I really wanted to like this book, but unfortunately for me it fell totally flat. It's your run-of-the-mill, exceptionally beautiful and perfect girl has too many handsome men interested in her story. I appreciated the Christian themes but even they were not enough to cover up the lacking plot.

A CHOICE CONSIDERED is a great pick for fans of historical romance with a faith message. The author spins a lovely story of romance combined with a personal journey that is almost akin to a coming of age or self discovery story.

I really enjoyed following along Melody and Charles' adventures as they come into their own and find their way to each other. The narrative has an easy feeling combined with just the right amount of low-stakes tension.

The author does a wonderful job of conveying life in the late 19th century, and I learned a lot about the railroad and the culture of the place and time.

I especially admired how the novel explores the idea of grappling with society's expectations and following your heart's desire while honoring your obligations.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance e-galley; all opinion in this review are 100% my own.

A Choice Considered is the second book in the Heart of Cheyenne series by Tracie Peterson. This book picks up where book #1 left off and I think while you could do this as a stand alone, you won't be able to really understand the other characters that are mentioned in the story.

Melody is one of those beautiful wouldn't-hurt-a-fly type of women who always has a kind word for everyone. I really liked her from the first book and I think she was given a good story. Charlie is a great guy and I think it was interesting to see how he progressed through his experiences with banking to teaching. There is always a great faith message in Tracie's books.

This book wasn't highly intriguing, nor did it have a lot of deep moments. It was just one of those easy-solid reads.

4 stars

*I was given a complimentary copy of the ARC by the publishers and NetGalley. I wasn't required to write a positive review and all thoughts are my own.

This is a heartfelt Christian Historical Romance. Set in early Cheyenne, Wyoming, it shows the love of a daughter as she looks for a husband and comes to terms with her father’s failing health. Tracie Peterson always delivers the best books. This brings such an amazing show of God’s love, forgiveness, and is grace. Allows the reader to understand God’s forgiveness and ability to allow us to forgive ourselves. Can’t wait for the third in the series.

I generally enjoy Tracie Peterson's books, but this one left me wanting a bit more. Melody McGregor lives in the railroad tent village in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Her Da, Clancy McGregor, has been off work because of a back injury. What she doesn't know is that her father has been hiding a more grave illness. She knows the railroad will soon be moving to the next stop but she wants to settle down. Her father says he will allow this as long as she chooses a husband before the railroad moves. What he really wants is for her to find a husband before he dies. He decides to set her up on a series of blind dates that were disastrous from the very outset. The man he really wants her to marry is someone else entirely.
I enjoyed reading A Choice Considered for the most part, but it fell a little flat--it was overly sweet, predictable, with not a lot of activity in the plot. It is clear from the beginning who Melody's husband will be, who the bad guy is, and while the bad guy is easily discerned before he shows his true colors, his actions are tame compared to other books I've read. Even though I didn't care for this book as much as others, I will continue to read Tracie's books. She is usually a good author. This one was just a miss for me.

Three Stars

Bethany House provided the copy I read for this review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

Title: A Captivating Tale of Love and Choice: A Review of "A Choice Considered" by Tracie Peterson

As an advance reader fortunate enough to delve into Tracie Peterson's latest novel, "A Choice Considered," I found myself captivated by the intricate dance of love and duty set against the backdrop of the transcontinental railroad's construction.

The story revolves around Melody Doyle, a young woman who has trailed her father's work on the railroad for years. When she expresses her desire to settle down in Cheyenne, her father throws her a curveball: she must find a husband before he leaves. This unconventional challenge sparks a flurry of attention from the town's men, leaving Melody questioning the prospect of a marriage based on such circumstances.

Enter Charles Decker, the heir to a banking dynasty sent west to manage the family's new bank. Despite his yearning for a simpler life as a teacher, duty calls him to the family business. However, his friendship with Melody challenges his notions of duty and tradition, leading him to confront his own desires and feelings.

Peterson masterfully weaves a tale of romance, duty, and the struggle for personal fulfillment. The characters are richly drawn, each with their own desires and conflicts that add depth to the narrative. Melody's determination and independence shine through, making her a compelling protagonist whose journey resonates with readers.

The historical setting adds another layer of richness to the story, offering a glimpse into the challenges and opportunities of life in the late 19th century. From the bustling construction of the railroad to the societal expectations placed upon women and men of that era, Peterson paints a vivid picture of the time.

What truly sets "A Choice Considered" apart is its exploration of the power of choice. Melody and Charles must grapple with the expectations of others, the weight of duty, and their own hearts' desires. Through their journey, readers are reminded that true happiness often lies in following one's own path, even when it diverges from what society expects.

In conclusion, "A Choice Considered" is a beautifully written novel that seamlessly blends romance, history, and themes of self-discovery. Tracie Peterson has crafted a compelling story that will linger in the hearts of readers long after the final page is turned.

A Choice Considered
By Tracie Peterson
Publisher: Bethany House
Series: The Heart of Cheyenne, Book 2
Rated: 3-4
Obtain: Borrow
Back of the Book: “Melody Doyle has spent years following her father across the country as the transcontinental railroad is built. When she announces her desire to settle down in Cheyenne, her father presents her with an unconventional challenge: he will allow her to stay if she finds a husband before his departure. As word spreads and the men in town vie for her hand, she wonders if she could ever be happy with a husband chosen in such a way.
Charles Decker, heir to a banking dynasty, has been sent west by his father to manage their family's new bank. His heart yearns for a simple life of teaching, but banking is the family business, and Charlie feels obligated to fall in line. When his friendship with Melody blossoms, he's drawn to this remarkable woman who defies conventions. Will he be able to come to terms with his growing feelings for her and confront the true desires of his own heart before it's too late?”

Impressions: This was a sweet romance, but it was slow and predictable. Although this is part of a series, I read it as a stand-alone novel without any issues. The gospel was sprinkled throughout the text and the characters put great emphasis on their faith. I appreciated Charles emphasis on being a friend to Melody and building a relationship on that foundation. The ending was predictable, but the story was still enjoyable to read.

Quotes: “’A man is a fool who stands as his own counsel.’”

“’ God has a plan, Charlie. Da always says that those good things we long for are the desires that God has put in our hearts. Trust Him to know what to do with your dream. If God gave it life, He’ll be good to grow it to fruition.’” - A mentor of mine in middle school told me something similar and it was something that stuck with me in life. My desires are not bad, but they are in God's timing not mine. They may also not turn out as I believed but through God's wisdom.

“’ What if my faith isn’t strong enough? What if I fail this test?’ ‘You won’t. The devil wants you to think you will, but you won’t. God has promised He’ll never leave nor forsake you. You have Him at your side, and His strength will be enough. His grace will be sufficient just as it was for Paul.’”

I received an ARC of this book via the publisher through NetGalley for my honest review shared here.

As always I loved this book! So realistic!
Melody reminds me of myself temper and all lol.
I really cheered when mean Jason got his due. He deserved it!
In more ways than one I felt that this author is writing my life's story. It definitely brought back some memories of growing up.
I really enjoyed in getting to know Charlie! He was awesome and sweet.
I loved his enthusiasm even tho he wasn't happy with his father's decisions. Life's all about the choices we make and even about the choices we can't control. Only God can and He knows what and where He wants us. It's just a matter of figuring it out.
I like the theme of this book. Learning to forgive. Trust is next. The romance in my opinion is what makes this story special.
I enjoyed meeting Melody and Charles. It was a delight in getting to know them.
The other characters were fun too. [

I really enjoyed this book.
It was humorous and sad. Da was a very interesting character. Loved his scheme to find Melody a husband. But God had it all worked out.
Both of the father characters were interesting. I was actually dreading Mr. Decker's arrival but what a surprise that turned out to be.
Would highly recommend this book.
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC.

"A Choice Considered" is a romance set in Cheyenne, Wyoming in 1868. It's very slow-paced, with many details about cooking or planting a garden (or watering it by bucket and ladle...she could have used a watering can as they did have them back then, but, no). Some details were questionable, like why she deliberately cooked a roast a day early and then thought it'd still be perfectly cooked after sitting in an oven as the oven cooled and then leaving it in there with no refrigeration. Or the way Melody and her father lived in a tent but regularly left the stove untended (which was somehow in the tent without causing smoke problems) and food was left out on the table, which should have been snatched in no time by animals. Or how one of the suitors pointed a shotgun at a friendly dog who was near Melody; he'd have known it was dangerous to shoot a rifle in her direction, and using shot was even worse as it'd likely hit her! Not the way to win a wife, but that wasn't what upset Melody.

Any conflict in the story was soon resolved (or good or bad) in a way that didn't create suspense. Things could have caused suspense, like Melody's father's health preventing him from working, but everything just works out, and usually pretty quickly. I still can't believe that Charlie somehow forgot to take back the keys when he fired an employee, even though the employee had just stated he regularly unlocked and locked up the bank and Charlie was about to lock up the bank himself. Anyway.

The story was basically Charlie spending time with Melody so that they could become friends (with the intent on his part to marry her) while she dealt with the marriage prospects and cared for her father. They got along well. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this to people looking for a sweet romance with minimal suspense.

The second in the "Heart of Cheyenne" series follows a side character from the first book. This book can be read independently but given that the book includes characters previous mentioned, I do suggest reading them in order.

Tracie always comes up with interesting plot points and strong characters. I think that while you may not able to relate to the specific problems, if you look hard enough, you can find things in your life that are similar feelings to what the characters are going through. This to me makes it a good book.

I will be ordering it for the library and waiting for the next book in the series.

I receive complimentary books for various sources including, Netgalley, Authors, and other such sources. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received compensation.

A Choice Considered, is a touching and inspiring historical Christian romance. Melody wants to stay in her small town when her father continues over to the next town. He insists that she must marry or else come with him. Thus starts the race for her hand in marriage by all the eligible bachelors. Enter Charlie a handsome banker. Their connection is adorable and the faith content in this book is great! I loved reading it and look forward to this author’s third book.

YouTube Review: 04/17/24
YouTube Handle: KeenCat

Tracie Peterson never disappoints me with her books. This is a sweet story of a loving earthly father and a seems true to the times. It is refreshing to read a clean Christian fiction that represents a loving family and a loving heavenly Father. My only complaint is that the transitions from characters or settings is not marked or spaced at all. It would be a big upgrade to me to even have a double line space between as a transition. I recommend.

Melody is the daughter of a railroad worker who suffered an injury to ha back while they were working in Cheyenne, WY. Meoldy longs for some permanency to her life and after making friends in Cheyenne, asks her father for permission to remain in the upcoming town without him. He agrees if she finds a husband before the railroad moves on. The catch, he has to approve then too.

Charlie Decker is new to Cheyenne taking over for his ill brother at the new savings and loan in town. Secretly, he hates banking and wants to be a teacher.

Will these two find thier happiness and hearts desire?
This story is a slow burn for those cozy nights. I live in WY and so I was excited to give it a read!! I enjoyed all the characters and the story was nicely written and believable.

If you like Christian romances set in days of old - this is perfect for you!!

I lasted around 54% of the Kindle copy I was reading, and the dramatic plot twist with one character that I was really hoping would not happen, did happen so I did not finish reading this novel. The beginning seemed rushed with the whole marriage market-esque exchange between Melody and her father. Melody seemed a little whiney when talking to her friends about not wanting to leave Cheyenne, and I don't know why a banker who hates banking and loves teaching doesn't just already find a teaching position instead of going on and on about honoring his father, even though he doesn't enjoy it. I didn't like Jefferson, the bank assistant, at all... too calculating and snooty. If readers can handle the situation that Melody faces halfway into the novel, then they would probably enjoy this book by an established Christian fiction author. I, however, don't want to read fiction that makes me sad and worry about the people in my life.

Thank you @netgalley and @bethanyhousefiction for the eARC of A Choice Considered by @authortraciepeterson in exchange for an honest review!

📖📖 Book Review 📖📖 Cheyenne, Wyoming 1868, A Choice Considered is a rare glimpse back into the Wild West. Melody is the daughter of an Irish immigrant who is building the railroads out west. She falls in love with Cheyenne and makes a deal with her father to marry in exchange for permission to stay in her beloved town. This book is so beautifully written, feeling like time travel back yet with a glimpse of modern day feminism ahead of its time. Melody is coming of age in a rough and rowdy time and place, yet she follows her heart and speaks her mind. Charlie Decker is a descendant of Dutch immigrants finding his way as the next generation banking heir who befriends Melody. Their story intertwines seamlessly to create a beautiful tapestry of finding your own personal epic story in the throes of the American dream.

Review is posted on Goodreads and will be on Instagram well ahead of the publication date!

A CHOICE CONSIDERED is rhe second novel in The Heart of Cheyenne series by TRACIE PETERSON, but it can easily stand alone. It is a beautifully written historical romance in which the author, in her special way, takes us through her characters’ joys, sorrows and struggles. There is also a strong Christian message of hope and restoration.
The story takes place in Cheyenne Wyoming in 1868 with many of the unforgettable characters from the first book. With the exodus of many of the roughnecks, yand some of the saloons and houses of ill repute having moved out of the area, the town is much safer than it used to be.
Melody Doyle lives with her railway worker father, Clancy, in a tent. Father and daughter are very close and when Melody decides she would like to remain in Cheyenne when her father is well enough to return to work, her father refuses to leave her until she has a husband to look after her. Clancy Doyle, who has a strong gift of discernment, chooses several men from the district to court Melody……
Charlie Dekker .is the new manager of his father’s bank in Cheyenne but, although he takes his position seriously, his real passion is teaching……
The strory is exciting and the romance is sweet. I cannot recommend this delightful and thought provoking novel with its stron emphasis on unconditiinal love, friendship and strong family bonds, highly enough.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

This story, written by a favorite author, is a page turner. Characters who are realistic keep the story moving quickly. I liked this book. I really like this author. She never disappoints. From the first page...to the last page...a quick read...curl up in a comfy chair, grab a warm afghan, and become engrossed in this story. You won't be sorry. Thanks Netgalley.