Most of the Christian or clean romances published by a Christian publishing house I read are extremely light in the Christian aspect, if it's mentioned at all. Most of these, though not all, are on the heavier-handed side. Very Protestant throughout.

A Woman of Valor – 2.5 stars. Little on the preachy side, but sweet enough. I didn't care for that the ending was so tidy concerning the cousin and his remarrying, so that our main couple could feel good about leaving the children. The cousin was an inattentive poor excuse for a father, and changes his ways overnight. His soon-to-be wife is a lovely individual who will dote on the children. It was all too easy.

A Duplicitous Facade – 1 stars. I disliked almost everything about this. The Christian aspect is very heavy-handed, to the point of the MC quoting Scripture but doesn't even realize it at first. The husband is pleased by his “demure” wife, and brings up the obedience part of their vows, for no good reason. Our main character can't see her own sister is gunning for her husband, but then the sister is given a pass because she only did it because she didn't think her sister loved him. Blech.

Love's Unmasking – 4 stars. Finally, a good one! Forced engagement, both parties trying to get the other to cry off (though obviously the man isn't supposed to), and a murder plot. Bonus points for better writing, though I don't care for when we get inner prayer thoughts from characters. Or if we do, can it be brief and not a paragraph? I kept trying to understand why they acted/said that there were no Christians in England, because, correct me if I'm wrong, but was not England primarily Christian of some sort in the 1800's (and also before for many years)? But then I was thinking, maybe they mean, like practicing Christian? Cos everybody knows someone who persists in saying they are of their religion, but definitely isn't in practice or beliefs. So I'm assuming that's what was meant, cos that makes sense.

A Treasure Worth Keeping – 4 stars. Despite the sin of naming the main character Paige Turner (and in the 1800's, no less) this one was pretty good. Mr. Turner and Paige are employed to categorize and generally remodel the library of one Earl of Pemberton. His mother has plans to find him a wife, so a small house party is being thrown at the same time. A hidden room in the library has a Gutenberg Bible (where most of the religious aspect comes from in this one). The characters are likable and romance and religion were well-handled.

Apple of His Eye – DNF. I gave up after 4 pages. I was put off by the dialogue/MC's inner monologue, her calling the orchard keeper a “gentleman” for his behavior, and quoting/flirting Scripture with him within minutes of meeting him.

Moonlight Masquerade – 2.5 stars. Not bad. There was highwaymen and mistaken identity and a masquerade ball, but already I don't remember much else about it.

These last three all take place in Scotland and, over the course of several hundred years, all feature in some way the same castle. Characters from the earlier stories in the timeline are mentioned as well, if they aren't distant relatives.

Fayre Rose – 2 stars. I mostly detest medieval stories. It's mostly the dialogue I cannot stand, or maybe Melanie Dickerson just put me off them for good. Either way, I don't tend to like them. There's a lecherous creep intent on raping her (THERE ALWAYS IS) and the MC frequently makes comments about her being property but the Laird doesn't treat her like chattel and isn't that just the greatest? I dunno, I just can't get behind this time period. Also, the horse's name is Dazzle?? Lol.

Fresh Highland Heir – 2 stars. The newly minted owners of the castle are the targets of some unhappy clansfolk. The new Laird hires a body-guard for his daughter. Insta-Love ensues and I hated most of the dialogue. Otherwise, it was fine. It's VERY Protestant though. "Have ye accepted His Salvation?" I'm sorry, I genuinely want to know if this was being spouted off in 1748.

And then there was this:
"He is my servant. Mine to order as I will" The idea had its attractions. She imagined him wild with desire for her. How she would laugh and spurn him, her devoted slave!"

That's fairly awful. And I don't recall her having an intense change of heart throughout the story. Allan is the more religious of the two, I believe, but it's not like she was supposed to be a heathen. I'm just saying, that wouldn't be accepted if it was the man doing it, so why does she get to say such things?

English Tea and Bagpipes – 4 stars. A Scottish lass and an Englishman elope. Their sister and brother, respectively, reluctantly team up to chase them down and hopefully persuade them otherwise. 10 points if you guess what happens from there. Christian element much subtler in this one. A good one to end with. The first couple are told to go marry in the C of E though, and I am curious how that would have worked, as I'm assuming (based off the story and time and their support of Bonnie Prince Charlie) that Gwyneth was Catholic. Are we just going with that she ditched her religion? That's sad.

This is a nicely varied collection of stories, spanning centuries in their settings. It was interesting to note the differences between the eras in speech, dress, traditions, and society. I found each story to have a compelling plot and characters. Sometimes the drama was a bit much, but I loved the sweet endings. The Christian theme runs strong among them as well, with conversion being worked into many plots, and often at least one of the main characters would be devout. I enjoy characters with strong faith, but when the narrative turns preachy I tend to skim. Overall this was a strong collection and I was glad to get to know the writing styles of the authors.

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.

For the most part, I enjoyed this vast lineup of stories from Barbour! Before I began reading, the cover of the book alone invited me in, which depicts the beautiful English countryside. There is drama, mystery, and romance in these faith-filled historical novellas about Brides and the heroes who rescue them. I particularly appreciated Woman of Valor by Jill Stengl and A Treasure Worth Keeping by Kelly Eileen Hake. My thanks to NetGalley and Barbour for an ARC of this novel for this my honest review.

This book was so fun :)
I loved all the unique stories and the imaginary British accents in my head (Sigh..). The stories are a mix of mystery, laughter, intrigue, and faith. I truly enjoyed reading this mix of stories; plus I found some new to me authors to read! The characters in each story were engaging and I really didn't want to say goodbye to them. I loved the lessons that the characters learned and thought that they were well thought out and grew as the story progressed.
I definitely recommend reading this book (or books as its 9 different stories) at the next opportunity. I give them a 4 out of 5 stars for the diversity, the creative characters, and for giving me some truly happy smiles.
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.

I wanted to love this collection … I enjoyed it at parts, the romances were at best okay, weak in my opinion. The elements in each story were too similar though there were enough differences it wasn't completely boring. I felt like each of the characters were repeats of the previous couple. I did enjoy Woman of Valor, Fayre Rose, and A Treasure Worth Keeping most of all the stories. I became dissatisfied with the The British Brides Collection 9 Romances from the Home of Austen and Dickens when it became obvious that each title would have the same shocked heroine when the hero was found to have faith in God … Why? Once was enough. Sadly there was a lot to make me dislike this collection… Disrespectful rude cruel men, several times men refer to women as a "wench". Honestly, I don't understand why this collection was published, I mean as Christian fiction. Or even how it is truly a romance collection, it had rushed, mostly boring, and somewhat distasteful bullying of the ladies.
But that was only at some points, I say that about half of the stories, the other half? I enjoyed, I liked the faith shown, and the characters were okay. I won't say which stories I disliked and which I Liked (other than mentioned above), so that I doesn't stop others from reading books they may enjoy.

". . . if God found the earth perfect enough to create people, then we should never be too proud to till the soil .”

Beautiful. Christian Historical Romances set 1631 to 1865, England to Scotland, some are linked by Kennerith castle. Nothing boring here! Unique love stories that keep you entertained and eager to know how they turn out. Not possible to choose a favorite.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher and NetGalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
#TheBritishBridesCollection #NetGalley #BooksYouCanFeelGoodAbout

The British Brides Collection by Bonnie Blythe, et al.

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

______________________________________________________________________________

A collection of nine short stories from different authors that highlight the British Isles is hit or miss depending on each story read.

There are very few historical fiction readers that do not enjoy a story based in the British Isles. There is so much wonderful country and beautiful homes featured that you cannot help but like them. With the stories included in this anthology, that might be the only things to recommend them as there were some too boring to finish. Overall I enjoyed reading the stories but some took too much time to finish with little to hold my interest in the interim pages. Of the nine, I would recommend reading these: Woman of Valor by Jill Stengl; Moonlight Masquerade by Pamela Griffin; Love’s Unmasking by Bonnie Blythe; and A Treasure Worth Keeping by Kelly Eileen Hake. These four offered the best story lines and the most likable characters. The plot was well developed and there was just enough conversation included from the main characters to get to know them without wanting to move on to the next story. These also had the best inclusion of spiritual journeys for the main characters so that was a plus. The other stories are okay to read but lacked the depth of these four. I would recommend this book for a trip or weekend off as it is easy to pick up and put down when needed. This will not be one I will add to my shelves but it was an enjoyable read for the most part.

I received this E-book free of charge from Barbour Books/Barbour Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. I will receive no fiscal compensation for this review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.

"The British Brides Collection" features a variety of different stories by different authors. These are like novellas, each complete within itself. Some of the stories share the thread of a masquerade mask that is owned by different characters in the novellas. The novellas appear in chronological order. The Christian message is overt in these novels, but not in a way that would come across as offensive to most Christian readers.

I enjoyed the stories overall, although I liked some more than others. Each story had a different and interesting twist, and the settings varied. I especially enjoyed the story about the rare book library (A Treasure Worth Keeping) and the one about the apple orchard (Apple of His Eye).. A few of the stories needed a more complete ending, as I felt they left the reader hanging. An epilogue or postscript would have wrapped things up more completely. Readers who enjoy romantic historical fiction should find this collection worthy of their time. Each story can be read in one sitting.

I received this book from the publisher and from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own.

A fantastic collection of historical romances. I found each selection to be well written and the plot enjoyable. I recommend to fans of historical romance. My thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for my advanced copy. This is my honest and unbiased review.

For one who loves romance and all things Brit, this Barbour collection hit my sweet spot! There are nine amazing tales, covering 500 years of history in atmospheric London, spectacular English gardens, majestic Scottish castles, taking inspiration from such beloved writers as Austen and Dickens, with faith woven through each compelling story. 5/5

Pub Date 01 May 2019.

Thanks to the authors, Barbour Publishing, Inc. and NetGalley for the review copy. Opinion are mine.

#TheBritishBridesCollection #NetGalley

I have always loved these great anthologies of good Godly stories filled with love and hope. This is no exception and if you are looking for new authors, this is the best way to find them. I also loved the British influence in this particular collection.

This was an entertaining collection of British couples from the past. Each story had their uniqueness. The last few stories were related in a way (centuries apart). I love how God was truly glorified in all of the stories. He wasn’t afterthought. He was prominent. My favorite stories were “Woman of Valor” and “Apple of His Eye”.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Books through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Perfect summer reading. I loved each story more and more. I can’t wait to read the next Bride’s Collection. If you are looking for live, romance, and happiness this is the book for you.

What a fun collection to read from Barbour Books. You're going to love escaping into the days of old as you read about England and Scotland over five hundred years from 1358 to 1865. These are novella length stories perfect for reading on your lunch break or when tired before bed.
These stories are inspired by authors like Jane Austen and Charles Dickens lovers of British history and literature will treasure these stories they will read over and over again.
Originally Published March 1st 2014 by Barbour Books this book was rereleased Pub Date 01 May 2019 .
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley through Barbour Books. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.

I love these novella collections, and this one was one of my favorites. I did come across a couple of stories that I didn't care for, but I pushed past those and so glad I did because I really enjoyed all the others.

Historical Romance Novellas from the British Isle
Barbour Publishing presents "The British Brides Collection. 9 Romances from the Home of Austen and Dickens" written by six well-known authors.
Jill Stengl's "Woman of Valor" takes place in 1631 in Norfolk County. Helen Walker gets picked up by Oliver Kirby who has lost all his possessions through false accusations and serves his brother-in-law taking care of the horses. Helen is alone after the death of her father. She will be the governess of Sir Cyril's three children. But will there be any future for Helen and Oliver? In her second novella "Fresh Highland Heir" Lady Celeste Galbraith travels in 1748 with her father Malcolm, who does not want to become laird, to Kennerith Castle. Allan MacMurray (Croft) is hired as a bodyguard. Will Celeste and her father survive? What will be the consequences when the answers to a secret come to light?
Tamela Handcock write "A Duplicate Facade". In 1812 Melodia Stewart is betrothed to Sir Rolf Tims against her will by her father. After they are married Melodia falls in love with Rolf, but somebody is trying to drive them apart. Her second novella "Fayre Rose" takes place in 1358. Fayre Shepherd proposes a deal to Laird Kenneth in order to save her father Witta from prison. She manages to grow orange roses at his castle and saves his life when he gets sick. After being freed she cannot imagine a relationship between a former serf and a laird and runs back to her father. There seems to be no future for them.
In "Love's Unmasking" by Bonnie Blythe Amaryllis Sinclair's aunt, Lady Agathe, is planning to get her married in 1814. At her first ball she befriends Fanny Elwood and gets "compromised" by Lord Matthew Leighton. Over time they fall in love, but somebody plans to kill Matthew.
In "A Treasure Worth Keeping" by Kelly Eileen Hake Stephen Montebourn, Earl of Pemberton, hopes that his sister helps him in 1827 to avoid the marriage traps that his mother is setting. Paige Turner, considered a spinster at twenty-four, likes nothing more than to help her father restore books and libraries. Will books bring Stephen and Paige together?
In "Apple of His Eye" by Gayle Gaymer Sarah Hampton is growing up as an only child in 1851. She is more interested in their new gardener, John Banning and his work than in the next ball. There is attraction between them although she is gentry and he a farmer. What will become of their love?
"Moonlight Masquerade" by Pamela Griffin takes place in 1865. Letitia feels like a thankless slave for her cousin when she is rescued by a stranger in a foggy night in London. Edward, who does not feel at home in England, meets her (again) as she poses as her cousin Marion's companion. Will there be more for her?
In Griffin's second novella "English Tea and Bagpipes" Fiona Galbraith's sister and Dr. Alexander Spencer's brother are on their way to Gretna Green in 1822 to get married. Will Fiona and Alex be able to stop the wedding considering all the obstacles they encounter on the way?
The novellas are taking place between 1358 and 1865. Sometimes they are hard to read for non-mother-tongue speakers due to the highland dialect since there is no dictionary provided. The characters are well developed and the previously published stories are clean and wholesome. As such the book can be recommended for those readers who love Christian historical novels.
The complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley free of charge. I was under no obligation to offer a positive review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#TheBritishBridesCollection #NetGalley

The British Brides Collection is a collection of nine stories. Which include:
1358 - Fayre Rose by Tamela Hancock Murray
1631 - Woman of Valor by Jill Stengl
1748 - Fresh Highland Heir by Jill Stengl
1812 - A Duplicitous Facade by Tamela Hancock Murray
1814 - Love's Unmasking by Bonnie Blythe
1822 - English Tea and Bagpipes by Pamela Griffin
1827 - A Treasure Worth Keeping by Kelly Eileen Hake
1851 - Apple of His Eye by Gail Gaymer Martin
1865 - Moonlight Masquerade by Pamela Griffin
I enjoyed all of these stories. My favorite would have to be Jill Stengl's Fresh Highland Heir. I give the collection four stars.

The British Brides by various authors is a collection of nine stories set in England in the 1600’s to early 1800’s.
Women of Valor by Jill Stengl set in 1631 brings Helen Marston to her brother’s estate to care for his neglected children after the death of his wife. Will she be able to right the disarray and will she also find love amid the chaos?
A Duplicitous Façade by Tamela Hancock is set in 1812 as Melodia agrees to marry a man she has never met to please her father. She suspects someone is out to sabotage her marriage when a masquerade ball is held in celebration. Will she be able to discern who her true enemies are? Does her husband truly love her and God?
Love’s Unmasking by Bonnie Blythe is set in 1814 and has another masked ball where those who appear to be friends may really be enemies.
A Treasure Worth Keeping by Kelly Eileen Hake is set in 1827 with Paige Turner being thrilled that she and her father will be restoring one of the largest collections of antique books in the country. When she meets the earl and discovers secrets within the estate will she also discover love?
Apple of His Eye by Gail Gaymer Martin moves us ahead to 1851 where independent Sarah falls for the “wrong” man. One who will never be accepted by her family. Or will he win them over?
Moonlight Masquerade by Pamela Griffin is set in 1865. Letitia is the companion to her cousin who does not treat her well. What will happen when she finds herself the focus of attention? Will she find true love and be out from under her cousin’s control?
Fayre Rose by Tamela Hancock Murray begins in Scotland in 1358. Fayre’s father is unable to pay his taxes so the laird takes Fayre to Kennerith Castle to grow her rare and beautiful roses. Will she also grow love while there?
Fresh Highland Heir by Jill Stengl is set in Scotland in 1748 at Kennerith Castle. Hermione’s stepfather is the current ruler and assigns Allan as her body guard. She is determined to dislike him but when he appears to be in danger and the true heir to the castle is in question will she change her mind?
English Tea and Bagpipes by Pamela Griffin is set in 1822 Scotland. When Fiona’s sister runs off to marry an Englishman both families are upset and determined to stop them before they marry. Fiona and the groom’s brother, Alex, are at odds but team up to try to catch the runaways. Will they be successful? Will they stop the marriage? Will love overcome all odds?
I enjoyed this book and give it 5 of 5 stars. Well written and characters though very different are all very realistic.
I received an advance copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

Nine inspirational stories by nine different authors.

Take a trip back in time to scenic Scotland and England and be swept away into nine sweet romances.
Each tale was short making it perfect to squeeze it into a busy week. I enjoyed reading all the stories.

This collection of short stories has a lot of over-the-top moments, but in some of them it works and makes for a fun read. They are set in England and Scotland from the Middle Ages through the Victorian era, and I did enjoy the journey through time.
Overall, the volume is a bit heavy-handed with its religious epiphanies. Although I didn't find any of the stories particularly memorable, they were amusing reads over the course of several days.