Out of the Embers is set in 1855 Mesquite Springs, Texas, and is the story of two orphans, twenty-three- year-old Evelyn Radcliffe and six-year-old Polly whose last name is a guarded secret. Evelyn lost both of her parents to murder, and for much of the book the fate of Polly's parents is unknown. It would seem that the two are in danger, but the source of that danger is a mystery, a mystery that had my carrying around my Kindle, reading or listening at every opportunity. Amanda Cabot is a master at building and sustaining suspense. I cannot wait for book two in her Mesquite Springs series.

I am grateful to have received a copy of this book from Revell via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review, and received no monetary compensation.

Amanda Cabot has a serious bent to her writing, her plots have a bit of intrigue, and her characters are rather solemn. Out of the Embers is one of her better writings. She seems to improve with every book she authors.

Evelyn Radcliffe grew up in an orphanage from the time she was ten years old, after her parents were killed. When a fire takes the orphanage, it also takes all of the children too, except for Evelyn and Polly. The two girls had been sent to get the food supplies for the orphanage and saw what the fire had done when they came back. They decided to keep on going, which is all well and good until they get to Mesquite Springs, Texas, when the horse, Reginald, throws a shoe.

Wyatt Clark finds them hunkered down under the wagon during a particularly vicious storm. Wyatt takes them back to his ranch house where his mother and sister take care of them, and they become almost like part of the family in a few short days.

Evelyn and Polly are both keeping secrets and look to Wyatt for their protection, but Evelyn wants to earn her own way as well. They look to the owner of what used to be the only restaurant in Mesquite Springs to make a deal with him to lease it and open a new one in its place. Evelyn's prowess in the kitchen becomes known all around the Springs and Evelyn begins to get regular customers.

A sale of horses at Wyatt's ranch brings a lot of the mysteries to a head. Amanda's talent for writing has shone throughout this book and brings the reader much satisfaction. This is a five star book, with two thumbs up, and an apple pie that will tease your taste buds unmercifully.

Revell Publishing and NetGalley.com provided the galley I read for this review. All opinions expressed are my own.

"Out of the Embers " by Amanda Cabot takes place in 1850. This book is the first book in the Mesquite Springs series. The series is historical fiction. Evelyn Radcliffe is the main character. She cares for Polly who lived in an orphanage. Evelyn used to work in the orphanage. Evelyn shows a lot of character by taking care of Polly who was an orphan. The story takes place in the Texas Hill Country. There are horses there and it is wild. Evelyn seeks to provide a safe and comfortable life for Polly. There are many different conflicts that come her way she has to deal with to more forward with her life. This story is well written. Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for allowing me to read and review this book. I will post my review on Amazon, facebook, netgalley, Goodreads, my blog, for the church staff.

"Out of the Embers" is a Christian historical romance set in 1856 in Texas. Only an unexpected mishap saves Evelyn and the young girl accompanying her from burning to death when their orphanage is set on fire by a unknown man. Evelyn believes that they were the actual targets, so she flees with the girl until they come to Mesquite Springs. There she meets Wyatt and his family, who treat the two orphans like a part of their family. As Wyatt and Evelyn spend time together, they start to fall in love. But Wyatt is convinced that he can't find contentment at home, and he doesn't plan on dragging a wife around with him all over the country.

The characters acted realistically, had depth, and I cared about what happened to them. Suspense was added because we know that someone is after one of the orphans and intends to kill her. But much of the story was about the different men courting Evelyn and how Wyatt slowly realized that his restlessness didn't necessarily mean that he needed to travel the country. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this enjoyable story.

I tend not to read romance stories because they are either sugary sweet or sexual explicit, not much a reflection of real life.
I do like a period piece. Amanda Cabot managed to have the perfect mix of mystery, romantic rivalry and describing life in a small Texas town circa 1855. Plenty of interesting characters.
This is the first book in a series and I liked the characters enough that I will be looking out for when the next book is published.

Evelyn is on her way back to the orphanage with her charge, Polly, when a thrown shoe requires she return to the town she just left to get it replaced. Upon returning to the orphanage she realizes she needs to keep on moving. A few people are mentioned early in the book that are important to keep in mind to see which ones show up at a later time. She and Polly make is to Mesquite Springs and are taken in by Wyatt, Dorothy and Isolde. The story keeps moving at a steady pace while we meet some people of the town, and Evelyn and Wyatt make some decisions. Lovely characters, with a few strong supporting characters I’m hoping to see more of in future stories. Set in Texas, with some beautiful descriptions of some parts of the town.
A complimentary copy of the book was provided by Revell, via Net Galley. A review was not required and all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Out of the Embers is a charming historical Christian romance. Despite the historical setting, it’s quite modern from the female-empowerment positive messages and the independence of our female main character Evelyn. With a touch of mystery and a looming threat that overhangs the characters, the climax was a little suspenseful, but overall this is an easy book to read and enjoy.

When the orphanage destroys the only friends and home Evelyn has, she and the only other survivor run for their lives and make a new start in Mesquite Springs. Evelyn is used to watching over her shoulder ever since her parents were murdered and the feeling of being watched haunted her in the years following. But in Mesquite Springs she dares to dream of a new future for her and Polly. She finds good friends in Wyatt, Dorothy and their mother. She even opens up her very own dinning hall. But the threat promises to follow the two young ladies.

If you enjoy historical Christian romance, try this latest offering from Amanda Cabot. Out of the Embers is the first book in a new series. The sequels are set to follow characters from this book and I’m looking forward to reading Dorothy’s book in the next instalment.

Evelyn is an independent young woman and Wyatt, despite a few poorly placed sentiments that she quickly puts right, supports her and loves her for it.

The suspense in this story come from three angles and I liked how the threads weave together to build the threat and leave you wondering how it all fits together, even as more details about previous crimes are provided.

I enjoyed the sections of the book devoted to Evelyn starting and running her own business and preparing the food for the townspeople. I also thought the mayoral race was a wonderful addition to the story and allowed the exploration of Wyatt’s character.

The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.

Find more reviews, reading age guides, content advisory, and recommendations on my blog <a href="https://madisonslibrary.wordpress.com">Madison's Library</a>

This book wasn't at all what I was expecting...but it was fantastic! There are mysteries on top of mysteries, and at times you don't even know exactly who is being talked about...which is done purposefully. In a small town, everyone has their own secrets, and in a small town out west, many people come to start a new life, so Evelyn's appearance and secrets aren't held against her by those who know them. Such a violent past for both of the girls leads us to want to right the wrongs, but is that always the answer? The supporting characters are just as colorful, and contribute much to the story, making me wonder who will be starring lead in the next book....for I'll surely be reading it!

Fans of Christian historical romance will not be disappointed with Amanda Cabot's new book. Out Of The Embers is a novel you will read late into the night. She had me at the heartstrings right from the start. Amanda is an incredible storyteller. Her characters are so well crafted you want them to be your friends or neighbors. Your heart just pours out for Evelyn Radcliffe. She has had such a terrible time at such an early age. You will love this book. I received a copy of this book from Revell through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

A good clean historical romance set in the 1850's among the bluebonnet covered hills of Texas.
Fans of Tracie Peterson and Maggie Brendan will likely enjoy this fresh start to a new series. It has the feel of a coming of age story with a bit of mystery.
The main characters are solid young adults, both looking for help in finding their life course, while holding down responsibilities thrust on them through difficult circumstances. Faith plays a minor role in the story, but influences their choices."...her life was living proof of the truth of Romans 8: 28. God had taken a terrible event and brought good from it." A few touching examples of forgiveness and grace are included in the plot, plus overcoming fear. A tender romance develops naturally through a friendship. A steady pace and later events kept the story moving along to a satisfactory conclusion.
Recommend for teens and up looking for a sweet, clean read.

Out of the Embers is a well written inspirational romantic suspense. I enjoyed the plot, characters and the setting. If you enjoy a good clean read I recommend this book. My thanks to the publisher for my advance ebook. This is my unbiased review.

The delightful new series, Mesquite Springs begins with Out of the Embers. Evelyn and Polly both orphans will have to seek a new future while running from a dangerous past. The author gives glimpses of the past throughout which leave the reader to wonder who is in danger - Evelyn, Polly or both. The characters are likeable for the most part with the exception of a few. Forgiveness is the important theme that is emphasized. The satisfying conclusion will leave readers eagerly awaiting the next book in the series. Highly recommended!

A heartwarming historical romance that takes it's time. This is not a rushed novel, but an almost simple love story with just enough suspense to keep things moving. Well depicted characters and beautifully crafted settings will transport you back in time and place. An enjoyable way to whole away a few quiet evenings.

I don't think I've read anything by Amanda Cabot before. I'm not typically a historical fiction fan. That being said I really enjoyed this book. Cabot captured my attention with Wyatt and Evelyn. I enjoyed their personalities and their unexpected connections. The story kept me engaged and anxious to find out more. While I would categorize this book as more of a romance than a suspense I think Cabot did a stellar job of keeping the suspense in play through the end. There were opportunities when she could have revealed details and given away the mystery but she chose not to. I enjoyed it so much I found myself wishing other authors would learn from her technique. Usually authors reveal "who done it" about 87% in to the story and then wrap things up quickly making it feel like the end was thrown together. Cabot kept the story line in play through the end. She did a really great job!
I received an advanced copy of this ebook in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own. Thank you to Revell and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this new author and book!

Amanda Cabot does it again! Out of the Embers is a very entertaining book I enjoyed reading! Evelyn and Polly are riding in a wagon, knowing that somebody is watching them, only to find out that the orphanage they lived in was burned down on purpose. And that is in the first chapter! Great story, great villains, and excellent characters and a happy ending that keeps me waiting for the next book! Loved it!

This book was received as an ARC from Revell in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.

This book was so exasperating and inspirational from beginning to end. The plot and characters expressed throughout the book are easily relateable and you can easily develop a connection with Evelyn cheering her on and have your heart warmed when she finally finds her home in living with rancher Wyatt. Wyatt stops at nothing to protect her even when she becomes a disruption for his hopes and dreams but instead of tossing her out on the street, he finds a new dream on a new path. I know our readers will find this story being perfect for a cozy read by the fireplace.

We will consider adding this title to our Christian Fiction collection at our library. That is why we give this book 5 stars.

Cabot kept me up late because her stories are awesome and this one is no exception! Just wow!
I love her stories because they're exciting, have some danger in the mix and love as well. Especially God's sweet love! There's nothing like His sweet love. Don't you just love when the Lord sends someone to the right place at the right time! I sure do! And Evelyn and Wyatt are no different.
Cabot is a great storyteller and I love how she pulls you in right from the beginning and before you know it, you're in the story with Evelyn, Polly, Dorothy and Isolde. Oh and we sure can't leave Wyatt out! That would be just awful! I didn't want to leave them after the story was finished.
This is just one of those stories that will leave you thinking about it long after it's over. I believe that's there's more to tell! I can't wait!
I love Wyatt! He's such a delightful person to be around and oh my "sigh". Can't you just picture him handsome, kind, caring, loving? But I do know one thing! He's sure not perfect not by any means!
Evelyn is carrying a load herself. But then again we all have some sort of baggage. We are a work in progress as they say. I still like her though. Why is that you ask? Evelyn has a way about her that can calm even the wildest storms in life. She's a lovely person inside out and has a gentleness about her and seems to except everyone from all walks of life. Sometimes things in life can make us come out a better person and yes even make us even closer to the Lord.
Little Polly is like a sister to me even though she's hard to get to know. As we read further on we soon find out why. Poor little girl.
This was an excellent book that has forgiveness, truth and Grace. ( For we are saved by Grace)
There are some wonderful messages woven throughout the book that is sure to capture your attention. At least I hope they do.
I feel so honored to get to read these wonderful books!
There wasn't one thing that I didn't like about this book. It was very well written with the right amount of everything in it.
Ya'll be sure to pick up your copy of this book when it comes out! I highly recommend it
This book deserves more than just five stars. The cover is lovely ya'll!
My thanks to Baker Publishing Group/Revell and Netgalley for a copy of this wonderful book. I was NOT required to write a positive review and all opinions are my own.

Wow this is a wonderful book. Can not wait for the next one in the series. This is a story of Evelyn who's parents were murdered. She is placed in a orphanage because there is no other family members. She always feels when she goes into town someone is watching her. When she goes into town to sell the orphanage's lace they make she takes Polly another orphan who is brought to stay. When they return from town they find the orphanage on fire. No survivors. She feels it is the watcher and takes off with Polly. She meets Wyatt during a bad storm. Wyatt takes her back to his family Circle c Ranch. She and Polly pretend to be sisters. This is a book you cannot put down. Lots of adventure The characters are great. Amanda Cabot never disappoints me with her books. This is one of my favorites. Thanks NetGalley for allowing me to read for my honest opinion.

This is a great start to a new series from Amanda Cabot. Her stories are always so interesting and this is no exception. Readers will easily find themselves pulling for Evelyn (and wanting the recipes for the food she makes in her restaurant!) to find refuge and love and for Wyatt to realize what will really make him happy. The romance is sweet, the suspense and plot are intriguing, and it's easy to recommend this book to readers looking for high-quality writing.
4.5 stars.
I read an ARC provided by the publisher via #NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Time of 1850 in Texas Hill Country, when life was tough for a young orphanage girl. To lose parents, and now her orphanage home, Evelyn finds refuge at a horse ranch. Thinking someone is always watching her, but why. Wyatt didn’t want or need woman on his ranch, there was always plenty of work. When she needs protection, he wants to protect her. Good beginning to a new series, showing how the west and times were back then. You will like the courage of Evelyn. Given ARC for my voluntary review and my honest opinion from Net Halley and Revell.