A sweet collection of stories by talented and well loved authors. This anthology would be the perfect gift for fans of Christian historical romance.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.

"I wanted you to have something to remember our time here when we're away across the shores."
A gold cross becomes an heirloom across the generations as a reminder of God's faithfulness.

More Than Gold (New South Wales, 1851) by Carolyn Miller

He "told me of a man who simply plucked up the grass and found gold nuggets underneath."

Josephine may not have wholeheartedly followed her brother to Australia, but she knew that he needed her. Staying safe in this wildland proves challenging. Daniel Jardine wants to keep to himself. But he cannot help but be drawn to Josephine. Can they discover a relationship worth keeping when the gold fades away?

I enjoyed learning more about Australia's history in this novella. Family relationships were strong, and there was something endearing about the people who had to do much to survive. A great start to the collection.

The Veil (Baltimore, 1877) by Kelly Goshorn

"Whether they gawked at the large white bandage protruding above her collar or the unusual way she wore her veil, like an old woman's winter scarf, she didn't know. In spite of their stares, the covering provided a measure of comfort since the fire, and she was unwilling to part with it - suffocating heat or not."

Caroline Wilkins found herself in a predicament. She has to rely on strangers to survive. While Franz bumbles around a bit, Caroline can tell that he is worth getting to know. Can they learn to trust each other?

This story provided an interesting perspective on life as an immigrant. The family element was really strong. A sweet read.

Running from Love (Canada, 1905) by Angela K. Couch

"Was it wrong to hide the truth from her, that he had been running from both religion and God? That he had been in this building plenty of times but for town meetings, not worship?"

Anna knows that her brother deserves a second chance. But when she is drawn to the local mounted policeman, is she willing to hide the truth? Or can they work together to keep her brother safe while still seeking justice?

I enjoyed this historical fiction that was set up north. Parts were unexpected. I liked how the story turned out.

Lauren’s Song (Outer Banks, NC, 1942) by Cara Putman

"Tonight he'd caught a ride on the cutter, the Daedalus. Some of its regular crew were sick, and he's hopped on at the last minute to give a hand on its shakedown cruise before it headed out for convoy duty along the coast. This short jaunt would be more excitement than he would see in months managing the paperwork at the Ocracoke Island station. {Paper cuts hadn't been his anticipated danger when he signed up for the Coast Guard and attended officer training."

During World War 2, John is stationed on a coastal island. He had hoped to see more action in the war, but his skills are being used in the office. He becomes friends with a local family and is drawn to Lauren's steadiness. Can they find a way to connect even in the midst of a war?

I really enjoyed learning about a different part of World War 2. One of the author's strengths is her research, and she really brought this situation to life. I cannot imagine having to worry every time a loved one sailed away. I had no idea that German U-boats were sinking ships near the United States. Also I had not considered how hard it would be to be in a "slower" situation during war time since usefulness could be questioned.

This book is part historical, part suspense with a bit of romance thrown in for good measure. So many aspects made for such an enjoyable read. My only complaint with the novella is I wish that it could have been longer. I enjoyed learning about this hearty small town, and I definitely would have enjoyed reading more about John and Lauren's relationship. I read an advanced copy of this novella which is why the review is longer.

I was provided a copy of these novellas through NetGalley. I wanted to read and review it. All opinions are my own.

I love novella collections because it provides an opportunity to find more author's. The first novella made me cry and I’m excited to read more books by that author. The second story I learned more history which was fascinating. The third story was also great it was in Canada! The fourth story was my fav WW2, going back to North Carolina in the outer banks was a fun time. Thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book to review.

I love how each story was a technically a stand alone as it wrapped up nicely at the end. But that all of the stories were also connected because the gold necklace. I thought that was a nice touch.

I appreciated how the characters were living out their faith and it was interwoven into the stories. It reflected well the challenges women faced thru times in history where expectations are much different than the present. The first story was almost too much to bear with all the heartaches Josephine had to face. There are four stories by four different authors and four different styles. I just wasn’t drawn into any of the stories to want to read more. Some of the plots moved slowly . But I liked how all the novellas were linked together and was a great chance to read different authors.
I received a copy from NetGalley with no obligations. All opinions are my own.

An amazing collection of stories by 4 wonderful authors. I love books that have stand alone stories that are connected by something. I love how these authors weaved the pendant into the story. I loved how each story was uniquely written. I loved the romance and the characters.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.

Across the Shores is a collection of four Christian historical novellas. They are all different yet connected by an object. I loved that. It is a nice sampling of pieces from authors Angela Couch, Kelly Goshorn, Carolyn Miller, and Cara Putman.

These stories were nicely written. Their characters were believable and endearing. The authors stayed true to details and dialogue of the era. There is a depth of each of these four stories. I was invested within reading just a few pages. Each author has their own individual style, and I was able to follow along without being bored or lost. I found this to be a page-turning delight, although I did enjoy a couple of the stories more than the other two.

I definitely recommend this sweet collection. It would make a nice gift for a reader of historical fiction. I rate it four out of five stars. A copy was provided by NetGalley, but these are my honest words.

1851 to 1942 four stories that each feel like it's own get lost in book, yet with an overlap of generational relatives. Different places, different circumstances, with a necklace that has a bible scripture engraved that is the same through time, shining a light to their unique situations. Excellent investment!

I received this book free from the authors, publisher and NetGalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
#NetGalley #AcrossTheShores #AngelaKCouch #KellyJGoshorn #CarolynMiller #CaraPutman #BooksYouCanFeelGoodAbout #BarbourPublishing #ChristianHistoricalFiction

Across the Shores is a collection of four novellas, written by Angela K. Couch, Kelly J. Goshorn, Carolyn Miller, & Cara C. Putman.

I enjoy novella collections and I loved how these four stories were linked by a single necklace. Each one had characters from far away, and characters who are contemplating leaving. Taking place in three different countries, including Australia and Canada, I especially loved the settings! I also loved the characters in these stories. They faced tough decisions and romance was an added surprise.

If you enjoy novellas, historical romance, and visiting other countries in your stories, then check out this collection. Plus it’s a great opportunity to read a new author if any of these authors are unfamiliar to you. I hope you enjoy all four!

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I received a complimentary copy of this book.
I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with FTC guidelines.

Oh my word. These four stories are so beautifully written. Each one although different, has the same qualities. They grab your attention and don’t let go. They have relatable characters that sweep you away into their respective settings. You feel as if you are in the story, not just reading it. And they do not feel rushed at all, which is difficult to do with novellas.

Miller, Goshorn, Couch and Putnam wrote stories that will absolutely touch your heart. The situations that each heroine found themselves in, and then how they dealt with that situation was honestly inspiring. Those readers who are looking for depth to their novellas will devour these stories. And, may I say, though each novella is of course written by a different author, they did such a fantastic job of making them seamless and all go together. Not just the necklace, but the feel of the story.

I am so happy these authors got together to write these amazing, beautiful stories. I hope there is more coming in 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 very much enjoyed most of these novellas. Carolyn Miller's and Angela K Couch's were my favorites. I liked how the stories all tied together by the golden cross necklace.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Carolyn Miller's story had me sad, yet full of hope for what was to come.

⭐⭐⭐⭐Kelly J. Goshorn's story had a surprise ending I was not expecting! I think a longer story of the couple would be awesome to read!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Angela K Couch's story makes me want to read some more stories about Mounties! I would love to know more about that era of history.

⭐⭐⭐Cara Putman's story felt like it was missing something to me. It almost felt like the story was a bit rushed or just not fully written, which was disappointing.

Overall this was an enjoyable read!

I loved the concept of this book and how the four stories went together! Beautifully written stories that captured my attention and my emotions. I love that the stories were written by 4 different authors and yet still were linked together. One of my favorite genres and I really enjoyed it!

I enjoyed this book with four stories spanning over 100 years featuring a necklace handed down through the generations reminding the ladies that God is faithful.
More Than Gold by Carolyn Miller: Josephine Wilkins is a brave woman who leaves America in 1851 to travel with her brother to the gold fields in New South Wales. She has no idea of what she will face.
The Veil by Kelly Goshorn: In 1877, Caroline Wilkins is burned in a fire and dons a veil to cover her face. She runs away from her cruel but wealthy father and determines to never show her face until she is married. Franz Kohler rescues Caroline and brings her home to his parents but Franz and Caroline both are afraid to share their secrets.
Running From Love by Angela Couch: Anna Kohler has left her home and country trying to protect her brother from the law but Mounted Police Constable Benjamin Cole comes into the picture!
Lauren's Song by Cara Putman: You will learn more about America's secrets on the Outer Banks of North Carolina during World War II. I'm fascinated by this period of time.
I received a complimentary e-book of Across the Shores. This is my honest opinion.

This book contains four novellas written by four different authors. Each story was a self contained story. I found the stories to just be mediocre. I found myself skimming them. There was heartache in everyone of them. I guess I was looking for a more upbeat feel good. They all a somewhat happy ending.

I was given this book by Barbour Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way.

Thoroughly enjoyable read! The book Across the Shores by Angela K. Couch, Kelly J. Goshorn, Carolyn Miller and Cara Putman was a joy to read from the first novella to the last. It was nice to have four separate stories and each one was a great stand-alone read. I loved that they each took placed in a different setting and it makes this travel-loving reader want to visit each place. I particularly enjoyed the second story, The Veil by Kelly J. Goshorn. This one takes place in Baltimore, MD and the setting is an easy day trip for me & I will be planning a roadtrip to visit. Also, as a descendent of German immigrants, I enjoyed the perspective of the Mueller family as they learn to navigate life in America. It gives me insight into what my great-grandparents may have experienced. This novella collection will be highly recommended to my fellow book-loving friends.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to leave a positive review. All opinions are my own.

This was a collection of four romances. I think I enjoyed The Veil as the best of the stories. All had HEA. My kind of stories!

4.5 stars

On the pages of Across the Shores, four talented authors take us on a journey from a mining camp in 1851 Australia to a troubled 1877 Baltimore, the Canadian frontier at the turn of the century, and the Outer Banks of North Carolina during WW2. All without us having to leave our comfy reading spaces or find a time machine! Each of these stories is connected to the others by a gold cross necklace – the first three more strongly than the fourth but the connection is there nonetheless – and I found myself always eager at the onset of a new story to see how it had been passed through the generations. Each novella also features a brother-sister team in some capacity, and being part of one of those myself I enjoyed seeing the sibling interaction.

More Than Gold by Carolyn Miller kicks off the collection with a brother-sister team who’ve crossed the ocean in search of gold at a mining camp in New South Wales, Australia, and wins the designation of ‘most unique setting’ from the collection. This sweet story tugged at my heartstrings with moments of profound loss but also wit, friendship, and romance. We don’t see historical fiction set during a Australian gold rush very often, sadly, and the setting really became a tertiary character of its own. I really enjoyed being immersed in that era during this story, I loved Daniel and Josephine and their friendship turned romance, and I was touched by the message of faith.

The Veil by Kelly Goshorn gets the award for ‘most characters I fell in love with’ in this collection. I adored every single member of the Kohler family (and I want Franz’s brother’s story now please! and one for their sister, too.), but especially Franz and his Opa (grandfather). These two men completely captured my heart, particularly as it relates to their interactions with our heroine, Caroline. I swooned and grinned and brushed a few tears from my eyes, fully engrossed in this story from beginning to end. I could have happily spent several more hours with these characters as a full-length novel and would love to do so in the future! (ahem. I’m so demanding.) And I haven’t even talked about the clock (swoon!) or the Gugelhupf (yum!) or the exquisitely tender romance between Franz & Caroline.

Running From Love by Angela K. Couch is the story that filled me with all the nostalgia and gets the ‘most times I swooned over a Mountie since When Calls the Heart’ distinction. I loved this trip to the Canadian frontier, with another brother-sister duo chasing their dreams away from family. Again, as in More Than Gold, the sister (our heroine) is mainly along for the ride to keep an eye on her brother, and our intrepid hero steps in to watch out for the heroine when the brother is unable to do so. We get to watch him fix a roof, among other delightfully swoony handyman tasks, and I really loved watching Ben & Anna fall in love. I wanted to purse whomp Anna’s brother on more than one occasion, though, and I would very much like to read his story next, especially with the connections to him in Putman’s story to close out the book.

Lauren’s Song by Cara Putman may not have spent much time on the gold cross necklace that has tied all the stories together in this collection but it does earn the award for “connection I want to know most about”. I really really want to know what happened between the events of Running from Love in 1905 and those of this story set in 1942, and I would be ever so delighted if either Couch or Putman – or both! – wrote a full-length novel that filled in those blanks. This novella also had the history that intrigued me the most in Across the Shores. I didn’t learn much in school about the part of WW2 being fought along our own US coastlines, so the fact that John & Lauren’s romance is set on an island in North Carolina where U-boats were frequently seen and our own ships were being blown up by the enemy is fascinating to me as a history buff. Spies and lighthouses and having to house Civil Defense workers … all of it kept me turning the pages to see how it would all play out.

Bottom Line: Across the Shores teams up four exceedingly talented authors to give us four sweet historical romances with fascinating bits of history, dynamic settings, and compelling characters, tied together by a single gold cross. Each story allows that particular author to shine in her preferred setting & time period, with her own voice and style, while keeping the flow and theme cohesive from one novella to the next. The messages of faith across the collection are gently done and organic to the characters without feeling forced or preachy, and the romances are the perfect blend of tender & swoony. A definite must-read!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

I thoroughly enjoyed this collection. Some novellas I loved more than others, but overall, these were some really good stories. I liked the connection of the gold pendant. That was unique and something that easily gave a bit of continuity between four different time periods.

My favorite by far was The Veil. I loved the characters and the way Goshorn wove Franz’s heritage throughout the story.

But I also enjoyed Miller’s peek into nineteenth century Australia. That was a different setting than I’m used to, but she did a great job of weaving tidbits into the narrative that felt natural and helped me visualize the scene.

Overall, Across the Shores is a novella collection historical romance fans will enjoy. I highly recommend it.

Traveling through numerous generations and across many continents, "Across the Shores" by Angela Couch, et al is a series of engaging novellas. A common thread ties them together in a masterful way. For a quick, easy read, "Across the Shores' is a must read.

I received a preview copy through NetGalley.

I really enjoyed this unique set of stories told about four women with one special thing in common. It particularly touched my heart as I am wearing a ring that started its passage in the 1800's from one grandmother to the next. In the first novella a cross is fashioned from a gold nugget with the words from Philippians 4:13 engraved on it. Four stories, four brave women who find love from the U.S. to Australia and in various places, times and challenges. The four women wear the cross close to their hearts as they each find the love for a lifetime that God meant for them.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for my advanced reader's copy of the book. This is my own personal opinion about it. I love what the authors did with the cross. The book excellent for an evening read. Sweet love stories with the reminder that as Christ gives us strength we can get through.