Showing posts with label Carrie Turansky. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Carrie Turansky. Show all posts

Tuesday, June 8, 2021

Spotlight & Excerpt: No Journey Too Far by Carrie Turansky




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Synopsis

It's 1919, and Garth McAlister returns from to England to be reunited with his family after fighting in the Great War. But his heart is still in Canada with his sweetheart, Emma Lafferty. It's been four months since he has heard from Emma, and he is determined to return to Canada and discover if she still loves him or has given her heart to another. The ten-year-search for his youngest sister Grace continues, and the family is stunned to receive a letter from Grace, who is now almost eighteen and living in Toronto, Canada. Follow the heart-tugging story of these young adult British Home Children as they seek to be reunited with those they love.

EXCERPT

Prologue

Belleville, Ontario, Canada

May 1909

Grace McAlister held tight to her sister Katie’s hand as they slowly walked across the large open room in the Belleville Town Hall.

“It’s all right, Grace. We’re going to meet our new family this morning.” Katie smiled down at her, but it didn’t look like her real smile.

Grace swallowed hard and pushed out her words. “What if they’re not nice?”

“Anyone who would take in children who are not their own must have a kind heart.” Her words sounded brave, but she still looked worried.

Grace matched Katie’s steps as they followed the line of girls who had come with them on the big ship from England to Canada and then on the train to Belleville. She wished she had eaten more of the porridge at breakfast that morning, but her tummy felt funny, and she’d pushed her bowl aside after a few bites. She missed Mum, Garth, and Laura. Where were they? Why didn’t they come and take her and Katie home?

Grace and Katie joined the line of girls along the back wall of the room. Miss Delaney, the tall lady with red hair who had come over on the ship with them, talked to two men and an old lady sitting at a long table in the front of the room.

Who were they? Where was her new family? Would they like her? When could she and Katie go home and see Mum?

A buzzing began in Grace’s head like there was a bee inside. She squeezed her eyes tight until the buzzing finally went away. Taking a slow deep breath, she opened her eyes. Everything would be all right. Katie promised it would.

She smoothed the pinafore over her green dress. All the other girls were dressed the same, and each wore a blue jacket and straw hat like hers. Most of the girls were bigger, like Katie, who was fourteen. She looked down the row, searching for Millie, the only girl in their group younger than Grace. Millie was six, and Grace was seven. They’d played together on the ship. Would Millie find a new family too? What if no one wanted her? What if no one wanted Grace and Katie?

The buzzing in her head came back. She stepped closer to Katie and leaned against her side. Her sister’s arm felt warm like when they used to sit together in the big chair at home and Katie would read her a story.

Miss Delaney crossed the room and stopped in front of Grace. She wore a plain brown dress and small hat, and her pink cheeks were covered with freckles. “All right, girls. I want you to stand up straight. Look smart and be quiet and respectful to the people who come in to see you.”

Grace’s tummy tightened. She peeked up at Katie. Her sister stood taller and lifted her chin like Miss Delaney.

A side door opened, and a man and lady walked in and came toward the line of girls. The man was tall and wore a black suit and hat. He looked at each girl as he and the lady moved down the line. The lady wore a dress the color of pennies. Her big hat was the same color, with lots of flowers and feathers on top. She had a pretty face and blue eyes. As the lady came closer, Grace could see she had brown hair under her hat.

The man and lady stopped in front of them. The lady looked down at Grace for a few seconds and smiled. She turned to the man. He nodded and then took the lady’s arm and they moved down the row.

“They didn’t like us?” Grace’s voice felt tight and shaky.

Katie put her arm around Grace. “Don’t worry. I’m sure there are more families coming in soon.”

Grace fiddled with the edge of her pinafore and counted the boards on the floor around her. She thought about Mum and the times they used to go to the park near their flat over the dress shop. Grace liked feeding the ducks and chasing Garth and Katie across the grass. Mum would smile as she watched them from the bench in the shade of the big tree by the pond. Grace wished they could all go to the park again.

“I’d like you to come with me, Grace.”

Grace sucked in a breath and looked up. Miss Delaney stood in front of her.

Katie gripped Grace’s hand. “Why? Where are you taking her?” Her voice sounded high and scared.

Miss Delaney motioned toward the front of the room where the man and lady stood. “That couple would like to talk to her.”

Katie pressed her lips together for a second, then nodded. “Go ahead, Grace.” Katie let go of Grace’s hand. “Just be sure to tell them I’m your sister and we have to stay together.”

Before Grace could answer, Miss Delaney took her hand and tugged her across the room. Her face felt hot, and she could feel her heart beating hard. Why couldn’t Katie come with her to talk to the man and lady? What did they want to say to her?

“This is Grace.” Miss Delaney gave her a little push toward the man and lady. “She’s seven years old.”

The lady in the penny-colored dress smiled. “Hello, Grace. I’m Mrs. Hamilton, and this is Mr. Hamilton.”

Grace knew she should say something, but she couldn’t make her voice come out. She bit her lip and looked at the floor.

“Have you been to school yet?” The man’s voice was strong and loud.

Grace kept her eyes down. If she said yes, would they ask her to count or recite? She could do that with Katie but not with people she didn’t know.

The lady bent down toward her. “Can you tell us something you enjoy doing?” Her voice sounded nice, but when Grace glanced at her face, there were lines across the lady’s forehead. Was she mad because Grace didn’t answer?

Grace peeked over her shoulder at Katie. Her sister sent her a pleading look, but Grace wasn’t sure what she was supposed to say or do.

“Mr. Hamilton and I have a dog named Cooper,” the lady continued. “He’s a very pretty collie. We like to take him for walks in the park or spend time with him out in our garden. Do you like dogs?”

Most of the dogs Grace had seen in London lived on the street and weren’t very friendly. Her mum had always told her to stay away from them. What should she say?

“What’s your favorite food?” the lady asked.

If she said Mum’s meat pies, would they know what she meant? Grace shrugged.

The man frowned. “Why won’t she speak to us?”

Mrs. Hamilton patted Grace’s shoulder. “I’m sure this is all a bit overwhelming.” She turned to Miss Delaney. “Do you have information about her background and family? Is she in good health?”

“She’s in excellent health. All the children are given examinations before they leave England and on arrival in Canada.” Miss Delaney opened a file and sorted through some papers. “She’s an orphan from London with no relatives who can care for her. She was born on May 16.” She closed the file and looked up at Mrs. Hamilton. “I can assure you she will have more to say once she feels comfortable. Isn’t that right, Grace?”

“Yes ma’am,” Grace whispered.

Mr. and Mrs. Hamilton looked at each other. Mr. Hamilton nodded and then turned to Miss Delaney. “Very well. We’ll take her.”

Grace gasped. They were going to take her? What about Katie? She turned and looked toward the back wall. Her sister watched her with wide eyes.

Mr. Hamilton stepped up to the table and signed a paper. Mrs. Hamilton took Grace’s hand and started toward the side door.

Grace pulled back. “Wait!”

“It’s all right, dear.” Mrs. Hamilton gripped harder and continued toward the door. “Our motorcar is just outside. Have you ever ridden in a motorcar?”

“No! No!” She screamed and tried to wriggle away.

Mrs. Hamilton held on tight. “There’s no need to make a fuss.”

Grace’s eyes burned and overflowed, and her cries turned to jerky sobs.

“That’s enough! Settle down, Grace!” Mr. Hamilton scooped her up and hurried across the room.

Grace tried to get away, but Mr. Hamilton’s strong arms pressed her hard against his chest. She jerked her head up, searching for her sister as they passed out the door. Katie stood by the wall, a wide-eyed, fearful look on her face. Grace’s heart lurched, and she screamed her sister’s name. But the door slammed behind them, and she couldn’t see Katie anymore.

 

Excerpted from No Journey Too Far. Copyright © 2021 by Carrie Turansky. Used by permission of Multnomah, an imprint of Penguin Random House LLC.

 


ABOUT THE AUTHOR
 
CARRIE TURANSKY is an award-winning author of twenty novels and novellas. She has won the ACFW Carol Award, the Crystal Globe Award, and the International Digital Award, and she was a finalist for the Inspirational Reader’s Choice Award and the Maggie Award of Excellence.

A prolific writer of contemporary and historical romance,
women’s fiction, short stories, articles, and devotionals, Turansky
lives in central New Jersey with her husband, Scott. They have
five adult children and six grandchildren.
 
For more information, visit www.carrieturansky.com.
Facebook: @AuthorCarrieTuransky
Twitter/Instagram: @CarrieTuransky






Tuesday, February 9, 2021

Review: A Joyful Christmas by Cynthia Hickey, Liz Johnson, Vickie McDonough, Liz Tolsma, Carrie Turansky, Erica Vetsch



My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

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Synopsis

A Christmas Collection to Warm the Heart
Grab a warm cup of tea and watch as romance is kindled and joy is restored to broken lives during six bygone era Christmas celebrations.
 
A Christmas Castle by Cynthia Hickey
Married by proxy in Missouri, Annie Morgan sets off for Tombstone, Arizona, to join her new husband as a cattle rancher. But too soon she finds herself a widow with an unexpected daughter and butting heads with her handsome neighbor.
 
A Star in the Night
by Liz Johnson
Wounded within Confederate territory, Union officer Jedediah Harrington finds refuge at the tiny cabin of Cora Sinclair and her grandfather. Still haunted by what she saw as a battlefield hospital volunteer, Cora finds that only Jed can understand. But, though she longs to give him her heart, the risks to both of them are too great.
 
An Irish Bride for Christmas by Vickie McDonough
When Jackson Lancaster’s brother and wife die, he takes his three-year-old niece home. But a meddling busy-body makes the judge give her custody “because an unmarried man shouldn’t raise a little girl.” Now Jackson has until Christmas to find a bride or lose his niece forever. Larkin Doyle is grateful her employer took in the orphan and believes Jackson abandoned his niece. When her heart says otherwise, will romance blossom? 
 
Under His Wings by Liz Tolsma
Adie O’Connell, orphaned and left alone in a dangerous Wisconsin logging camp, seeks the stability she once knew when both her parents lived. Despite the compassion and friendship offered by Noah “Preacher Man” Mitchell, she refuses to consider marriage to a man always drifting from one job to another for God.
 
Shelter in the Storm by Carrie Turansky
The daughter of a wealthy Tennessee doctor, Rachel Thornton begins nursing James Galloway, a wounded artist-war correspondent. As James recovers, their hearts draw closer together. Having already lost one sweetheart to the war, Rachel is hesitant to reveal her feelings for James, who insists on returning to the front lines. Would she be safer in the arms of another man?
 
Christmas Service by Erica Vetsch
Beth Sorensen has been put in charge of the Christmas pageant at the little log church, and this year she wants something different. But she didn’t count on a Minnesota blizzard paralyzing the whole town. Can the blacksmith teach this preacher’s daughter about what it means to serve one another in love through the storm?


My Review

What's better than a Christmas novella? A collection of them! This one features several authors I enjoy, and I found all the stories to be engaging and heartwarming. I love reading Christmas stories any time of the year, and being able to feel that special holiday spirit that is inspiring and uplifting. These are all historical settings, with compelling plots and relatable characters. Perfect for binge reading or spreading out over a busy time of life, with quick access to a happy ending.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.



Saturday, March 31, 2018

Review: Across the Blue by Carrie Turansky


Heidi Reads... Across the Blue by Carrie Turansky

My rating: 3 stars / I liked it

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Synopsis

Set in Edwardian England and ideal for readers who enjoy Julie Klassen novels, this romance about an English aviation pioneer and the girl who falls in love with him is filled with adventure and faith.

Isabella Grayson, the eldest daughter of a wealthy, English newspaper magnate, longs to become a journalist, but her parents don't approve. They want her to marry well and help them gain a higher standing in society. After she writes an anonymous letter to the editor that impresses her father, her parents reluctantly agree she can write a series of articles about aviation and the race to fly across the English Channel, but only if she promises to accept a marriage proposal within the year. When James Drake, an aspiring aviator, crashes his flying machine at the Grayson's new estate, Bella is intrigued. James is determined to be the first to fly across the Channel and win the prize Mr. Grayson's newspaper is offering. He hopes it will help him secure a government contract to build airplanes and redeem a terrible family secret. James wants to win Bella's heart, but his background and lack of social standing make it unlikely her parents would approve. If he fails to achieve his dream, how will he win the love and respect he is seeking? Will Bella's faith and support help him find the strength and courage he needs when unexpected events turn their world upside down?


My Review

I enjoyed the historical aspect of this novel, the subject matter definitely stood out to me since I had not read a book that focused on the advent of flight and its swift progress. It is easily apparent that the author meticulously researched early aviation and the experiences of the pilots and engineers. The overall pace of the book was too slow for me however, and I was missing the impetus to keep turning the pages. The attraction and romance between Bella and James is sweet, yet tepid as they both have strong goals with journalism and flying. This is a book that will be enjoyed by readers who prefer a strong historical focus over a character-driven story.

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)


Saturday, March 3, 2018

Lucky is Reading! Giveaway Hop



A book that I feel lucky to have read is the newest from Carrie Turansky, Across the Blue! I felt like the history really came to life and the characters were great. Enter to win a copy below and check out the other blogs on the hop! Special thanks to Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing for providing the giveaway!

GIVEAWAY! Across the Blue by Carrie Turansky

http://www.amazon.comhttp://www.amazon.comhttp://www.barnesandnoble.comhttp://www.bookdepository.comhttp://www.goodreads.com

Synopsis

Set in Edwardian England and ideal for readers who enjoy Julie Klassen novels, this romance about an English aviation pioneer and the girl who falls in love with him is filled with adventure and faith.

Isabella Grayson, the eldest daughter of a wealthy, English newspaper magnate, longs to become a journalist, but her parents don't approve. They want her to marry well and help them gain a higher standing in society. After she writes an anonymous letter to the editor that impresses her father, her parents reluctantly agree she can write a series of articles about aviation and the race to fly across the English Channel, but only if she promises to accept a marriage proposal within the year. When James Drake, an aspiring aviator, crashes his flying machine at the Grayson's new estate, Bella is intrigued. James is determined to be the first to fly across the Channel and win the prize Mr. Grayson's newspaper is offering. He hopes it will help him secure a government contract to build airplanes and redeem a terrible family secret. James wants to win Bella's heart, but his background and lack of social standing make it unlikely her parents would approve. If he fails to achieve his dream, how will he win the love and respect he is seeking? Will Bella's faith and support help him find the strength and courage he needs when unexpected events turn their world upside down?




Thursday, March 24, 2016

Hoppy Easter Giveaway Hop!



Happy Easter! This is one of my favorite holidays. It reminds me of the gift of the Atonement and resurrection from our Savior Jesus Christ, and it gives me hope that I will be reunited with my loved ones who have passed on, especially my dad who I miss more than I can say. 

Enter below for a chance to win a copy of The Daughter of Highland Hall by Carrie Turansky! I rated this book 4 stars- I really liked it- and you can read my review here.


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Synopsis

Eighteen-year-old Katherine Ramsey travels to London with her family to make her debut into society and hopefully find her future husband. Her overbearing aunt insists she must secure a proposal from a wealthy young man who is in line to inherit his father’s title and estate. But Katherine questions her aunt’s plans when she gets to know Jonathan Foster, a handsome medical student and strong Christian who is determined to protect the poor and vulnerable in London’s East End. When a family scandal puts a damper on Katherine’s hopes for the season, she has time to volunteer with Jonathan, caring for children in one of London’s poorest areas, and romance blossoms. Katherine’s faith grows and she begins to envision a different future with Jonathan. But when Katherine’s work in the East End puts her in danger, Jonathan distances himself from Katherine to protect her. A wealthy suitor reappears, and Katherine must choose which path to follow.


Friday, November 14, 2014

Gratitude Giveaway Hop! Enter to win The Daughter of Highland Hall!




One of the things I am grateful for this holiday season is the wonderful people who follow this blog! It has been a fun year of reading amazing books and finding fabulous deals on e-books! I love interacting with you all :)

So this giveaway has only one requirement- be a follower of Heidi Reads... and let me know your favorite way of following! Enter for a chance to win a copy of The Daughter of Highland Hall by Carrie Turansky, which I really enjoyed- you can read my review here.



Follow the Gratitude Giveaway Hop hosted by I Am a Reader, Not A Writer for more book related giveaways!

Friday, October 31, 2014

Review: The Daughter of Highland Hall by Carrie Turansky


The Daughter of Highland Hall by Carrie Turansky

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

http://www.amazon.comhttp://www.barnesandnoble.comhttp://www.goodreads.com

Synopsis

Eighteen-year-old Katherine Ramsey travels to London with her family to make her debut into society and hopefully find her future husband. Her overbearing aunt insists she must secure a proposal from a wealthy young man who is in line to inherit his father’s title and estate. But Katherine questions her aunt’s plans when she gets to know Jonathan Foster, a handsome medical student and strong Christian who is determined to protect the poor and vulnerable in London’s East End. When a family scandal puts a damper on Katherine’s hopes for the season, she has time to volunteer with Jonathan, caring for children in one of London’s poorest areas, and romance blossoms. Katherine’s faith grows and she begins to envision a different future with Jonathan. But when Katherine’s work in the East End puts her in danger, Jonathan distances himself from Katherine to protect her. A wealthy suitor reappears, and Katherine must choose which path to follow.

My Review

This book is told from multiple points of view and has several plots going on. I think it worked in this case since none are too complex and they are also intertwined. Kate seemed slightly immature at the beginning but it was nice to see her character growth as she is exposed to opportunities to be of service to others. Her relationship with Jon grows slowly and steadily throughout the novel which is my favorite kind of romance- beginning with friendship. It has the feel of a Regency even though the setting is early 20th century, I think because of the setting in London and focus on Kate's debut season.

(Thank you to Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing and Litfuse Publicity for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)