Kathleen ShoopReseñas

I received a free copy of this novel for my honest and unbiased review.

“The Last Letter” is a touching story of love, loss, and forgiveness. Katherine is the one reflecting on her past. Trying to figure out when the love she once had for her mother disappeared. The story toggles between 1887and present day 1905. Will she be able to find forgiveness and love before the cancer consumes Jeanie?

Frank Authur has big dreams, always the dreamer with bright ideas. His latest has uprooted his wife and three children from their life of luxury to stake a claim on 133 acres of land in the Dakotas. In a matter of weeks, the Authurs are forced to adjust to the pioneer lifestyle, living in an underground hovel. He’s determined to make the most of it, but will they survive??

Jeanie is determined to make their new life work. She’s recently realized she’s pregnant with a baby they cannot afford. She tries to bring her sophistication to the prairies, as she designs and sews fashionable yet practical clothing for her neighbors.

Lutie and Ruthie Moore are sisters living on the prairie. While Ruthie works her gardens and does chores, she doesn’t feel attractive enough to get a man. Lutie, on the other hand, dreams of finding a man to whisk her away from it all. Apparently, it’s every man she encounters.

The Hunts are an unusual Quaker couple. While Mrs. Hunt smokes, sniffs, or eats Opium, and happens to be the village preacher, her darling husband is helping out the other homesteaders with whatever chore that requires assistance.

Mr. Templeton is a ruggedly handsome and single homesteader. He’s always there to give a hand when needed and even when it isn’t.

James is the oldest of the Arthur children. He has an unwavering interest in the weather. Because of this, he and Mr. Templeton become fast friends as he teaches the preteen how to forecast.

Tommy is twin to Katherine, and is drawn to the Hunt’s Sunday services. He’s decided there is a God and everything is in His hands.

I love Historical Fiction novels, and once again Kathleen Shoop does not disappoint. Her story was easy to follow, although toggled from pasted to present. The descriptions of the homes and area were extremely accurate to the pioneering days, including all of the struggles with nature that they had. The characters were each unique in personalities, which was something I loved about this novel. Because of this, I could not put the book down; I couldn’t wait to see what would happen next to these people that were ill prepared for their new life.

I received a free copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. Carolyn Jenkins is a new schoolteacher. She lives in Maryland with her two teacher friends Laura and Nina. Laura is a sweet “Southern Belle”, while Nina is abrasive and right to the point. All Carolyn wants out of life are two things; for her kids to trust her and know she believes in them, and to find true love. Will she be able to overcome Principal Klein? Is Jeep the guy for her?

This was such a fascinating novel that I was drawn in from the very first page. I loved that although it primarily dealt with Carolyn’s job and her quest for love, there is quite a bit of humor, especially the names of some characters. I found myself constantly drawn in to every situation. This was a great endearing read, one that you’ll love.

I received a free copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review.

The Road Home is book two of The Letter series. In this portion, Jeanie Arthur has passed away. During the funeral, Katherine and Tommy learn that during their separation from their mother, she had touched and influenced many lives. They quickly realize that they didn't really know the woman that they called mother. Secrets are revealed that opens their eyes and gives them a glimpse into the years they were apart.

This was a heart rending story of love and hope. I loved the way they all turned to God during their most difficult times. Katherine's strength and determination is see inspiring, when she finally realizes her amazing gift, she embraces it wholeheartedly. Tommy's love for his family and drive to succeed is wonderful. I thought this novel was absolutely awesome, the characters were courageous, and the story came back full circle. I can't wait for book three to answer a few questions that are still lingering.

The Thief's Heart is the long awaited sequel to Kathleen Shoop's The Last Letter. It was absolutely worth the wait, revisiting the Arthur's and seeing how they are getting along. Tommy still has issues and feels immense guilt about his parents divorce. But the family dynamic is still pretty strong even though to me Tommy seems to have alienated himself and believes he's doomed to be like Frank Arthur.

Kathleen Shoop has once again woven a Historical Fiction novel that will remain on your mind long after you've finished reading it. Let's just hope we don't have to wait very long to revisit the Arthur family.

It's 1875 in De Moines, Iowa...the prequel novella to The Letters series. This is the love story of Tilly Rabel and Landon Lockwood, the son of one of the wealthiest men in America. Will Landon go against his parents wishes and have the life he wants with a young woman they disapprove of. Will he be able to prove to Tilly that he no longer has any interest in her beloved cove?

I thought this was a sweet yet short love story. It was so sad that everyone was after Tilly's tiny parcel of land, that she didn't know who she could trust. I felt really bad when Landon tried to show her affection or give her gift she would think that he was trying to use her to get her cove. This was a heartfelt, beautiful, love story.

It is going to be a special day for Elliot Ebberts. A special day AFTER navigating the drop-off. Elliot can’t believe he has drop-off duties today of all days. The snarling chaos of school drop-off time.

Elliot has the best Christmas surprise ever for his wife, Libby. He can’t wait until tonight when he’ll gift Libby the surprise of a lifetime while they’re at a favorite restaurant with the kids. To ensure everything goes perfectly today, Elliot has brought his new coat – so well-deserved – it will be his good luck charm. At least, it will be good luck as soon as he drops off the kids at school and drives away from the drop-off circle.

As Elliot becomes more frantic with each passing hour, the reader meets strangers that, before the day comes to a close, will teach Elliot vital lessons about the true meaning of gifting at Christmas and loving others as ourselves. Will he open his heart in time?

As the novella ends, don’t miss turning one more page to read the inspiration for the story and who brainstormed with the author to develop the plot as it adds to the Christmas magic.

Note: Language may offend some readers.

This story revolves around community nurse Rose who, together with her wayward family, lives in a Pennsylvania steel mill town during the smog disaster that would eventually lead to the Clean Air Act. I sympathised with Rose, she's a tough nut, but she has reason for being so and she carries so much on her shoulders between work and family life; trying to balance both at a time when she could expect little support or even approval. Perhaps some of my sympathy stemmed from the fact that I disliked most of her family and felt her life with them to be almost more of a horror than the fog. For that reason, I didn’t enjoy the ending, I think Mrs Saltz got the better deal. But the book gives an interesting look at a time, place and historical event that I wasn’t previously aware of and it portrays the dynamics of a dysfunctional family quite well. I’m just not sure the author intended the reader to be left pondering if it was the family or the fog that was the more toxic element.

A nostalgic read that transports you back to festive times in 1937 with ease. Even though this quaint town is going through hard times it doesn't stop their Christmas spirit and the act of giving. I could almost smell the cinnamon in the air with Kathleen Shoop's continuous art of detail in her writing.

Jane was a lovely character to follow, ambitious, focused, and a loving person but on receipt of a letter her dreams of becoming a teacher stand in tatters and you can feel her sadness and desperation, along with her added worries that I won't spoil for you. But don't despair a Christmas miracle is there to enjoy!

A lovely short read that's bound to get you in the festive mood, with the added bonus of having my favorite historical family, the Arthurs, in the story, and if you haven't experienced them yet you definitely need to read The Letter Series.

Yay! Another Christmas story from Kathleen Shoop! Always Noel, ‘Tis the Season book 4, is just as sweet, entertaining, and meaningful as the previous book in the series. This is a novella of less than 100 pages, so it’s a fast read.

I expect to be inspired while reading a Christmas tale and wasn’t disappointed. I enjoyed the 1937 Oregon setting, and quickly connected to Jane Scott. Even though the holidays are approaching, Jane is disappointed that her dreams and her personal life aren’t making her feel very festive. But maybe a Christmas miracle is on its way…

This feel-good, fast-paced story is sure to swell your heart and put a smile on your face. I’m loving this series and can’t wait to read more of Kathleen’s work.

Disclosure: #CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book.

I love stories with a festive Christmas setting!

Cinder Bella (‘Tis the Season book 3) is such a touching tale that oozes with positivity and celebratory spirit. I enjoyed the historical 1893 Pennsylvania setting, and especially Bella’s infectious upbeat nature. It is effortless to connect with her as she fills the story with her warm personality. The special message is conveyed in such a kind-hearted and meaningful way, showcasing what it means to truly be fulfilled.

This Christmas story will seep into your heart and mind, quickly transporting you to the 1892 Christmas season. It is beautifully written, beautifully conveyed.

Disclosure: #CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book.

I thoroughly enjoy reading these books, each release is set upon a general theme and the incredible authors from the Mindful Writers Retreat conjure up their own imaginative pieces related to that topic which brings all the stories together. It always amazes me how the authors write such varied, and interesting tales within one theme, and I think that's what makes it so exciting for me to read, looking forward to the next story to enjoy.

Obviously, two of my all-time favorite authors are included in the Mindful Writing Retreat series, Kathleen Shoop, and Madhu Bazaz Wangu, so this is already a winner for me, having said I have been introduced to so many more incredible authors because of this series, and I am so grateful for that.

This latest release is summery beach themed incorporating the Shell House of Rehoboth Beach, with it's history along with each authors different avenue of imagination, I found myself visiting different era's, along with some colorful characters to enjoy reading about. Some of the stories will captivate you, others are more intriguing and thought-provoking, and some are inspiring such as Stephanie Keyes Wren and Sea Captain, just the first one to come to mind!

Another great read, and I can't wait for the next one to come out. The great thing with these books is that you can read them as many times as you like and always enjoy them again, and again.

Well-written and interesting story about the childhood and early career of baseball great Stan Musial. Even non-sports-enthisiasts like this reader will find plenty to enjoy here.

Listed as part of the author's Donora Story Collection, this definitely stands on its own.½

A heartwarming story that will have you overflowing with festive spirit. Kathleen's heartfelt story transports you back in time to a harsh winter in Pennyslvania, in the midst of a financial crash, and depression, that serves as a reminder that the magic of Christmas can be felt, regardless of what you have in life. Bella is the centre of the story, her positive love of everything in life is quite contagious, and is joined by a group of people from all walks of life who find themselves in dire need of help and support, they have absolutely nothing yet have everything they could have wanted.

Bella asks does riches in life involve money, are they important? I think you will find the answer among these pages, for sure!

Genuinely moved me so much whilst following the story of Molly, Frannie, Jacob, and all those around them. As with all Kathleen's books, she seems to touch your soul with her words, which is why I've read this story three times.

An act of remarkable kindness from successful store owner Jacob sets the scene built from remembering the hardships he faced in a children's home years back and the feeling of having nothing to cherish of his very own until a friend selflessly gifted him a tin whistle.

Meanwhile, Molly and Frannie find themselves destitute through no fault of their own, and Frannie faces the hardest decision a mother has to make.

Yet both stories will touch each other through fate for a truly emotional read, and will definitely light up the festive spirit within you for sure.

A beautiful thought provoking, inspiring, and touching read.

Our rating
'A tremendously easy'
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This was a heartwarming novella, perfect to get into the Christmas spirit this year. Traveling back through history to Pittsburgh in the late 1800s, we are surrounded by a time long gone. Jacob's story is so sweet, showing how even the smallest acts of kindness can bring great joy and changes. I will admit at times I had tears in my eyes, but at others I couldn't stop smiling. An absolutely wonderful Christmas tale that will warm your heart just in time for the holiday season.

For historical fiction fans who also enjoy baseball this is definitely a must read. Kathleen Shoop introduces you to the Stan Musial, who grew up in the harsh mill town of Donora to become a baseball legend. With the authors vast amount of research she then adds her incredible story writing to bring Stan's childhood to life. Born under a pink moon Stan Musial was believed to be destined for great things according to beliefs. I think he must have been born with a baseball in his hands because he lived and breathed baseball every minute of every day, against his disgruntled father who saw this as a waste of time with his only hope in life to follow in his footsteps and all those around him by working in the mills.

I loved the heartwarming way the story is told as you join Grandpa in his care home along with his loving grandson Owen as they share special moments together reliving the memories of Stan Musial. They work their way through the special book that Grandpa's wife and sister had created on Donora so many years ago. The love between the two is so heartwarming.

The beauty of this story is Stan himself, his character shines so bright, and the love he has for his deeply devoted mother Mary and all those around him is so lovely to read about. The fiction doesn't detract from the harshness of living in the smog filled mill town of Donora, the dark dense air and noise from the mills they had to endure, the hardships they all faced, especially during depression, and how badly this affected the men of the town. Many immigrants, including Stan's father, landed in Donora with the promise of 'The American Dream' and what they received in return was far from it. The writing is so detailed it makes for very realistic reading you can feel the tension, anger, and sadness fall from the pages.

This was such a warm, realistic, touching story of how a young man achieved his dreams against all the odds, surrounded by his devoted mother, and his loving, loyal friends and family he was blessed to have. Sad moments, funny moments, all mixed together for another delightful and very interesting read by one of my favorite authors.

I have to admit over the years Donora has become one of my favorite places to visit. Shoop has this amazing ability to transport you through time with her words. This story will absolutely tug at your heart strings, the characters are so life-like that you can't help but feel for them. I wish I could've sat and listened to Patryk share his tale, but reading it was wonderful. Even though I really don't know a lot about baseball, this story was easy to follow and really enjoyable. Don't be put off by the size of the book - there's never a dull moment, and you'll be reluctant to set it down once you start. Would definitely give this more than 5 stars if I could!

Kathleen Shoop and historical romance, what is there not to love? The author jumped to the top of my list in this genre as soon as she hooked me with The Letter Series and I've never looked back. Here, with Love Under the Stars, is another prime example of why I simply love her writing! I drifted into the storyline with ease, the surroundings, the characters, the emotions, all felt real as if I was there as an observer watching it all unfold in front of me. I love reading how different life was back then compared to how it is now, I sometimes wonder if it was simpler in a way even though it was harsher times.

The two adorable main characters, Phoebe and John, enjoy the journey of first love, yet are torn between their love and loyalty. I felt my heart pull for them as they secretly fall in love, knowing that in reality it wouldn't be that easy to follow their dreams together. Young, big hearted Phoebe strives to keep her parents and family happy in their lives, centred around her love of cooking and caring for others she understands, as she has been told many times by her father, that she is destined to live as a single woman to serve her family. John is a lovely, thoughtful, and determined character, who comes from a loving and encouraging family, who brings love, nature and wonder to Phoebe's domestic life.

They are a match made in heaven in this quaint, cosy tale that pulls on your emotions hoping that their love will win through against the odds.

Young, sprouting love can be an amazing feeling when it happens. That's the way it happened with John and Phoebe. But they must keep it a secret from her parents until the time is right. And we all know how life throws curves, as was the case here. Can they overcome all the obstacles that are thrown at them?

Ms. Shoop is a true storyteller. She adds just the right details to a story to make it convincing and oh so interesting. I loved this story as much as all her others. Keep up the good work.

Perfect short story from the author to start off the festive season. This lovely tale seems to stay in your thoughts long after reading it, as Elliot's journey, and the people he meets along the way, evoke strong memories in him and he begins evaluating his life. He realises he has overworked and tired himself out to afford and enjoy the material items he cherished so much. He remembers the simple pleasures in life are goodness and kindness which mean the most to other people and can have such a positive effect all round.

A timely reminder of what the coming festive season is all about, to give up a little piece of your time in your busy life not only to gain appreciation from others but to gain satisfaction from doing a good deed.

It's time to cosy up, and enjoy this magical tale.

I love that Love Under the Stars opens in the thick of the tale. No heavy backstory. No setting up the scene. I instantly connected with John and Phoebe and loved the evocative feel of the mid-1800s. We've all worried about saying the right thing or making a good impression, so it was easy to sink into their thoughts.

I enjoy reading fiction inspired by true events or people. Especially when its inspiring themes teaches me something new. As Phoebe wondered about the universe and questioned John, I found myself immersed in the wonderings and explanations. And who knew watching a meteor shower could be so life-changing!

This is a charming, romantic, and meaningful read. My curiosity was piqued, my mind was expanded, and my heart was filled. This lovely story is sure to fill your heart and put stars in your eyes.

I received a complimentary copy of this book through the Beck Valley Book Tours. I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.

A group of pioneers in America are trying to improve their lives. This was a story of hardship, loss and betrayal. It was only near the end of the book that one of the characters began to understand and make peace with what had happenened earlier in her life. But even that was gained through sadness.

Tilly Rabel proudly tends to the mussel beds in her family's cove in 1875 Des Moines. Tilly lives by herself since her parents death and lives off of her commissions from the one of a kind mother of pearl pieces she creates. Landon Lockwood has something to prove to his father. Landon wants to earn his father's approval by building his own business and Landon has his sights on mother of pearl buttons. When Landon comes crashing into Tilly's cove, he doesn't expect to find someone strong, smart and capable. Tilly can not be bought, she is proud of her heritage, upbringing and ability to live off the land. This is an unforeseen issue for Landon, money has always solved the problems in his life; however, as he spends time with Tilly, Landon realizes that there is more to life than his father's approval. Landon soon finds himself defending the cove that he wanted to seize and falling in love with the woman that he tried to buy it from.
The River Jewel is the fifth book in The Letter series and serves as a prequel; so it is a great place to start. Landon and Tilly's story is an unlikely, sweeping historical romance. Told from alternating points of view between Tilly and Landon, The River Jewel is fast paced and engaging. I fell in love with Tilly's character from the beginning. Her tenacious and caring nature was a perfect balance with Landon's need for affection and hard working attitude. The romance in the story was perfect with many sweet moments, ups and downs and tension created after Landon's father shows up. I enjoyed the description of the land that Tilly tended and the care and procedures for tending her muscles and making special items with the mother of pearl. Overall, a wonderful beginning to The Letter series.
This book was received for free in return for an honest review.

The River Jewel is a novella, rather than a book coming in at 174 pages. From what I can glean it’s a side story from other books written by the author. I can tell you that I felt no loss of backstory from knowing absolutely nothing about the series or characters. It was a really engaging way to spend a couple of hours. In fact, I rather liked the concept – especially at this very busy time of year when I’m drowing in whatever the husband brings in from the garden. To be able to escape into another world without a huge time commitment was just what I didn’t know I needed.

Landon Lockwood thinks he is all that because he comes from a well to do family in New York. He gets to Des Moines in search of an investor for an idea he has and finds that all of the social rules he has followed all of his life suddenly don’t matter, nor does his supposed station in life. He has an idea, he thinks it is great and he is going tget the financing he needs so that he can prove himself to his cold, unloving father. He longs for his father to approve of him and thinks that becoming a financial success is the way to that love.

To acheive his end he needs to buy land owned by a young woman named Tilly and he thinks she will just fall at the feet of his money. Landon doesn’t understand that money is not the be all and end all for everyone. Tilly makes beautiful mother of pearl items from the mussels that live in the river where her land lies. She was taught by her mother. She is happy in her life and doesn’t need much. Landon has great difficulty comprehending this mindset but he is also very intrigued by Tilly. Tilly originally runs from Landon but there is something about him that captures her attention.

The River Jewel was a delightfully diverting way to get away from the world for a short while for an engaging romance with an engaging couple. The writing was crisp and the story moved right along. I think I might need more novellas in my life.

Have you ever wondered what the worst of the worst could be for families that braved prairie life back in the 1800′s? Kathleen Shoop describes just that in a horrifying very real way. There were many things to be afraid of back then, drought, debilitating snowstorms, crop failure, etc, etc. But what happens when the fear of being under your own roof is the worst of them all? What if you were the one desperately trying to hide these horrible secrets from everyone, including other in the home-just to try to keep them protected? And then what happens when these events have come to a point that they need to be told?

That is exactly what you will encounter in The Last Letter. This novel will pull at your heart-strings and probably bring you to tears. You will feel as if you all you want to do is stop all the bad that happens. The characters are so strong, they will leave a very big impact on you-you will remember them for some time. You will also begin to realize what we take for granted and make you grateful.

By the end of the book, you will be left wanting to continue the story. You will want to fill in the few blanks left behind. This book is amazing in so many ways, and I have already recommended it to most of my personal friends. I even lent out my own copy, that is how much I liked this book.