On my bookshelf today: a sweet Catholic romance novel that takes place in Depression-era Arkansas. As historical fiction goes, this is one of my favorite time periods to read about; I think this is because characters are too busy surviving to do much navel-gazing.
Myra Johnson’s novel, The Sweetest Rain, finds a tenant farmer’s responsible oldest granddaughter in search of a way to supplement the near-nonexistent farm income during a drought season. Boldly approaching the plantation owner, she lands a housekeeping job in his grand home and upsets the status quo by getting involved in “upstairs, downstairs” politics–and falling in love with the owner’s son.
I enjoyed the portrayal of the two very different worlds that Bryony, the heroine, walked between, and the strength and grit she showed in helping her family survive. In some ways, she reminded me of George Bailey, doing what had to be done for her family, even at the expense of her own dreams. How this plays out as the story goes on–well, I don’t want to give any spoilers here. But I will say this: if you like Downton Abbey, you’ll like this novel!
Since this book is from the genre known as “sweet romance,” it’s appropriate for teens as well as adults.
To help me introduce this book to more readers, publisher Franciscan Media is offering a copy of The Sweetest Rain to one lucky reader! To put your name in the hat for a FREE copy of this novel, simply answer this question in the comment box:
What’s your favorite time period to read about in historical fiction?
This contest ends Tuesday, October 13 at noon Eastern. Winner will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to respond before another winner is chosen.
Want more chances to win? Visit the other blogs on the book tour and enter your name in their giveaways!
- 10/5/2015– Reading is my SuperPower
- 10/6/2015–Spiritual Woman + Reconciled To You
- 10/7/2015– Singing Librarian Books
- 10/8/2015– The Engrafted Word + Christian Chick’s Thoughts
- 10/9/2015– Reviews from the Heart
About author Myra Johnson:
Myra Johnson’s roots go deep into Texas soil, but she now enjoys living amidst the scenic beauty of North Carolina. Myra’s debut novel, One Imperfect Christmas, was a September 2009 release from Abingdon Press. She has also written six novels for the Heartsong Presents line. Most recently she has completed a three-book historical romance series, “Till We Meet Again,” for Abingdon Press. Myra and her husband, Jack, have two married daughters and seven grandchildren.
That is a really hard question to answer! I love any time period, as long as it’s well-written. I’ve heard so many good things about this book that I’m really hoping to win!
Thank you, Erin! I’m grateful for your interest!
You had me at Catholic romance. So happy to see Franciscan Media publishing this genre!
Thank you for your interest, Carolyn! Working with Franciscan Media has been a real joy, and I’m delighted to be a part of their new fiction line.
Barb, I’m so grateful for your kind words about my book–and to have it compared to Downton Abbey! Wow!!! Thank you for participating in the blog tour!
I am grateful for the opportunity to help introduce your book! I really enjoyed the story and am happy to see Franciscan Media introduce a fiction line! 🙂
This sounds like a great book! I love historical fiction!! I also like to read any time period; I just finished a book that was set in the 1950s which I really enjoyed (the fashion featured in fiction books for that time period is probably what I love the most haha), but I also do love the 1920s-1930s. I find the creative frugality in those eras quite fascinating!
Hi, AnneMarie! Love your name! Annemarie is the heroine in my earlier historical romance, When the Clouds Roll By. I hope you’ll enjoy The Sweetest Rain.
Thanks for the wonderful review – can’t wait to read ‘The Sweetest Rain’, love the storyline and Myra’s writing!!
I enjoy so many time periods in historical fiction, it would be hard to pick a fave. There are lessons to be learned from all, the depression era – especially.
P.S. Shared post!!
Hi, Bonnie! Thanks so much for your interest in my book! The research for this series has been really eye-opening. I’ve said it many times, but I’ve learned more from writing these historical novels than I ever remember from high school history class.
I only just discovered Christian fiction a little bit more than a year ago and now I discovered there was Catholic fiction. Being a Catholic myself, I’m really looking forward to reading from that genre.
My favorite historical era to read about is Ancient Rome. I love reading fiction set in the early Christian years, when the religion was only just taking place.
Hi, Samantha! I’m so glad you’ve discovered Christian fiction. I enjoy reading in a variety of genres, but when the faith thread isn’t there, I really miss it.
My favorite time period to read is between the 1800 to early 1900’s. I especially love the Regency period. That’s not to say I wouldn’t read any other time period, because any historical fiction is good in my book (no pun intended)!
I would love to read Byrony & Michael’s love story, thank you for the chance! Myra you are a new-to-me author and I DO love discovering new writers! I’ve also enjoyed all the author interviews & blog posts I’ve read about you 🙂
Hi, Trixi! I would love to have you as a new reader! Thank you for your interest in my book! 🙂
Civil War era is my favorite time to read about, but really I am a fan of most historical fiction. Christian historical fiction is the best! 🙂
Hi, Vicki! I agree–Christian historical fiction has that “something extra,” the faith element tying all the plot elements together more meaningfully than secular fiction can ever hope for.
I love any time between 1800-1930s. These are an amazing period. Christian historical fiction is definitely the best.
Hi, Evelyn! Glad to know you’re a fan of Christian historical fiction. There are so many wonderful authors to choose from, too!
And the winner is…Vicki G! Vicki, I’m sending you an email now to get your contact information. You have 48 hours (until 3 PM Thursday, 10/15) to confirm your prize.
Congratulations, Vicki!