by Caryl McAdoo
Dedication
My dedication of this story is to all those who have been shoved into a hard place through no choice of their own, but have stood steadfast and trusted God and done their best to get through it as Christ would. We are so blessed to serve a God Who will always be with us and strengthen and help us—no matter the situation. I can testify.
He will see you through.
You will sure be blessed,
and highly favored, too!
Always whatever the story, I owe a dedication to my most awesome husband and very best friend in the whole wide world—since we were both sixteen in 1966! Ron is my beloved!
As a part of a collection of ten stories—all dealing with the same jeweler in St. Joseph, Missouri—this book is also dedicated to the authors of the Lockets & Lace collection, all writers at the Sweet Americana Sweethearts blog that provides the world with sweet/clean historical romances about North Americans between 1820 and 1929.
For all the sisters who have sisters they love and sisters who bug them and sisters they think hung the moon and sisters they pray will one day do what is right . . .
Sisters are a funny lot.
I’m glad I have the ones I got.
Some are close, some quite not so,
But if Sister bids me come, I go!
Cathy Lynn’s been my sister the longest.
Carol Jane married my husband’s brother,
and Gayla Gwen, she married mine.
I love my three sisters!
~~yes, TWO Carol/Caryl McAdoos~~
Acknowledgements
I remember a song that I love and a part of it goes, “All that I am, all that I ever hope to be . . . I owe it all to Thee.” It’s God who has gifted me with wonderful stories. He’s the One Who allowed me to learn all that I have about being a good writer and publishing independently. It’s totally amazing what I’ve learned in the last few years—and in my mid-sixties! It’s totally true . . . I owe it all to Him. To God be the glory!
Not to acknowledge Ron would be a travesty. His name should be on the cover beside mine, but he prefers staying behind the scene—my handsome, big, strong, silent type husband! It depends on the day whether he’s sixty or forty percent of what we wrote that day. He’s the reason I have such wonderful heroes. No one knows how much I love and thank God for him.
SILENT HARMONY is part of a multi-author series sponsored by the authors who write for the Sweet Americana Sweethearts blog. My appreciation and thanks go all the authors who are a part of the Lockets & Lace series of books.
I also always acknowledge a few precious sisters-in-Christ who read my stories early and catch errors and typos. A big Texas thank you to Lenda Selph my proof reader, Louise Koiner who’s read every story, Judy Schexnayder, fellow writer Cass Wessel, and more. I’m always concerned I’ll leave someone out! Hope I didn’t! I love y’all! Thank you profusely!
Because this was a collection, I met a new cover designer, Evelyne LaBelle—is that a great name or what? She’s a talented young Canadian mother who proved a joy to work with. I highly recommend her for graphic design work! Thank you, Evelyne! Her company is Carpe Librum.
Lastly, I want to thank and acknowledge my readers! Thank you all for loving my stories! Thank you for telling your friends! Thank you for your reviews!
Thank you for reading
Silent Harmony
It’s one of ten books in the Lockets & Lace series ~ each is a ‘Clean, Sweet Historical Romance’. You may find all the books in this series by searching for “Sweet Americana” at Amazon.com Also for “Lockets and Lace” at Amazon.com
If you enjoyed this book, please help other readers find it by leaving a review on Amazon Review and Goodreads. Just a few words will do. Reviews make all the difference!
To learn more about our series and the individual books, visit SweetAmericanaClub.com.
Other collections brought to you by Sweet Americana Sweethearts are Sweethearts of Jubilee Springs and Grandma's Wedding Quilt Series. Visit us for Sweet & clean romances in North America between 1820s & 1920s, including blog posts from all of us.
Caryl’s Titles’ Five-Star Reviews
Historical Texas Romances
…for Vow Unbroken
With an intriguing plot line and well-developed characters, McAdoo, who's written nonfiction and children's fiction, delivers an engaging read for her first adult historical romance.
--Publishers Weekly
After reading Caryl McAdoo's story of Henry and Susannah in "VOW UNBROKEN," I felt like I'd had another adventure with Tom Sawyer and Becky, this time as young adults. --Alan Daugherty: columnist The News-Banner
…for Hearts Stolen
Get ready for a wild, uplifting, heart-tugging, page-turning ride. Hearts Stolen grabbed me at the start. Sassy’s feisty, fighting spirit…I couldn’t set it down. Burnt dinner, but forget eating, I ate this book up. This master storyteller weaves Texas history into a well-crafted plot with unforgettable and totally loved characters. --Holly Michael, author
Crooked Lines
…for Hope Reborn
With memorable characters, Caryl’s signature humor, and plenty of adventure, drama, and romance, “Hope Reborn” is anything but fluff. A strong message of salvation runs through, but well within the storyline. Enjoyed a unique twist with May writing the stories of the previous characters – clever and fun!
--Pam Morrison, Tennessee reader
… Sins of the Mothers
I tell you what, folks, this girl can write! I do love this series, and maybe most especially this book. Mary Rachel Buckmeyer can out-negotiate the experts, out-guess marketing trends, and out-stubborn a mule. Trouble is, she tends to follow her heart into disaster. The guy she marries has meandering eye, lies like a braided rug, and has all the loyalty of a new-born pup. Mary hops from one frying pan to another until one man shows up who could steady her and get her out of the fixes she gets herself into. Such a great story! I know you'll love.
--Anne Baxter Campbell, author The Truth Trilogy: The Roman’s Quest, Marcus Varitor, Centurion, and The Truth Doesn’t Die
…Daughters of the Heart
A fun packed Christian romance novel with plenty of action, heartbreak, tears, deception, twists, and turns. [The three sisters] made a pact never to break their father’s heart, but when suitors show up, it's hard for them to stay determined. Will they find true love? Will Dad accept a suitor for them and give his blessings?
--Joy Gibson, a Tennessee reader and pastor’s wife
…for Just Kin
I have followed this historical romance series from the beginning and they just keep getting better. Lacey Rose loves Charley and is devastated when he leaves to fight for Texas with the Confederate army. Charley doesn't realize Lacey Rose is in love with him but is both surprised and pleased with the goodbye kiss she gives him. After Charley sends a hurtful letter trying to discourage her from waiting for him, Lacey Rose runs away and ends up in all kinds of trouble. Charley also stirs up some trouble of his own when he begins looking for her. Don't miss out on this book. I loved it!
--Louise Koiner, Texas beta reader
…At Liberty to Love
This was one of the best books I have ever read. The characters got so close to your heart you wish they were your family. From the beginning till the end you fell in love with each of them. The two adopted baby boys brought laughs and joy. The love story has strong Christian threads throughout. Highly recommend this book. You will love it.
--Jane Moody, reader
. . . Covering Love
I loved reading Covering Love, an amazing story filled with all the extended Buckmeyer's family members with younger ones’ love story. Great plots for each character brought laughter and tears throughout this great historical romance. Six year old little Evelyn (Evie) reading May's story about Houston and Leilani’s adventure on the Gray Lady added a lovely perspective to this adventurous book filled with love, faith, determination, hard work, and rom
ance. I look forward to reading book nine, Mighty to Save. McAdoo's books must be read by those who enjoy historical romance that are filled with clean, heartfelt romance and the Gospel!!
--Marilyn Ridgway, reader
…Mighty to Save
Mighty to Save is one of the best books I've read, filled with characters who become friends. Emotions and all my senses were right there for the beatings, the tent revival scenes, the romance and heartache. Tears, praising, singing in the Spirit are throughout this magnificent, powerful, heartfelt, sensational story. Caryl McAdoo is one gifted author. Mighty to Save is going to be used for His glory.
– Marilyn Ridgway, a reader
…Chief of Sinners
I believe this one is my favorite, the most gripping and emotional. A few times I wanted to grab a couple of tissues. I just could not stop reading. So many twists and turns involved. Such a wonderful story that show the power of forgiveness, letting go, moving on and having second chances. The book is full of faith and inspiration. Christian Fiction cannot get better than this. Chief of Sinners is most definitely a must read. 100 stars! – Amy Campbell, reader
If you loved the gritty Gone With the Wind, you’ll love Chief of Sinners -- Cass Wessel, reader
…The Bedwarmer’s Son
I really loved this book…didn't want to put it down. I love the way it's different than most historical romance novels, and I read many. I loved the way the author used the old man to tell Jasmine's story. I also loved both Wills’ stories. Being a Christian novel just made it better. I enjoyed it so much I hated to see it end. This is the first novel I've ever read by this author, but I doubt it will be my last.
-- BJ Robinson, Author of River Oaks Plantation, Siege of Azalea Plantation, Azalea Plantation and others
… Son of Promise
…in the very early 1950’s, McAdoo brings in some of the former characters from previous books. I loved the history of Texas during this era and especially the colloquialism. A child born from a one night stand when Travis Buckmeyer was a young, unmarried man is introduced into his family. It takes the Buckmeyers a lot of faith in God and doing the right thing. This story shows that the love of God within can overcome all obstacles. Your past does not determine your future. Such a gentle story of faith, love, forgiveness, and yielding the sinful man to a higher power. -- Judy Schexnayder, reader
Contemporary Red River Romances
…The Preacher’s Faith
This was my first book to read by Caryl McAdoo and I absolutely loved it. I will be reading more. I love the way she prays that her story gives God Glory and dedicates The Preacher’s Faith to Him and His Kingdom…a good clean book to read. I was drawn into this story right from the start. I loved this book and can’t wait for book two.
--Elizabeth Dent, Alabama reader
…for Sing a New Song
Sing a New Song is a delightful breath of air. Caryl eloquently brings her audience nearer to God [with] fresh ways of viewing Christian life and all it offers. The characters are loveable and humorous. Illuminating, the story shares the Gospel beautifully. Samuel’s sermons as well as the gorgeous lyrics of Mary Esther’s songs fill our hearts with newfound worship. Truly an inspiring tale. Christian fiction in its best; a romantic love story that brings its readers closer to God. A treasure for sure.
--Christine Barber, author of Broken to Pieces
…for One and Done
Faster than a major league outfielder pulling down a popup fly ball, this romance is guaranteed to snag baseball lovers and romance readers alike. Written with wit, verve and Caryl’s usual flare for dialect and spicy dialogue, this is no saccharine, man-meets-woman story sanitized romantic fairytale, but so real in the mind, you can almost smell locker room sweat or mouthwatering scent of Mexican food. Identification with the hero and heroine is nearly immediate. With so much to rave about, I cannot begin to cover all the delightful surprises, so the reader simply must buy “One and Done” to see for themselves.
–Cass Wessel, multi-published author of devotions
Contemporary Apple Orchard Romance
…for Lady Luck’s a Loser
A very unique, witty plot. I couldn't put it down. I love that my favorite characters are still active at the end of the book, only their relationships have changed. What a way for Dub to fulfill his promises to his deceased wife. Love, trust, forgiveness, and many emotions make for a well written book.
--Joy Gibson, Tennessee
The Generations Biblical fiction
…for A Little Lower Than the Angels Caryl McAdoo used her research and knowledge of biblical scripture combined with an incredible imagination as a foundation to fill in the gaps of the story of Adam and Eve and their children. I was caught up in the story from page one to the ending. I particularly appreciated the "Search the Scriptures" section at the end which explains some of the Biblical clues for this work of fiction. I loved it and highly recommend it. --Judy Levine, reader, Arizona
. . . Then the Deluge Comes
Deluge is the second book in The Generations Series, and if the books still to follow are as good as this one and the first one in the series are it is going to be an incredible series. The author has a way of breathing life and emotions into the characters that made me feel like I was on the sidelines watching their stories unfold. This is some of the best Biblical fiction that I have read and I look forward to the rest of the series. I was furnished with an e-copy of the book in return for an honest review.
--Ann Ellison, reader, Texas
. . . for Replenish the Earth
Caryl tells the story of the flood in such a unique way.. I like how she makes the characters so real. This Bible story just comes to life. Noah's family on the Ark taking care of the animals and then when they come to a stop, starting all over on a barren earth. I found that the family conversations, their actions and the descriptions just made this more real to me. I like that Caryl gives scripture references and her thoughts at the end of the book.
--Deanna Stevens, reader, Nebraska
…for Children of Eber
So much of the tale remains faithful to the Scriptural account, but where there is silence, Caryl’s author voice sings through in delicious detail. For the reader familiar with the Biblical account, she fleshes out a mere paragraph or two until the narrative vibrates with life. As if transported through a time machine, the reader reenters the world of the Ancients experiencing their lives and seeing their surroundings afresh. Those who know the Biblical account will delight in following the ancient pair into Egypt, then back to Canaan again.
--Cass Wessel, devotional author
Mid-Grade that Grandparents love
… The King’s Highway
I can't remember when I have enjoyed reading a book as much as this one. If I really like a book, I can read it in a day. I read this twice in two days. I couldn't quit reading. It has to be right up there with my all-time favorites. If anyone thinks they won't read it because it’s for mid-grade, I encourage you to reconsider. You’ll miss a blessing. Anyone reading age from the mid grades to senior citizens (that's me) will love this book. The characters in the book are delightful.
--Louise Koiner, reader, Texas
Non-Fiction
…Story & Style, The Craft of Writing Creative Fiction
This is a wonderful book for those wanting to learn more about writing. I know from experience. The content helped me tremendously!! It especially helped me gain a clear picture of POV and the use of action versus attribution to strengthen my writing and make my debut book the best it can be. Thank you, Caryl, your continued helping hands are a blessing to many of us rookie writers!
--Andy Skrzynski, author of The New World, A Step Backward
Coming Soon …
Historical
The Revivalist Trilogy, Texas Romance companions
~ John David’s Calling Launches May, 2018
~ Hannah’s Wilderness
~ King David’s Tabernacle
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br /> Contemporary Romance
The Pitch
King of Texas, starring Patrick Henry Buckmeyer III
Biblical Fiction
I AM My Beloved
Mystery
Prophetic Justice
Mid-grade & Young Adult, Grandparents, too!
Days of Dread Trilogy
The Sixth Trumpet book two
Compelled by a vision, Jackson Allison leaves the safety of Red River County on a quest to free his mother from the clutches of a traitorous double agent. Accompanied by Albert Einstein Hawking, his personal nerd, and the Great Pyrenees guardian, Boggs, the high school freshman must elude Communist patrols, slavers, and bangers.
The Kidron Valley book three
By day, Jackson Allison fights alongside his grandfather,
uncles, and other red-neck defenders of the cattle and grain rich Red River County. Plagued by dreams of his dad by night, he somehow joins his father’s Marine unit that’s fighting the last great battle between good and evil in the Kidron Valley. It seems so real, but how can it be?
River Bottom Ranch Stories
The Adventures of Sergeant Socks, The Journey Home
An orphan colt gets lost in a storm and faces many dangers trying to find his way home.