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Customer Reviews for Bethany House Stealing the Preacher
Bethany House Stealing the Preacher
On his way to interview for a position at a church in the Piney Woods of Texas, Crockett Archer can scarcely believe it when he's forced off the train by a retired outlaw and presented to the man's daughter as the minister she requested for her birthday. Worried this unfortunate detour will ruin his chances of finally serving a congregation of his own, Crockett is determined to escape. But when he finally gets away, he's haunted by the memory of the young woman he left behind--a woman whose dreams now hinge on him.
For months, Joanna Robbins prayed for a preacher. A man to breathe life back into the abandoned church at the heart of her community. A man to assist her in fulfilling a promise to her dying mother. A man to help her discover answers to the questions that have been on her heart for so long. But just when it seems God has answered her prayers, it turns out the parson is there against his will and has dreams of his own calling him elsewhere. Is there any way she can convince Crockett to stay in her little backwoods community? And does the attraction between them have any chance of blossoming when Joanna's outlaw father is dead set against his daughter courting a preacher?
Average Customer Rating:
(31 Reviews) 31
Rating Snapshot (31 reviews)
5 stars
26
4 stars
5
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0
31 out of 31100%customers would recommend this product to a friend.
Customer Reviews for Stealing the Preacher
Review 1 for Stealing the Preacher
Overall Rating:
Very cute cover and excellent story!
Date:June 18, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
This is the first book I’ve read by this author but I’d heard really good things.
I have to say—I chose this book because I fell in love with the cover! Who wouldn't see that nearly impish grin and not feel intrigued?!
I somehow just knew this book would have the right amount of humor in it but was pleasantly surprised at the overall theme of salvation. I will definitely read more from this author in the future!
About the Story
Most young girls ask for jewelry or trinkets for their birthday but Joanna asked for a preacher! When her dad kidnaps Crockett Archer from his train for his daughter—things get a bit interesting!
Most young girls ask for jewelry or trinkets for their birthday but Joanna asked for a preacher! When her dad kidnaps Crockett Archer from his train for his daughter—things get a bit interesting!
Crockett is on his way to an interview for another church but it seems that the Lord is calling him in another direction. Plus, he can’t seem to get thoughts of Joanna out of his mind. Joanna’s father also intrigues him and he feels drawn to help win the man to Christ. This leads Crockett from the path he thought he was supposed to be on and down another—one that promises love and redemption for a community.
Though this book had quite a bit of humor in it—there were also some dark themes in it that will leave your heart aching in sympathy for the characters. I haven’t personally experienced the pain that Silas has endured but I do understand his anger against Christianity and preachers in general.
I think this story serves as a reminder that there are evil people in this world who will abuse their leadership in churches and tarnishes the name of Christ. However, we have to guard our hearts against bitterness. I am very impressed with the gospel’s message that was brought to life in this tale.
Concluding Thoughts:
I would love to see a second part to this story about the rest of Crockett’s family—maybe his younger brother? I have no complaints at all about this book except for one small gripe. The name Crockett Archer just didn’t flow off my tongue. I had a hard time forming my thoughts around it for some reason. I wanted to say Crocker Archett—as if the name were a tongue twister. It’s only a small complaint and doesn’t affect the story in any way! Still a 5 star from me!
I would love to see a second part to this story about the rest of Crockett’s family—maybe his younger brother? I have no complaints at all about this book except for one small gripe. The name Crockett Archer just didn’t flow off my tongue. I had a hard time forming my thoughts around it for some reason. I wanted to say Crocker Archett—as if the name were a tongue twister. It’s only a small complaint and doesn’t affect the story in any way! Still a 5 star from me!
I received this book free from the publisher through a fantastic program called Litfuse Publicity. I was not required to write a positive review.
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Review 2 for Stealing the Preacher
Overall Rating:
Thoroughly enjoyed!
Date:June 16, 2013
Anna
Location:Melbourne, Australia
Age:25-34
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I'm really enjoying Karen Whitmeyer's books & this one was no exception. I was glad to read what happened to another Archer brother & how the story intertwined with previous ones. Now to wait to hear Neill's story...can't wait!
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Review 3 for Stealing the Preacher
Overall Rating:
A Preacher for Her Birthday?
Date:June 15, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
What would you do if you were Joanna Robbins’ father and all she asked for her birthday was a preacher? Would you steal one? Stealing Crockett Archer at gunpoint off a train is exactly what Silas Robbins does to please his only daughter.
Joanna Robbins had been praying for a preacher to come to their town and revive the town’s little church. More than that, she wants a preacher to help to pick up the mantle of praying for her father’s salvation; the mantle that her mother left her alone with when she passed way.
Bound up in Silas’ lasso, Crockett Archer finds himself at the mercy of a renegade band of former outlaws and a young woman. All he wants to do is get back on the train and continue on to Brenham, Texas, where he is to interview for pastor of that town’s church. Instead he finds himself in a small community with hardly enough people to fill its acreage, let alone the pews of the small church. After listening to Miss Robbins’ questions about God and the Bible, he agrees to answer them in exchange for his release with a horse that very day.
But not all goes according to plan...
Stealing the Preacher was the first book that I have read by Karen Witemeyer, and I wish I had discovered her books sooner! Her writing drew me into the story starting with the first paragraph and held my attention to the last.
I absolutely loved the characters, Jo (Joanna), Silas, Crockett, and Jackson. They brought the story to life and compelled me to keep reading. There were places in the story that made me laugh and others that made me cry, which in my opinion is the sign of a great book.
**Stealing the Preacher by Karen Witemeyer was provided for me free by Litfuse Publicity Group in exchange for my honest review.
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Review 4 for Stealing the Preacher
Overall Rating:
Romantic Comedy at its best
Date:June 15, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
The perfect combination of passionate romance liberally laced with humour! I was chuckling and swooning from beginning to end. And a warning to people who read on public transit -- there are enough laugh out loud moments in 'Stealing the Preacher' that your fellow commuters will start looking at you oddly. Bonus though, you'll get a seat all to yourself!
Boasting one of the most innovative opening scenes I've ever read, 'Stealing the Preacher' is peppered with surprises throughout the book. One of the most compelling ones, is the solid inspirational thread born of heartache and humour.
A delectable read that will leave you smiling days after you reach the end.
"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".
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Review 5 for Stealing the Preacher
Overall Rating:
Date:June 14, 2013
Christine Hindman
Location:Reseda, CA
Age:55-65
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Good story line. Very different but Karen continues to please this readers palate for excellent material.
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Review 6 for Stealing the Preacher
Overall Rating:
Guaranteed to make you laugh out loud
Date:June 12, 2013
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
From the eye-catching cover to the fun story contained within its pages, "Stealing the Preacher" is sure to please fans of historical romances. Normally I don't gravitate towards distinctly romantic novels myself, but after enjoying "Short-Straw Bride" so much, I just had to see what happened next to the Archer clan...and I'm glad I did! Crockett and Joanna are fantastic characters, providing lots of humorous moments, entertaining dialogue, and plenty of "aww-shucks!" scenes. The story moves along well with page-turning drama, and I enjoyed the historical details that the author weaves into the book. I also found myself surprisingly moved at some of the scenes, particularly those between Joanna and her father and a few other moments that I won't mention for fear of spoiling the plot. I most appreciated the zeal that both Joanne and Crockett have for winning people for Jesus, for offering hope and reconciliation, forgiveness and grace. A story that can not only offer superb entertainment while pointing people to Jesus at the same time is definitely a story worth reading!
If you are looking for a heart-warming romance that celebrates faith and will also have you laughing as well, then "Stealing the Preacher" is just the book you are looking for. I award this book a solid rating of 4 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
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Review 7 for Stealing the Preacher
Overall Rating:
Enjoyable and inspiring
Date:June 12, 2013
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I really enjoyed this book. It was a sweet and tender romance with a character I'd gotten to know previously in Short-Straw Bride. I'll admit, I adore the Archer boys, so I was excited about reading this book. It wasn't quite as enthralling as the last story, but it was spiritually deep and brought tears to my eyes toward the end. That mess with Holly had me holding my breath, too.
The story was filled with themes of doing the right thing and the importance of being honest in every way. A little deception is still deception, and coming clean before God and man is good for the soul. I also liked the emphasis on the power of prayer and listening to God's voice in your heart. Those are all decent lessons for any good story. The author just made them more fun because of her lovable characters.
Stealing the Preacher's core themes were the importance of listening to God, being patient, and being willing to allow God to direct your steps. I appreciated the spiritual aspects of the story most of all. But I also adored Crockett as the hero and the love he felt for Joanna because of her caring heart and her desire to serve others. He treasured that more than just her pretty face. I thought that was a wonderful theme as well.
I believe this story illustrates very well how good men want someone who will be partner for life in all ways, and that woman needs to be someone they admire. That's an admirable message for aspiring young single ladies who want to win a good man's devotion. Flirtation and temptation are not the ways to accomplish that end. Very well done.
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Review 8 for Stealing the Preacher
Overall Rating:
Karen Witemeyer's Best Book Yet
Date:June 11, 2013
Laurie Kingery
Location:central OHIO
Age:55-65
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Karen Witemeyer's STEALING THE PREACHER is her best book yet. A followup book to SHORT STRAW BRIDE, it's the story of Crockett Archer, a newly ordained preacher, who is kidnapped off a train as the birthday present for rancher's daughter Joanna Robbins. The kidnapper, her father, doesn't realize she wanted a preacher for the purpose of saving her father's soul as well as having a church where there has been none for years, but Silas Archer didn't count on sparks flying between the kidnapped minister and his precious daughter. Crockett is touched by Joanna's sincerity, and when circumstances deny him the church he thought he would pastor, he voluntarily returns to the empty church near the Robbins' ranch, and Joanna herself.
What follows is a story of redemption--for Silas, whose train-robbing career has never been paid for, salvation, and love between two children of the Lord who belong together. Even the secondary characters in Witemeyers books, such as Spivey Jackson, are appealing, and her female villain is perfectly drawn. I can't wait till her next book comes out, and if you haven't read any of them before, what on earth are you waiting for????
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Review 9 for Stealing the Preacher
Overall Rating:
Stealing The Preacher by Karen Witemeyer
Date:June 8, 2013
Wanda
Location:NC
Age:35-44
Gender:female
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
My Favorite Scene:
”"If I were going to instigate a courtship with a kiss,” he murmured, ” it wouldn’t be a quick peck on the forehead.” He tightened his grip on her shoulders as he spoke.
”It wouldn’t?” She swayed toward him slightly. Crockett shook his head, his eyes never leaving her upturned face.
”What would it be?” Her breathy question dissolved the last of his reserve.
”This.” Crockett drew her toward him and lowered his head. He stopped a fraction of an inch from her mouth. Gave her a final chance to change her mind and pull away. When she made no move beyond shifting her focus from his eyes to his lips, he closed the last of the distance.
His mouth covered hers. Instinctively, he tugged her closer. She came to him– her hands on his waist, the feathery touch speeding his already charging pulse.
Releasing her shoulders, he slid his palms around to her back. She felt so good in his arms, so right. He wanted to hold her there forever, to kiss her until they both forgot everything else.
He deepened the kiss.
She startled at the change, then softened against him. But her momentary shock was enough to bring him back to his senses.
Swallowing a groan of reluctance, Crockett lifted his head. Joanna rose up on her tiptoes as if to follow, but his greater height kept her from her goal.
His hands shook slightly as he released her. Merciful heavens. He’d never experienced anything so intense. So exhilarating. And terrifying. It was as if some element of his very being had been altered.
Had she felt it, too?
Joanna’s eyes flickered open, and a pretty pink blush washed over the pale freckles bridging her cheeks. Her eyes, now more blue than gray, gazed up at him with a wonderfully bemused expression–one that filled his heart with tenderness.
And protectiveness.”
Sigh… Come on, admit it! I know you sighed too. What a scene! Although there were SEVERAL scenes in this book I wanted to share, I couldn’t very well share the WHOLE book now could I? So, alas, I had to choose just one. I LOVE this scene. It was the epitome of what a first kiss should be. What all girls dream of. Tell the truth, now. You’ve had dreams like this at some point. I know I sure have. The all-you-ever-dreamed-a-first-kiss-would-be dreams. The tenderness Crockett displayed, and the love they feel for each other jumps right off the page. This is definitely a kiss to remember.
My Thoughts:
Sigh… Yep you guessed it. I love this book. I fell in love with the Archer brothers in Short-Straw Bride and, honestly, I didn’t think book two could be any better. I usually don’t like admitting when I am wrong but, in this case, I’ll do it gladly. Stealing The Preacher was captivating from the very first page and only progressed from there. It touched all the emotions I feel are important when deciding if a book is worthy of a 5 star rating. It had action, drama, romance and spirituality. There were several scenes that touched a deep emotion in me, even to the point of tears. Karen Witemeyer won me over with her book To Win Her Heart, now she keeps me captivated with Stealing The Preacher.
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Review 10 for Stealing the Preacher
Overall Rating:
Kidnapping, Hardened Heart, Abandoned Church & Rom
Date:June 8, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Karen Witemeyer in her new book, "Stealing the Preacher" published by Bethany House Publishers takes us into the lives of Joanna Robbins and Crockett Archer.
From the back cover: A cowboy who wants to be a preacher. An outlaw's daughter who wants to change his mind.
On his way to interview for a position at a church in the Piney Woods of Texas, Crockett Archer can't believe it when he's forced off the train by an outlaw and presented to the man's daughter as the preacher she requested for her birthday. He's determined to escape-which would be much easier if he could stop thinking about Joanna Robbins and her unexpected request.
For months, Joanna had prayed for a minister. A man to breathe life back into the abandoned church at the heart of her community. A man to assist her in fulfilling a promise to her dying mother. But just when it seems her prayers have been answered, it turns out the parson is there against his will and has dreams of his own calling him elsewhere.
Is there any way she can convince Crockett he ended up right where he was supposed to be?
"Stealing the Preacher" is a delightful read full of atmosphere and history. Joanna has been praying for a preacher to take over the abandoned church in their small farming community. The church is falling apart largely due to the neglect of her father,Silas, whose heart is hardened against the things of God. This is what Crockett is dragged into, literally, as he was kidnapped off the train because this is Joanna's birthday wish and Silas will give her anything she wants. "Stealing the Preacher" is all about trying to win the lost and the sacrifices Crockett must make to do so. Ms. Witemeyer has also given us a sweet romance between Crockett and Joanna. These two characters are so real Ms. Witemeyer makes us root for their romance to blossom. Ms. Witemeyer knows how to tell a story that is both interesting and delightful and I recommend it highly.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group. 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."
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Review 11 for Stealing the Preacher
Overall Rating:
Light-hearted Christian Western Romance
Date:June 7, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
It is 1885 and Crockett Archer is following the call of God to on his way to Burleson County, Texas, to gain what he hopes will be his first official job as preacher. But his train journey is cut short when a group of outlaws hold up the train and kidnap him… as a birthday gift.
Joanna Robbins has always known her father used to be an outlaw and train robber, but love for her now-dead mother led to Silas and his gang giving up crime fifteen years ago and settling down to work the Robbins ranch. Her mother was a strong Christian, and when she died, she passed on to Jo the burden of praying for Silas and his salvation. Jo has long wanted a preacher for their abandoned church, but never dreamed her father would kidnap one (well, who would?).
It’s an amusing set-up, and one that works well. Jo is a mature and beautiful young woman who is soon attracted to the young preacher, and Crockett soon finds that his plans might be different to God’s plans—and God’s plans just might include Jo and her small church. But he also has to earn the respect of Silas, who has a long-standing hatred for ‘men of God’.
One of the things I enjoy about Karen Witemeyer’s books is the humour, and Stealing the Preacher is no exception. The concept alone is pretty funny, and she manages to mix humour with likeable characters, a solid plot and sound Christian themes without the humour coming off as forced, and without the characters coming off as stupid.
Crockett Archer first appeared in Short Straw Bride, the first novel about the Archer brothers, and although this Stealing the Preacher is part of a series, it can easily be read as a stand-alone novel (although you might just want to go back and read the earlier stories once you’ve finished this one). Recommended for fans of romantic American westerns by authors such as Mary Connealy, Cara Lynn James and Jen Turano.
Thanks to Bethany House and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
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Review 12 for Stealing the Preacher
Overall Rating:
Good read.
Date:June 7, 2013
Phyl
Location:Bristol, TN
Age:55-65
Gender:female
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
An unusual storyline. This was a good story about a girl's deep faith and her love for her unbelieving father.
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Review 13 for Stealing the Preacher
Overall Rating:
Worth the read!
Date:June 5, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I've said it before, but I'll say it again: Karen knows how to write sweet romances. Stealing the Preacher was just that! If you've already read any of Karen's previous books, you won't want to miss it - you're in for another treat!
I think my favorite of Karen's so far is Short-Straw Bride, but Stealing the Preacher would be next in line! I thought it was great that Karen told Crockett's story – one of the brothers from Short-Straw (but don't worry if you haven't read it; although the brothers are mentioned, Stealing the Preacher can be read as a standalone, and you won't be lost).
Whoever heard of stealing a preacher? Jewels, perhaps; money, of course! Kidnap a ransom-valuable person, maybe...but a preacher?! What a creative start to a story!
I loved the theme that God works in mysterious ways – and all things work together for good for those that love Him!
If you enjoy prairie-style romance, Stealing the Preacher is worth the read!
*I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given, and all thoughts are 100% mine.*
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Review 14 for Stealing the Preacher
Overall Rating:
Steals your heart
Date:June 5, 2013
An Old Fashioned Girl
Location:Minnesota
Age:25-34
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Once again, Karen Witemeyer has written a spectacular novel; "Stealing the Preacher" is a delightful blend of sweetness, humor, seriousness, and thoughtful reflection as Crockett Archer gets kidnapped from a train as a birthday present for an ex-outlaw's daughter and finds himself on a slightly different track than he originally thought God had called him to. One of the most attractive aspects of the book is the spiritual maturation of the main characters, giving us examples to follow besides lessons to learn.
One of four brothers orphaned at a young age, Crockett grew up needing to be a man's man - to accurately use a weapon for both food and protection, to care for a ranch, to doctor the wounded, and even to be a spiritual guide for his brothers. Lessons he learned growing up lends him a maturity to deal with so many different situations in his flock, from a neglected boy to a hardened father, from an overly flirtatious young woman to a severe middle-aged spinster.
Crockett's reasons for falling in love with Jo epitomize his spiritual maturation; while other girls may be prettier or pander his ego, Joanna shows an intense love for the Lord and desire to to follow His ways, and that proves far more attractive than any great physical beauty or flirtatious ways.
What impresses me is how true to life Witemeyer portrays the characters' walk with God. Crockett and Joanna both are mature Christians who are adept at following the Lord's leading, but both struggle at one point or another with whether they are truly doing what God wants, or if they are jumping ahead of His purpose. When a person is a new Christian, of course we expect them to have doubts about hearing God, but it really is common among the "mature" too, even when we know that we know that what we did was prompted by God.
Both inspiring and delightful to read!
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Review 15 for Stealing the Preacher
Overall Rating:
Stealing the Preacher, Literally
Date:June 4, 2013
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
Who in the world robs a train and steals a preacher? Silas Robbins! A story that will have you laughing at the improbability of this happening, and crying at the tender moments of the story. Definitely not a boring hysterical, historical novel. This story was a breath of fresh air with the quirkiness of the characters, and the way they all joined together to make a story. At times it seemed there were too many characters but Ms. Witemeyer done an excellent job joining everyone together making a wonderful, enjoyable story. While this was the second in the series, it does stand alone enough to know what is happening without referring constantly to the previous books. However reading the previous book, will help you to understand the character of Crockett Archer more. Overall my opinion of this book, is a great story, that is interesting, funny and enjoyable, twisted into a great love story. Not overtly mooshy and lovey dovey, but a great story of strong characters willing to love strongly. 4.5 stars. This book was provided for review purposes only. No payment was received for this review.
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Review 16 for Stealing the Preacher
Overall Rating:
Wonderful Story
Date:June 3, 2013
Somehow, I have missed out on Karen Witemeyer's books ... until now at least! I was excited to read Stealing the Preacher because the plot sounded pretty interesting! I mean a preacher getting kidnapped as a birthday present for an outlaw's daughter?! Definitely intriguing!
Karen Witemeyer is a talented writer. In my opinion, the greatest strength of Stealing the Preacher is the characters. Joanna and Crockett really kept the story going. And it was my desire to know more about them and their story that kept me coming back to the book time and again. Their desire to revitalize the church in order to reach those in the community was a nice addition to the story and struck a chord with me.
Fans of historical fiction are sure to enjoy this wonderful story. I look forward to reading more of Karen Witemeyer's book in the (hopefully near!) future. [4 stars]
I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House and LitFuse Publicity in exchange for my fair and honest review.
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Review 17 for Stealing the Preacher
Overall Rating:
Great Summer Read
Date:June 3, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Just in time for the beginning of summer is Karen Witemeyer's Stealing the Preacher. Set in 1885 Texas, the book has a delightful start as Crockett Archer is forced from a train at gun point on his way to interview for a preaching position in order to fulfill a birthday wish. Surely this wasn't part of God's plan for his life.
Joanna Robbins has been praying for a preacher to come and minister to the needs of her community and bring life back into the church that has been abandoned. Maybe in the process a man of God can also help her to accomplish the promise she made to her mother. If only she can convince Crockett that God may have different plans in mind for him.
I always enjoy reading Karen's books, and Stealing the Preacher was no exception. If you need a break from the heat of the summer, this book will provide the enjoyment you need.
This book was provided free for review by the author and Bethany House Publishers.
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Review 18 for Stealing the Preacher
Overall Rating:
A delightful love story
Date:June 3, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Stealing the Preacher is a quick, fun read that could have you alternating between laughing and crying. This story set in 1885 Texas involves a preacher, outlaws, competing women, and more. Love, faith, and fun all play important roles.
The characters in this engaging story are people I would love to know. Joanna has a strong faith -- although she has trouble believing in herself. Crockett is driven by a passion to preach -- but he finds that God's plans are not what he expected. (If you have read Karen's Short-Straw Bride, you will recognize Crockett and the other Archer "boys" from there.) Jackson is a young boy who just needs a little loving guidance. And Silas -- well, there's a lot to learn about the man under the tough exterior.
If you're a fan of historical fiction with a Christian view -- or just enjoy a good love story -- I would highly recommend you give Stealing the Preacher a try. This is only the second book I've read by Karen Witemeyer, and I don't plan on it being the last.
Thanks to Litfuse Publicity Group for providing this book free of charge in exchange for my honest review.
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Review 19 for Stealing the Preacher
Overall Rating:
Date:June 2, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
An entertaining, sweet, read!
I eagerly looked forward to Stealing the Preacher and it lived up to my expectations! Miss Witemeyer once again does a great job penning a believable historical setting fashioned with characters we can love and relate to. I am duly impressed with the strong faith of all her main characters. I think its safe to say Stealing the Preacher is my new favorite.
For those who have read Short Straw Bride, you'll be familiar with Crockett. He is my favorite of the Archer brothers, second only to Travis. His patience and compassion makes him well suited to his calling. I loved his knowledge of scripture! Not to mention his passion for his ministry.
Also weaseling her way to be my favorite is Joanna. My, she's a sweet thing. I adored her loyalty and love for her father. I identified with her too, and that made me like her all the more.
To sum up, if you liked any of Miss Witemeyer's previous books, especially Short Straw Bride, you are sure to like this one. I highly recommend it. :-)
I received this book from the publisher, through Litfuse, in return for an honest review of my opinions, which I have done. Thanks!
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Review 20 for Stealing the Preacher
Overall Rating:
Date:June 1, 2013
Julie Graves
Location:Oklahoma
Age:45-54
Gender:female
Crockett Archer is on his way to Brenham, TX when his train is held up by bandits. The passengers prepare to be robbed but the bandits do not want their jewelry or money. There is only one thing they want…the preacher!
Joanna Robbins made a promise to her mother before she died. She promised to carry on her mother’s mission of praying for her father Silas to make his peace with God. Joanna’s one wish for her birthday is to see a preacher in the abandoned church by their home. Little did she know that her father would go out and steal a preacher for her!
Crockett agrees to listen to why Joanna needs a pastor, but he still has every intention of continuing on to Brenham. Because of his delay the church in Brenham choose another pastor. Crockett feels that the Lord is leading him back to Joanna and her father to help Jo in her efforts to get Silas’ heart to soften.
Crockett confuses Silas. Everything Silas has ever known about religious people has been negative. Silas has no use for church-goers. But Silas can’t help but be impressed with Crockett. He works longer and harder than any of Silas’ other hands and Crockett isn’t intimidated by Silas.
From the moment Crockett meets Joanna he sees something special in her. Her love for the Lord and her care of the people draws Crockett to her from the very beginning. One spoiled church member could ruin everything for Crockett and Joanna.
We read about Travis the oldest Archer brother in Short-Straw Bride. Now we have Crockett Archer the brother that took care of all of the spiritual and health issues for the family. Stealing the Preacher is a fun sequel to Short-Straw Bride. Karen Witemeyer has a sense of humor that comes through in her novels. As with all of Karen’s novels there is also an element of suspense that always seems to get me biting my nails. I enjoyed Stealing the Preacher and I hope that we will be able to read more of the Archer brothers in the future.
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