Blog Tour and Book Review: Tales of the Heart (3-in-1 Collection) by Loree Lough

Tales of the Heart (3-in-1 Collection)
by Loree Lough
Copyright 2010
Whitaker House Publishers
478 pages
ISBN:9781603741675
Historical Fiction

From the publisher:
"Bridget's Bargain"
When the potato famine of 1845 forced Bridget McKenna to flee her home in Ireland, she came to America to work as a scullery maid on a Virginia plantation. That was four years ago. Now, Bridget dreams of bringing her father and six siblings to join her in America. She also dreams of marrying a God-fearing man, and when she meets the tall, handsome Lance York, it seems her dream might come true. He's English, however, just like the cruel landlord who oppressed Bridget's family in Ireland. Could there be more to him than she realizes?

"Kate Ties the Knot"
Seven years of widowhood have made Kate Flynn a strong, independent woman who even operates her own dressmaking shop. But when her eight-year-old son, Adam, has a run-in with a burly shipbuilder, she realizes the necessity of some godly male influence. Adam starts working in a warehouse owned by John Joseph O'Keefe, better known as J. J., who looks out for Adam and feels a growing attraction to his young protégé's mother. Kate's emotions are as tumultuous as the ocean as she wonders what the future will hold.

"Follow the Leader"
The Civil War has destroyed everything Valerie Carter held dear. Struggling to come to terms with her emotional devastation, she accepts a teaching position in Freeland, Maryland, and her heart is gradually warmed by her students' affection. She also finds herself attracted to Paul Collins, a young widower with three children who has a childlike faith in Jesus Christ. Will Paul be God's instrument to free Valerie from the bonds of bitterness?


My Review: I ordered this book not realizing that this was a reprint of 3 stories published over 10 years ago from Heartsong Presents. When I first started reading Christian fiction these were some of the first stories that I had the privilege of reading, so it was nice to revisit some old friends. If you like nice, romantic inspirational novellas you will like this collection of novellas. Loree Lough is one of my favorite authors and even though these may not be my favorite stories of hers they are still worth reading.

As with most novellas, things seem to move quickly (every few chapters a few months has passed) but there is some action, tears, love and friendships that develop that make these good for a quick read on a busy day. Of course, since they are inspirational, each novella has a strong faith message, each one being a little different. This book would be a great gift for younger readers who may be new fans of the Heartsong books and haven't had the chance to read some of the older books that the club had to offer. I'm pleased that Whitaker House decided to bring these stories back in print and I hope to pick up a copy of Loree's contemporary collection, Prevailing Love.

To learn more about Loree Lough and her books visit:
HER WEBSITE
HER BLOG

*I received my copy from Cathy Hickling @ Whitaker House. Thank you!*