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Picnics & Promises
Six brand-new, delicious novellas.
MOOSED OPPORTUNITIES—JAN ELDER
Rev. Samantha Evans loves Moose Creek, Maine, the land of moose and men, particularly her fiancé Eric Palmer. Forest ranger, Eric, strives to plan their wedding, but Samantha’s busy schedule, his interfering ex-wife, missing college students, and a pregnant moose, all conspire against him. Will their lives continue to be a series of Moosed Opportunities?
ZARA’S FOLLY—CLARE REVELL
British equestrian, Zara Michaels, heads south to convince TJ Greggson to sell his property to her developer father. Any way she can. TJ co-owns the stables, catering to disabled children—his life’s purpose. His brother wants to sell. TJ doesn’t. Can TJ help untangle Zara from her past follies, or will their secrets destroy them both?
A POCKETFUL OF WISHES—MARY MANNERS
As childhood neighbors, Jenna Palmer and Carter Stevens discover first love. When a cross-country job transfer separates them, they promise to one day find each other. Years go by and they lose touch until an accident causes their paths to once again cross. Can their promise stand the test of time, or will time crush their promise…and their love?
SWEET DELIGHTS—CECELIA DOWDY
Patty-Lynn is stunned when she runs into her wealthy ex-boyfriend, Sam. She’s still haunted by their painful breakup seven years ago. Recently widowed, Sam now wants to fix their broken relationship. Seeing Patty-Lynn, happy in her bakery, gives him hope. Can her prize-winning pie recipe sweeten his new business venture and heal their broken hearts?
IMPERFECTLY PROVERBS 31—AUTUMN MACARTHUR
The last thing geeky Samantha Rose planned for was the homemaking blog only her sister was ever supposed to see going viral. After a disastrous picnic, Daniel Novak, the cynical reporter dispatched to interview her, insists he must reveal the truth. But that could ruin everything, including their budding love.
A COURTSHIP FOR CLOVER—MARION UECKERMANN
Clover Blume’s chance of getting to know the groomsman escorting her to her sister’s wedding is threatened when he’s delayed. Jonathan Spalding’s money hasn’t managed to buy him one thing: a woman to love. Is the auburn-haired beauty partnering with him at his best friend’s wedding finding a way into his heart? What will it cost Jonathan to realize it profits him nothing to gain the world, yet lose his soul? And the girl.
MOOSED OPPORTUNITIES—JAN ELDER
Rev. Samantha Evans loves Moose Creek, Maine, the land of moose and men, particularly her fiancé Eric Palmer. Forest ranger, Eric, strives to plan their wedding, but Samantha’s busy schedule, his interfering ex-wife, missing college students, and a pregnant moose, all conspire against him. Will their lives continue to be a series of Moosed Opportunities?
ZARA’S FOLLY—CLARE REVELL
British equestrian, Zara Michaels, heads south to convince TJ Greggson to sell his property to her developer father. Any way she can. TJ co-owns the stables, catering to disabled children—his life’s purpose. His brother wants to sell. TJ doesn’t. Can TJ help untangle Zara from her past follies, or will their secrets destroy them both?
A POCKETFUL OF WISHES—MARY MANNERS
As childhood neighbors, Jenna Palmer and Carter Stevens discover first love. When a cross-country job transfer separates them, they promise to one day find each other. Years go by and they lose touch until an accident causes their paths to once again cross. Can their promise stand the test of time, or will time crush their promise…and their love?
SWEET DELIGHTS—CECELIA DOWDY
Patty-Lynn is stunned when she runs into her wealthy ex-boyfriend, Sam. She’s still haunted by their painful breakup seven years ago. Recently widowed, Sam now wants to fix their broken relationship. Seeing Patty-Lynn, happy in her bakery, gives him hope. Can her prize-winning pie recipe sweeten his new business venture and heal their broken hearts?
IMPERFECTLY PROVERBS 31—AUTUMN MACARTHUR
The last thing geeky Samantha Rose planned for was the homemaking blog only her sister was ever supposed to see going viral. After a disastrous picnic, Daniel Novak, the cynical reporter dispatched to interview her, insists he must reveal the truth. But that could ruin everything, including their budding love.
A COURTSHIP FOR CLOVER—MARION UECKERMANN
Clover Blume’s chance of getting to know the groomsman escorting her to her sister’s wedding is threatened when he’s delayed. Jonathan Spalding’s money hasn’t managed to buy him one thing: a woman to love. Is the auburn-haired beauty partnering with him at his best friend’s wedding finding a way into his heart? What will it cost Jonathan to realize it profits him nothing to gain the world, yet lose his soul? And the girl.
- GenresRomanceChristian Fiction
818 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 7, 2017
179 people are currently reading
49 people want to read
About the author
Jan Elder
14 books379 followersJan Elder is a Christian romance writer with a zeal for telling relatable stories. She strives to write the kind of book that will strengthen the reader’s faith, while also providing an entertaining and engrossing love story.
Besides writing romance, she enjoys the occasional caramel cappuccino while watching Turner Classic Movies. Always an avid reader, she devours books voraciously, both Christian and secular. She was born an animal-lover and all books will, no doubt, feature a cat or dog in some way or another.
Happily married for over twenty years to loving (and supportive) best-in-the world-husband, Steve, the two live at the gateway to Western Maryland with Kassie Rae (a mini-black panther with an amazing sense of humor), and Looney Tunes (a svelte and oh-so-silly black and white tuxedo cat.) On the weekends, Jan and Steve comb the countryside in search of fabulous ice cream flavors.
Want to connect with Jan or find out more about her books? Go to www.janelderauthor.com.
New books coming soon and thanks for checking on Jan Elder!
Besides writing romance, she enjoys the occasional caramel cappuccino while watching Turner Classic Movies. Always an avid reader, she devours books voraciously, both Christian and secular. She was born an animal-lover and all books will, no doubt, feature a cat or dog in some way or another.
Happily married for over twenty years to loving (and supportive) best-in-the world-husband, Steve, the two live at the gateway to Western Maryland with Kassie Rae (a mini-black panther with an amazing sense of humor), and Looney Tunes (a svelte and oh-so-silly black and white tuxedo cat.) On the weekends, Jan and Steve comb the countryside in search of fabulous ice cream flavors.
Want to connect with Jan or find out more about her books? Go to www.janelderauthor.com.
New books coming soon and thanks for checking on Jan Elder!
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
July 9, 2017
Just one delicious story.
A Courtship For Clover by Marion Ueckermann is a most delightful contemporary Christian romance that will warm the cockles of your heart. Continuing the tale of the Blume sisters and focusing on Clover, the reader is in for a real treat - the promised fairytale wedding from a previous book.
A Courtship For Clover really is a most delicious read. The reader sinks into the novel and lets the action wash over. A charming read with all the elements for an escapist read - handsome men, beautiful women, dreamy settings, lovely dresses. It's a real treat to read.
However there is an unexpected element. It is a story of two halves - a modern day fairytale with a hint of menace. Just as the reader is comfortably wallowing, pulses and heart rates rise as we speed to the conclusion.
God is ever present. He desires a relationship with us. He does not want us to bargain with Him. He wants us to come as we are. To trust that He is good, even when circumstances are difficult.
There are themes of jealousy, revenge, forgiveness and prayer. The novel really does have something for everyone.
I always love Marion Ueckermann's novels and especially this Seven Suitors For Seven Sisters series. The stories are like sinking into comfy slippers while eating chocolate. They just warm my heart and soothe my soul.
For a modern day fairytale with a twist and that makes you feel good, choose A Courtship For Clover today.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
A Courtship For Clover by Marion Ueckermann is a most delightful contemporary Christian romance that will warm the cockles of your heart. Continuing the tale of the Blume sisters and focusing on Clover, the reader is in for a real treat - the promised fairytale wedding from a previous book.
A Courtship For Clover really is a most delicious read. The reader sinks into the novel and lets the action wash over. A charming read with all the elements for an escapist read - handsome men, beautiful women, dreamy settings, lovely dresses. It's a real treat to read.
However there is an unexpected element. It is a story of two halves - a modern day fairytale with a hint of menace. Just as the reader is comfortably wallowing, pulses and heart rates rise as we speed to the conclusion.
God is ever present. He desires a relationship with us. He does not want us to bargain with Him. He wants us to come as we are. To trust that He is good, even when circumstances are difficult.
There are themes of jealousy, revenge, forgiveness and prayer. The novel really does have something for everyone.
I always love Marion Ueckermann's novels and especially this Seven Suitors For Seven Sisters series. The stories are like sinking into comfy slippers while eating chocolate. They just warm my heart and soothe my soul.
For a modern day fairytale with a twist and that makes you feel good, choose A Courtship For Clover today.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
August 8, 2017
A wonderful set of sweet romances. Six different authors with their sweet romance story. Moosed Opportunities By Jan Elder My Review - My first time reading anything by Jan. I really enjoyed the novella. Rev. Samantha Evans has her hands full with the moose and a man she loves and lets throw in a ex wife putting her two cents in. Eric is trying to help her out by making plans for their wedding, but being a ranger he to is on the run. Will this wedding ever come together? Get this box set and find out! Loved her writing and the characters are great. Zara's Folly by Clare Revell. My Review- Zara Michaels works for her father. He uses her to buy properties up. Only this time Zara has had enough. But id she doesn't do what he wants she will lose something that is very important to her. The property is owned by TJ Greggson and his brother. Property that's been inherited by from his family. But he co owns with his brother and he is up to something. TJ is into it to help the disabled. His heart is into what he does can he and Zara figure out how to save the ranch together and Zara not lose what is most important to her? Wonderful novella. Sweet romance. A Pocketful of Wishes by Mary Manners. My Review- Another great novella by Mary Manners. Love her books. Always a sweet inspirational romance. Jenna and Carter have always loved each other from childhood but a job and a move away separates them. With a promise left between them to find each other again. But through all the years of time apart can the promise still hold up? Will that spark between them still be there? A Pocketful of Wishes and hopes and dreams. Love the characters. If you haven't read any of Mary Manners books pick one up and try it you will love it. Sweet delights by Cecelia Dowdy. My review- A new author to me but I enjoyed her novella. I will look into more of her books. Patty Lynn has had a rough time in life. First the break up of her wealthy boyfriend. She would not be excepted by his family cause she is from the other side of the track. So she goes on to end up owning her own business a bakery. Not only is a booming business for her but she has won many awards for her pies. Sam wants to make amends he still loves her and is determined no matter what he wants her back in his life. Can Patty's award winning pie bring them together? There is a special thing in Patty's life she has always wanted can her dream come true? Wonderful sweet romance with great characters. Well written. Imperfectly Proverbs 31 by Autumn Macarthur. My review- Could it be a blog gone bad? Well it just might be happening to Samantha Rose. Posting a homemaking blog thinking only her sister will see it. Not knowing it went viral and a critic picks up on it. Daniel Novak goes on a picnic to see if Samantha is who she says she is or is her homemaking blog just a fake? Getting feelings for her how can he possibly tell her who he is? If he tells her the truth will it end the budding romance? A sweet romance. A Courtship for Clover by Marion Ueckermann. My Review -
July 16, 2017
Grab your favorite beverage and settle in for some nice summer reads.
I got to catch up with some of my favorite authors and characters plus I met some new ones.
We see love, suspense, tension, and fun mixed with God's love and forgiveness.
There is a healthy dose of second chances to stir the mix.
I highly recommend this book.
I got to catch up with some of my favorite authors and characters plus I met some new ones.
We see love, suspense, tension, and fun mixed with God's love and forgiveness.
There is a healthy dose of second chances to stir the mix.
I highly recommend this book.
July 27, 2017
A great collection of stories. Jan elder did another great job with Moosed Opportunities. I have enjoyed the other too. It's so nice to have a set of books that
I can read when my grandchildren are around.
ZARA’S FOLLY—CLARE REVELL I could not help but fall in love with it since it has my favorite people in it. Disable children have a special place in my heart I miss working with them every day.
A POCKETFUL OF WISHES—MARY MANNERS first love is always special and you remember that person your whole life.
SWEET DELIGHTS—CECELIA DOWDY broken Hearts can they be mended.
IMPERFECTLY PROVERBS 31—AUTUMN MACARTHUR seems everything goes wrong so read it and see what happens.
A COURTSHIP FOR CLOVER—MARION UECKERMANN You meet at a wedding is there one for you in your future?
Wonderful price for this set of books. I suggest you get this and get comfy because you will not want to put them down.
I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255
I can read when my grandchildren are around.
ZARA’S FOLLY—CLARE REVELL I could not help but fall in love with it since it has my favorite people in it. Disable children have a special place in my heart I miss working with them every day.
A POCKETFUL OF WISHES—MARY MANNERS first love is always special and you remember that person your whole life.
SWEET DELIGHTS—CECELIA DOWDY broken Hearts can they be mended.
IMPERFECTLY PROVERBS 31—AUTUMN MACARTHUR seems everything goes wrong so read it and see what happens.
A COURTSHIP FOR CLOVER—MARION UECKERMANN You meet at a wedding is there one for you in your future?
Wonderful price for this set of books. I suggest you get this and get comfy because you will not want to put them down.
I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255
July 16, 2017
Marion has put forth a very inspiring read in Clover's story. You will learn to love, to forgive and most of all, learn to know more than ever that God is with you and His plans for you will bring your heart joy and peace that will endure you for a lifetime. Clover and the characters of this story share their most intimate fears and learn so much along the way. God leads them into our hearts with so much emotion and power you won't want to stop reading. With an emotional twist you don't see coming, Clover's story is packed with emotion. Thank you, Marion, for an amazing read.
Marion had provided me an ARC of her story in exchange for my own honest review.
I can't wait to read the rest of this set!
Marion had provided me an ARC of her story in exchange for my own honest review.
I can't wait to read the rest of this set!
July 10, 2017
Grab your picnic basket, blanket and book. Delightful inspiring romances with scrumptious pie recipes. Stories sprinkled with love and served with a portion of kindness, faith and redemption. Jan Elder's romance was moostacular. Autumn Macarthur challenges the reader to revisit Proverbs 31. A wife of noble character speaks with wisdom and teaches others to be loving and kind. In this fun boxed set six astounding authors weave diverse settings and characters with the common thread of picnics and promises. Page turning stories with a message that also put a smile on your face.
July 31, 2017
This was a great collection of books, each featuring a picnic. I thought all the authors wrote wonderful stories and had great characters. The one thing that slowed me down a little was that two of the stories were set in Great Britain and I am used to “American English”. I was trying to choose a favorite, but my favorite was the one I was reading at the time. I loved the stories and this collection and would recommend it.
I received a Kindle copy of this book from one of the authors in exchange for my review, but was not required to write a positive review.
I received a Kindle copy of this book from one of the authors in exchange for my review, but was not required to write a positive review.
November 2, 2017
Great stories. Good encouragement in living a life of faith.
I love to be inspired to live out my faith, and also to learn about other areas in our country. The stories were great. Thanks!
I love to be inspired to live out my faith, and also to learn about other areas in our country. The stories were great. Thanks!
July 21, 2017
I only gave this 3 stars because I didn't think all the books were equally as good. I really liked the two by authors I already knew (and were the reason I bought the boxed set). Another one was also well done. The preview of one didn't appeal to me at all. It was worth the price for the two I really wanted.
August 3, 2017
Picnics and Promises is a great collection of six terrific romances. I found each selection very well written as I have come to expect from some of the authors I have read in the past. They all have good story lines and characters that are believable. If you enjoy reading good clean romance I recommend this set.
I received an ARC from one of the authors and this is my unbiased review.
I received an ARC from one of the authors and this is my unbiased review.
July 16, 2017
Well done!
A great collection of multiple stories - bakeries, stables, small towns, cities, and a moose. There's something for everyone!! I love collection alike this that continue series and also introduces the reader to new authorise.
A great collection of multiple stories - bakeries, stables, small towns, cities, and a moose. There's something for everyone!! I love collection alike this that continue series and also introduces the reader to new authorise.
September 27, 2017
With God All Things are possible.
I chose this rating because each story shows the wonderful work of God in all the actions that worked to the benefit of those that call on His Name with all their hearts.
I chose this rating because each story shows the wonderful work of God in all the actions that worked to the benefit of those that call on His Name with all their hearts.
July 19, 2017
Zara's Folly - 4 stars
A Pocketful of Wishes - 4 stars
Sweet Delights - 3 stars
Imperfectly Proverbs 31 - 5 stars
A Courtship for Clover - 3 stars
A Pocketful of Wishes - 4 stars
Sweet Delights - 3 stars
Imperfectly Proverbs 31 - 5 stars
A Courtship for Clover - 3 stars
July 24, 2017
Another treasure!
Each set of stories gets better and better...enchanting stories bringing characters to life...inspiring and spiritually uplifting ... can't wait for the next one!
Each set of stories gets better and better...enchanting stories bringing characters to life...inspiring and spiritually uplifting ... can't wait for the next one!
August 26, 2017
Wo derful stories
I was looking for something to read and saw this set, it was a great read. Would recomend reading it.
I was looking for something to read and saw this set, it was a great read. Would recomend reading it.
February 13, 2018
Picnics and promises
Moosed opportunity
Charming romantic tale of an engaged couple anxiously awaiting their upcoming nuptials. But like most couples, there life is not without challenges. Besides both of them being busy in their respective jobs as pastor and forest ranger and having little free time, they must also deal with a meddling exwife. And being a Christian couple, they try to place nice. What will it take to stand up to her and send her on her way? Or will her meddling ways break them apart? All I can say is that it all comes to a head just before a delightful part of the story when a pregnant moose goes into labor. I loved the inclusion of this natural wildlife adventure in the story. So get a copy to see how everything turns out. You will be entertained and charmed.
Zara's folly
What do you do when it feels like the covers are being pulled out from under you? Can you still trust God to work it out for your good. TJ runs a horse farm for at risk kids with his brother. And to TJ it is his dream job. But then his brother announces that he is selling the farm. As TJ wrestles with the shock and discouragement, he has an unlikely encounter with Zara, who unbeknownst to TJ, has been sent by her father to use whatever means necessary to acquire the horse farm at a good price. As they spend time together, TJ and Zara are drawn to one another but with these secrets losing over them, does their relationship even have a chance? And to add to the drama, Zara as a new Christian is conflicted over what her dad wants her to do. These elements all add to the drama and intrique of the story which I thoroughly enjoyed. So get your copy today and prepare to get your heart strings pulled.
A pocket full of wishes
Can teenage love and whispered promises survive the responsibility of adulthood and a time lapse of 17 years. Well get a copy of this book and find out. Jenna and Carter grew up as best friends and as teenagers shared a dream of a future together until they were separated when Jenna moved away with her family. Then 17 years later they are both pursuing time demanding careers and chasing their dreams when by happenstance they have an accidental reunion. Can they pick up where they left off or has time and career gotten in the way?
Sweet delights
Loved the contrasts in this romance store, of light vs dark, of rich vs poor. Sam and Patty-Lynn are opposites in so many ways and having shared a painful history together, can they have a future? Or will the same things that tore them apart before keep them apart now? Very good read. And I loved how the gospel was very simply but clearly presented in the context of the story
Imperfectly Proverbs 31
Delightful and encouraging story about love, mercy, grace and forgiveness. In this story we meet Sam a boggled who on her internet page appears to be the perfect homemaker and Daniel a jaded newspaper reporter who seeks to uncover untruths and reveal them to the world. They meet when Daniels editor sends him to interview Sam. What path will be chosen when untrusting city boy meets imperfect country girl? I love how this book deals with unlearning assumptions about God and others.
A courtship for clover
Novella of an investment banker who has a different girl on his arm every week that is until he enchanted by Clover a chef. But is it in the cards for the two of them. Clover takes her faith seriously and Jonathan still struggling with the whole idea of faith. Then add in criminal charges for which Jonathan says he is innocent. Is there a happy ending to be had?
Moosed opportunity
Charming romantic tale of an engaged couple anxiously awaiting their upcoming nuptials. But like most couples, there life is not without challenges. Besides both of them being busy in their respective jobs as pastor and forest ranger and having little free time, they must also deal with a meddling exwife. And being a Christian couple, they try to place nice. What will it take to stand up to her and send her on her way? Or will her meddling ways break them apart? All I can say is that it all comes to a head just before a delightful part of the story when a pregnant moose goes into labor. I loved the inclusion of this natural wildlife adventure in the story. So get a copy to see how everything turns out. You will be entertained and charmed.
Zara's folly
What do you do when it feels like the covers are being pulled out from under you? Can you still trust God to work it out for your good. TJ runs a horse farm for at risk kids with his brother. And to TJ it is his dream job. But then his brother announces that he is selling the farm. As TJ wrestles with the shock and discouragement, he has an unlikely encounter with Zara, who unbeknownst to TJ, has been sent by her father to use whatever means necessary to acquire the horse farm at a good price. As they spend time together, TJ and Zara are drawn to one another but with these secrets losing over them, does their relationship even have a chance? And to add to the drama, Zara as a new Christian is conflicted over what her dad wants her to do. These elements all add to the drama and intrique of the story which I thoroughly enjoyed. So get your copy today and prepare to get your heart strings pulled.
A pocket full of wishes
Can teenage love and whispered promises survive the responsibility of adulthood and a time lapse of 17 years. Well get a copy of this book and find out. Jenna and Carter grew up as best friends and as teenagers shared a dream of a future together until they were separated when Jenna moved away with her family. Then 17 years later they are both pursuing time demanding careers and chasing their dreams when by happenstance they have an accidental reunion. Can they pick up where they left off or has time and career gotten in the way?
Sweet delights
Loved the contrasts in this romance store, of light vs dark, of rich vs poor. Sam and Patty-Lynn are opposites in so many ways and having shared a painful history together, can they have a future? Or will the same things that tore them apart before keep them apart now? Very good read. And I loved how the gospel was very simply but clearly presented in the context of the story
Imperfectly Proverbs 31
Delightful and encouraging story about love, mercy, grace and forgiveness. In this story we meet Sam a boggled who on her internet page appears to be the perfect homemaker and Daniel a jaded newspaper reporter who seeks to uncover untruths and reveal them to the world. They meet when Daniels editor sends him to interview Sam. What path will be chosen when untrusting city boy meets imperfect country girl? I love how this book deals with unlearning assumptions about God and others.
A courtship for clover
Novella of an investment banker who has a different girl on his arm every week that is until he enchanted by Clover a chef. But is it in the cards for the two of them. Clover takes her faith seriously and Jonathan still struggling with the whole idea of faith. Then add in criminal charges for which Jonathan says he is innocent. Is there a happy ending to be had?
January 18, 2018
This set of romance books are a must read for anyone who wants a sweet romance with just a little adversity to keep your attention. The books are actually written by 6 different authors and deal with different characters and plots, they are all romance but they are not intertwined.
I am more of a christian thriller reader but I enjoyed these light hearted reading books.
If christian romance is your forte then you will love these books, you will love the characters and feel like you were part of their lives.
I am more of a christian thriller reader but I enjoyed these light hearted reading books.
If christian romance is your forte then you will love these books, you will love the characters and feel like you were part of their lives.
December 11, 2017
Please see individual stories for review.
December 16, 2017
I would give higher ratings for Imperfectly Proverbs 31 (Autumn Macarthur never fails to be great) and Zara's Folly. As a collection as a whole, though, I will stick with the three star rating.
December 13, 2017
Every day is an adventure
God is ever present in everything we do and say. Our actions should reflect that God is at the center of our life
God is ever present in everything we do and say. Our actions should reflect that God is at the center of our life
January 4, 2018
Great reads
These are good for just relaxing & enjoying wholesome reading. Well do e !adies! A great way to escape life's pressures.
These are good for just relaxing & enjoying wholesome reading. Well do e !adies! A great way to escape life's pressures.
July 3, 2018
Delightful
On how I love anthologies! And I really enjoyed all the stories in this set and all the different authors and story plots kept me interested
On how I love anthologies! And I really enjoyed all the stories in this set and all the different authors and story plots kept me interested
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews