A series of short stories with a railroad theme. A good long read with a strong Historical Christian Romance theme throughout.

I like to read about women who can take care of themselves. They have the brains and pluck to keep going and get done what needs to be done - often putting others first. But then you add that encounter with a man who can come to her aid. And she learns that even though she is strong, it's nice to have someone around to help - and they become a team. Especially when he appreciates her qualities. I've met some consistent 'damsels in distress' who rely on a man for every whim. And the men who love to be needed and provide that constant assistance and care. But it's never been who I am or what I want. I prefer the other, strong independent type. In this book, you get all of the above. Plus those who don't think they're good enough for the one they love. And some Irish characters, a soft spot in my heart - they did play a strong part in constructing the railways. This is not a quick read, which I love. The theme is the same, but the stories are not shared.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the Barbour Publishing - 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.” ( )

I love these historical fiction smorgasbords.So many authors, so many different interpretations of the given theme, The Rails to Love. Some tales take place aboard the early trains,as in The Honeymoon Express,by Susan Dietze, where an unmarried couple,desperate to be on the train,must fake marriage. One, Connie Stevens's My Soul Waits, involves one of the main characters being a railroad heir and learning the ropes from the ground up. Yet another, Train to Eden by Connie Cecil,uses a train wreck to cause amnesia in a main character whose real identity could spell catastrophe for the new relationships she is developing.

While those are some of my favorites, you won't want to miss the other six stories, either. Authors Amanda Cabot, Kim Vogel Sawyer, Lisa Carter,Lynn A. Coleman, and Liz Tolsma, and Diana Brandmeyer round out the list of contributors. Some names may be new, some well-known, but all combine for a tasty nine course progressive reading meal! Bon Apetit!!

I gratefully received an e-copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ( )