Previously published as Under Moonlit Skies by Mantle Rock Publishing.Prairie Sky Series – Book Three
She had her life planned out ~ until he rode inIllinois prairie ~ 1859
After four long years away, Esther Stanton returns to the prairie to care for her sister Charlotte’s family following the birth of her second child. The month-long stay seems much too short as Esther becomes acquainted with her brother-in-law’s new ranch hand, Stewart Brant. When obligations compel her to return to Cincinnati and to the man her overbearing mother intends her to wed, she loses hope of ever knowing true happiness.
Still reeling from a hurtful relationship, Stew is reluctant to open his heart to Esther. But when he faces a life-threatening injury with Esther tending him, their bond deepens. Heartbroken when she leaves, he sets out after her and inadvertently stumbles across an illegal slave-trade operation, the knowledge of which puts him, as well as Esther and her family, in jeopardy.
Cynthia Roemer is an award-winning inspirational writer with a heart for scattering seeds of hope into the lives of readers. Raised in the cornfields of rural Illinois, Cynthia enjoys spinning tales set in the backdrop of the 1800s prairie and Civil War era. She writes from her family farm where she resides with her husband of thirty years.
This was my favorite of the series! Esther feels obligated to honor her mother's wishes to remain in Cincinnati and marry well. A suitor is already in place, which leaves Esther lukewarm.
When Charlotte (subject of book two) is preparing to deliver a baby in their small hometown on the Illinois prairie, Esther comes for a visit to help. It's clear from the first meeting that Esther and Stew are attracted to each other, but both are hesitant to see hope in a future together.
Sweet romance with some action toward the end. Good series and I look forward to what the author is writing next.
Oh my goodness! Not at all what I expected! Wow wow wow!!!
Under Moonlit Skies
Cynthia Roemer
UNDER MOONLIT SKIES is the third book in the Prairie Sky series by Cynthia Roemer. The story takes place in 1859 and introduces the reader to Esther Stanton. Esther has just arrived back on the prairie from Cincinnati after being gone for four years, to help her sister Charlotte with the birth of her second child. She is supposed to stay for one month, but the month quickly flies by and when her mother comes to pick her up to return to Cincinnati, Esther is torn. You see, while she is helping her sister she gets friendly with their new ranch hand, Stewart Brant. Stew wants Esther to stay but he has nothing to offer her and feels like she is truly out of his league. So Esther leaves with her mother, and returns to her home and her mother's choice of a husband for her, Lawrence Del Ray.
Once she was back home, Esther really misses the prairie life and is miserable. She doesn't love Lawrence and can't imagine a life without love and faith in it. What should she do? Stew pretty much pushed her back to Cincinnati without telling her how he felt and asking her to stay. Should she marry Lawrence and hope for the best? Should she wait for Stew to see if he shares her feelings? UNDER MOONLIT SKIES consumed my whole day yesterday and once I started reading, I wasn't about to stop until the very last page.
Stew is just as miserable within out Esther as she is without him. He decides to go to Cincinnati and try to get her to come back to the prairie with him. UNDER MOONLIT SKIES shows us how Stew realizes that Esther only went back because of her over bearing mother. He isn't about to give up and when he ends up in Kentucky, well, my heart was in my throat. The turn that the story takes, is totally mind blowing and unexpected! Keep in mind, the story takes place in the pre-civil war days and just because someone is free doesn't mean they aren't in constant danger.
Cynthia Roemer sure knows how to hook her readers and never lets them go. She will get you emotionally invested in all of her characters, where you feel as if they are "real" people that you know. UNDER MOONLIT SKIES is filled with likable characters that you could see yourself becoming friends with, well, except for Lawrence! Trust me on that one! Once I started reading this wonderful story, I could not put it down. You won't be able to either.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I enjoyed reading this engaging story. The characters came to life and pulled me into their story like welcoming friends. Right from the beginning, I was drawn into the action, and I felt like I was part of the story. Engaging and endearing, this is a story that you won't soon forget.
I especially appreciated the deep roots of faith and the journey of growth that happens over the course of this story. Difficult decisions are made, and I appreciated the fact that the characters strove to honor God first and foremost in their lives. I enjoyed watching these characters grow.
Full of unexpected twist and turns, I enjoyed the journey this story took me on with these delightful characters that quickly became new friends. With a special reminder that God loves us all. That in His eyes, not one of us is better than another. We are to treat each other like brothers and sisters in Christ.
I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a wonderful story to read, full of delightful characters and strong faith.
(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 really loved the Christian virtues and character fleshed out in this 3rd and last in this series. Things like: just outward beauty does not always mean a godly inward beauty, ( be that a handsome man or a beautiful woman....a person can have both, but sadly too often outward beauty, too much of the time, fails to have an inward beauty).
Another great issue looked at in this novel, is that low self esteem cannot be confused with true humbleness, and is actually something Christians sometimes struggle with.
In addition, some, or even many, Christians still struggle with: being 'man-pleasers or woman pleasers', over or instead of being a God pleaser. It is true, that sometimes we have to sacrifice our desires for others, but there is a line we may all to frequently cross, where we become fear filled and afraid other people might be angry with us, ( instead of praying for God's will, and then choosing to do His will, irregardless of someone being angry with us).
My only negative of this novel, is more my own angst when there are problems in the novel, are not quickly resolved...sort of like real life at times. I just want the 'happy ever after'. to happen more quickly.... kind of wanting God to do my bidding, at my time, rather than His Plan in His time! This is not a good character of mine, and I struggle with it.
Still, it was a lovely novel, and gave so many applications of scripture that made it worth it ( tho, I have to confess, speed reading a bit, because, as I mentioned already, I sometimes am not patient).
I did not do that with the first two novels in this series, because for some reason, the waiting for the happy ending, seemed longer in this one.... but do not let that deter you from reading this 'real' beautiful one in the series, besides not everybody is as impatient as me....I pray. Plus, some of the 'waiting time' in the novel, was for compassionate and godly reasons.
Such a heartwarming and inspirational Christian historical romance from Cynthia Roemer, a new-to-me author whose other books I look forward to reading! Although this is the third book in her Prairie Skies series, each story can be read independently given the detailed background information provided. It is clear the author has done her research well and it was eye-opening to read about life in the years just leading up to the Civil War. The combined elements of faith, romance, historical facts and suspense make for a page-turning read you will not want to put down! Most important was the inspirational message that God loves all people regardless of outward appearances or financial status. I highly recommend this book and this author. A wonderful novel!
Great story loved all of the characters and the strength they gained from truly putting their heart as well as their faith in the Lord. Love the plot, the hardships and triumphant resolution. Love the quotes from Isiah…suspense and twists and turns hold your interest throughout the book. HEA Eventually great character growth along the way. Great Author.
This is the third book in Roemer’s Prairie series where we see Esther Stanton all grown up. She’s back from Cincinnati to help her sister with her growing family. Stewart Brant, an old friend of Esther’s brother-in-law, shows up and moves into the area. It doesn’t take long for Esther and Stewart to develop feelings for one another. Esther has a dilemma, however, because her mother expects Esther to return to Cincinnati and accept a proposal from another man. Can Stew convince Esther to defy her mother and stay on the prairie with him?
Book three of the Prairie Skies series takes us back to the Illinois Prairie. It’s like coming home. I am from Illinois, so it was enjoyable to go back to my roots. This was realistic foray into an almost wilderness, where life was a tough existence but also rewarding. Esther has come back to Miller Creek because her sister, Charlotte, is having a baby. Esther has spent a few years with her mother in Cincinnati but feels like she has come home. An old friend of Chad Avery, from book two, rides in and is an answer to prayer. Chad and Charlotte hire Stewart to help around the farm. Will things spark with Stew and Esther before Esther must return to the city? An enjoyable story with a few surprises but lessons learned along the way. God gets ahold of hearts and uses the characters in surprising ways. This was a fantastic wrap up of the Prairie Skies series. Be sure to read each book for a great story. *A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the author through Interviews and Reviews. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
I have been waiting for Under Moonlit Skies by Cynthia Roemer for a long time. The book did not disappoint. I enjoyed the characters and the story. The lesson on obedience to God is one that we often ignore. I was reminded that God uses all people, no matter what skin color, social ranking, disability or whatever difference society tags us with. I chose the 4 ( preferably 4 1/2) ranking because if the predictability of the book. I know their are many stories where boy meets girl, boy wants girl, boy gets girl. This is known in the first few pages of the book. There are many twists and turns throughout the book and it was a very enjoyable. The story is good even though predictable and the writing is excellent. I believe most will enjoy reading Under Moonlit Skies.
I'm thrilled to share this third and final installment in my Prairie Sky Series with readers. Under Moonlit Skies is a blend of sweet prairie romance and pre-Civil War tensions. I so enjoyed researching this volatile time period in America's history. I pray you'll be blessed by Stew and Esther's journey.
Be sure to read Book 1 (Under This Same Sky) & Book 2 (Under Prairie Skies) in the series ahead of it to gain a fuller appreciation of its characters as all three books are closely intertwined. May you be touched by the spiritual messages woven within the pages of each story!
Wonderful end to a wonderful series. Obedience isn't easy, especially when it goes against what your heart wants. Esther finds herself in a place of denying love and living in a land that feels like home in order to honor her mother. This is a beautifully told story of Esther learning to obey God's leading and trusting that He will do what's best for all involved, even if that doesn't look like what she first imagined it would.
Loved this book! Cynthia Roemer has the unique ability to bring the adventure of the 1800's prairie to life as she unfolds another authentic story in the Prairie Sky Series. Her characters stay with you long after the book is finished, which made reading Under Moonlit Skies feel like visiting old friends.
The final book in the Prairie Skies series, and it was just as good as the other two! It was fun getting updates on all of the characters from the other books, and meeting some new ones. I'm sad to see this series end, but I've already read the first in the author's next series, and she's working on the second right now, so I have that to look forward to!
I loved this book. Cynthia's fine historical research resulted in believable characters, an enjoyable love story, and a description of courage and faith in the face of unsurmountable odds.
This author gets better with each book. Each book is different, but with the same threads of hope and faith woven through. In this story, be ready for some action and adventure with smuggling and deceit woven through. She kept me turning the pages to see what happens next.
Under Moonlit Skies is book 3 of a trilogy by Cynthia Roemer. After reading Under the Same Sky, I decided that Cynthia Roemer was my new favorite author. She has not disappointed me. This book is her best yet! There is so much in this book: life on the prairie, society life in the city, trafficking of free blacks, deception, swindling, suspense, danger, and of course some sweet romance. Sweet romance? More like rebellious and fought- for romance. Oops, I hope I haven't spoiled anything.
Each book in the series is a stand-alone story, but I do recommend reading them in order.
I've followed Esther from book 1, Under this Same Sky and I enjoyed reading about the wonderful woman she has grown into. I loved reading about how faith and a relationship with God were the most important things to her, especially when deciding to get married. I also enjoyed reading about the journey that took her to the point where she learnt to stand up for what is right rather than bending to the opinions and expectations of others. Prayers was very important to her and she never neglected it even during the twists and turns of the story.
I loved reading about the importance of obedience to God above everyone and everything else. Trust in God was one of the major themes for me in this book and the writer beautifully crafted it into mundane and complex situations of life. I especially found endearing the beautiful picture where God does not regard race, color or heritage but the hearts of men who seek to seek him first above everything else. He loves all of us despite who we are or where we come from. He is after our hearts.
Stew's journey of trusting God was beautiful to read about. The people God planted across his path are people everyone needs in their lives. People like Annie and Toby who remind you of God's love and faithfulness. He set out in the book with a purpose in heart but God had his own purposes for him. He learnt through unexpected twists in his journey that he must have faith in God to bring about his purposes for his life. I loved Stew's openess and transparency about who he was. There was no hiding with him.
Together, the story of Stew and Esther tells that only God can fashion beauty out of volitile situations.
The historical settings of the book made it all enjoyable. The authors writing style and language was easy to understand. The characters were awesome. I recommend this book to those on a journey in life that looks and feels blink. I hope Esther and Stew's story fuels your faith and trust in God. I pray your hardships provide you with a faith in God that is strong and real.
I received a copy of this book for my honest opinion, all opinions expressed here are mine.
I recently finished Cynthia Roemer's newest book Under Moonlit Skies. This book is the most recent in her Prairie Skies series which includes Under Prairie Skies and Under This Same Sky.
Under Moonlit Skies focuses on the story of Esther Stanton who had been a minor character in the previous books. Esther takes center stage as life circumstances bring her back to the familiar Illinois prairies. While helping her sister's family, she becomes familiar with the hired man "Stew". Life situations take them far from each other physically although they are never far from each other's minds or hearts. Esther soon finds herself resigned to following the rules and expectations others have placed on her. However, a a change of circumstances occurs when Stew uncovers evidence of wrong-doing by her high-falutin' fiance.
Readers who have not yet read the previous books in this series will have missed some background insights into the relationship between Esther and her sister and Esther and her mom but not enough to keep from enjoying the book. In this title, I enjoyed that Roemer effectively pulls in social issues of the time period which provides the opportunity for Stew to show himself worthy even though he lacks in material possessions. This addition adds adventure and depth to the prairie romance. I also enjoy the colorful prairie language the characters utilize. The addition of some varmints and victuals bring about a smile while reading and fond recollection of hearing family members use the same terms. I found myself enjoying this book even more than the previous titles. I can't wait to find out what new stories we can expect from Cynthia next! Disclosure of Material Connection: I purchased this book via Kindle of my own volition. I am slightly favorably disposed to the author as we are alumni of the same high school and thus have many friends and acquaintances in common. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
What an awesome journey that the author has taken us on!! With rip rouring adventures at every twist and turn this book will have you shouting at the characters and crying with them at the same time. There's beautiful messages in here that helps us to know God if n you don't already know Him. To the Lord, there is no class of people high society, middle or poor He loves us all the same. He only wants your heart no matter who you are. I loved Stew or Stuart Brant especially his unselfish acts in this story. His strength and courage and unselfiahness are what makes him a good man but he lacked one thing. Esther has truly grown into herself and is a delightful person to be around. She's a character to be proud of. Annie and Toby are wonderful as well. Annie with all of her encouragement and love for strangers was all it took to make her a fav of mine I'd like to know what part of Kentucky they lived in. I sometimes wished I had lived back then to see for myself what this place might've looked like!! Well done Cynthia!! A great ending to this series!!! And a blessing as well!! The Lord Jesus is my friend and He always shall be. I highly recommend this book!! It's fantastic!!! I received a complimentary copy with no compensations received. All opinions are my own
The Prairie Skies series has been a pleasure to read and one I will read again, which for me is rare. There are few straight romances which I will read, let alone reread. Yet, Cynthia Roemer always seems to bring more to a story than just romance. Her characters and storylines have depth and life truths. Under Moonlit Skies had the touch of danger for the last third of the book that I crave. Soooo good. Of course, it doesn't hurt that part of the story takes place in my region.
What I loved: My favorite part is the danger and how Stew's character really stands out in the midst of it. I don't want to give anything away, but I will say it has to do with the fact Cincinnati was a hotbed of activity during the years leading up to the Civil War.
Who would like this: Anyone who loves stories with characters who struggle with becoming their own person, gentle romance, and a touch of danger. Also, those who enjoy a glimpse into pre-Civil War life in an area where blacks were free but always in danger.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the author/publisher. The review above was influenced in no way by this and the above opinions are my own.
I have been highly anticipating this third installment of the Prairie Sky Series and it did not disappoint. Once again, I was carried away to the nineteenth century prairie and the adventure that unfolds for Stewart and Esther. The sparks fly between these two from the start and I found myself smiling as their worlds collided.
Rich in period details and historical flavor, Under Moonlit Skies is romantic and memorable. The pace of the story really picked up speed for me halfway through, when a fascinating plot twist bursts onto the page. I could not read fast enough to see what our hero and heroine were going to do.
Readers of the previous books in this series will also be happy to see familiar characters return. If you enjoy historical fiction with a beautiful message of faith woven in, this book is just for you. Fall in love with these prairie folks, learn through their struggles and be blessed as you read. Under Moonlit Skies is a sweet and touching story you don’t want to miss.
I loved this book! The characters were absolutely wonderful, I love Charlotte and her family. I really liked Esther but enjoyed her much more after she grew into the woman God meant her to be. Stew was my favorite, I loved how the author grew his character! The plot was so much more than I expected. Living for God as he brings us about spiritual maturity, loving everyone as God loves us. This book had me wanting to shout for joy at all the wonderful things that transpired in this amazing story! The author draws you in then takes the reader on an unexpected journey that has many twist and turns. The story has so many places that leaves the reader breathless, tempting you to sneak a peek at the last page. I would give this book a 10 star rating if I could, this is one book you definitely don’t want to miss! Was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
I love Cynthia's Prairie Sky books 1 and 2, but I have to say that Under Moonlit Skies is her best yet! Beautiful prose, page-turning plot, and characters you will fall in love with. The character depth and growth of Esther and Stew in this story unfolds little-by-little just as their growing attraction and feelings for one another unfold. A tale full of twists and turns, divided loyalties, convictions, and danger, Esther and Stew must decide if their love is worth fighting for. They must decide whether or not to make a stand for what is right when faced with evil. You will sit on the edge of your seat, cheering them along until the last page. A must-read! I can't wait for her next book! I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review. All expressed opinions are my own.
Author Cynthia Roemer has a way of letting her characters out of her books and into the heart of the reader. They are so well developed, and so real, that you will be sure that you have met them somewhere, especially if you have traveled in the Old West. Full of twists and turns, the surprises in this story kept me turning pages quickly.
There were so many wonderful lessons in this story. We are reminded that God is not a respecter of persons, and all have worth no matter their gender, ethnicity, or social standing. And when we follow His plan for our lives things tend to go much smoother.
If you enjoy Christian historical fiction with a sweet prairie romance then you’ll enjoy this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
I just finished the third and final installment of the Big Sky Series and all I can say is wow! In this book Cynthia Roemer weaves a tale that takes you from one end of the spectrum to the other. I loved the two main characters and watching them grow Spiritually as the tale progressed. Stew grew in a different way than Esther, bit nevertheless, they both grew in leaps and bounds. In this story we get to experience the happenings during the foretelling of the American Civil War. It was a sad and scary segment of our history that needs to be told, learned from, and never repeated. I am thankful to have found an author who is willing to write about, and execute, the telling of a hard situation that is hit head on by a God who can and will fight for us, comfort us, and will never leave us.
Stew comes to the see Chad while Esther just happens to be there helping out. She is helping her sister Charlotte after she gave birth. In fact, the story starts out when she in process of giving birth. But something happens and Esther ends up taking care of Stew.
The book got my attention from the very first word. The story had some surprises. I love reading historical books and enjoyed this one very much.
I received an advanced copy of the book from the author. This review is my own opinion.
There was so much about this book that tugged at my heart! You did yourself proud. This is a spectacular story to finish this series on. I can't wait for the world to read this story. If it doesn't bring many closer to God and His love, then I don't know what will. You, my dear, have a wonderful future in serving God through your words.
This is a beautifully written book. It is a very heartwarming story and a wonderful end to the series. The author makes the people in her books come to life and you can feel God's love and grace in all her books. I received an ARC copy of this book and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
A story with a little romance (ok, maybe more than a little), a little suspense and a little bit of faith but not little on how much I liked this story. A few twists kept me turning pages. I highly recommend this book!
Under Moonlit Skies is the first book I have read by Cynthia Roemer and it definitely won’t be my last. While this book is a sweet prairie romance, there is also plenty of adventure, danger, and mystery to keep the pages turning. I loved the faith element that is present throughout. Although this is the third book in the series, I had no trouble reading it before the others. If anything, it caused me to move the others up to the top of my to-read list!