Ten years after her parents were killed, Evelyn Radcliffe is once more homeless. The orphanage that was her refuge and later her workplace has burned to the ground, and only she and a young orphan girl have escaped. Convinced this must be related to her parents’ murders, Evelyn flees with the girl to Mesquite Springs in the Texas Hill Country and finds refuge in the home of Wyatt Clark, a … talented horse rancher whose plans don’t include a family of his own.
At first, Evelyn is a distraction. But when it becomes clear that trouble has followed her to Mesquite Springs, she becomes a full-blown disruption. Can Wyatt keep her safe from the man who wants her dead? And will his own plans become collateral damage?
Suspenseful and sweetly romantic, Out of the Embers is the first in a new series that invites you to the Texas Hill Country in the 1850s, when the West was wild, the men were noble, and the women were strong.
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Out of the Embers is set in the Hill Country of Texas on a horse ranch and in the small town of Mesquite Springs. Wyatt Clark with his mother and sister own the ranch that raises race horses. Wyatt’s dream is to leave the ranch one day and be on his own but feels obligated to his mother after his dad’s death. Enters Evelyn who has been an orphan since she was twelve and her little friend Polly who is also an orphan. Actually they are running for their lives as the orphanage was set fire to by an arsonist and all died. They were returning from taking lace to buyers in the next town over, so they escaped. Evelyn knew she was supposed to die in the fire also. She did all she knew to do and that was flee. Wyatt met them on the road during a storm and invited them to take shelter in his home. Thus begins a most interesting book filled with suspense, evil, much drama and action. Also is filled with faith in God, goodness and love towards our neighbor and of course romance. All in all a great book by Cabot………I received a copy of this book from the publisher and I am happy to leave my review.
Out of the Embers
Mesquite Springs #1
By Amanda Cabot
Evelyn Radcliffe has spent the last 10 years hiding, but whenever she leaves the orphanage that has been her home since her parents’ murders she feels as if someone is watching. And when the orphanage is burned to ashes Evelyn is convinced that the sheriff was wrong – her parents’ killer escaped.
Evelyn is determined to keep Polly, the young orphan girl who was in her care at the time of the fire, safe. And safety lies faraway from where Evelyn has always lived. Her westward path takes them into the Texas Hill Country and Mesquite Springs. Convinced that this is where she and Polly will settle, Evelyn puts her culinary skills to good use by reopening the town’s only restaurant. Putting the past behind her Evelyn and Polly soon find themselves at home and making new friends including the Clark family.
Finding Evelyn and Polly taking shelter from a downpour, Wyatt Clark does the neighborly thing by offering them shelter in his home with his family. Wyatt dreams of a life far from the Circle C but duty ties him to the ranch. And when Evelyn’s past seemingly finds her in Mesquite Springs Wyatt finds his dream of traveling taking second place to Evelyn and Polly’s safety.
Out of the Embers is a historical romance that is set in 1855 Texas and is the first book in a new series by Amanda Cabot. This is an enjoyable read that fans of Amanda Cabot’s previous works will love. There is just a hint of mystery concerning both Evelyn and Polly that will keep the reader intrigued. This would make an excellent stay-at-home read if you have extra time on your hands. It would also make a great book club choice as each of the various characters bring something different to the story. This isn’t a deep thinking book but it is the perfect way to escape into the past of Texas’s Hill Country and enjoy a few hours getting to know some new friends.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion ~ all thoughts expressed are my own.
This was the perfect book to read during my bedrest/quarantine .
I love historical romance, but add a little mystery to it and it hits the spot!
It’s hard not to fall in love with the town Mesquite Springs and it’s people, but maybe I’m just bias being from Texas.
I love the different strengths that both Evelyn and Wyatt have. Also, there’s a child who’s a pretend sister who has a mind of her own and made me giggle throughout.
I must say that it was interesting that author Amanda Cabot put snippets of the villain’s POV. It never gave more than enough to spoil anything. And though the bad guy is caught at the end, it’s not without unexpected twists and turns.
Out of the Embers set in Texas in the mid-1850s combines mystery and romance to form a captivating, touching story. It captured my attention and kept it from the first line: “Someone was watching.”
The story flows at a fitting pace, and Ms. Cabot skillfully meshes multiple storylines tying them together with a satisfying ending. The thread of faith is woven throughout the narrative. The characters are well-developed and endearing. I thoroughly enjoyed this emotionally-rich, moving story and look forward to the second book in the Mesquite Springs Series. I highly recommend this book.
The start of another series by Amanda Cabot looks to be the start of something wonderful. This was such a fun story to read! I have to say, little Polly kind of stole the show for me here and there. She was so sweet, but scared and uncertain. She provided some comedic relief that lightened the mood of the story sometimes. I just found myself really drawn to her for some reason.
Overall I thought this was a sweet and interesting read. I loved watching Evelyn grow as a character and (somewhat) learn that she could stand on her own. What a troubled life she had led, and the Lord had brought her to Mesquite Springs not only to meet her charming leading man, but feel a sense of peace and home. There is a surprised twist related to her character at the end that I was delighted by! I can’t really say more than that – but I would love to hear what you think after you read it.
Wyatt was a wonderfully written character as well. Here is a man who longs for more, sort of feels like he’s forced into his current situation, only to find that what God had in store for him is so much better then he ever dreamed. I loved seeing his heart growing soft for Evelyn, and understanding maybe he didn’t need to venture away from Mesquite Springs after all. And I’m not sure if he had self doubt, or what, but there was a moment in the book where things just seemed to click for him – he realized that he could do things, he was worth something, and there were things in life that were for him (hint hint – Evelyn!).
I look forward to the future of Mesquite Springs and its characters! What an enjoyable start to this new series from Amanda Cabot. I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Out of the Embers by Amanda Cabot was my first novel by this author. While I admit it took me a few chapters to really engage with the story, I found the richness and mystery of the story to only deepen with each turn of the page.
The sweet romance between Wyatt and Evelyn was genuine and endearing. Despite coming from such different backgrounds, they were an easy match and one the reader will cheer for on multiple occasions. Evelyn is such a strong woman, and it is easy to befriend her gentle spirit.
Wyatt is a shoo-in for a typical hero–handsome, kind, and willing to sacrifice much for those he loves. I especially loved how he supported Evelyn while she began a new life. I also loved the Circle C Ranch and the Clark family. They made the story have a homey and charming feel.
There were several characters in this book–all memorable and unique. Having such a large and unique cast made the town of Mesquite Springs more real as well a place you wish you could visit–and eat a piece of pie!
This story has several moving plot lines, and at first, it may seem a bit confusing. But the author baits the reader with clues well spaced throughout the story until the entire puzzle is put together at the end. I enjoyed trying to guess the motives behind different characters and solve the puzzle before the characters revealed all, but I will admit I didn’t quite have all the pieces in the right place–the sure sign of a good mystery!
Overall, I enjoyed this first installment of the Mesquite Springs series. I will be looking forward to the next book in the series! I hope we see more of Caleb’s story! Anyone who enjoys Christian historical romance will enjoy this book.
I was given a copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed Amanda’s debut to her newest series. It was a very interesting story line with a mystery between several characters and figuring out how all the pieces fit together. The story kept me involved and wondering what would happen next. The book is a quick easy read and an enjoyable way to pass a day stuck at home. My only complaint with the book is that I didn’t like an event that happened near the beginning of the story. I realize why it’s part of the story but I think it could have been handled in a way that wasn’t quite so much. I didn’t think an event of that magnitude was necessary. So I docked a star for that, otherwise I thought the story was wonderful.
I received this book from the publisher and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
Ten years after her parents were killed, Evelyn is once more homeless. The orphanage that was her refuge and later her workplace has burned to the ground, and only she and a young orphan girl have escaped. Convinced this must be related to her parents’ murders, Evelyn flees with the girl to Mesquite Springs in the Texas Hill Country and finds shelter in the home of Wyatt Clark, a talented horse rancher whose plans don’t include a family of this own.
Can Wyatt keep Evelyn safe from the man who wants her dead? She will do anything to keep Polly safe. After the orphanage burned and killed everyone, the only thing Evelyn can do is run.
The characters are well developed. I love that when Evelyn was faced with challenges she kept moving ahead with Polly. A sweet romance and chilling mystery that kept me up late at night turning the pages as I followed Evelyn and Polly’s story as they made their home in Mesquite Springs.
If you’re looking for a quick read, pick up a copy of the book, grab a cup of coffee and dive in.
I received a copy of the book from Revell/Baker Publishing Group in exchange for an honest opinion. All opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
This was a delightful story of Evelyn and her young charge Polly and their journey to start a new life. After their orphanage burns to the ground, they flee to another town called Mesquite Springs, Texas and come across kind hearted Wyatt and his family. As Evelyn and Polly start a new life and home together, Evelyn can’t help but feel “The watcher” has found them and once again is trying to kill them.
Steady plot, great characters, light suspense and romance throughout the story… loved the small town feel and townspeople. The ending was unpredictable which was nice and the story kept my interest from beginning to end. I really enjoyed it!
I received a copy of this book complimentary for blog and social media review. All opinions are my own.
I did not want to put this book down. I loved this historical fiction. I loved the romance and the bits of intrigue. I loved Evelyn, Polly Dorothy and Wyatt. This made me laugh and cry. I had to know if Someone was out to get Polly or Evelyn. I really enjoyed how strong Evelyn was even though she had lost her family a fairly young age. I received a copy of this book from Revell for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
Out Of The Embers by Amanda Cabot is an inspirational historical romance. It is an intriguing mystery, skillfully woven into a sweet romance. A decade after the brutal murder of her parents, Evelyn Radcliffe’s only refuge, the orphanage has burned to the ground. Only she and a young girl escape to safety. Fearing this to be related to her parents’ murders, Evelyn flees to Mesquite Springs in the Texas Hill Country, with her young friend, taking refuge at the home of Wyatt Clark, a single, rugged horse rancher. Will he hold the key to her future—and her past? With trouble blowing hard on her heels, Evelyn is at first a distraction, and later a full-blown disruption. Can Wyatt keep her safe from the man who wants to kill her? And will his own plans get in the way? Suspenseful and romantic, Out of the Embers invites you to the Texas Hill Country in the 1850s, in the wild West, filled with noble men and strong women. Evelyn deals with the “Watcher” with fear, cautiousness and courage. The plot twist with the “Watcher” was so incredibly done. This is an excellent read. I recommend it highly.
I felt like this book started out a bit slow for me, but wowzer. It didn’t stay that way. Danger. Mystery. Romance. This book has something for everyone.
Well developed characters and true to life frontier descriptions, this book felt life-like and once I got going it was really difficult to put down. The plot is riveting as the reader wonders just what will happen next and who will get the girl. With both suspense and clean romance, if you enjoy historical fiction you will enjoy Out of the Embers.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
There’s just something magnetic about a light romantic tale from the Old West. Add some mystery and suspense and you have the ingredients for a very enjoyable read by Amanda Cabot, Out of the Embers.
Evelyn Radcliffe and young Polly escape the orphanage fire that is deliberately set. How far must they run to find a new, secure life?
Evelyn is a very mature, loyal young woman who will do anything to protect those she loves. Her “adoption” of Polly proves how unselfish she is. I liked how her unselfish helping at the Circle C eventually leads to her dream future. But the path to get there is rocky.
Wyatt Clark is quickly interested in the young woman who comes to stay at the Circle C. However, the facts aren’t building a truthful foundation for a friendship, let alone anything more. Wyatt is a very responsible and caring individual who puts others above himself, as well. Which is why he is still present on the Circle C, a place he longs to leave. I love that Wyatt is not afraid to accept help and that he also listens to the voice of reason. These qualities go far in any relationship, be it friendship or love. Eventually, we see the far-reaching effects of lives lived for others.
I am not as impressed with Polly, the child in this novel. However, she does seem to act true to her identity.
Unless he shows up again in future books and bigger roles, I was unimpressed with the story thread of “the Watcher.” You’ll have to read the book to see if you agree. You may form a totally different opinion, which makes writing and reading these reviews fun. You get to read the actual text, write a review, then see what other readers think.
One thing I know. I got a sneak peek at a few pages of the next book, and I am anxious to read the next volume, Dorothy and Brandon’s story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell through NetGalley. This did not influence my opinions, which are solely my own.
Historical instiprational fictions are my favorite genre to read. “Out of Embers” is a historical romance novelists. I was really excited to be given the oppportunity to read and review Amanda Cabot’s new book series called Mesquite Springs- Book #1 “Out of the Embers” The story takes you back to 1855 in Mesquite Springs, Texas.
Main characters Wyatt Clark, an owner of a horse ranch and Evelyn Radcliffe, a carefree woman. After Evelyn’s parents were murdered she ended up living in an orphangae for 10 years. She is always living with fear that the men who murdered her parents are out to get her too. She travels to local towns to sell lace the orphan children made to support themselves. Her and Polly returned to the orphanage to find it burned to the ground with no survivors. They quickly leave in fear for their lives. On their way back they ran into Wyatt Clark. Wyatt offers them a shelter. She creates characters that are relatable but also unqiue.
Wyatt Clark worked very hard to get his father’s horse ranch up and running. He really wants to travel, but whats to make sure he has enough money to take care of his mother and sister. Instead he decided to run for Mayor. Evelyn and Polly felt at home on Wyatt’s ranch. Evelyn decided to stay in Mesquite Spring and open up a restaurant.
“Out of Embers” is a beautiful historical Christian romance. Even though it takes place in 1855 it still has a contemporary feel to it because it has strong female empowerment messages.
Amanda Cabot did an amazing job of putting detailed description. I can see it so clearly in my mind.
I highly recommend reading Mesquite Spring series.
I can’t wait for book number two in the series. I highly recommend “Out of Embers”.
I received a copy from Revell for my honest opinion. All opinions are my own. Check out more of my book reviews on my blog called “Stephanie’s Life of Determination”
I loved this sweet story!
Out of the Embers was like traveling back in time to a place where it feels like home. Amanda Cabot did a great job describing the historical period, from the way the characters dressed, their mode of transportation, to the way the characters spoke and acted. It was like being right there with the characters. I think that the story flowed very well due in part to the historical accuracy of it.
I particularly liked the main character, Evelyn. She reminded me so much of someone who has an “old soul” and an encouraging word for everyone. I truly liked her character. Wyatt, Evelyn’s male counterpart, was also a uniquely caring and intuitive guy. All the other characters in this story helped make it come to life and left me with anticipation to read their stories as well.
I give this book a 4 out of 5 stars for the great characters, the stunning backdrop, and the lighthearted feel through most of the story. I recommend reading this book, and I cannot wait for the next book in the series to come out.
This book is the first in a new series by Amanda Cabot called Mesquite Springs.
*I volunteered to read this book in exchange for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.
If you’re looking for a beautifully written and clean historical romance set in the 1850s, this one is for you. The characters touched my heart and made me feel as if I was a part of their little town in Mesquite Springs. Evelyn is a strong character who relies on her strengths and independence to make it through the good and bad situations in her life. Wyatt amplifies her persona with his good nature, quick thinking and humble atmosphere. Together they captured everything beautiful about a natural growing connection. Little Polly melted my heart with her desire to find the perfect daddy and overcome the loss of her family at such a young age.
I was surprised to find myself sucked into the history of Evelyn and Polly. I wasn’t expecting the mystery surrounding the orphans and the heart squeezing trials of forgiveness. I found comfort in their inner struggles as they grew together. This novel was surprisingly action packed and left me guessing who “The Watcher” was as the plot unfolded. An overall easy read encompassing the ideals of 1850 small town life and the growth of family and friends through love and understanding.
I received this novel from Revell Reads in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. All opinions are solely my own. I recommend this novel for those who enjoy Historical Romance.
Out of the Embers is a strong beginning for the new series by author Cabot. Starting off with a sense of eeriness, we meet Evelyn and her young charge Polly. Both are orphans and both are about to be uprooted again in their lives.
Due to circumstances beyond their control, they make their way west to the town of Mesquite Springs to begin a new life and to try to feel safe again. Here is where we get to know Wyatt, Dorothy his sister, and Isolde his Mom, as well as many other town folks.
Wyatt and his family have also been through their own tragedy, and both Wyatt and his sister are feeling trapped in their lives. I liked how the author dealt with both of their discontentment as some of us are facing that very feeling in our own lives.
This is my favorite story to date by author Cabot. Between the sweet romance, the other two men vying for Evelyn’s hand, and the mysteries that keep surrounding Evelyn and Polly and the dangers those present, this story kept me turning the pages long into the night. And the cover is gorgeous. I look forward to more of this series and getting to visit this town and its inhabitants again.
I was provided a copy of this story from the publisher Revell. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
Set in the Texas Hill Country in 1855, Out of the Embers by Amanda Cabot is a great start to her Mesquite Springs series. I enjoyed meeting the many interesting, well-drawn characters and basking in the warmth of the Mesquite Springs hospitality. I admired Evelyn’s courage, ingenuity, and determination in the face of enormous difficulties. Wyatt was a wonderful, compassionate hero, and Polly stole my heart. I loved the way the inhabitants of Mesquite Springs rallied around Evelyn and Polly and helped them in their time of need.
While there is plenty of suspense, intrigue, and a dash of romance in this story, Cabot has also woven threads of hope, faith, and healing into it to add some inspiration. I’m looking forward to the other books in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy courtesy of Baker Publishing Group/Revell through Interviews & Reviews. All opinions are my own.
Amanda Cabot introduces a new book series with a page-turner of a series debut. Evelyn and Wyatt are characters I was immediately drawn to. Several of the residents of Mesquite Springs (including Wyatt’s mother and sister) are just as kind-hearted. Then there are some who aren’t quite as likable because of their ambition or greed.
And then there’s little Polly. A girl who has lost her family but really wants a daddy. And she’s set her sights on the perfect person.
Out of the Embers has a good dose of suspense (with quite a sinister tone) as well as sweet romance even though it is slightly predictable. Cabot keeps her readers entertained as Evelyn discovers a permanent home and Wyatt finds that home isn’t necessarily a place on a map.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Evelyn and a young orphan girl have escaped a fire in the orphanage they lived in. They both have a background story of why they arrived at the orphanage that is weaved though out the book.
I enjoyed the suspense and the twist and turns in the story line. The characters became real to me. Evelyn baked an Oatmeal Pecan Pie that interested me so much that I had to Google a recipe of it.
The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.
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