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The Daughters of the Mayflower #11
The Blizzard Bride
A Blizzard Changes Everything
Abigail Bracey arrives in Nebraska in January 1888 to teach school…and to execute a task for the government: to identify a student as the hidden son of a murderous counterfeiter—the man who killed her father.
Agent Dashiell Lassiter doesn’t want his childhood sweetheart Abby on this dangerous job, especially when he learns the counterfeiter is now searching for his son, too, and he’ll destroy anyone in his way. Now Dash must follow Abby to Nebraska to protect her…if she’ll let him within two feet of her. She’s still angry he didn’t fight to marry her six years ago, and he never told her the real reason he left her.
All Dash wants is to protect Abby, but when a horrifying blizzard sweeps over them, can Abby and Dash set aside the pain from their pasts and work together to catch a counterfeiter and protect his son—if they survive the storm?
Abigail Bracey arrives in Nebraska in January 1888 to teach school…and to execute a task for the government: to identify a student as the hidden son of a murderous counterfeiter—the man who killed her father.
Agent Dashiell Lassiter doesn’t want his childhood sweetheart Abby on this dangerous job, especially when he learns the counterfeiter is now searching for his son, too, and he’ll destroy anyone in his way. Now Dash must follow Abby to Nebraska to protect her…if she’ll let him within two feet of her. She’s still angry he didn’t fight to marry her six years ago, and he never told her the real reason he left her.
All Dash wants is to protect Abby, but when a horrifying blizzard sweeps over them, can Abby and Dash set aside the pain from their pasts and work together to catch a counterfeiter and protect his son—if they survive the storm?
256 pages, Paperback
First published February 1, 2020
44 people are currently reading
2417 people want to read
About the author
Susanne Dietze
65 books653 followersSusanne Dietze began writing love stories in high school, casting her friends in the starring roles. Today, she's an award-winning, RITA®-nominated author who's seen her work on the Publisher's Weekly and ECPA Bestseller Lists for Inspirational Fiction. Married to a pastor and the mom of two, Susanne lives in California and loves fancy-schmancy tea parties, the beach, and curling up on the couch with a costume drama. You can visit her on her website, www.susannedietze.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 246 reviews
February 6, 2020
In the author's latest book we accompany Abigail Bracey to Nebraska in January 1888 as she goes there to teach school but it's only a front for the real task of why she's there.
Several years before her father was involved in counterfeiting with some other unsavory characters and was murdered.
Abigail will stop at nothing as she goes undercover. As a certified teacher she takes her job seriously and always puts her students needs first.
Throw in childhood friend, Dash who assigns himself as her protector as he follows her to Nebraska, for her safely of course!
Abigail is still smarting over Dash not marrying her several years in the past , leaving without explaining the reason to her, leaving her hurt and confused. Bring out the wrath of the woman!
I have heard of the Great Blizzard in Nebraska , a tragedy that claimed the life of so many children that is was called, The Children's Blizzard.
Can Abigail and Dash put aside their differences to work together to find the counterfeiter and protect his son before it's too late?
I am impressed by the research the author has put into this book. Even though I had heard of this tragic blizzard I learned so much more detail about it through the author's impressive research.
I have read all of the Daughter's of The Mayflower right from the start. Each book is impeccably research and gives us a glimpse into a fascinating time period in history we are able to learn more about. This really is an interesting series!
Published February 1st 2020 by Barbour Books
I was given a complimentary copy. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
Several years before her father was involved in counterfeiting with some other unsavory characters and was murdered.
Abigail will stop at nothing as she goes undercover. As a certified teacher she takes her job seriously and always puts her students needs first.
Throw in childhood friend, Dash who assigns himself as her protector as he follows her to Nebraska, for her safely of course!
Abigail is still smarting over Dash not marrying her several years in the past , leaving without explaining the reason to her, leaving her hurt and confused. Bring out the wrath of the woman!
I have heard of the Great Blizzard in Nebraska , a tragedy that claimed the life of so many children that is was called, The Children's Blizzard.
Can Abigail and Dash put aside their differences to work together to find the counterfeiter and protect his son before it's too late?
I am impressed by the research the author has put into this book. Even though I had heard of this tragic blizzard I learned so much more detail about it through the author's impressive research.
I have read all of the Daughter's of The Mayflower right from the start. Each book is impeccably research and gives us a glimpse into a fascinating time period in history we are able to learn more about. This really is an interesting series!
Published February 1st 2020 by Barbour Books
I was given a complimentary copy. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
May 25, 2020
"It had been six years since he left. Six years since his heart - that part of him that felt things, not the organ of the same name - had stopped beating."
The Blizzard Bride (2020, Barbour), eleventh in the Daughters of the Mayflower series by Susanne Dietze, is a standalone Christian historical romance set in 1887 and 1888. It opens in Chicago and then quickly moves to Nebraska. I've been enjoying this series for the last two years and wanted to read the last two! Unfortunately, I missed three of them due to a six-month house renovation project. But I'll link to my reviews of the first seven books down below.
Rating: 5 stars
The heroine: Abigail Bracey's life was upended four years ago when her banker father was murdered in front of the bank he managed. Abby, who is 23 or 24, has been asked by the Secret Service to indirectly help apprehend the murderer Fletcher Pitch, who is also wanted for counterfeiting money. Her mission: to become a schoolteacher at Pitch's son's school. And to keep her ears open.
"She faced forward, toward Nebraska. Toward her future. Toward justice. She didn't look to see if Dash watched her go."
The hero: Dashiell Lassiter is the Secret Service agent in charge of the Fletcher Pitch case. He also happens to be Abigail Bracey's lost love of six years ago. Ms. Dietze does a good job of playing up this trope, which is a favorite of mine. Abigail most emphatically does not want to interact with Dash at all, and agrees to step in and help with the case on the understanding that he will not be in the same town.
"He stood and reached to pull out her chair. She shoved it back before he could assist her. This would be a long thirty minutes, indeed."
Historical background from Wikipedia: "...the agency [the United States Secret Service] was founded in 1865 to combat the then-widespread counterfeiting of U.S. currency." Who knew?
More historical background from the appendix of the book: "The terrible blizzard of January 12, 1888 struck with sudden, violent force over the plains, states, and territories on a day so mild, people worked outdoors in their shirtsleeves and children left their coats at home when they went to school."
Christian elements: Abigail definitely has had a Christian upbringing and knowledge of the "Good Book." Dash does as well. However, Abby has been ignoring God since her father's death. "... thank the Lord - if she did that sort of thing anymore." I'm putting the following quotes in spoiler tags because they occur later in the book. As another plus, the salvation message is included in this book in a very organic way, which I really liked. Well done, Ms. Dietze.
Is it clean/chaste? Yes!
What I liked:
*I liked that one of the main characters has word blindness, or dyslexia. It was interesting to see how it affects a person's life.
*I liked the inclusion of historically accurate references, namely "word blindness," the blizzard, and the role of the United States Secret Service.
What I didn’t like: I don't remember anything I disliked, not even after checking the highlights on my Kindle copy. It has been a little while, but I definitely remember enjoying this book.
***********
Below are links to my reviews of some of the previous books in the series.
Book 1: The Mayflower Bride
Book 2: The Pirate Bride
Book 3: The Captured Bride
Book 4: The Patriot Bride
Book 5: The Cumberland Bride
Book 6: The Liberty Bride
Book 7: The Alamo Bride
Other Recommendation(s): I recommend any of the other books in the series. For a good lost love or second chance love story, read Jane Austen's Persuasion.
The bottom line: This was a great romance with a bit of mystery. I look forward to reading more by this author. I read a novella of hers in Barbour's The Regency Brides Collection and rated it 4.5 stars, so I'm feeling optimistic about trying more of her books in the future. For now, I look forward to reading book twelve, the final one of this series!
The Blizzard Bride (2020, Barbour), eleventh in the Daughters of the Mayflower series by Susanne Dietze, is a standalone Christian historical romance set in 1887 and 1888. It opens in Chicago and then quickly moves to Nebraska. I've been enjoying this series for the last two years and wanted to read the last two! Unfortunately, I missed three of them due to a six-month house renovation project. But I'll link to my reviews of the first seven books down below.
Rating: 5 stars
The heroine: Abigail Bracey's life was upended four years ago when her banker father was murdered in front of the bank he managed. Abby, who is 23 or 24, has been asked by the Secret Service to indirectly help apprehend the murderer Fletcher Pitch, who is also wanted for counterfeiting money. Her mission: to become a schoolteacher at Pitch's son's school. And to keep her ears open.
"She faced forward, toward Nebraska. Toward her future. Toward justice. She didn't look to see if Dash watched her go."
The hero: Dashiell Lassiter is the Secret Service agent in charge of the Fletcher Pitch case. He also happens to be Abigail Bracey's lost love of six years ago. Ms. Dietze does a good job of playing up this trope, which is a favorite of mine. Abigail most emphatically does not want to interact with Dash at all, and agrees to step in and help with the case on the understanding that he will not be in the same town.
"He stood and reached to pull out her chair. She shoved it back before he could assist her. This would be a long thirty minutes, indeed."
Historical background from Wikipedia: "...the agency [the United States Secret Service] was founded in 1865 to combat the then-widespread counterfeiting of U.S. currency." Who knew?
More historical background from the appendix of the book: "The terrible blizzard of January 12, 1888 struck with sudden, violent force over the plains, states, and territories on a day so mild, people worked outdoors in their shirtsleeves and children left their coats at home when they went to school."
Christian elements: Abigail definitely has had a Christian upbringing and knowledge of the "Good Book." Dash does as well. However, Abby has been ignoring God since her father's death. "... thank the Lord - if she did that sort of thing anymore." I'm putting the following quotes in spoiler tags because they occur later in the book. As another plus, the salvation message is included in this book in a very organic way, which I really liked. Well done, Ms. Dietze.
Is it clean/chaste? Yes!
What I liked:
*I liked that one of the main characters has word blindness, or dyslexia. It was interesting to see how it affects a person's life.
*I liked the inclusion of historically accurate references, namely "word blindness," the blizzard, and the role of the United States Secret Service.
What I didn’t like: I don't remember anything I disliked, not even after checking the highlights on my Kindle copy. It has been a little while, but I definitely remember enjoying this book.
***********
Below are links to my reviews of some of the previous books in the series.
Book 1: The Mayflower Bride
Book 2: The Pirate Bride
Book 3: The Captured Bride
Book 4: The Patriot Bride
Book 5: The Cumberland Bride
Book 6: The Liberty Bride
Book 7: The Alamo Bride
Other Recommendation(s): I recommend any of the other books in the series. For a good lost love or second chance love story, read Jane Austen's Persuasion.
The bottom line: This was a great romance with a bit of mystery. I look forward to reading more by this author. I read a novella of hers in Barbour's The Regency Brides Collection and rated it 4.5 stars, so I'm feeling optimistic about trying more of her books in the future. For now, I look forward to reading book twelve, the final one of this series!
May 16, 2020
Inspirational historical romance, second chance at love. Published by Barbour Books, 256 pages. Release February 1, 2020. This was book # 11 of Daughter of the Mayflower, and can be read as a stand-alone.
This was my first book of the series and it was very hard to get into. It was slow-going and quite redundant. I found myself wanting to skim through the pages. The mystery/crime scenario was weak. I also felt like the second chance romance could of been resolved much faster. It was tiring watching these two constantly not work through their past.
I did enjoy the towns people, the children, and the realization that God does guides ours steps and helps us forgive those who’ve wrong us.
This was a NETGALLEY gift from the publisher and all opinions are my own. I’ve given my honest review.
This was my first book of the series and it was very hard to get into. It was slow-going and quite redundant. I found myself wanting to skim through the pages. The mystery/crime scenario was weak. I also felt like the second chance romance could of been resolved much faster. It was tiring watching these two constantly not work through their past.
I did enjoy the towns people, the children, and the realization that God does guides ours steps and helps us forgive those who’ve wrong us.
This was a NETGALLEY gift from the publisher and all opinions are my own. I’ve given my honest review.
February 4, 2020
Set in 1887 and 1888, Abby Bracey is recovering from the loss of her parents and the information that her father was involved in a counterfeit money scheme as well as the disappearance of the man she loved. Dashiell "Dash" Lassiter is an undercover agent for the Federal Government and is trying to apprehend the head of the counterfeiting scheme. He also just happens to be Abby's ex-fiancee. Now he has the nerve to ask her to take a teaching position in Nebraska and help him find the counterfeiter's son in order to catch his father Pitch.
The romance in this historical fiction novel takes a back seat to the actual mystery which I appreciated. Yet I could still feel the connection growing between Abby and Dash. Dash was a strong, faith-filled hero who tried to help Abby find her way back to the faith that she once had until her life came crashing down around her. This is my first read by Dietze. Her writing flows well and historical research so very evident particularly regarding the blizzard, the aftermath, and the treatment of victims. Her after notes regarding the real Nebraska blizzard gave me chills when I read the horrible death count. The secondary stars of this book have to be the delightful children who were in Abby's school as well as a skunk named "Stinky." This was another wonderful addition to the Daughters of Mayflower series.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Books through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
The romance in this historical fiction novel takes a back seat to the actual mystery which I appreciated. Yet I could still feel the connection growing between Abby and Dash. Dash was a strong, faith-filled hero who tried to help Abby find her way back to the faith that she once had until her life came crashing down around her. This is my first read by Dietze. Her writing flows well and historical research so very evident particularly regarding the blizzard, the aftermath, and the treatment of victims. Her after notes regarding the real Nebraska blizzard gave me chills when I read the horrible death count. The secondary stars of this book have to be the delightful children who were in Abby's school as well as a skunk named "Stinky." This was another wonderful addition to the Daughters of Mayflower series.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Books through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
January 6, 2020
When Abigail Bracey’s father tries to get out of his involvement with a counterfeiter ring, he gets killed, and the world as Abby and her mother knows it falls apart. She reluctantly has to work with ex boyfriend and Secret Service Agent Dashiell Lassiter to help bring him to justice.
Four years after the scandal Secret Service makes contact. She is asked to help them in their search for the criminal counterfeiter known as “The Artist” – Fletcher Pitch who killed her father. He keeps moving from place to place disguising himself and making sure nobody knows what he looks like, making it difficult to apprehend him.
Abby agrees to go to Wells Nebraska to work undercover to bring her father’s killer to justice. Pitch is searching for his son, who is in hiding from his criminal father, so Abby needs to uncover both father and son’s identities. Agent Dashiell Lassiter of Secret Service is assigned to keep her safe. He is Abby’s ex boyfriend and she finds it very hard to be around him again. She is angry and feels he abandoned her six years ago when he left town without a word.
I find it touching how Abby finds her way back to her faith and manages to forgive and let go of the hurt she has been carrying around for years. She stopped praying as she feels God doesn’t hear her after her father’s death. When leaving for Nebraska, she purposely leaves her Bible behind. After a time she realizes she misses her relationship with God. Throughout the story she is in a process of reigniting and strengthening her faith, which I felt ended up being a great value to the plot.
I felt this story gave me Little house on the Prairie feel with descriptions of small town environment where everybody knows everybody else and Abby soon becomes a respected part of the community. The need for constant considerations of propriety within school hours I found entertaining and funny. In small town rural Nebraska there would have been countless events that could get tongues wagging, which Abby needed to take seriously to keep her job.
The plot of this story moved gradually in the first half, tension increasing in the second half and ending with a dramatic conclusion. The real historic event of the blizzard of 1888 in Nebraska added intensity and drama to the story, really putting Abbey’s faith and perseverance to the test.
This is book #11 in the Daughters of Mayflower Series, and the first one I have read in this series. I would recommend it for fans of Susanne Dietze and for readers of historical fiction.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC in return for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
My rating: 4 stars / 5
Four years after the scandal Secret Service makes contact. She is asked to help them in their search for the criminal counterfeiter known as “The Artist” – Fletcher Pitch who killed her father. He keeps moving from place to place disguising himself and making sure nobody knows what he looks like, making it difficult to apprehend him.
Abby agrees to go to Wells Nebraska to work undercover to bring her father’s killer to justice. Pitch is searching for his son, who is in hiding from his criminal father, so Abby needs to uncover both father and son’s identities. Agent Dashiell Lassiter of Secret Service is assigned to keep her safe. He is Abby’s ex boyfriend and she finds it very hard to be around him again. She is angry and feels he abandoned her six years ago when he left town without a word.
I find it touching how Abby finds her way back to her faith and manages to forgive and let go of the hurt she has been carrying around for years. She stopped praying as she feels God doesn’t hear her after her father’s death. When leaving for Nebraska, she purposely leaves her Bible behind. After a time she realizes she misses her relationship with God. Throughout the story she is in a process of reigniting and strengthening her faith, which I felt ended up being a great value to the plot.
I felt this story gave me Little house on the Prairie feel with descriptions of small town environment where everybody knows everybody else and Abby soon becomes a respected part of the community. The need for constant considerations of propriety within school hours I found entertaining and funny. In small town rural Nebraska there would have been countless events that could get tongues wagging, which Abby needed to take seriously to keep her job.
The plot of this story moved gradually in the first half, tension increasing in the second half and ending with a dramatic conclusion. The real historic event of the blizzard of 1888 in Nebraska added intensity and drama to the story, really putting Abbey’s faith and perseverance to the test.
This is book #11 in the Daughters of Mayflower Series, and the first one I have read in this series. I would recommend it for fans of Susanne Dietze and for readers of historical fiction.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC in return for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
My rating: 4 stars / 5
January 27, 2020
See full review at: https://joyofreadingweb.wordpress.com...
I’m always happy to get my hands on a new book from Susanne Dietze, and this newest story lived up to my every expectation. A vibrant setting, dynamic characters, a sweet romance, and an exciting plot with twists and turns that kept me turning pages long past my bedtime! Even though the story had a most satisfying conclusion I wasn’t ready to say good-bye to these characters that had become new friends!
Abby carries with her a heavy burden of hurt and bitterness. Her journey to learning how to forgive and learning how to trust others again is a good reminder to us all. It isn’t always easy to forgive when our trust has been betrayed and our heart shattered and then stomped on, but letting that go and giving it to God, makes our lives much happier!
I loved my time spent in this story with Dash, Abby, and all the unique characters that populated the little Nebraska town. With a counterfeit ring to uncover and secret agents, you just never know what will happen next! This is definitely a story you will want to add to your keeper shelf!
(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. I am not required to write a positive review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.)
I’m always happy to get my hands on a new book from Susanne Dietze, and this newest story lived up to my every expectation. A vibrant setting, dynamic characters, a sweet romance, and an exciting plot with twists and turns that kept me turning pages long past my bedtime! Even though the story had a most satisfying conclusion I wasn’t ready to say good-bye to these characters that had become new friends!
Abby carries with her a heavy burden of hurt and bitterness. Her journey to learning how to forgive and learning how to trust others again is a good reminder to us all. It isn’t always easy to forgive when our trust has been betrayed and our heart shattered and then stomped on, but letting that go and giving it to God, makes our lives much happier!
I loved my time spent in this story with Dash, Abby, and all the unique characters that populated the little Nebraska town. With a counterfeit ring to uncover and secret agents, you just never know what will happen next! This is definitely a story you will want to add to your keeper shelf!
(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. I am not required to write a positive review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.)
January 19, 2020
Continuing to love these covers and this trip through history in the Daughters of the Mayflower Series.
The Blizzard Bride is set in Nebraska during the blizzard of January 12, 1888. This blizzard was particularly deadly because the weather went from moderate to snowing suddenly. Abbie is serving as a school teacher while secretly looking for her father's killer. The storm comes in during the school day and she has to act quickly to give them all the best chance to survive.
The hero in this story, Dash, planned to marry Abbie six years ago, but left town without telling her why. His abrupt departure left Abbie hurt and angry.
While the romance was sweet, what I loved most about this novel was learning more about the blizzard and the relationship between Abbie and the town's crustiest character. Stripey, the skunk, was also a fun addition to the story.
My gratitude to publisher Barbour for a complimentary NetGalley copy of this novel. I was not required to post a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
The Blizzard Bride is set in Nebraska during the blizzard of January 12, 1888. This blizzard was particularly deadly because the weather went from moderate to snowing suddenly. Abbie is serving as a school teacher while secretly looking for her father's killer. The storm comes in during the school day and she has to act quickly to give them all the best chance to survive.
The hero in this story, Dash, planned to marry Abbie six years ago, but left town without telling her why. His abrupt departure left Abbie hurt and angry.
While the romance was sweet, what I loved most about this novel was learning more about the blizzard and the relationship between Abbie and the town's crustiest character. Stripey, the skunk, was also a fun addition to the story.
My gratitude to publisher Barbour for a complimentary NetGalley copy of this novel. I was not required to post a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
December 28, 2019
'She'd tended the plant of bitterness too. Nourished it with years of resentment. Hatred.'
The Blizzard Bride is the eleventh in the Daughters of the Mayflower series and truly wonderful. I did not know that this blizzard was a real event and Dietze describes it in such detail, it inspired me to do research myself! She weaves the actual event into the story so well and the characters are so fascinating, that I was pulled in from the very beginning and read the book in one day. Very well done.
*My thanks to Barbour Publishing and the author for a copy of this book. No review was expected and the opinions here are my own.
The Blizzard Bride is the eleventh in the Daughters of the Mayflower series and truly wonderful. I did not know that this blizzard was a real event and Dietze describes it in such detail, it inspired me to do research myself! She weaves the actual event into the story so well and the characters are so fascinating, that I was pulled in from the very beginning and read the book in one day. Very well done.
*My thanks to Barbour Publishing and the author for a copy of this book. No review was expected and the opinions here are my own.
June 7, 2020
I did it! I finished at 11:58 - just in time for the new year. Growing up in NW Iowa blizzards were common when I was growing up.
This is the story of the blizzard of 1888 in Nebraska and the lifesaving thinking of teacher, Abby Bracey. Abby is recruited by the Secret Service to become the teacher at a school in Wells, Nebraska, to help catch the counterfitter, Fletcher Pitch, who also happened to kill her father. But little does she know, the lead investigator is her former beau, Dashiell Lassiter. She is sent to teach and find the son of Mr. Pitch, as he is on his way to Wells to take him back. But can she figure out which boy is his, and can Dash protect her before he loses her again?
This was a good book, and I am loving this series more and more. The banter and attraction between Abby and Dash was amusing at times, you could really feel her ire for him. But even that couldn't keep them apart, even the townspeople could see that. This is the first book I have read by Ms. Dietze and I will be checking more out.
I received a free copy of this from Netgalley and Barbour Publishing.
This is the story of the blizzard of 1888 in Nebraska and the lifesaving thinking of teacher, Abby Bracey. Abby is recruited by the Secret Service to become the teacher at a school in Wells, Nebraska, to help catch the counterfitter, Fletcher Pitch, who also happened to kill her father. But little does she know, the lead investigator is her former beau, Dashiell Lassiter. She is sent to teach and find the son of Mr. Pitch, as he is on his way to Wells to take him back. But can she figure out which boy is his, and can Dash protect her before he loses her again?
This was a good book, and I am loving this series more and more. The banter and attraction between Abby and Dash was amusing at times, you could really feel her ire for him. But even that couldn't keep them apart, even the townspeople could see that. This is the first book I have read by Ms. Dietze and I will be checking more out.
I received a free copy of this from Netgalley and Barbour Publishing.
February 13, 2020
This was such a fun historical read! This is my first read of The Daughters of the Mayflower series but I will be looking in to more of them. This book has great characters, an interesting(and based on true events) plot and a satisfying conclusion. And can we talk about that cover?? It is so pretty! The blizzard element made for some exciting and tense moments and the mystery angle was really good. All in all, this was an enjoyable and easy read. This book perfect for curling up with a blanket, a cup of tea/coffee and reading to your heart's content.
I received this book from the author and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
I received this book from the author and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
January 30, 2020
The Blizzard Bride is a winsome historical novel in The Daughters of the Mayflower series. I loved Dash! He's a great guy and has a super protective streak that I found romantic. His sense of humor was something I especially enjoyed too. Abigail tended to be a bit obstinate but that just made Dash shine all the more in my book. :-)
Dietze's fans are sure to find lots to like in this story filled with intrigue, mystery, romance and faith. I received a copy from the author and publisher. All views are my own.
Dietze's fans are sure to find lots to like in this story filled with intrigue, mystery, romance and faith. I received a copy from the author and publisher. All views are my own.
January 12, 2020
The Blizzard Bride
DAUGHTERS OF THE MAYFLOWER Series #11
Susanne Dietze
https://m.facebook.com/SusanneDietzeB...
Release date 02/01/2020
Publisher Barbour Books
Blurb :
A Blizzard Changes Everything
Abigail Bracey arrives in Nebraska in January 1888 to teach school…and to execute a task for the government: to identify a student as the hidden son of a murderous counterfeiter—the man who killed her father.
Agent Dashiell Lassiter doesn’t want his childhood sweetheart Abby on this dangerous job, especially when he learns the counterfeiter is now searching for his son, too, and he’ll destroy anyone in his way. Now Dash must follow Abby to Nebraska to protect her…if she’ll let him within two feet of her. She’s still angry he didn’t fight to marry her six years ago, and he never told her the real reason he left her.
All Dash wants is to protect Abby, but when a horrifying blizzard sweeps over them, can Abby and Dash set aside the pain from their pasts and work together to catch a counterfeiter and protect his son—if they survive the storm?
My review :
When a woman must work with the man who betrayed her to find the one responsible of many losses...
This is my second read in this series with various authors writing about the descendants of the Mayflower’s settlers.
My previous read was set during the Civil War, while here is set some twenty years later.
As an European person, it is always exotic to read about the pioneers and their progeny.
The way of life described reminded me of the tv show Little House On The Prairie which rocked my childhood.
Added to it the bit of mystery about the child and the villain, I was in for a very entertaining read.
Abby has become a bitter woman, when the love of her young life walked away without a work, it left her deeply wounded, then her father’s death revealed to the world how wrong he acted, thus she became a collateral damage. With her father’s fault in broad daylight, Abby was left with nothing and no one to care for and live with. Why she in some way withdrew and avoided at all cost any entanglement, refusing to be hurt and disappointed again.
Dash left Abby thinking he made the right choice, they might he had stayed, she would have suffered from her being bonded to him.
Why when they meet again, he is ready for her anger but not prepared for her animosity.
And despite the bad blood between them, he can’t leave her unprotected and rushes to her help.
It was no rushed story, in between they settle their feud, and understand their need for forgiveness and letting the past go, they must find the little boy and eventually stop the bad guy from having his way.
I very enjoyed this read, Mrs Susanne Dietze offers a lovely sleuth tale with a bit of romance as the heroes find closure and a new offered future.
4.5 stars
On a special note, i love the cover, but I am not certain the heroine might wear such refined clothing.
I was granted an advance copy by the publisher Barbour Publishing.
Here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
DAUGHTERS OF THE MAYFLOWER Series #11
Susanne Dietze
https://m.facebook.com/SusanneDietzeB...
Release date 02/01/2020
Publisher Barbour Books
Blurb :
A Blizzard Changes Everything
Abigail Bracey arrives in Nebraska in January 1888 to teach school…and to execute a task for the government: to identify a student as the hidden son of a murderous counterfeiter—the man who killed her father.
Agent Dashiell Lassiter doesn’t want his childhood sweetheart Abby on this dangerous job, especially when he learns the counterfeiter is now searching for his son, too, and he’ll destroy anyone in his way. Now Dash must follow Abby to Nebraska to protect her…if she’ll let him within two feet of her. She’s still angry he didn’t fight to marry her six years ago, and he never told her the real reason he left her.
All Dash wants is to protect Abby, but when a horrifying blizzard sweeps over them, can Abby and Dash set aside the pain from their pasts and work together to catch a counterfeiter and protect his son—if they survive the storm?
My review :
When a woman must work with the man who betrayed her to find the one responsible of many losses...
This is my second read in this series with various authors writing about the descendants of the Mayflower’s settlers.
My previous read was set during the Civil War, while here is set some twenty years later.
As an European person, it is always exotic to read about the pioneers and their progeny.
The way of life described reminded me of the tv show Little House On The Prairie which rocked my childhood.
Added to it the bit of mystery about the child and the villain, I was in for a very entertaining read.
Abby has become a bitter woman, when the love of her young life walked away without a work, it left her deeply wounded, then her father’s death revealed to the world how wrong he acted, thus she became a collateral damage. With her father’s fault in broad daylight, Abby was left with nothing and no one to care for and live with. Why she in some way withdrew and avoided at all cost any entanglement, refusing to be hurt and disappointed again.
Dash left Abby thinking he made the right choice, they might he had stayed, she would have suffered from her being bonded to him.
Why when they meet again, he is ready for her anger but not prepared for her animosity.
And despite the bad blood between them, he can’t leave her unprotected and rushes to her help.
It was no rushed story, in between they settle their feud, and understand their need for forgiveness and letting the past go, they must find the little boy and eventually stop the bad guy from having his way.
I very enjoyed this read, Mrs Susanne Dietze offers a lovely sleuth tale with a bit of romance as the heroes find closure and a new offered future.
4.5 stars
On a special note, i love the cover, but I am not certain the heroine might wear such refined clothing.
I was granted an advance copy by the publisher Barbour Publishing.
Here is my true and unbiased opinion.
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January 23, 2020
This book was so good! I read it all in one afternoon! I couldn’t put it down! I really cared about these characters. I hadn’t heard about the Children’s Blizzard before this. The author did a great job writing about such a frightening experience. I would definitely recommend this book!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
January 23, 2020
I love these Daughters of the Mayflower books! I learn so much history from them.
In The Blizzard Bride, Abby Bracey is a schoolteacher in Chicago but she must leave because of a family scandal. Dash Lassiter, a childhood friend, is a Secret Service agent on the trail of a counterfeiter.
Abby and Dash meet again after many years and an abrupt and hurtful parting. They agree to go undercover to capture a notorious and elusive murdering counterfeiter. They must work together despite their animosity to discover the criminal’s son who is in hiding in Wells, Nebraska. Abby will fill out the term of a teacher who took ill and Dash will pose as a hostler because of his love of horses. They need to ferret out the clues without tipping their hand and also protect the innocent. Answers seem to be just out of reach. To make matters worse, the Great Snowstorm of 1988 catches all the people of Wells unawares and puts many in danger.
Ms. Dietze has done credible research into the Children’s Blizzard. Having lived a number of years in North Dakota and Northern Wisconsin, I could feel the cold and snow and remoteness. She helped me imagine how much more scary it would have been without modern conveniences.
Abby and Dash have much between them that needs forgiveness. Ms. Dietze shows the importance of acceptance and faith through the good people of Wells. This book had it all: inquisitive school children, a pet skunk, budding friendships, recaptured romance, a growing faith and history about a hard time in Nebraska. She also brings in the overarching theme of The Mayflower and Abby’s ancestors who handed down their Christian principals.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
In The Blizzard Bride, Abby Bracey is a schoolteacher in Chicago but she must leave because of a family scandal. Dash Lassiter, a childhood friend, is a Secret Service agent on the trail of a counterfeiter.
Abby and Dash meet again after many years and an abrupt and hurtful parting. They agree to go undercover to capture a notorious and elusive murdering counterfeiter. They must work together despite their animosity to discover the criminal’s son who is in hiding in Wells, Nebraska. Abby will fill out the term of a teacher who took ill and Dash will pose as a hostler because of his love of horses. They need to ferret out the clues without tipping their hand and also protect the innocent. Answers seem to be just out of reach. To make matters worse, the Great Snowstorm of 1988 catches all the people of Wells unawares and puts many in danger.
Ms. Dietze has done credible research into the Children’s Blizzard. Having lived a number of years in North Dakota and Northern Wisconsin, I could feel the cold and snow and remoteness. She helped me imagine how much more scary it would have been without modern conveniences.
Abby and Dash have much between them that needs forgiveness. Ms. Dietze shows the importance of acceptance and faith through the good people of Wells. This book had it all: inquisitive school children, a pet skunk, budding friendships, recaptured romance, a growing faith and history about a hard time in Nebraska. She also brings in the overarching theme of The Mayflower and Abby’s ancestors who handed down their Christian principals.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
January 15, 2020
The Daughters of the Mayflower series have been a wonderful and delightful experience for me as a reader. I have thoroughly enjoyed the books that I have had the privilege to read.
The Blizzard Bride by Susanne Dietze, a new author to this reader, was no exception. The story centered around Abigail who moves to Nebraska to teach but finds out that one of the students she begins to teach is the son of the man that killed her father. She then encounters, Dashiell Lassiter, a former love who tries to make amends from past regrets by not marry Abigail when he had the chance. He steps in and assists her knowing the danger that she has placed herself in through this underprivileged student.
As titled, the story takes place during a big blizzard and Dash and Abby must come together to protect the killer’s son. During that time together, they both reveal their pain, loss and secrets that have been hidden for so long. A well-written and nice story. I’ve fallen in love with this series and recommend the read.
Thank you Netgalley and Barbour Publishing, Inc. for this ARC in exchange for my fair and honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
4.5 Stars
The Blizzard Bride by Susanne Dietze, a new author to this reader, was no exception. The story centered around Abigail who moves to Nebraska to teach but finds out that one of the students she begins to teach is the son of the man that killed her father. She then encounters, Dashiell Lassiter, a former love who tries to make amends from past regrets by not marry Abigail when he had the chance. He steps in and assists her knowing the danger that she has placed herself in through this underprivileged student.
As titled, the story takes place during a big blizzard and Dash and Abby must come together to protect the killer’s son. During that time together, they both reveal their pain, loss and secrets that have been hidden for so long. A well-written and nice story. I’ve fallen in love with this series and recommend the read.
Thank you Netgalley and Barbour Publishing, Inc. for this ARC in exchange for my fair and honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
4.5 Stars
January 15, 2020
Abby and Dash arrive in Nebraska in the winter of 1888 on the same mission-to find the son of a dangerous counterfeiter who also is the man who murdered Abby’s father on the steps of the bank he managed. Abby takes a job in the small town of Wells as a school teacher while she tries to identify who the son of the dangerous murderer may be. Dash is an agent for the government whose task is to find the counterfeiter, but first and foremost he wants to protect Abby who was his childhood sweetheart. Dash abruptly left Abby without a word of explanation six years ago when they were hoping to marry. Will Abby be able to mend her broken heart and forgive him?
Blizzard of 1888 is a real event that took place and it provides the backdrop in this inspirational story of heartache, love, hardship and forgiveness. I enjoyed it very much.
Thank you to Net Galley and Barbour publishing for providing me with an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Blizzard of 1888 is a real event that took place and it provides the backdrop in this inspirational story of heartache, love, hardship and forgiveness. I enjoyed it very much.
Thank you to Net Galley and Barbour publishing for providing me with an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
February 3, 2020
A well written and entertaining inspirational romance. Great plot and believable characters. I highly recommend this book. I received an arc from the publisher and Netgalley and this is my unbiased review.
February 14, 2020
Two characters with a past, a murderer to find and a small town with interesting characters all added to a very enjoyable read.
I really enjoyed the character growth both Abigail and Dashiell had to go through in this adventurous story. Abigail had to learn how to truly forgive those who wronged her and how to trust again after being betrayed by friends. I really loved how she had compassion for the old man everyone else written off and was actually sad at how that story ended. Dashiell had to learn that his reading difficulties did not make him a lessor man. I enjoyed the interactions between these two and how they struggled to face their feelings even though there was still unresolved feelings and chemistry.
The suspense plot was interesting but for me it was not surprising since I guessed correctly who the counterfeiter was hiding as as soon as that character was introduced. Not sure if that was the intention of the author. Even though I knew who it was, I still found myself running through the pages to see how it all ends.
Another great book in this series. Highly recommended for fans of historical romance with a bit of suspense/mystery.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.*
I really enjoyed the character growth both Abigail and Dashiell had to go through in this adventurous story. Abigail had to learn how to truly forgive those who wronged her and how to trust again after being betrayed by friends. I really loved how she had compassion for the old man everyone else written off and was actually sad at how that story ended. Dashiell had to learn that his reading difficulties did not make him a lessor man. I enjoyed the interactions between these two and how they struggled to face their feelings even though there was still unresolved feelings and chemistry.
The suspense plot was interesting but for me it was not surprising since I guessed correctly who the counterfeiter was hiding as as soon as that character was introduced. Not sure if that was the intention of the author. Even though I knew who it was, I still found myself running through the pages to see how it all ends.
Another great book in this series. Highly recommended for fans of historical romance with a bit of suspense/mystery.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.*
February 1, 2020
'A Blizzard Changes Everything
Abigail Bracey arrives in Nebraska in January 1888 to teach school…and to execute a task for the government: to identify a student as the hidden son of a murderous counterfeiter—the man who killed her father.
Agent Dashiell Lassiter doesn’t want his childhood sweetheart Abby on this dangerous job, especially when he learns the counterfeiter is now searching for his son, too, and he’ll destroy anyone in his way. Now Dash must follow Abby to Nebraska to protect her…if she’ll let him within two feet of her. She’s still angry he didn’t fight to marry her six years ago, and he never told her the real reason he left her.
All Dash wants is to protect Abby, but when a horrifying blizzard sweeps over them, can Abby and Dash set aside the pain from their pasts and work together to catch a counterfeiter and protect his son—if they survive the storm?'
________________________________
I want to preface this by saying that Christian Fiction is not my usual genre, but I do occassionally pick one up. As for Daughters of the Mayflower, this is the third book from the series that I have read, but the first from this author. I enjoyed the book and I am glad I read it. It was a sweet story with the addition of some danger, some subterfuge, and a mystery.
This book intruiged me all the more knowing that it was based off of the true story of the Schoolchildren's Blizzard in 1888. Being able to read a reimagining of this devestating storm and the harrowing acts of heroism that followed as the characters battled their way to shelter. It was an intense an nerve-wracking journey as our fictional Abigail battled her way to safety with her students in tow.
If you are interested in knowing the paticulars of this historic storm, there is a historical note included at the end of the book which includes a detailed briefing of the impacts the storm had on those in its path.
At the start of the book, Abigail was jaded and kept everyone at arm's length. When those around her attempt to provide her a shoulder to lean on and a sympathetic ear, she pushed them away. I really enjoyed following her character as she opened up and learned to put trust in those around her. She is able to do this after she finds her way back to her faith and lets go of some of the anger and resentment that have been her constant companions. This book is a lovely story of faith, bravery, and forgiveness.
The Blizzard Bride is a great addition to the series and if you have enjoyed the other Daughter of the Mayflower books and faith-based historical romance then I recommend this book.
_____
I would like to thank NetGalley and Barbour Publishing Ink for sharing an eARC of The Blizzard Bride with me. This is my honest review.
Abigail Bracey arrives in Nebraska in January 1888 to teach school…and to execute a task for the government: to identify a student as the hidden son of a murderous counterfeiter—the man who killed her father.
Agent Dashiell Lassiter doesn’t want his childhood sweetheart Abby on this dangerous job, especially when he learns the counterfeiter is now searching for his son, too, and he’ll destroy anyone in his way. Now Dash must follow Abby to Nebraska to protect her…if she’ll let him within two feet of her. She’s still angry he didn’t fight to marry her six years ago, and he never told her the real reason he left her.
All Dash wants is to protect Abby, but when a horrifying blizzard sweeps over them, can Abby and Dash set aside the pain from their pasts and work together to catch a counterfeiter and protect his son—if they survive the storm?'
________________________________
I want to preface this by saying that Christian Fiction is not my usual genre, but I do occassionally pick one up. As for Daughters of the Mayflower, this is the third book from the series that I have read, but the first from this author. I enjoyed the book and I am glad I read it. It was a sweet story with the addition of some danger, some subterfuge, and a mystery.
This book intruiged me all the more knowing that it was based off of the true story of the Schoolchildren's Blizzard in 1888. Being able to read a reimagining of this devestating storm and the harrowing acts of heroism that followed as the characters battled their way to shelter. It was an intense an nerve-wracking journey as our fictional Abigail battled her way to safety with her students in tow.
If you are interested in knowing the paticulars of this historic storm, there is a historical note included at the end of the book which includes a detailed briefing of the impacts the storm had on those in its path.
At the start of the book, Abigail was jaded and kept everyone at arm's length. When those around her attempt to provide her a shoulder to lean on and a sympathetic ear, she pushed them away. I really enjoyed following her character as she opened up and learned to put trust in those around her. She is able to do this after she finds her way back to her faith and lets go of some of the anger and resentment that have been her constant companions. This book is a lovely story of faith, bravery, and forgiveness.
The Blizzard Bride is a great addition to the series and if you have enjoyed the other Daughter of the Mayflower books and faith-based historical romance then I recommend this book.
_____
I would like to thank NetGalley and Barbour Publishing Ink for sharing an eARC of The Blizzard Bride with me. This is my honest review.
November 10, 2019
I believe that this is my favorite story of the whole series.
I loved that it is based on a true story with some fiction mixed in.
From page one the story just keeps getting better and better!!
Yes, we've all suffered hurts just like Abby and Dash, Maynard (whom I felt sorry for). For some at the hands of others and for some that brings it onto themselves through no fault of their own.
Redeeming Grace. What a sweet sweet words. The Lord God helps us through the most trying times doesn't He? Yes I know it isn't easy to ask myself included but asking for divine help isn't a shameful or embarrassing thing. It's what the Lord Jesus is there for.
All we need to do is ask.
Forgiving is hard. Very hard but if you don't do it it will eat you up and make you a bitter person. It's more for yourself than others.
I think the school children were my favorites. It sort of reminded me of Little Town on the Prairie and By the Shores of Silver Lake by Laura Ingalls Wilder (my most favorite series)! Where blizzards seemed to strike and last for days. I wonder if the West is still like that?
The author has described this scene so well I felt that I could actually hear the blizzard winds shrieking and howling. Not a pleasant sound.
I didn't want the book to end!
I loved the authors note at the end of the book. I learn so much from that excerpt. To me, it shows she's done her homework. I like that.
I will be looking for more from this author in the future.
My thanks to Netgalley for a copy of this book. NO compensations were received. All opinions are my own.
I loved that it is based on a true story with some fiction mixed in.
From page one the story just keeps getting better and better!!
Yes, we've all suffered hurts just like Abby and Dash, Maynard (whom I felt sorry for). For some at the hands of others and for some that brings it onto themselves through no fault of their own.
Redeeming Grace. What a sweet sweet words. The Lord God helps us through the most trying times doesn't He? Yes I know it isn't easy to ask myself included but asking for divine help isn't a shameful or embarrassing thing. It's what the Lord Jesus is there for.
All we need to do is ask.
Forgiving is hard. Very hard but if you don't do it it will eat you up and make you a bitter person. It's more for yourself than others.
I think the school children were my favorites. It sort of reminded me of Little Town on the Prairie and By the Shores of Silver Lake by Laura Ingalls Wilder (my most favorite series)! Where blizzards seemed to strike and last for days. I wonder if the West is still like that?
The author has described this scene so well I felt that I could actually hear the blizzard winds shrieking and howling. Not a pleasant sound.
I didn't want the book to end!
I loved the authors note at the end of the book. I learn so much from that excerpt. To me, it shows she's done her homework. I like that.
I will be looking for more from this author in the future.
My thanks to Netgalley for a copy of this book. NO compensations were received. All opinions are my own.
January 30, 2020
I had the privilege of reading this wonderful novel for endorsement. It's a lovely and compelling story inspired by real life events. Susanne Dietze is an amazing author. I recommend you read all her books, including The Blizzard Bride!
February 22, 2020
A second-chance romance with an adventurous twist. This wild and crazy adventure will make you laugh, and maybe even cry as Abby and Dash struggle their way through old wounds and new heartache. Dash is after a killer and is driven to bring a counterfeiter to justice. Meanwhile, Abby's out for blood and would like nothing more than to see vengeance brought down upon her father's killer. Taking up residence in Wells is the perfect cover for both operatives, and even though Dash and Abby have their own painful past, they find themselves unable to stay away from each other.
If Abby can't learn how to forgive, she'll end up a bitter, lonely shell.
Susanne Dietze does a marvelous job of using the characters around Dash and Abby to shine a light of God's faith while showing Abby where her future might lead should she continue her path. While she's brave and strong, and willing to do whatever it takes to care for the children, her heart has hardened against God and man. Reading through her pain, and seeing through her heart's journey brought a sweet nostalgia, making me want to read this story again and again.
From start to finish, this novel packed a might punch in a small package. A combination of mystery, danger, romance, and forgiveness, all wrapped up in a beautifully worded piece of art.
I requested a copy of this book from NetGalley. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
If Abby can't learn how to forgive, she'll end up a bitter, lonely shell.
Susanne Dietze does a marvelous job of using the characters around Dash and Abby to shine a light of God's faith while showing Abby where her future might lead should she continue her path. While she's brave and strong, and willing to do whatever it takes to care for the children, her heart has hardened against God and man. Reading through her pain, and seeing through her heart's journey brought a sweet nostalgia, making me want to read this story again and again.
From start to finish, this novel packed a might punch in a small package. A combination of mystery, danger, romance, and forgiveness, all wrapped up in a beautifully worded piece of art.
I requested a copy of this book from NetGalley. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
January 23, 2020
The Blizzard Bride is the 11th book in the Daughter of the Mayflower series. It’s been written by Susanne Dietze, who is a brand new author for this series, so I was very curious how this book would turn out! And I can say, it turned out amazing!
We follow both Abby and Dash, as they try to find a counterfeiter. Dash is with the Secret Service, and has been on this case for a long time, while Abby is a school teacher who’s father got murdered and she wants justice. When Dash finds out the counterfeiter is looking for his son, and knows which town the boy is in, but the identity remains a mystery. And who can look better for clues than a teacher? A perfect situation for Abby, and she wants to do her bit to catch the counterfeiter and protect the child. However, when she finds out that Dash is the operative coming with her, she’s not very happy about it to say the least, as they have a history...
Oh, I just love a good mystery... and this definitely was one! I kept looking for clues which boy could be the one, all the while looking for the counterfeiter and also trying to discover what happened between Dash and Abby. It was an interactive read so to speak lol! Both characters were very likable, even though Abby has drifted a bit apart from God in her anger. I loved how she learned to open up, and slowly learned to trust again. Especially with her budding friendship with an elderly man, it just made my heart melt. And Dash is a wonderful man with absolutely no manners. Gotta love that. Their interaction was golden and made me laugh out loud, but they also weren’t afraid to tell each other the truth and have deep conversations. The spiritual lessons were also very good, and very subtly added to the plot without it being too obvious. There were quite a few subplots actually which enriched the story even more, with many fleshed out characters. And even though I had solved one of the mysteries almost the minute it showed up on page (yeah I’m keeping it vague on purpose), I still very much enjoyed reading towards the grand finale. All in all, I very much loved this book, especially with the touch of mystery added.
We follow both Abby and Dash, as they try to find a counterfeiter. Dash is with the Secret Service, and has been on this case for a long time, while Abby is a school teacher who’s father got murdered and she wants justice. When Dash finds out the counterfeiter is looking for his son, and knows which town the boy is in, but the identity remains a mystery. And who can look better for clues than a teacher? A perfect situation for Abby, and she wants to do her bit to catch the counterfeiter and protect the child. However, when she finds out that Dash is the operative coming with her, she’s not very happy about it to say the least, as they have a history...
Oh, I just love a good mystery... and this definitely was one! I kept looking for clues which boy could be the one, all the while looking for the counterfeiter and also trying to discover what happened between Dash and Abby. It was an interactive read so to speak lol! Both characters were very likable, even though Abby has drifted a bit apart from God in her anger. I loved how she learned to open up, and slowly learned to trust again. Especially with her budding friendship with an elderly man, it just made my heart melt. And Dash is a wonderful man with absolutely no manners. Gotta love that. Their interaction was golden and made me laugh out loud, but they also weren’t afraid to tell each other the truth and have deep conversations. The spiritual lessons were also very good, and very subtly added to the plot without it being too obvious. There were quite a few subplots actually which enriched the story even more, with many fleshed out characters. And even though I had solved one of the mysteries almost the minute it showed up on page (yeah I’m keeping it vague on purpose), I still very much enjoyed reading towards the grand finale. All in all, I very much loved this book, especially with the touch of mystery added.
January 25, 2020
3.5 stars
"Providence hadn't answered Abby once during the past four years. Not the way she expected or needed, at least."
Abigail "Abby" Bracey wanted an "eye for an eye" sort of justice for the man who killed her father and subsequently ruined her family's reputation; secondhandedly causing her mother's demise and her own social exclusion. If she still believed in providence, then a certain Mr. Welch had just handed her the golden ticket; travel to Nebraska and . . . . . . work alongside Secret Service Agent Dashiell Lassiter? To apprehend a nationally known, but equally elusive conterfeiter named Fletcher Pitch? The sting of Dash's broken promises had broken her heart all those years ago, now her anger was ready to erupt; spewing bitterness and resentment for all the world to see.
In spite of their differences, Abby does travel to Wells, Nebraska, to assume a teaching position, while trying to determine which of her students might be Pitch's son. The notorious criminal is said to be tracking the eight year old boy. When a freak force of nature pushes Abby and Dash together, will their personal defenses strengthen or will they both acknowledge that reaconciliatin has to begin with grace and forgiveness? It's a strange way to ignite romantic inclinations . . . . . . . . if it works. And there's still the matter of a lawbreaker to apprehend.
Lovely spiritual truths inhabit this enjoyable read, for after all, "it's important to celebrate when God answers prayer and good things happen".
I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. I also purchased a copy. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.
"Providence hadn't answered Abby once during the past four years. Not the way she expected or needed, at least."
Abigail "Abby" Bracey wanted an "eye for an eye" sort of justice for the man who killed her father and subsequently ruined her family's reputation; secondhandedly causing her mother's demise and her own social exclusion. If she still believed in providence, then a certain Mr. Welch had just handed her the golden ticket; travel to Nebraska and . . . . . . work alongside Secret Service Agent Dashiell Lassiter? To apprehend a nationally known, but equally elusive conterfeiter named Fletcher Pitch? The sting of Dash's broken promises had broken her heart all those years ago, now her anger was ready to erupt; spewing bitterness and resentment for all the world to see.
In spite of their differences, Abby does travel to Wells, Nebraska, to assume a teaching position, while trying to determine which of her students might be Pitch's son. The notorious criminal is said to be tracking the eight year old boy. When a freak force of nature pushes Abby and Dash together, will their personal defenses strengthen or will they both acknowledge that reaconciliatin has to begin with grace and forgiveness? It's a strange way to ignite romantic inclinations . . . . . . . . if it works. And there's still the matter of a lawbreaker to apprehend.
Lovely spiritual truths inhabit this enjoyable read, for after all, "it's important to celebrate when God answers prayer and good things happen".
I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. I also purchased a copy. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.
January 20, 2020
+++ I was invited to view this ARC through NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it +++
An enjoyable, clean historical read, about long-lost love and reconciliation, featuring two likable characters, “The Blizzard Bride”, by Susanne Dietze (Barbour Publishing),
Sweethearts separated by deceit and hurt, Dashiell and Abigail reunite in a difficult mission and slowly make peace in a Nebraska small-town and community “full of hope and joy”.
The take on the wounded hero was original, well researched and convincing.
Reviving the blizzard of 1888 was also engaging.
I found some facets of Dash’s job as a secret agent a bit thin, although you can easily forget that as you immerse yourself in the picturesque small-town setting.
An enjoyable, clean historical read, about long-lost love and reconciliation, featuring two likable characters, “The Blizzard Bride”, by Susanne Dietze (Barbour Publishing),
Sweethearts separated by deceit and hurt, Dashiell and Abigail reunite in a difficult mission and slowly make peace in a Nebraska small-town and community “full of hope and joy”.
The take on the wounded hero was original, well researched and convincing.
Reviving the blizzard of 1888 was also engaging.
I found some facets of Dash’s job as a secret agent a bit thin, although you can easily forget that as you immerse yourself in the picturesque small-town setting.
December 28, 2019
Another wonderful addition to one of my favorite series! Even though this was the 11th book in the series, it was Susanne Dietze's debut addition. This was also my first time reading anything by her and I'm now looking forward to reading more in the future.
Personally I'm a fan when the romance has some type of backstory. Unless a great deal of time passes in a novel, the romance feels too rushed if the characters are newly introduced. I felt that Abby and Dash's history was well developed and it made the tension and desire of their relationship believable and realistic. They were an easy couple for me to get behind and root for. Even though they each had their flaws, it was easy to see that they really did love each other if only they could work through their past.
I don't think I've ever heard of the Blizzard depicted in this novel from 1888, but the circumstances around it are shocking. I appreciated that the author shared some specific details about it in her author's note at the end. I also liked that she included some real people's experiences in her narrative. I always like learning more about lesser-known history even when it's difficult to hear. That's one of the reasons I love this series so much, because it stretches me to read about different historical events in American history.
I sincerely hope that Barbour continues to add to this series because I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in each of the installments so far. I honestly cannot recommend it enough.
*I received a copy of this book through NetGalley. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.
Personally I'm a fan when the romance has some type of backstory. Unless a great deal of time passes in a novel, the romance feels too rushed if the characters are newly introduced. I felt that Abby and Dash's history was well developed and it made the tension and desire of their relationship believable and realistic. They were an easy couple for me to get behind and root for. Even though they each had their flaws, it was easy to see that they really did love each other if only they could work through their past.
I don't think I've ever heard of the Blizzard depicted in this novel from 1888, but the circumstances around it are shocking. I appreciated that the author shared some specific details about it in her author's note at the end. I also liked that she included some real people's experiences in her narrative. I always like learning more about lesser-known history even when it's difficult to hear. That's one of the reasons I love this series so much, because it stretches me to read about different historical events in American history.
I sincerely hope that Barbour continues to add to this series because I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in each of the installments so far. I honestly cannot recommend it enough.
*I received a copy of this book through NetGalley. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.
November 18, 2019
A touching, inspirational story based on true events set in 1888 Nebraska. An undercover operation to flush out a fugitive counterfeiter becomes dangerous for a Secret Service agent and the local schoolteacher with a mission of her own. The book is one of a series, but reads easily as a stand alone.
This story drew me in with characters that are far from perfect, but are quite courageous and determined to finish their mission no matter what the personal cost. Plenty of inspiration is found between the action, with a strong underlying redemptive theme, also pulling out the roots of bitterness, extending grace and mercy, healing and forgiveness. It was done well as the main characters wrestled with their faith and past hurts.
The story moves at a good pace as it builds towards a catastrophic event and the mystery is solved. It was interesting to read the author's notes at the end about the real history behind it. It was sad, but made me thankful in many ways.
Recommend to readers who enjoy clean inspirational historical romances. 4.5 stars
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
This story drew me in with characters that are far from perfect, but are quite courageous and determined to finish their mission no matter what the personal cost. Plenty of inspiration is found between the action, with a strong underlying redemptive theme, also pulling out the roots of bitterness, extending grace and mercy, healing and forgiveness. It was done well as the main characters wrestled with their faith and past hurts.
The story moves at a good pace as it builds towards a catastrophic event and the mystery is solved. It was interesting to read the author's notes at the end about the real history behind it. It was sad, but made me thankful in many ways.
Recommend to readers who enjoy clean inspirational historical romances. 4.5 stars
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
March 13, 2020
I have so enjoyed every book in this series and this book is no exception. Suzanne Dietze has written about a very little known event in American history, the Children's Blizzard of 1888. I had read a non-fiction account of this event several years ago and found this book stayed true to form from some of the historical accounts. Suzanne's beautiful prose appealed to the senses, allowing the reader to experience the sensations of bitter cold, stinging of the ice/snow and the blindness caused by forceful winds driving the snow.
With this event as a backdrop to the plot, the hero/heroine are on a mission for the Secret Service to locate a dangerous counterfeiter. While there is a sweet romance, the underlying theme of forgiveness was the driving force of the story. I look forward to reading more stories by Dietz in the future.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.
With this event as a backdrop to the plot, the hero/heroine are on a mission for the Secret Service to locate a dangerous counterfeiter. While there is a sweet romance, the underlying theme of forgiveness was the driving force of the story. I look forward to reading more stories by Dietz in the future.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.
February 4, 2020
The Blizzard Bride by Susanne Dietze is part of a multi-author series called The Daughters of the Mayflower. Each book is a stand-alone story and they can be read in any order. The common thread that ties them together is ancestry that dates back to the Mayflower. I’ve read and enjoyed eight books from the series so far, including this one which has great characters, mystery, danger, second chance love and a message of forgiveness.
February 18, 2020
The Blizzard Bride by Susanne Dietze
February 2020
Barbour Publishing, Inc.
ISBN: 9781643522937
Pages: 256
Reviewed by: TH, Green Forest, AR, USA
02/17/2020
Format: Softcover
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Abigail Bracey is a school teacher with an undercover assignment, for the Treasury Department. She is to find out the identities of a woman and boy in hiding, that are the sister in law and child of an evil man who murdered Abigail's father. She will have a contact within the Treasury Department, who will be her backup, in case she runs into trouble.
Dashiell Lassiter is her contact, he is also her former fiancee, who broke off their engagement several years ago. Dash is supposed to be contactable, but he fouls up Abby's plans by moving to the same town in Nebraska as Abby and getting a local job there in a stable.
The evil counterfeiter does not know where his son is, but he is believed to be heading straight to the town, where everyone is located. Trouble is, no one knows exactly what the evil man looks like.
This is a great book, The Blizzard of the book is the one that struck Jan. 12, 1888 over the plains states. The temperature dropped so quickly that many children froze to death on their way home from school. That part is non fiction. I have read historical descriptions of the terrible storm, in the past.
Many thanks to Barbour Publishing for the complimentary copy of this book, I was under no obligation to publish a review.
February 2020
Barbour Publishing, Inc.
ISBN: 9781643522937
Pages: 256
Reviewed by: TH, Green Forest, AR, USA
02/17/2020
Format: Softcover
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Abigail Bracey is a school teacher with an undercover assignment, for the Treasury Department. She is to find out the identities of a woman and boy in hiding, that are the sister in law and child of an evil man who murdered Abigail's father. She will have a contact within the Treasury Department, who will be her backup, in case she runs into trouble.
Dashiell Lassiter is her contact, he is also her former fiancee, who broke off their engagement several years ago. Dash is supposed to be contactable, but he fouls up Abby's plans by moving to the same town in Nebraska as Abby and getting a local job there in a stable.
The evil counterfeiter does not know where his son is, but he is believed to be heading straight to the town, where everyone is located. Trouble is, no one knows exactly what the evil man looks like.
This is a great book, The Blizzard of the book is the one that struck Jan. 12, 1888 over the plains states. The temperature dropped so quickly that many children froze to death on their way home from school. That part is non fiction. I have read historical descriptions of the terrible storm, in the past.
Many thanks to Barbour Publishing for the complimentary copy of this book, I was under no obligation to publish a review.
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