Release Day! Love and Chocolate

Release Day: Love and Chocolate!

Love and Chocolate was partially inspired by Milton Hershey and his rise to fame in the chocolate industry. Set in 1914, the story follows a family of German-American siblings in Wisconsin as they try to navigate their lives after the death of their beloved father.

Love and Chocolate: Book 1 of the Chocolate Chronicles

She just needs a job. He wants a career. Is there room in their hearts for love?

Ilsa Krause and her siblings are stunned to discover their father left massive debt behind upon his death. To help pay off their creditors and save the farm, she takes a job at Beck’s Chocolates, the company her father despised and refused to supply with milk. Then she discovers her boss is Ernst Webber, her high school love who unceremoniously dumped her via letter from college. Could life get any more difficult?

A freshly-minted university diploma in his hand, Ernst Webber lands his dream job at Beck’s Chocolates. His plans to work his way up the ladder don’t include romantic entanglements, then Ilsa Krause walks back into his life resurrecting feelings he thought long dead. However, her animosity makes it clear she has no interest in giving him a second chance. Can he get her to change her mind? Does he want to?

Purchase link: https://books2read.com/u/mdQerZ

Talkshow Thursday: Meet Pearl Ada Pridham

Talkshow Thursday: Meet Pearl Ada Pridham

I'm pleased to welcome Pearl to my blog today. Grab your favorite beverage and learn more!

What was your inspiration for the story?

After working at a pregnancy centre that focused on helping women/girls who found themselves in an inconvenient pregnancy, I wanted to write a novel to bring awareness around this issue to churches and families.

How do you develop your characters? (e.g. decide on their vocation, names, etc.)?

I chose names that I liked and that fit in with the place and time. I gave characters vocations that seemed to work for the purpose of the story.

What sort of research did you do for your story, and was there an exceptionally interesting tidbit you knew you had to include?

I researched laws in the time and place of the novel that had to do with teen pregnancy and how it was dealt with. Also, part of the book takes place in Europe, so I watched travel documentaries about those countries and even made a trip there.

Tell us about your road to publication.

At first, I wanted to use a Canadian publisher, as I am Canadian. But I found there are not many traditional

Pixabay/Sabrina

Christian Canadian publishers. I met my publisher through an ACFW Zoom conference.

Have you ever considered writing under a pseudonym? Why or why not?

I write under my maiden name, Pearl Ada Pridham. I wanted to use my original name.

How are your characters like you? Different?

The main character, Alison, is like me in being a little naïve, on the introverted side, and leaning into prayer when she needs support. She isn’t like me when she makes big travel plans with her friend from French class in high school. I didn’t like French class back then and wasn’t ambitious enough to travel to Europe. However, now as a senior, I have travelled to Europe twice and am grateful for those five years of high school French.

If your book is part of a series: Did you set out to write a series? Why did you decide to write a series?

My book is part of a series. Originally, I didn’t set out to write a series. However, a couple of years ago, during a covid shutdown, I participated in NaNoWriMo as a personal challenge. My debut novel was finished, although not yet published, so I decided to write another book from the POV of the main character’s grandmother. I am still working on finishing and publishing that one.

After publishing my debut novel, I wrote a prequel from the POV of the main character’s father, which takes place five years earlier. That story, Ed’s Hopeful Journey, is shorter and therefore published only as an e-book.

How has your book changed since your first draft?

I changed the ages of the main characters at the request of my publisher. At first, I thought that would present logistical problems and I’d have to make major changes in the story line. However, once I resigned myself to attempting it, I found I only had to make minor tweaks in the story line.

About Something I Haven't Told You

Alison, now a happy mother of two, recalls her teen years when a mistake of love led to unfathomable distress.

Faced with pregnancy at the age of fourteen, she deals with shame, her father’s rage, choices, and decisions that jerk her into adulthood. But, with her sister as her biggest supporter, along with her mother, friends, a counselor, and a school program for pregnant teens, she found what was really important in life to her, and succeeds in fulfilling her dreams.

Purchase Link: https://amzn.to/4e3j7TF

To learn more about Pearl visit her website: https://pearladapridham.com/

Fiction Friday: September New Releases!

September 2024 New ReleasesMore in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website

Contemporary General:

Kristen by Dawn M Klinge -- In this heartwarming tale, discover the extraordinary potential that lies within embracing the present and opening one's heart to the unanticipated blessings of life's sweetest surprises.(Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Contemporary Romance:

Escape to Whispering Creek by Barbara M Britton -- Can a gregarious office manager and rehabilitating business owner find love while fighting accusations of white-collar crime (Contemporary Romance from White Rose Publishing [Pelican])

Before We Were Us by Denise Hunter -- A temporary position at a rustic resort leads Lauren to the love of her life and a drastic career change. But on the eve of her engagement, an unfortunate fall leaves her unable to remember any of it. (Contemporary Romance from HarperCollins Christian Publishing)

The Farmer and Adele by Candice Sue Patterson -- Second chances aren't for the faint of heart. (Contemporary Romance Independently Published [ACFW QIP])

Historical:

Patriot at the River by Jayna Baas -- With the help of some unlikely allies, a young Patriot militiaman must save his settlement from the man who had a hand in his father’s death. (Historical, Independently Published)

New Star by Lana Christian -- You may know about the Wise Men’s part in Jesus’ story—but do you know the Wise Men’s story? (OR) How far would you go to protect what you believe in? (Historical from Scrivenings Press)

Historical Romance:
The Gamekeeper’s Reluctant Bride by Elva Cobb Martin -- She fled from a gilded cage, only to find herself trapped in a marriage of obligation. (Historical Romance from Wild Heart Books)


Love and Chocolate by Linda Shenton Matchett -- She just needs a job. He wants a career. Is there room in their hearts for love? (Historical Romance from Shortwave Press)




Virginia by Shannon McNear -- Return to the “what if” questions surrounding the Lost Colony and explore the possible fate of Virginia Dare--the first English child born in the New World. What happened to her after her grandfather John White returned to England and the colony he established disappeared into the mists of time? Legends abound, but she was indeed a real girl who, if she survived to adulthood, must have also become part of the legacy that is the people of the Outer Banks. (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)


A Token of Love by Carrie Turansky -- In this heartfelt dual-time tale, bestselling author Carrie Turansky weaves a story of two women whose lives intertwine through their shared pursuit of love, truth, and justice (Historical Romance from Bethany House [Baker Publishing Group])

Middle-grade Chapter books:
Freedom Through the Narrow Gate by Mark David Pullen -- Follow Jacob as he leaves the safety of the mouse village for a taste of blackberries and a daring adventure, only to come face to face with the menacing Swamp Rats and their vicious leader, Caine. (Middle-grade/Chapter Books from Morgan James Publishing)

Road Trip Return by Becca Wierwille -- A twelve-year-old boy must save his brother from making the biggest mistake of his life—even if that means embarking on an international adventure to the last place in the world he wants to go. (Middle-grade/Chapter Books from Beloved Chronicles LLC)

Romance:
A Journey for Amy by Diane Craver -- As the feelings between Amy and Joe grow deeper, can they overcome their dissimilar faiths, or will their differences pull them apart? (Romance from Vinspire Publishing)

Romance - Amish:

A Lancaster Amish Christmas by Anne Blackburne, Amy Clipston, Amy Lillard and Mindy Steele -- Four Stories of Romance by Four Authors set in the Heart of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania's Amish Country. (Amish Romance from Barbour Publishing)

Romantic Suspense:

Lethal Standoff by DiAnn Mills -- A female negotiator and a male investigative journalist work place their lives in danger to seek the release of undocumented immigrants hostages from kidnappers who harbor desperate secrets. (Romantic Suspense from Tyndale House)

K-9 Ranch Protection by Darlene L Turner -- Police constable Izzy Tremblay knows her father’s death was no accident, so when she finally discovers a lead and is immediately attacked, her suspicions are confirmed. For protection, she takes refuge with her ex-partner, Austin Murray, on his K-9 ranch while she races to uncover the truth. But with danger still lurking, can they stay alive long enough to take down a killer? (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

No Forgetting Providence by Lee Wimmer -- Running from faith led DR on a path of untold success, but also put crosshairs on him, is it providence, or is it something else? (Romantic Suspense from Hightower Publications)

Western:

Heidi’s Faith by Jill Dewhurst -- God uses a painting and a young man helping his neighbors to strengthen a young woman’s faith and enable her to overcome debilitating fear following a traumatic event. (Western from Independently Published)

Young Adult:
The Immortal Abyss by Katherine Briggs -- Nations rise and fall in the aftermath of war over the Eternity Gate. The corrupted desert throne stands empty, and the Immortal Abyss awakens. Drought ravages the continent, and people long for the rebirth of a starpalm, who will rise from among mortals and end their judgment. (Young Adult from Enclave Publishing [Oasis Family Media])

  Plus check out these recent additions to Fiction Finder published within the past month:

Murder Goes Caroling by Malissa Chapin -- Ringing in the holidays just hit a sour note. With mayhem threatening to turn festive carols into dirges, can a gifted pianist unmask a nasty scrooge? (Cozy Mystery)

The Italian Musician’s Sanctuary by Danielle Grandinetti -- Romance, history and intrigue at Our House on Sycamore Street. (General Historical)

The Marble Hill Crime Blotter by BD Lawrence -- Life in a small town isn't always as serene as one might think. The Marble Hill Crime Blotter is a series of thrilling stories that follow Police Chief Tom Petrosky and State Police Forensics Specialist Patricia Johnson. (Mystery/police procedural)

La Elegida para Harley by Heidi Gray McGill -- Esperaban una novia por encargo y obtuvieron más de lo que esperaban. (They were expecting a custom bride and got more than they bargained for.) (General Historical)

Hidden Danger by Gail Pallotta -- Left at the altar, Emily Hanover flees to Sky High Campground to put her life back together, but danger strikes in the night. Harassed by a man who seems to disappear into thin air, Emily and Nick, the security guard, discover a sinister plot, never dreaming danger could bring romance. (Romantic Suspense)

Captured in Frame by Laura Thomas -- Desperate to begin a new chapter after a heartbreaking betrayal, Canadian photographer Georgia Brooks retreats to her quaint English cottage—only to discover she could be in possession of incriminating evidence framing a criminal ring in the ugly underbelly of the art world (Romantic Suspense)

Talkshow Thursday: Welcome Back, Shannon McNear!

VIRGINIA by Shannon McNear

What was your inspiration for the story?

I took the most commonly known myth surrounding Virginia Dare—the legend of the White Doe, which came from a poem written by Sallie Southall Cotten in 1902, and put my own spin on it.

What sort of research did you do for your story, and was there an exceptionally interesting tidbit you knew you had to include?

I studied the Tuscarora people—their language, what we know of their customs and history—and the Spanish exploration of what is now the southeast United States. After focusing on the eastern Algonquian-speaking people for the last three stories, I knew I wanted to branch out and study those who were considered mysterious but definite enemies—and to include the Spanish element. But the tidbit that seemed hardest to work in—but that I HAD to use—was the Tuscarora’s use of “Indian hemp”—what we know as common milkweed—in fiber arts, both as cording and eventually textiles. It’s actually where the original name of the tribe, the Skaru:re (sgah-ROOO-rah) comes from.

Tell us about your road to publication.

I’ve been writing stories since I could first string sentences together in third grade. Eventually started my first novel at age 15—then rewrote that one about 20 times in as many years. I submitted it to various editors and even made honorable mention in a contest once (this was back in the day when you had to mail the entire typed-out manuscript and then wait months, even years, for a reply). Eventually I took a few years off from writing fiction while my older kids were small. When my youngest son was a baby, a friend asked me to accompany her teen daughter to a writing conference for homeschoolers, put on by Stephen Bly and Nancy Rue. Steve’s approach to story and writing intrigued me, and after several months of reading his work (he wrote Christian westerns—absolutely wonderful stories!), I started feeling the nudge to pick up my own again. I had to pray hard over that, since I had a houseful by this time and was expecting again! But the Lord made it clear I was to take that step of faith. So that was about 2003. I attended my first writer’s conference (Writing for the Soul in Asheville NC) and started applying myself to really learning the writing craft. I finished six more novels before the Lord popped open the door to publication through a dear friend of mine—Elizabeth Goddard, who at the time wrote for Barbour in their Heartsong Presents line, and who encouraged me to respond to a call for submissions for “pioneer Christmas” stories. That led to my first novella contract in 2012. So I tell people that from the time I started my first novel, the Lord made me wait 30 years to be published. 😁 A long road but the waiting on Him was absolutely worth it!

If your book is part of a series: Did you set out to write a series? Why did you decide to write a

Pixabay/Georgia Evans

series?

Originally I thought I had two, maybe three stories in the series, max. My editor at Barbour had invited me to consider the concept of the Lost Colony … and these were the characters who introduced themselves to me as I was researching and brainstorming. 😊

Why do you write in your particular genre?

I love breathing new life into history and making it fresh and relevant for the modern reader. To show how human struggles of the past relate to our lives now, and to current events.

How does/did your job prepare you for being a novelist?

I love this question—because the hardest job I’ve ever loved (to borrow that old Army slogan) is being a mother—and particularly a mother of many. I’ve given birth nine times (six of those at home), learned human nature in a uniquely hands-on way, and in all of it my children have taught me more about the Lord and His love, mercy, and grace than I feel I’ll ever teach them.

What are common traps for aspiring writers?

To get so caught up in perfecting a sentence that you miss the overall picture in the story. It took me forever to learn the infamous GMC—Goals, Motivation, and Conflict, and how they drive the story. Also, in this day of quick and easy self-publishing, to publish before the story—or writing—are really ready. Take the time to learn your craft! Don’t be afraid to seek hard feedback! (Entering contests can be a great place to find some.)

What writers or books have influenced you? What was your favorite childhood book and why?

I combined these two into one because they have similar answers for me. Early on, I loved the Little House books and Misty of Chincoteague—those two tie for favorites. Both imprinted me with a love for historical fiction (especially Little House—oh, and it had to be the books!). Later came Tolkien and Lewis—especially the latter. I love his Space Trilogy, and devoured his nonfiction works. (I remember reading Mere Christianity in high school … such a nerd.) I also loved Mary Stewart and Georgette Heyer, and many others that my mom had collected. Oh, and Alexandre Dumas, The Three Musketeers.

What books are on your nightstand right now?

I’m working my way through Watership Down, an old favorite I haven’t revisited in many years, and Lightning Strike, a mainstream crime drama by William Kent Krueger. He’s a newish author to me. In Christian fiction, next up is Darkness Calls the Tiger by Janyre Tromp and The Rose and the Thistle by Laura Frantz.

About Virginia

The White Doe of the Outer Banks Grows into Womanhood

Return to the “what if” questions surrounding the Lost Colony and explore the possible fate of Virginia Dare--the first English child born in the New World. What happened to her after her grandfather John White returned to England and the colony he established disappeared into the mists of time? Legends abound, but she was indeed a real girl who, if she survived to adulthood, must have also become part of the legacy that is the people of the Outer Banks.

In the spring of 1602 by English reckoning, "Ginny," as she is called by family and friends, is fourteen and firmly considered a grown woman by the standards of the People. For her entire life she has watched the beautiful give-and-take of the Kurawoten and other native peoples with the English who came from across the ocean. She's enjoyed being the darling of both English and Kurawoten alike--but a stirring deep inside her will not be put to rest.

One careless decision lands her and fellow “first baby” Henry Harvie, along with their Kurawoten friend Redbud, in enemy hands. Carried away into Mangoac territory, out of the reach of Manteo and the others, she must learn who she truly is—not only the daughter of Elinor and Ananias Dare but also a child of the One True God, who gives her courage to go wherever the path of her life might lead.

Connect with Shannon:
Website: http://shannonmcnear.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ShannonMcNearAuthor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shenandoahdawn/
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/shenandoahdawn/
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6880909.Shannon_McNear
Bookbub: http://www.bookbub.com/profile/shannon-mcnear
X / Twitter: http://twitter.com/shenandoah_dawn
Amazon author page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B00BK9VRZ2

Talkshow Thursday: The Story Behind the Story

Talkshow Thursday: The Story Behind the Story

By Susan G. Mathis

Hi reader friends! I have a new three-book Thousand Island lighthouse series called Love in a Lighthouse. In my newest novels, I invite you to join the Row-family women, Libby, Julia, and Emma, as they navigate the isolation, danger, and hope for lasting love at three different Thousand Island lighthouses in the St. Lawrence River.

The first in the series, Libby’s Lighthouse, is about Elizabeth Montonna, daughter of the Tibbett’s Point Lighthouse keeper, who thought she’d love the lighthouse life forever—until her mother, on her deathbed, reveals a long-buried secret. Now Elizabeth’s world has been turned upside down, making her question if she’ll ever truly belong and be loved. But when a dashing young sailor appears on her shore, wounded and disoriented, she finds purpose in helping him recover. Although the man knows nothing about his past or identity, his kindness and character steal a little more of her heart each day. But as Owen works to repay their kindness, and his relationship with Libby turns into something more, he knows their budding romance can go no further until he uncovers his past. With each passing day, Owen inches closer to discovering the secrets of his identity, but will the revelations bring him closer to Libby or tear them apart forever?

To prepare for writing this story, I visited the lighthouse as I do every year. But I also researched

extensively online and with books, and I interviewed several folks including the lighthouse docent and historian. With all the details I collected, I wove a story that is visceral, interesting, and I think, memorable.

Because I write about real places and people, I want to be as accurate as possible, so I have Thousand Islands historians who read my story for accuracy. I also like to incorporate as many historic details to make sure my details were correct. Though it’s extra work, it always helps to check with the experts, and because there wasn’t a whole lot of information, my creativity went to work.

I grew up just twenty minutes from the Thousand Islands—the setting for all my stories—in upstate New York. I spent every summer and more exploring the beautiful region. I’ve stayed on several of the islands and camped and rented cottages there. So, after I wrote my debut novel about Wolfe Island, I was hooked. There are so many fascinating stories to tell.

Now, I take an annual Thousand Islands Book Tour to the islands where I meet with fans, friends, and family. I’ve stayed in Singer Castle, Casa Blanca, and other places that are the settings of my book. I’ve talked with the owners of the islands, local historians, and researched in the Thousand Islands archives. All my novels are based on a specific place in the Thousand Islands and are the true stories of the owners of that island. So, my plot is generally true. Then I overlay the storyline of the fictional servants to create the story. This makes my stories a bit more challenging, but I love a good challenge.

About Susan:

Susan G Mathis is an international award-winning, multi-published author of stories set in the beautiful Thousand Islands, her childhood stomping ground in upstate NY. Susan has been published more than thirty times in full-length novels, novellas, and non-fiction books. She has twelve in her fiction line including, The Fabric of Hope: An Irish Family Legacy, Christmas Charity, Katelyn’s Choice, Devyn’s Dilemma, Sara’s Surprise, Reagan’s Reward, Colleen’s Confession, Peyton’s Promise, Rachel’s Reunion, Mary’s Moment, A Summer at Thousand Island House and Libby’s Lighthouse, the first in her three-book lighthouse series. 

Her book awards include three Illumination Book Awards, four American Fiction Awards, three Indie Excellence Book Awards, five Literary Titan Book Awards, a Golden Scroll Award, and a Selah Award. Susan is also a published author of two premarital books, two children’s picture books, stories in a dozen compilations, and hundreds of published articles. Susan makes her home in Northern Virginia and enjoys traveling around the world but returns each summer to enjoy the Thousand Islands. Visit www.SusanGMathis.com/fiction for more information.

Purchase Libby's Lighthouse: 

Amazon: https://amzn.to/3S2AN94

Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/libbys-lighthouse-susan-g-mathis/1145411417?ean=2940179602569

Wild Heart Books: https://www.wildheartbooks.org/libbys-lighthouse.html

Connect with Susan: 

Book Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7aY1jNmFW58&t=6s

Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Susan-G-Mathis/author/B001JP31DI Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SusanGMathis/

Twitter/X: https://x.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2FSusanGMathis

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/susangmathisaut/

Blog: http://www.susangmathis.com/susans-blog/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/211444588-libby-s-lighthouse

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susangmathis/

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/susan-g-mathis

Talkshow Thursday: Welcome Back, Jodie Wolfe!

Talkshow Thursday: Welcome Back, Jodie Wolfe!

What was your inspiration for the story?

The theme of the book is based on Isaiah 43:2 - When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee. (KJV) I love that we’re promised the Lord will be with us every step along the way, even when we go through the waters, rivers, fires, and flames. What a comfort.

If your book is part of a series: Did you set out to write a series? Why did you decide to write a series?

Convincing Lou is the final book (4) in my Burrton Springs Brides Series. I didn’t originally set out to write a series but the heroine in my first book wants to return the favor to her brother for setting her up as a mail-order bride, so she orders a bride or two for him to consider… which led to the 2nd book. While each book is a stand-alone, you will find repeat characters showing up in each one.

If you were to write a spin-off book about one of your secondary characters, which one would you choose and why?

Chuckle. Each of the books in this series have happened because of secondary characters. I think I’ve finally exhausted all of them now. 😊

What draws you to the time period about which you write?

I fell in love with the time period as a little girl watching and reading Laura Ingalls Wilder’s Little House on the Prairie Series. It’s also the genre I love to read, so it makes sense that I write historical romances set in the 19th century.

How do you celebrate when you finish a manuscript?

I’ve been working on a book and told my husband when I finish, we’ll go celebrate by watching the

new movie, Harold and the Purple Crayon.

What writers or books have influenced you?

I’m sure it’s a long list. Some of the ones off the top of my head are Laura Ingalls Wilder, Lori Wick, Janette Oke, Mary Connealy, Jen Turano, and Karen Witemeyer.

What books are on your nightstand right now?

Right now my Bible and other devotional booklets. I’ve been saving Mary Connealy and Jen Turano’s new books to read as soon as I finish my current project.

What is your next project?

I’m starting a new series set in Shippensburg, PA. It’s about prodigals. The first book, Abigail’s Pursuit takes place during the U.S. Civil War which is something I’ve never written about. I’ve had to research a lot and have enjoyed working with a local historian.

BOOK BLURB:

How hard can it be to round up one delinquent groom?

Ellie Lou Williams will do just about anything to save her ranch, even going undercover as a man to round up a fella who is late to his own wedding. The reward will more than cover the money she owes the bank and solve all her problems.

Caleb Martin agrees to one final job as a deputy US Marshal before he starts his new life away from the trail and tracking criminals. What he isn’t counting on is a mysterious bounty hunter who’s determined to undermine his every step.

Will one reach their goal first? Or will they learn to lean on God and work together?

Social Media Links
Website: https://www.jodiewolfe.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Jodie-Wolfe-553400191384913
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/jodie-wolfe
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/JodieAWolfe
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15220520.Jodie_Wolfe
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Jodie-Wolfe/e/B01EAWOHXO/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1
MeWe: https://mewe.com/jodiewolfe
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodie-wolfe-3955b2bb/

Purchase Link: https://qr.pbgrp.link/convlou

Wayback Wednesday: The Progressive Era

Wayback Wednesday: The Progressive Era

Taking place from 1901-1929, the Progressive Era in America somewhat parallels the Edwardian Age in England, but rather than the result of trends set by a monarch, the time period was the result of the desire for furthering social and political reform, curbing political corruption caused by political machines, and limiting the political influence of large corporations. Rapid industrialization, urbanization, and immigration had created the “haves” and the “have-nots.” Slums, poverty, and worker exploitation were rampant across the nation, and monopolies had a tight grip on nearly every industry.

Numerous movements attempted to solve perceived social, political, and economic problems through scientific methods, protecting the environment, and subjecting businesses to copious regulations.

Corruption and “undemocratic political machines,” as one source put it, were targeted by reformers. The

establishment of primary elections, direct election of senators (rather than by state legislatures), referendums, and eventually the right of women to vote brought about much needed change, but not enough.

Monopolies were headed by rich, powerful men who bought politicians and other influential individuals. In an effort to promote fair competition, Progressives pushed antitrust laws and advocated for new government agencies with the responsibility of regulating industry.

At this time magazines experienced a surge in popularity as their prices fell and they began to cover corruption in politics, local government, and big business, known as muckraking. These muckrakers exposed social and political wrongdoing. McClure’s is one of the more well-known of these magazines. At the same time, authors, such as Upton Sinclair, were also addressing the situation. His 1906 novel, The Jungle, attacked unsanitary and inhumane practices in the meatpacking industry. The outcry from his readers prompted the Meat Inspection Act and the Pure Food and Drug Act passed.

Interestingly, the number of rich families increased significantly, from 100 or so millionaires in the 1870s to 16,000 by 1916. Steel magnate Andrew Carnegie led a host of them to a lifestyle of philanthropy, saying they owed a duty to society. During the time, hundreds of millions of dollars were bestowed or bequeathed to colleges, hospitals, libraries, museums, and other organizations aimed at improving the lives of “everyday people.”

_________________

Love and Chocolate

She just needs a job. He wants a career. Is there room in their hearts for love?

Ilsa Krause and her siblings are stunned to discover their father left massive debt behind upon his death. To help pay off their creditors and save the farm, she takes a job at Beck’s Chocolates, the company her father despised and refused to supply with milk. Then she discovers her boss is Ernst Webber, her high school love who unceremoniously dumped her via letter from college. Could life get any more difficult?

A freshly-minted university diploma in his hand, Ernst Webber lands his dream job at Beck’s Chocolates. His plans to work his way up the ladder don’t include romantic entanglements, then Ilsa Krause walks back into his life resurrecting feelings he thought long dead. However, her animosity makes it clear she has no interest in giving him a second chance. Can he get her to change her mind? Does he want to?

Pre-order Link: https://books2read.com/u/mdQerZ