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Wyoming Sunrise #1

Forgotten Memories

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Some memories are best forgotten…

The Wyoming Territory is rife with lawlessness and disorder, something Annie Ledbetter and her parents discover when their wagon train is robbed. Seven years later, Annie settles into her lifelong dream as a teacher in the small town of Willow Falls. When she meets handsome rancher Caleb Eliason through a humorous misunderstanding, she is quickly drawn to his kind heart and charming smile.

Former outlaw Caleb Eliason embraces his chance at a fresh start. Gone are the days of robbing stagecoaches and wagon trains. When he falls in love with the new Willow Falls teacher, he doesn’t realize they’ve met before—under much different circumstances. When his past comes to light, will it put the growing love between them at risk?

Can forgiveness and redemption heal two broken hearts or will the past keep them from sharing a future?

Prequel: Love's New Beginnings
Book One: Forgotten Memories
Book Two: Dreams of the Heart (March 2023)
Book Three: When Love Comes (Late 2023)

330 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 1, 2022

257 people are currently reading
1051 people want to read

About the author

Penny Zeller

47 books947 followers
Penny Zeller is known for her heartfelt stories of faith-filled happily ever afters and her passion to impact lives for Christ through fiction. Her books feature tender romance, steady doses of humor, and memorable characters that stay with you long after the last page.

While she has had a love for writing since childhood, Penny began her adult writing career penning articles for national and regional publications on a wide variety of topics.

Today Penny is a multi-published author of over two dozen books and is also a fitness instructor, loves the outdoors, and is a flower gardening addict. In her spare time, she enjoys camping, hiking, kayaking, biking, birdwatching, reading, running, and playing volleyball.

Penny resides with her husband and two daughters in small-town America and loves to connect with her readers at her website at www.pennyzeller.com, her blog, www.pennyzeller.wordpress.com, and her Facebook page at www.facebook.com/pennyzellerbooks where she posts faith, funnies, writing updates, and encouragement. All of her socials can be found at https://linktr.ee/pennyzeller.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
Profile Image for Madisyn Carlin.
Author 33 books370 followers
December 11, 2022
I've read all of Zeller's books, and while I've thoroughly enjoyed every single one, Forgotten Memories is thus far my favorite. Set in 1880s Wyoming, Forgotten Memories incorporates faith, humor, sweet romance, redemption, and a superb premise.

The setting is well-described. The reader is swept into the small Wyoming towns and the rustic landscape. I could easily imagine myself there as I read the story.

The plot, as aforementioned, is superb. Filled with twists, turns, hope, pain, and a strong faith element, the reader is definitely treated to a broad range of emotions--which this book is full of. If you don't tear up, or are at least a little bit touched by some of the scenes...you've a cold heart. There is no way someone with a normal heart can't be moved. I rarely tear up while reading, but I did while reading this book. I also really liked how the book began, as it provided insight that is crucial to the rest of the plot. The flashbacks also were incorporated well. The romance is sweet and gentle, written at just the right pace.

The characters are wonderful. Annie aspires to be a teacher, and her desire to help others and her good relationship with her family is heartwarming. Sadie is adorable. Caleb...who wouldn't love Caleb? He deserves all the hugs he can get. He was my favorite character, though by a slim margin, because I did adore Annie as well. Their emotions were so realistically portrayed. No one is perfect and their struggles are portrayed quite realistically.

The secondary characters are a delight as well. Charlotte and John Mark need their own stories. Their relationship was perfectly portrayed, and I could empathize mostly with Charlotte, though I felt for John Mark too at times. Tobias needs his own story too, the little twerp. I was especially fond of Charlotte's vocabulary and how she learned several of them through reading (doesn't that just sound like a true bibliophile?). There were just so many fun secondary characters, too many for me to list.

What really sets Forgotten Memories apart is the faith aspect. Beautiful, rich, and so deeply woven into the story. Zeller paints a splendid story of forgiveness, God's mercy, and redemption.

I also appreciated the adoption theme, which has a double meaning in this book.

I've read many historical romances, and Forgotten Memories is by far one of the best I've read. It is a beautiful story with heartfelt themes and tear-jerking scenes. Do yourself a favor and add this book to your TBR.

*I received an eARC copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
Profile Image for Vanessa Hall.
Author 6 books161 followers
September 5, 2022
If you're looking for a gentle Western romance, look no further! Penny Zeller has written a sweet, godly romance historical fiction lovers won't want to miss.

Characters: Annie was a lovely MC - I really enjoyed that she was a teacher, though I felt quite badly for her on her first day. That was rough! But while she wasn't perfect, she had a really sweet spirit. And Caleb, in spite of his difficult past, was a godly man. I appreciated his resolve to move on from his former life and follow the Lord even when things were difficult. The side characters were fun, especially Caleb's siblings. They added some really nice comedy in there!

Setting/Writing Style/Plot: The setting felt more like a prairie, small town rather than the more traditional Western town in the middle of the desert, but that fit the book really well. The writing wasn't my favorite style, but for historical fiction, it definitely worked. And the plot, while not full of a lot of action, had plenty of relationship building and character development to move things along well. I wasn't really expecting that one part in the ending, but it was definitely a pleasant surprise!

Theme: Forgiveness was a huge part of this book, and it was done so well! Consequences came along even though forgiveness was given, and the characters still had to work through struggles even though all was washed clean. I also really enjoyed how much the characters prayed and depended on the Lord. It was beautiful to just watch them live a daily Christian life so faithfully!

Overall, this was a sweet, clean romance with a beautiful moral. I'd recommend this book to anyone who enjoyed historical Christian fiction!

isclosure: I received this book free from the publisher/author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Profile Image for Lilly.
155 reviews17 followers
October 29, 2022
lovely book

This book was so capturing and endearing.
It shows the true meaning and blessings that come with forgiveness. But also the struggle to forgive as it is a very real thing. A person truly can be made anew by God’s grace. In this book not one character was perfect and they all learned how to deal with the memories that they had wished to be forgotten.
Caleb… oh I just loved Caleb. His huge, hurting, haunted, humble heart just got to me. He’s definitely my favourite character in this book. Annie I liked her stubborn and persistent kindness. John Mark and Charlotte were simply fantastic. And I loved Zeb’s protective older brotherness.
Profile Image for Staci.
2,306 reviews669 followers
November 3, 2022
Wyoming Territory 1877/1884-1885

Sweet romance set in the rugged west. While some aspects of the story were predictable, my interest never waned.

12 year old Annie and her family were robbed while traveling with a wagon train headed west from Nebraska to their new home in Wyoming Territory. 14 year old Caleb and his older brother Cain were the robbers. The thieving life wasn't what Caleb wanted, but he couldn't see a way out of it.

Seven years later Annie and her family are well established and Annie is set to make a dream come true. She's going to be the new teacher in a nearby town. The town where Caleb is now living.

Forgiveness is a main theme of the novel. A favorite part for this reader was spunky Charlotte (Caleb's younger sister) with her advanced vocabulary and the constant bickering with the brother closer to her age.

I look forward to continuing the series.

My gratitude to CelebrateLit for a complimentary e-copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Kristina Hall.
Author 19 books433 followers
August 24, 2022
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher/author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Characters: Caleb and Annie were both sympathetic characters who had realistic struggles. Caleb's siblings and an older couple added some good moments of humor.

Language: Clean.

Moral/theme: This novel featured themes of forgiveness, second chances, grace, family, and adoption. I really appreciated the faith content!

Plot: All the obstacles standing in the way of Caleb and Annie's relationship kept the plot moving.

Romance: Clean. Just kissing.

Writing: Penny Zeller's clear writing worked well for Forgotten Memories. She made it easy to picture what was going on.

Overall: Forgotten Memories was an entertaining read that I'd recommend to those who love Christian fiction and historical romance.
Profile Image for J.E. Grace.
Author 23 books140 followers
August 21, 2022
While on a wagon train from Nebraska to Wyoming, Annie Ledbetter a twelve-year-old, watches in horror as they are attacked by robbers. That fateful day stays impressed in her mind forever. They all survived but nothing would ever be the same. The three men would enter her sleeping hours and she continued to relive it.

She graduates and leaves Nelsonville for a teaching position in Willow Falls. She stays with a minister and his family. Everything works out better than expected until her past comes back to haunt her.

There are a lot of surprises, tense moments and mystery to the plot. Also, times of love, compassion and forgiveness. Gods message of forgiveness and how HE changes a person and creates a new person in Christ comes through. The story is a very emotional one, so keep the tissues handy. The ending wrapped up everything nicely with a powerful Christian message.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and willingly choose to review it.
Profile Image for Abbigail B..
91 reviews
September 9, 2022
Penny Zeller has crafted a beautiful story of redemption and hope set in the Wyoming territory in the second half of the 1800s. Real, raw feelings and emotions that stem from past regrets and horrors are portrayed so vividly, that I could feel what Caleb and Annie were feeling as they sorted through their pasts. This has become a comfort read for me, alongside Janette Oke's books.

I definitely recommend this book for so many people, but especially those who struggle with understanding that by God's grace alone are we truly healed, not just physically, but spiritually and emotionally.

**I was given a copy of this book in exchange for a review. All opinions expressed are my own.**
Profile Image for Cover Lover Book Review.
1,476 reviews86 followers
February 18, 2023
I could gush on and on about how I love second chance stories, sweet historical romances, small town settings, memorable characters... I love Forgotten Memories, by Penny Zeller. And it’s the first book in a new series. Yay! I enjoyed the blend of the rough old west setting and the Little House on the Prairie wholesomeness.

This story focuses on Annie and Caleb, from childhood to young adulthood. They are both easy to connect to and sympathize with. I especially connected with Caleb and adored his sense of compassion. And the secondary characters are just as charming and unforgettable, such as Reverend Solomon.

I first read one of Penny Zeller’s books last year (a contemporary romance – Love Under Construction) and fell in love with her writing style and how she incorporates humor or wit with ease. This story, being a historical western, is a bit different, but carries the same tenderness and nourishing tone.

With themes of forgiveness, grace, and second chances, this story is sure to touch your heart. This wholesome tale is woven together beautifully and meaningfully with a strong spiritual thread.

First Line: A fleeting movement caught twelve-year-old Annie Ledbetter’s attention.
Genre: Historical Fiction/Christian Fiction
Content: Wholesome
Page Count: 327

Disclosure: #CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book.
Profile Image for Kaytlin Phillips.
Author 17 books250 followers
October 23, 2022
Aww, this was a sweet little romance! I quite enjoyed getting to know Caleb and Annie and it was sweet that Caleb asked dif he could kiss Annie! And I just really enjoyed this book!
It was a nice read.
Profile Image for Penny Zeller.
Author 47 books947 followers
Read
October 27, 2022
Want to spend some more time in Willow Falls? I'm thrilled to announce that there is an upcoming prequel, "Love's New Beginnings", starring Lydie and Solomon as the main characters, coming in December 2022. John Mark will star in his own book, "Dreams of the Heart", in March 2023. And yes, Charlotte gets to have her story as well (hint, hint, it might include a man named Tobias) in late 2023.

"Love's New Beginnings" https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0B... and "Dreams of the Heart"https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0B... are currently available for preorder and Charlotte's story will be available for preorder soon. Stay tuned!
Profile Image for Nikita Wells.
221 reviews
April 21, 2023
"Don't let anyone ever tell you God don't change people. Don't ever let anyone tell you God don't forgive. That's why he sent his son to die- for people's sins- yours and mine."

One of things I love most about God is the only thing He can't do is fail. And how amazing is that?

I loved this endearing western tale of second chances and grace. I really enjoy stories with small towns that are full of loving Christian families and fun characters like Mrs. Barry.

The cover is lovely- I really appreciate a well-designed cover because that's the first thing that draws me into the story. And the author has a great writing style that keeps you reaching for her book every spare minute you get! I actually liked this book so well, I signed up to review its sequel on Booksirens! :)

So y'all, be sure to read Forgotten Memories!

I received a complimentary paperback copy of this book from the publisher through Interviews and Reviews. I was not required to write a positive review, and the thoughts above are my very own.
Profile Image for Heather Wood.
Author 7 books255 followers
December 16, 2022
Intriguing premise and fascinating historical note at the back. I love it when I can learn something in a book. This was my first Zeller and I thought it read like a Janette Oke or maybe YA. The characters were open and honest and talked freely about the Lord. They didn't do much unexpected though, and didn't really come to life for me. If you're looking for a squeaky clean historical romance with no suspense elements, this one fits the bill.
Profile Image for Michelle Rhoden.
524 reviews17 followers
October 11, 2022
I love Christian historical fiction genres and found this book to be very enjoyable-complete with a wagon train robbery and outlaws. The author intertwined redemption and forgiveness in the storyline and just like the characters, we are also imperfect and have flaws. This was the first time I have read a book by the author, Penny Zeller and I was captivated from page one. She is a good writer and I loved how the storyline flowed. I will be looking for more books written by her.

All words and opinions are my own. I was given a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit and the publisher for my honest review.
Profile Image for Betsy.
490 reviews20 followers
August 17, 2022
Uplifting Story of Forgiveness and Second Chances!

I enjoyed this book so much I had trouble putting it down. Not only did it have a sweet romance which had me rooting for Annie and Caleb to overcome their obstacles to happiness, but it dealt with the issues of forgiveness and second chances in a very spiritual and relatable way. The characters were down-to-earth and a few of them openly struggled with how to relate to a person whose past actions had negative consequences. Can a person really change for the better? What does it mean to forgive? This is a work of Christian historical romance and I love how these hard questions were not glossed over but addressed earnestly through the characters' emotions and dialogue. Reverend Solomon Eliason was a favorite character who displayed such wise counsel and led by example. Though the book’s theme was of a serious nature, I love the way author Penny Zeller manages to include humor in several places. If you are looking for a book that not only entertains but inspires, definitely pick up this one!

I received an advanced reader copy from the publisher via Celebrate Lit Bloggers and Reviewers. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions expressed here are completely my own.
Profile Image for Ausjenny.
397 reviews
August 30, 2022
This is a charming book starting with an incident that will affect both hero and heroine from when Annie was 12 and Caleb 14. The books starts with the wagon train robbery then advances 7 years and we see both characters as adults. Annie is excited to be a teacher and Willow Falls has a special tradition which leads to a few humourous interactions. We learn more about the robbery and what lead up to it. We also learn what has happened to both Annie and Caleb since.

I really liked both characters and felt for Caleb. Back then life was difficult and it doesn't take much for a young lad to be intwined in things he doesn't want to do. This book deals a lot with forgiveness both from others and from  within. We see how compassion and acceptance can change a person. We also see how forgiveness is more than words and sometimes takes a unthinkable occurrences to fully be understood. There were parts I had tears in my eyes and that doesn't happen often in a book.

There are also fun interaction with Caleb's brother and sister, John Mark and Charlotte who loves using big words. Over all another great historical book by Penny Zeller. I am hoping there will be more in the series as I can see several characters who need a book especially Charlotte and her nemesis. 
Profile Image for Kendra Neal.
1,785 reviews47 followers
September 3, 2022
Christian Historical Romance is one of my favorite Genres. Forgotten Memories by Penny Zeller is Book 1 in the Wyoming Sunrise series. I recently had the chance to read this book and it is only the second book by Penny Zeller that I have read.

The setting of this book is the 1880s in Wyoming. Annie Ledbetter and her parents are traveling on a Wagon Train when it is robbed. The Family realizes how rough the Wyoming Territory can be. 7yrs later, Annie is so happy to be starting her dream job as a Teacher in the small town of Willow Falls. She meets a local Rancher, Caleb Eliason and the 2 become instant friends. Annie loves his Charming Smile and kind heart. Caleb is enjoying life as a Rancher and has left his previous life behind, one that included robbing wagon trains. Caleb and Annie come to the realization that they have met previously many years ago. It takes them a bit to remember exactly where, but Annie suddenly realizes Caleb is one of the Wagon Train Robbers from 7yrs ago. Caleb has fallen in LOVE with Annie and Annie has feelings of LOVE toward Caleb. Will the realization of Caleb's past hinder a Romantic Relationship between the pair? Will they choose to leave the past in the past and move forward in life?

WOW, Penny Zeller is fast becoming a favorite author. This is only the second book I have read by Penny Zeller and I am amazed once again by the storyline and writing style. I truly enjoy books that are set in Small Towns so that was a draw for me to read the book. I really LOVED the 2 main characters, Annie and Caleb. Annie has worked hard to achieve her dreams of being a Teacher. Caleb enjoys his job as a Rancher and has worked hard to overcome his rough childhood and past. Caleb knows he was given a Second Chance at making his life right and he does not take that for granted. The author incorporates scripture into the book about Forgiveness. The book has some twists and turns that the reader doesn't see coming. The ending was sweet and loving. This book is one about Forgiveness, Second Chances, and Inspiration. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who loves Christian Fiction and Romance. I am very much looking forward to new books in this series. FANTASTIC BOOK!
Profile Image for Erin Britt.
80 reviews3 followers
January 13, 2023
Such a joy to read. The emotion was so real. The characters were more than just characters in a book. When I wasn’t reading this book I actually found myself missing the main characters. I thought my words for 2023 were consistency and Grace, but I keep finding myself reading books rooted in full forgiveness. This is such a sweet Christian romance where faith and forgiveness, as hard as it may seem at first, truly are the foundation of where living actually begins.

Annie starts off as a young girl moving with her family to Wyoming territory. She sees something but doesn’t mention it to her brother Zeb or her Pa because they may think she’s lost in her imagination. Turns out she should have mentioned it, as their wagon and the wagons of the other families with them were getting robbed.

As the time moves on, there’s newfound love, anger, forgiveness, happiness, and the pain that comes from hurtful memories, but, ultimately love wins, because God’s forgiveness and grace and mercy is for us all.

****I received a free copy of this book from the author, however, the opinions are fully mine****
Author 4 books14 followers
September 5, 2022
Forgotten Memories is a book I would feel comfortable giving to my mom and saying, "Hey, I read this.".

Wow, let me say first off that I'm torn a million different directions while writing this review. The book itself was awesome. I really have to give it to the author, Penny Zeller, for crafting the main character's relationships so well.

The attraction between a man and a woman is too often physical appearance and lust for flesh. I believe I can safely say that this is not the case in Forgotten Memories. Yes, they do see how the other is built, I mean, how else are you going to decide if your future love could carry your box of books in the house or not? But its not overly so. They really look at the behavior of the other and how they react to the people around them. That ultimately plays a huge part in their relationship later on. (Which I have dubbed Annie as Clueless and poor Caleb as my favorite.)

As this was the first book I have read from this particular author, and really the only real romance centered book I've read in forever, I really had to get used to the writing style. I felt that certain action scenes could have been helped along to really get my heart pounding with fear for the lives of the poor dears, but action is not the purpose of the book so I'm definitely not taking a star off for that. Its mainly personal preference, which has nothing to do with how good this book was. 😍😍🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰

I adored the sibling relationships going on between Charlotte and John Mark. A+ to Mrs. Zeller for nailing that. They had me laughing way too many times. 😂

The characters were well developed, in my opinion, and growing in their faith throughout the book. Caleb was my favorite character. I'm always partial to those level headed boys with redemption stories.😍 Though Annie was fantastic all around and really should be my second favorite character, she isn't.🙈 John Mark is; poor kid always getting harassed by his little sister. *pouts* He reminds me of my brother (I'm not saying if my brother is older than me or not 😇) Annie, though clueless sometimes, really showed how the love of Jesus can shine through, even at the face of her worst nightmare...eventually.

I did think there was a bit more kissing than there should have been. I believe in never kissing until at least engaged, *slaps forehead* but that is again personal preference and this is a romance for goodness sakes. What else should I expect? I really have to give it to Mrs. Zeller again for her extraordinary talent of giving the moment the right amount of affection and gentleness, yet not going into too much depth of anything physical. The book was clean of anything morbid, only light kissing and hugging. I am extremely grateful that I could trust to read this romance and not be terrified of what might pop up.

Halfway through Forgotten Memories I was considering giving it a four star. I really didn't feel it, you know? But after reading the ENDING!!!!!!!!!! 😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍 Could I please just say that the ending was the most perfect ending EVERRRRRRR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Its like the author is saying: "You want forgiveness to be the theme? Here, have forgiveness." *book plops in lap* Me: *heart eyes*

WHICH IS WHY I'M GIVING THIS BOOK A FIVE STAR!

Well, and the fact that somehow, Mrs. Zeller kept a girl who loves action/romances enthralled with just a plain romance. I didn't feel like it lagged anywhere, and the ENDINGGGGGGGG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I LOVED IT!! I didn't even think that kind of ending would happen, but it wrapped up the book so well and really accentuated the theme of forgiveness. Forgotten Memories is definitely a book to put on your shelf if you like romances. Plus the chicken coop part was like AWESOME.🤣🤣🤣🤣 I just had to say that.

Thank you for writing this, Penny!

I was given this book by the author for an honest review.
Profile Image for Sydney.
1,090 reviews132 followers
September 11, 2022
Penny Zeller has written a captivating and beautiful Wyoming Territory wagon train story in her novel Forgotten Memories. This story is about a girl who is haunted by an experience she had in her childhood and a man who’s past comes back to haunt him. But it’s also about redemption and forgiveness through the grace of God. Readers will easily be able to tell that the author put thought and research into the historic details. A light, quick, and sweet historical romance, that readers will enjoy.

Series: Wyoming Sunrise
Genre: historical, romance, wagon train
Publisher: Maplebrooke Publishing
Publication date: August 30, 2022
Number of pages: 330

Other books in the series:
2-Dreams of the Heart (coming March 2023)

Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.​
1,888 reviews
October 13, 2022
Forgotten Memories chronicles the lives of Annie Ledbetter and Caleb Eliason in the Wyoming territory. Annie Ledbetter and her family along with those traveling with them find their wagon train under attack from robbers. Caleb, his brother Cain, and Cain’s friend Roy attempt to rob the wagon train. When Caleb finds Annie hiding in one of the wagons, she begs him not to take their only money. Then she begs him not to hurt anyone.

Seven years into the future, the two meet again when she takes a job teaching in the town in which Caleb resides. This book proves the importance of not keeping secrets, but also forgiving those who sin against us as God forgives us for our sins.

I loved seeing Annie and her family move past the initial feelings towards Caleb and recognize that we all become new people in Christ. The author did an excellent job creating a story that exemplifies loving others as Christ loves us.

So if you want to read a work of Christian historical fiction centering around forgiveness, mercy, and God’s love, check out this book for yourself.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
6,167 reviews
September 5, 2022
Forgotten Memories is a wonderful start to Penny Zeller’s Wyoming Sunrise series. I adored Caleb and Annie’s story. I enjoyed going back in time to The Wyoming Territory. The details made me feel as though I was right there with the characters and being part of the journey. It was a great tale of moving on, forgiveness, hope and redemption. I loved the sprinkled in humor all throughout that kept me laughing and wanted to keep reading. I thought it was a fabulous read.

Forgotten Memories will be getting a very well deserved five plus stars from me. Fans of clean historical romance will not want to miss on this one. I am looking forward to reading the next installment from the Wyoming Sunrise series.

I received a paperback copy of Forgotten Memories from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
Profile Image for Terri Harr.
242 reviews7 followers
October 2, 2022
I loved this book so much! While it WAS filled with some danger and mystery, it wasn't a scary book and I would still recommend it to the teen audiance and any adult who loves a historical romance. It was a fun glimpse into life in that time period. A book about new beginnings and second chances. It reminds us that despite past choices and/or mistakes, we are all able to make better choices, especially if we making best choice of all, Jesus!

The characters were well developed and easily to relate to. The "secondary" characters were also very real and I can't wait to get to know some of them better in the future books!

As always, Penny has carried me off to another place and time. I was drawn to their story and stayed up late one night to read half the book so I could know the ending!
Profile Image for Lisa.
247 reviews6 followers
January 29, 2023
This is my first read by this author and let me just say that I have found another favorite author!

Set in 1800’s Wyoming territory, this is a beautiful story of love, forgiveness and grace. The author does a beautiful job of showing all three throughout the story. The thing I loved the most was the theme of the plan of salvation that was brought out in several areas of the book.
The characters were phenomenal! Charlotte, a spunky young girl, I would have to say was my favorite with her feisty personality who loved using her diverse vocabulary!
This is book 1 of the Wyoming Sunrise Series and I am definitely now on to book 2 to see where this wonderful group of people take me next.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the author. My opinion is my own.
Profile Image for Jessica Baker (A Baker's Perspective).
1,436 reviews86 followers
August 30, 2022
Forgotten Memories is a sweet, quick read that I think historical fans will enjoy. I love that Zeller gave us the background of the characters first encounter in the beginning of the story, rather than just reference it. I think it added to the depth of not only the storyline, but the characters themselves. Seeing Annie as a vulnerable young girl, scared and trying to help her family was really heartwarming. Then you see Caleb, clearly torn before doing what he feels is right, and following what his family is doing. For his character especially, this provided a well rounded character arc.

Along the way I did feel there were a few “I knew that was going to happen” moments, but many readers don’t have a problem with that. Personally I like a surprise thrown in here and there, something that kind of makes me wake up and pay attention a little better. It didn’t take away from the fact that it was a sweet story to read, I just felt it would have added another layer to the story.

Overall, I found Forgotten Memories to be an enjoyable read with charming characters, that put a smile on my face. I will certainly be checking out her other books! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
1,575 reviews30 followers
October 20, 2022
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

Forgotten Memories is such a sweet romantic read, but it takes a good while to actually get to the sweetest part. Annie Ledbetter and her family were traveling with a small wagontrain to The Wyoming Territory to start a new life. On the trail they were robbed, with one man shot and Annie’s pregnant mom going into early labor. It was a miracle a Dr came by at the right time to save their lives. The rest of their trip was uneventful. Caleb Eliason lived with his pa (the town preacher)and their family. No Longer a life of a lawman, but now as a follower of the Lord. When these lives are brought together, will they recognize each other from seven years ago?

I love love this story, and the town of Willow Falls and its people. There are  many different flavors of characters making up this small town. I love how these people loved each other and was always willing to lend a hand, specially Caleb. He is such a sweet guy and I love his caring heart. Annie fit right in being the new school teacher, and her love for the children. I was hoping the two would forget their past, but then there wouldn’t be a story would it? Penny Zeller does a fabulous job with the characters and the historical details so vividly told in each scene, which tells her amount of research. Her excellent writing skills show from the begging to the end of this book. The characters are realistic and I was happy to feel like I was in each setting with them. I can’t wait for the next book in this series. If you enjoy a clean Christian fiction with character that will stay with you for a long time, you really will enjoy Forgotten Memories by Penny Zeller. This is a book I highly recommend. This book is Five Stars for me.

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Profile Image for Becca Rae.
560 reviews39 followers
August 31, 2022
This was a sweet romance and a fairly quick read. The story had a great premise and I could tell the author put a lot of attention into the detail of their writing. Two things stuck out to me though that really hindered my ability to get into the story. I'm quite sure it was in hopes of creating likable characters, but their flaws (specifically Caleb) lacked any real depth when their thoughts always seemed to be pure and any bad choices weren't really choices at all. The other piece was the dialogue. It was too wordy and proper for natural conversations. It was still an enjoyable read though, and I did like the characters. I'd recommend it to those who enjoy lighter reads.

*I received a copy of this book through JustRead Tours. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.
Profile Image for Holly Bleggi.
1,364 reviews26 followers
April 7, 2023
This was a good story about second chances and forgiveness. I liked how it took a while for Annie to forgive Caleb for his past and to realize that people do change. It made them seem more real since I’m sure it would be hard to let go of something that was so traumatic. I liked how Caleb sought God to help him in letting go of his past. I liked that there was resolution in all the different relationships. I liked the romance between Annie and Caleb and how they came to know and trust each other as the people they are. I thought this story was well written and believable.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Vera Godley.
1,999 reviews56 followers
September 15, 2022
This is a gentle read that explores with resolution some heavy emotional battles. The duty to forgive when wronged. The duty to embrace the forgiveness of others. The weight of guilt upon the mind and soul of a person.

While the story opens with a wagon train robbery and the near-death experiences of some of the travelers, it quickly moves forward in time some years hence and the melding of two hearts that are destined to travel an experience that covers a broad spectrum of emotional travail.

Budding romance. Beautiful family relationships. Caring community. The author gently takes the reader through the experiences of the characters as their lives blend and memories begin to surface that threaten to rip them apart.

I highly recommend this gentle read with its rich spiritual heritage.

I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and freely given.
Profile Image for Lana Lynne Lynne.
Author 16 books52 followers
October 1, 2022
This novel is filled with unforgettable characters. Caleb's childhood trauma leads to Annie's when they first meet as children. God has worked in a mighty way before He allows them to meet again. Forgiveness is often the hardest step in healing. Once she finds out who he is, will Annie forgive him? Has he forgiven himself? Can he forgive his brother?

This engaging historical fiction is a page-turner. I won't retell it here.
15 reviews
November 12, 2022
In the story, a character, who had lived lawlessly, experiences the power of grace. He is given a chance to start a new life that he doesn't deserve.

It shows that forgiving someone, who has wronged you, does not come easily.

This is a beautiful story of redemption, not without action, humor, and unexpected twists. I would recommend this for all ages. It was refreshing, since it clearly points to the Gospel.
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