About the Book
Book: To Choose the Longshot
Author: Lisa M. Prysock
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Release date: November 5, 2024
In a world where wealth and status reign, can true love prevail?
Miss Delia Lyndon, a young woman born into the prestigious Spencer-Lyndon family, is initially enamored with Thaddeus, the son of a prominent local stable owner, when he begins vying for her hand in marriage. She is keenly aware of how a union between the two families would seal their status as one of the most beloved couples from Lexington. However, when Jake, a handsome and charming newcomer, arrives on the scene, he catches her attention, casting doubts and fears in Delia’s heart. Torn between two suitors, Delia must navigate societal expectations, family pressure, and her own desires. Will she choose the man who seemingly has it all – wealth, charm, and a shared background in Kentucky’s elite circles – or will she follow her heart to the humble yet captivating Jake?
Jake Williams is determined to prove his worth in the competitive world of horse racing. Despite his humble beginnings as a farmer, he refuses to be intimidated by his rival’s malicious attempts to sabotage his chances, both on the racetrack and in winning Delia’s affections. With his trusted steed, Horizon, by his side, Jake faces each challenge head-on, guided by his unwavering faith.
When mysterious events begin occurring leading up to the annual Phoenix Stakes horse race, Delia must look beyond appearances and uncover the truth that lies beneath.
Click here to get your copy!
Guest Review from Donna
What I think you should know:
To Choose the Longshot by Lisa M Prysock is an Christian Historical Fiction. It is the second book in the Kentucky Debutantes of the Gilded Age Series. The book is set in 1903 Lexington, Kentucky and features Delany “Delia” Lyndon, daughter of Racing Royalty. While this book can be read as a standalone I recommend that you read the first book in the series before starting this as this does give spoilers.
What you might need to know:
Jake is raising his three nieces after they were orphaned .
What I think about this book:
This book starts with Delia fleeing the church before she goes through with her marriage to Lexington Socialite Thaddeus Sullivan. The story then jumps to the spring of 1903 with Delia once again courting Thaddeus. While Delia is a fun character I definitely started seeing red flags right away when it came to Thaddeus. It frustrated me that Delia did not see them, but that made the story all the more realistic . I love the advice Aunt Mae gave Delia. “But what if I can’t hear the Lord’s voice in this matter?…. Well, then sing to Him,child. He inhibits the praises of His people.” I found this to be such a beautiful reminder. Prysock wrote a wonderfully captivating story, I look forward to what happens next for the Lyndon family.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
About the Author
Lisa M. Prysock is a USA Today Bestselling Author who writes both Christian Historical Romance and Contemporary Christian Romance books—”Romance with a Dash of Food, Fashion, Faith, & Fun.” She writes both traditionally and indie published novels.
Kentucky inspires her writing and is home. Happily married to her husband of more than 24 years, she homeschooled two of their five children, now grown. When she isn’t writing, she likes to cross stitch, crochet, sew, scrapbook, read, swim, dance, take walks, travel, explore historical homes, garden, cook for her family, learn to play the piano and violin, and read great books.
More from Lisa
Hello Celebrate Lit Friends and Readers! I’m back to share a looksie at Book 2 from Kentucky Debutantes of the Gilded Age. I’ve really enjoyed my deep dive into all things Kentucky Derby and the world of horseracing in To Choose the Longshot.
Most of us have heard of Churchill Downs and Lexington’s Keeneland. But before Keeneland was the Lexington Association Racetrack. The annual spring race generally opened each year on that course with a featured race known as the Phoenix Stakes. It dates as far back in history as 1831! You can take a peek at the fascinating horse names of all the winners from 1831 to 2012, here. Of course, I’ve fictionalized names of winners and many events around the races in my series, but it’s fun to peek at real-life history when crafting our stories.
Leading up to and through the Gilded Age, the time period and setting of this series, the Phoenix race was generally sponsored by the Phoenix Hotel in Lexington. And more than Kentucky horseracing history, in Book 2, readers will get to come along for a glimpse at another course located in Baltimore, Maryland when the story takes our main characters to Pimlico. They referred to this track as the Old Hilltop in the early days of American horseracing history.
And atop Pimlico sits the famed weathervane. Did you know that painting the Preakness Stakes weathervane is a grand Pimlico tradition dating to 1909? The vane style is unique, commissioned by the Maryland Jockey Club, bearing the shape of a thoroughbred and jockey ever since the original arrow-shaped one was struck down by lightning. The new vane was christened by the colors of the silks carried by that year’s winner, Effendi.
I had a great deal of fun writing To Choose the Longshot starting with the very first page. The novel opens with a runaway bride! It’s always a wonder what makes a bride runaway, and my imagination went to work at once creating the situation that causes this bride so much consternation.
Readers get to learn more about Veronica’s sister in Book 2, Miss Delaney Lyndon. Everyone calls the shy and demure middle sister, Delia. And all of Lexington expects one of the Lyndon sisters to marry into the Sullivan family, since these two families are “Kentucky horseracing royalty.” But who will Delia choose to marry? Will she marry her handsome, wealthy, and daring beau, Thaddeus Sullivan, or will a rugged newcomer and underdog in their midst from the Adirondacks, Jake Williams, turn her head?
I cannot fail to mention that the beloved character of Aunt Mae from Book 1 makes an appearance in Book 2. She certainly has her hands full attempting to help Delia reach a decision about who she should marry, knowing it will impact the future of Velvet Brooks Farm for generations to come. But if anyone can help steer Delia to a decision, it’s Aunt Mae. As our heroine grapples with perceptions and tries to balance expectations with what’s in her heart, find out what happens next with a deeper look at the world of horseracing, sure to give horse enthusiasts plenty to cheer about.
Happy reading!
Blessings!
Lisa
Blog Stops
Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, November 19
lakesdielivingsite, November 20
Holly’s Book Corner, November 20
For Him and My Family, November 21
Texas Book-aholic, November 22
Locks, Hooks and Books, November 23
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 24
Labor Not in Vain, November 25
Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, November 26
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 27
Stories By Gina, November 28 (Author Interview)
Devoted To Hope, November 28
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 29
Books You Can Feel Good About, November 30
Simple Harvest Reads, December 1 (Guest Review from Donna)
Pause for Tales, December 2
Leslie’s Library Escape, December 2
Giveaway
To celebrate her tour, Lisa is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
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