two precocious children and you have a very entertaining historical romance.
June 28, 2017
2.5 stars - not bad, but not really good, either. Drug out way too much in parts, didn't have a great flow in others. And I didn't like how some of the issues were handled. Oh! And I HATED when one of her characters spread the lie that "God won't give us more than we can handle." LIE! Nowhere on the Bible does it say that. It does say that HE can handle anything, and that with Him we can do all things, but that doesn't mean we won't be in over our heads ever. It means He won't.
February 26, 2018
My first read of this author, Jill Marie Landis. Won't be my last.
This is a charming story. It covers some very serious issues and how the characters handle them. For those of you who love a love story, but don't necessarily want to read sex scenes, this book will convey the strong emotional depth of the characters without them. The clever way Landis has written the story, it just doesn't need them. Landis is this very talented author.
This is a charming story. It covers some very serious issues and how the characters handle them. For those of you who love a love story, but don't necessarily want to read sex scenes, this book will convey the strong emotional depth of the characters without them. The clever way Landis has written the story, it just doesn't need them. Landis is this very talented author.
May 13, 2021
I liked this a lot more than I expected to -- although Laura seemed to hate the idea of change, she still seemed to love the preacher. Her past was awful, but she certainly tried to make up for it with generosity. Brand and Jesse were determined to find her and did a good job. BUT -- best of all were Laura's friends in the town of Glory. This was an adorable book and I would recommend it to just about anyone. There's a sequel, but don't know how it will tie in with this one.
February 14, 2018
I will definitely read the rest of this series. Laura the oldest of four sisters is forced into a life of prostitution after her parents die and her uncle sells her to a brothel. She promises to find her sisters but has to escape her own prison first. The story follows her from New Orleans to central Texas. Will her past catch up with her?
December 11, 2017
A touching book.
The story of Lovey/Laura brings up the issue of secrets, forgiveness, and judgmental attitudes. No matter how much we spit-shine our outer lives, only God can truly cleanse us. Ms. Landis has made an excellent start to the series.
The story of Lovey/Laura brings up the issue of secrets, forgiveness, and judgmental attitudes. No matter how much we spit-shine our outer lives, only God can truly cleanse us. Ms. Landis has made an excellent start to the series.
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