My Thoughts
Take a journey back in time as Wanda Brunstetters takes you back to the 1850's. I loved everything about this book. The first, was the way it was written and the pages that were made to looked like you were reading an older book. As simple as this story was written, it has such a powerful message. Hope. I really thought about the journey each character took and how much faith one would have to endure such a journey. To find hope when things are hopeless to question and wonder how are if we will ever make to the promise land. I encourage you to read this book and hope that you will be encouraged by the hope this book brings.
I was given a copy of this book and was under no obligation to give a positive review.

Wanda's new book takes us back to the year 1850, the setting in Missouri. It is based on a long journey in a covered wagon to the faraway state of California. This is a heartwarming romance dealing with strangers travelling many miles, all with their own pasts and hopes for the future. What a challenge!! The description was so vividly described, that the reader can feel the blustery , icy cold chilling their bones as they struggled toward their goal of reaching a new land.

The characters are realistically and well described, grabbing your attention, taking you alongside them on their difficult journey. the reader can easily feel every challenge, and hurt as well as each small success. Cynthia became my very good friend as she struggled to make sense of what God trying to do in her life.

The plot moved quickly, sometimes a bit too fast for me. It lost some of my interest as I needed or simply desired more from this tale. It would have been more to my liking if it was a longer more detailed plot. The rather abrupt ending left me wanting more. This being said, it was still a book worth reading. Wanda's style of pulling one into the character's lives makes each one of her novels unique and interesting.

Wanda Brunstetter takes a break from her usual Amish fiction to give her readers a heartwarming historical novella. This story takes place in 1850 and follows a journey across country to California to get rich digging for gold. The larger wagon train leave a week earlier so this one has three wagons. The first occupied by Cole and his sister and Coke was chosen to lead the trail. The second one is a widow with his two small children. And the third one has who is known as Mr. Walter Fancy Pants (and you will find out why the name as you read the story), Cynthia Cooper and her mother. Each person on the trail different, in their own way. And each taking a part in helping along the trail, that is except Walter, who thought he was too good to help. This group started off pretty good but they were hit with obstacles along the way that slowed them down more than they expected. Will they ever get to California?

This is a very sweet and heartwarming story, though I wish it was longer. Ms. Brunstetter does her usual awesome job of creating excellent characters, each scene vividly explained, and an interesting plot that keeps you wanting to find out what is happening next. I really enjoyed this group of characters, that is except Walter. He got on my nerves so much I was hoping the others would kick him out and make him see how hard the others were working.

And I guess that is the main thing I didn’t enjoy about the book. Walter and his attitude. Why didn’t they force him? And well, you will know what I mean when you read the book. And I highly recommend this one to everyone. It’s cover is beautiful, the story is beautiful and it takes an hour or hour and a half at the most to read it. So pick up your copy today. You won’t be disappointed.

This copy was provided by NetGalley. The opinions here are mine only.

The Christmas Prayer was a sweet, little novella. The story was not completely set at Christmas time. Much of the tale took place as a group of three wagon train families traveled across the country.

I really enjoyed the first half of the story. I was anxiously turning pages to see how things were going to play out. I enjoyed the way the main character, Cynthia, introduced each chapter of the story with her journal entries.

The last portion of the novella moved a little quickly for my taste. Before I knew it, the story was over and all was settled. I kept anticipating more romance and attraction and situations to boil over between the various characters, however, that never really happened.

I did enjoy this story as a sweet and clean read and I do recommend it to readers who enjoy a quick and easy novella for Christmas time.

(3.5 stars)

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

I really love Wanda Brunstetter's Amish stories so when I saw this I had to request a review. Thanks to the publisher for allowing me to. I loved this tale. This is a story that begins in the harsh winter of 1850, where covered wagons were the way to travel long distances and the elements weren't something just to complain about. This also plays with the heartstrings as our main character must chose between several suitors all the while taking care of her aging mother. A sweet and wonderful tale for Christmas!!!

The Christmas Prayer by Wanda E. Brunstetter is a heartwarming tale that take you back to 1850. Cynthia Cooper, her mother Mabel, and Cynthia's fiancée Walter Prentice missed the wagon train they had originally intended to join in Missouri and are instead having to travel with two other families that are also headed to California. Jack Simpson is traveling with his two young children, Alan and Amelia, and Cole Edwards is traveling with his sister, Virginia.

Cynthia is with Mr. Prentice, a much older man, not because she loves him but because he will be able to financially care for her and her mother. In all actuality Mr. Prentice is stuffy, pretentious and almost unbearable to be around. He is of no help to any of the other men during their trying journey and Cynthia finds herself fighting feelings for another man in the group and wondering how she will ever be able to share a life with Mr. Prentice.

When the team reaches the Sierra Nevada mountains bad weather, along with even more wagon issues, lead Jack and Cole to search for shelter, and they soon find a little log cabin in the middle of nowhere. The group is forced to stay in the cabin for months while winter rages on outside and patience and hope begins to wear thin as it nears Christmas. It is this, along with their dire situation, that Cynthia sends up a prayer on Christmas, and the group does what they can to make Christmas as special for the children as possible.

As you read you fall in love with the characters, with the exception of Mr. Prentice, who quickly gets on your nerves. You find yourself rooting for Cynthia and hoping that she ends up with anyone else but Mr. Prentice, as well as a happy ending for everyone in the group.

Wanda Brunstetter has a wonderful, fluid writing style that is easy to read and you find yourself getting lost in the story. It takes no time at all to read and it leaves you with a sweet smile on your face. It's the perfect story to kick off the holiday season.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and Barbour Publishing in exchange for an honest, unbiased review. All opinions are my own.

Here is to a wonderful story, that hosts characters on many journeys and one journey that will lead them all to a new path. I encourage readers that have enjoyed Wanda’s stories in the past to read this book. If you have never read a book by Wanda here is a perfect story to start with, it will bring comfort and joy to your soul and new friends to your fiction loving mind.

This is a wonderful easy read. It is a historical fiction story that is well written and interesting. I love all the characters. Cynthia needs to learn to be assertive in her life. All the characters will learn lessons during their trip along the Oregon trail. I did not put this book down until I was done. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

It's Fall. It's time for all things Fall-y, Halloween-y and best of all? Christmas-y! So, when I saw that Ms. Brunstetter was releasing The Christmas Prayer, I jumped on the chance! I love a good novella that's filled with snow, history and best of all? Wanda Brunstetter's addictive characters. This book had it all and so much more, for such a small, quick read.

Sitting down to read this, we are taken to history, during the 1850's, and introduced to some amazing, fun loving characters. Each character has something different for the story, each of their journeys for a different reason, but with God, prayer and unforgettable messages, these characters make being snowed in, a fun treat!

Ms. Brunstetter is the type of author who can write 5 star books across the genre grid. From Amish fiction to historical romance, she can bring the reader to the heart of the story instantly, and keep them their til the very last page is turned. Once you're finished, you want more. She's that good. Ms. Brunstetter is my top author when it comes to historical and Amish romances. If you are looking for a 5 star, winter-y read to set the mood for Christmas this year, look no further than this amazing, soul moving novella! Well done, Ms. Brunstetter! Well done!

Thanks to NetGalley and Barbour Publishing, Inc. for the read of Wanda E. Brunstetter’s, The Christmas Prayer.

I am a big fan of historical fiction, especially when the stories are sweet, romantic, exciting…and when courting meant courting.

Heading west on a wagon, facing the unknown hazards and dangers, Cynthia finds courage and determination, and a little adventure.

Reading this made my whole day.

Wonderful story and highly recommended.

This started off really well, three groups are heading via covered wagon to California circa 1850. Cynthia Cooper who is travelling with her mother and fiance is the main character. The two other groups are a widowed father with two young children as well as a brother and sister. If you are looking for an easy read this is the book for you. The ending for me felt rushed and not properly developed. I kind of saw the lead up to part of the outcome but I felt everything was just dropped in to make for a happy ending for everyone because the author had reached word count. Before that the tale was entertaining enough.

Who would attempt a cross-country journey through the Sierra Nevada Mountains in December? These three wagons did and yes… they got stranded in a little cabin, crowded, tempers, cold and Christmas seems not so Christmasy! Interesting times and a surprise ending! A nice short story and the actual paperback book is so pretty.

A small wagon train sets out for the West.
Walter, Cynthia Cooper, the woman he is to marry, and her mother are in one wagon. Jack Simpson, a widower, and his two children, Alan and Amelia are in another wagon. Cole, a single man, and his sister Virginia are in the third wagon. Walter is domineering but has agreed to marry Cynthia and care for her mother as well. Amelia has not spoken in 6 months since her mother's tragic death. Virginia has really helped with Jack's children.

The small wagon train had planned to meet up with the main wagon train. Follow the group as they try to reach California. Cynthia will give us a glimpse of their life on the rugged trail and then the snow starts to fall...lots of snow.

When I picked up this book the first thing I noticed was how small it was. Had I done even a smidgen of research I would have realized two things. First, this is actually a novella that is being re-released as a stand-alone book. Secondly, I would have realized that I’d read this story before, in a novella collection. Go figure, I mean come on me do research? Pulease! A favorite author releases a book and my first thought is ‘I gotta get my eyes on this one!’. That’s OK though, I mean after taking a much needed life hiatus from a lot of things (including blogging and reading) I’m jumping back in with almost both feet and something easy to read helps keep me from everything getting too much again. And Wanda is known for her easy to read, simpler storytelling style that is perfect for me right now.

That being said I found myself in the novella conundrum again. Getting a strong story in a short amount of space and words is hard. Even the best storytellers can fall flat in a novella setting. I had a smidge of this struggle with this novella but it wasn't’ too much and I didn’t feel like I lost an amazing story. Yes, there were parts that I wanted more depth, greater understand. However, those parts, while a yearning I had, did not take away from a well told story. My personal need for these was not something that would take away from the story for most readers. I would love to know more about how Cynthia and her mother became entangled with Walter. I mean, I got the basic logistics but I feel like there was so much more I would have loved to explored. I would love to know more depth about their journey west in the wagons as well as the interactions between the families, and more about how they truly felt about Walter. I want to know so much more about that Christmas conversation and how awkward it would have truly been when all the love entanglements were unraveled. I’m an emotional reader, and an emotional reviewer, and I needed more emotion that the average novella allows to develop.

At the end of the day I read a solid story of growth in self, growth in faith, and finding love. I read a story about hardships, and overcoming, and family. I read a story of how a group of people, thrown together by ambition and hardship, forged a family that doesn’t require a blood bond or legal documentation. Sometimes love does win, and it’s easier than you built it up to be in your head. While not a ‘Christmas’ story 'prayer' is the ultimate basis of this book. And for all my Christmas loving readers, this is a perfect book of faith and family and holiday blessings that will easily be a year round favorite and a must read during the holiday season.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by Barbour Publishing, NetGalley. I was not compensated for this review and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. I was not required to write a positive review.

This is a great novella to get you in the Christmas spirit! First of all, I was surprised to read a book by Wanda Brunstetter that was not Amish! Her transition into the historic world was seamless, and I found myself loving the story line as much as I love her Amish books. The story was so short that I devoured it in one sitting, and actually found myself longing for more! The characters were great, but I couldn’t help but think of how much more development there could have been from a full length novel. Perhaps we would have seen more interactions between all the characters, and more growth from them individually. But alas, that is just my readers heart wishing for more, as I do with many stories. The truth is, for a short length novella, this story was great.

I enjoyed Brunstetter’s choice of having multiple POV’s. It gave you a peek into how each family was faring with the difficult trip along the trail. I also enjoyed a little surprise twist at the end! Two of them actually. And while they almost felt sudden, mainly because this is a novella, I was completely satisfied with the outcome, and could reflect back on how it all happened. This was a sweet story, a story of following God’s lead, and making the best of a gloomy situation. I hope Ms. Brunstetter has more books like this for the future!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I enjoyed this historical novella—a departure from an author who usually writes about the Amish. This tale of pioneers follows a small group on the trail to California in 1850. They missed traveling with the wagon train so they take off on their own, with many challenges along the way. The realistic characters and setting draw readers into the story. There is plenty of excitement and danger to keep the pages flipping. Part of it is told through journal entries. I easily read the book in an afternoon. The story is similar to others dealing with that time and place, but does have a few surprises to keep things interesting, however, I didn’t find it memorable. It wasn’t one of the books I continue to ponder for a while, but it does offer an entertaining escape from our modern life and makes one glad our daily problems aren’t so rustic and hazardous. I received a copy through Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.

It's April, 1850 and 3 covered wagons head out from Independence, Missouri for California. A small group of travelers hoping to catch up with a larger wagon train. An interesting group of people - a widower with 2 young children, a blacksmith and his sister and a New York businessman planning to start a business in California. This unlikely gentleman has a young fiancé and her mother under his care. The rigors of the trail along with other setbacks finds the group in an unplanned situation. Can true love and perhaps even Santa Claus find them? Will prayers be answered?
The author has once again written a book that requires thought and consideration on the part of the reader. A most lovely way to spend a number of hours!
I received this ebook through CelebrateLit and this review gives my personal impressions and opinions.

With truly likable characters, a sprinkling of adventure, and a wisp of clean romance, The Christmas Prayer, by Wanda E. Brunstetter, is the perfect book for an afternoon of cozy reading. Ms. Brunstetter’s writing style is engaging and easy to read. The plot is quickly paced, and the descriptive story-telling makes the historic settings real and vibrant. As an historical fiction novella, The Christmas Prayer is an endearing story of perseverance and faith. It is a story of hope, courage, and new beginnings.
The frequent use of diary entries to further the story and reveal the characters’ thoughts and feelings is particularly enjoyable and relatable. The characters’ struggles, insecurities, fears, and beliefs are authentic and moving. Even though the characters endure real trials that test their assumptions and their faith, the light of God’s mercy shines through with the restorative power of grace and second chances. With warmth and heart, this novella also places a significant emphasis on family and the ways in which family members support, encourage, and protect one another.
The Christmas Prayer is a memorable holiday tale that could even be a nice read-aloud for the whole family. It would also make a thoughtful gift for a friend or relative. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical fiction that is inspirational, wholesome, and uplifting.
*I was given a copy of this novel by Celebrate Lit and NetGalley. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.

This story sounded familiar, so after investigating I discovered that it released in 2014 in The Westward Christmas Brides Collection. I had read it previously but re-read it to refresh my memory.
In April 1850, three wagons head to California from Missouri. Cynthia is in one wagon with her mother and the man she has promised to marry. Only she doesn't love him. She only wants financial security for her mother and herself. Another wagon holds a brother and sister and another a widowed father with two small children. They face many obstacles on their long and slow journey. Loose wagon wheels, rain storms, boggy mud, deep rivers not to mention threatening snow. Their original plan was to reach California before Christmas but these setbacks stood in the way. As their food supplies were getting low and snow impeded their search for live game, even the Donner Party was mentioned. How will they ever survive and what will Cynthia do as she realizes more and more what a heel her future husband is?
This was a really sweet novella, full of action, friendship, love and danger. I feel like it could easily be turned into a full length novel as the ending seemed kind of rushed. Only the epilogue told of their reaching California and what happened a few months later. But overall I enjoyed reading it once again.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through CelebrateLit but was not required to write a review.

Short but sweet story about faith and the miracle of prayer.

This story is an example of a prayer being answered during the Christmas season. I loved the story and the message. GOD has a plan for Cynthia. She must learn to trust that everything will work out.

Wanda Brunstetter always writes wonderful stories that transport you to another place or time. This is no exception. I enjoy reading anything she writes.

I am reading this in September but it is getting me in the holiday spirit.

I received this free to review.