One of my favorite fictional families has returned! Author Mona Hodgson spins wonderful tales of family bonds and community spirit in her historic romance series, The Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek. The books fit together to give you the complete picture of the family, but they can also be read alone as each tells a different character’s story. If you’d like to win a copy of Mona Hodgson’s The Bride Wore Blue, see the instructions below.
In The Bride Wore Blue, baby sister Vivian travels to the mining town of Cripple Creek, Colorado, to join sisters Kat, Nell, and Ida. Vivian learns leaving her past behind isn’t as simple as stepping onto a train.
Here’s information on the book:
Headed toward a fresh start but tethered by her past, Vivian longs to break free, to find forgiveness and love.
At last, the sisters are reunited! The youngest Sinclair, the family“ baby”, is moving from Maine to Cripple Creek, Colorado and joining Kat, Nell, and Ida. But Vivian is a young woman with a will of her own, and made some decisions back in Portland that have begun to haunt her. Will she be able to live up to the expectations of her three perfect and now happily-settled sisters?
The sisters warmly welcome Vivian to the mountain west, but the wild-and-woolly mining town isn’t ripe with opportunities for a respectable young woman. The youngest Sinclair sister is determined to make her own way, so when she’s offered a job as a hostess in a sporting house, she takes it, thinking the position is appropriate for a tainted, unlovable woman like herself. Although she’s convinced she’ll never be asked to entertain privately, Vivian keeps her employment a secret from her sisters, knowing they’d be mortified—as will Carter Alwyn, the kind and godly sheriff ’s deputy who’s sweet on her.
Vivian is descending into a life of secrets, lying to the very people who love her and could help her heal from her mistakes. Will an outpouring of grace remind her that she is still God’s beloved and that her past can be washed as clean as Rocky Mountain snow?
I thoroughly enjoyed Vivian’s story. I enjoyed seeing the “seamier” side of Cripple Creek and learning how an independent young woman with a loving family could wander into this sort of lifestyle. It’s a beautiful story of pride, grace, and forgiveness.
Mona Hodgson’s newest book, Twice a Bride, released earlier this month. I can’t wait to read the final installment of this series!
One lucky reader will win a copy of The Bride Wore Blue. To enter, tell us what you most love about your sister. If you don’t have a sister, tell us what you love about another member of your family. Don’t forget to leave your name and e-mail address so I can contact the winner. The contest will end next Friday (November 9, 2012) at 8 AM Pacific time when I will choose a winner at random to receive a free copy of The Bride Wore Blue. (American and Canadian addresses only).
Like Vivian, I am the youngest of four, but instead of sisters, I have three brothers. I love how completely unique they are and all the wonderful things they taught me–especially about the importance of being myself.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for the purpose of review. 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.” 
I was the eldest of three and my sister the youngest. We shared a room growing up, but she and my brother were best buds because they were only 15 months apart. I was the older, serious sister.
When our brother died suddenly six years ago, my sister and I grew closer and I’m glad I have her. She has the ability to see life through laughter-filled eyes and I usually leave her with an ache in my side from laughing so hard. Her dry wit and her refreshing candor fills a special place in my heart.
Pat, thank you for sharing your story. I’m sorry for the loss of your brother, that must have been very difficult for you and your sister. I have a hard time picturing you as the “serious” sister, since you always seem to have a smile on your face. 🙂
Hi Pat!
Great to see you here. I’m the oldest of four sisters. So sorry for the loss of your brother, and thanks the loss drew you and your sister closer.
I so appreciate your interest in my Sinclair Sisters stories.
Happy Reading!
Mona
I always wanted a sister, but God gave me a little brother instead. My mother insisted I take him places when I was in high school. Mom worked part-time as a school crossing guard, and when my friend and I would drive somewhere at night, my baby brother would sit in the back seat and flash the red “STOP” sign at guys. It took me a while to figure out why we were getting all this attention. Talk about embarrasing …
Great story, Marilyn! I can see where that might attract attention. 🙂
Hi Marilyn,
Good to see you here. Thanks for sharing your story. 🙂 I appreciate your interest in THE BRIDE WORE BLUE.
Blessings!
Mona
My sister is ten years older than I, and in some ways played the mother role when my mother was out working. She taught me to love myself, even my weaknesses. I love her for her strength and her “take me or leave me” attitude. A very unique and caring soul.
I always wanted an older sister, but God gifted me with brothers, instead. They were pretty cool, too, but not very motherly. 😉 Thanks for sharing your story!
Hi Heidi! I’m ten years older than my “baby” sister, and I played the mother role for her. Your “big” sister sounds wonderful, much nicer than I was.
Thanks for your interest in my Sinclair Sisters novels.
Blessings!
Mona
I absolutely adore Mona. She is such an encourager. I am eager as a beaver to get her new series when I see her this December and can get them signed. *grin* My sister and I haven’t always been very close, but the funny thing is that when we DO get together, it’s like we’ve never been apart. 🙂
I’m blushing, Joanne. Thanks so much for the glowing endorsement. I can’t wait to see you in Hemet in December! So excited to read your next book, Though My Heart is Torn…I’m loving your Cadence of Grace series.
Hugs!
Mona
Great to see you here, Joanne! I’m looking forward to THOUGH MY HEART IS TORN, too. I made the mistake of reading the back cover copy online, now I can’t WAIT until release date.
I had three sisters. The oldest has gone home to be with her maker. We are all really close. I know that I can count on my sisters should I ever need help, someone to talk to or anything. They are all special in their own way.
Hi!
Oh, (insert first name here), I’m sorry for your loss. Stories like yours deepen my commitment even further to embrace every moment with my siters.
Hugs and blessings,
Mona
Thank you for sharing your story. Isn’t it amazing how God made us each unique, even within one family? Just a reminder, if you want to enter to win Mona’s book, I need a name and email address. Thanks for stopping by!
I lost my sister two years ago to breast cancer. She fought till the minute she left us. She was so courageous. Determined to beat ‘the cancer’. Unfortunately God had other plans for her. I miss her every day.
Hi Angie,
Good to see you here. Your sister sounds like she was and is a beacon of light to you. So sorry for your loss and the ache in your heart.
Hugs and blessings,
Mona
Angie,
Thanks for stopping by. I’m sorry for the loss of your sister. I can’t wait for the joyous reunion in Heaven when we get to see all those we’ve lost. Remember, if you’d like to win Mona’s book, I need an e-mail address so I can contact you. 🙂
My sister is so very strong. She as has been through so much. She still continues to struggle, and literally gives everything she has for her family. She is an amazing person and a true example of perserverance. ladydianajg@yahoo.com
Hi Diana!
Good to see you here. Thanks for sharing your story. I love sister stories.
Blessings!
Mona
Diana,
Your sister sounds like an amazing example for all of us. Thanks for stopping by!
Hi Karen!
Thanks so much for the great review of Vivian Sinclair’s story.
Hello Everyone!
It’s great to meet you here. I so appreciate your interest in THE BRIDE WORE BLUE, and I can’t wait for you to meet my Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek.
Hugs and blessings!
Mona
http://www.monahodgson.com
FB: Mona Hodgosn Author Page
I’m so glad you stopped by, Mona! I loved having the opportunity to review The Bride Wore Blue and can’t wait to dig into the next book.
The Bride Wore Blue is just what some of us need to help us understand others who have had choices haunt them, or themselves have made poor choices and feel that they can not rise above them. This encourages them to be set free and live life as God has intended…with the past forgiven, and the lessons learned to strenghten them, and make them sensitive to helping others! Thank You!
We’ve all made choices we regret, haven’t we? I like how the characters in THE BRIDE WORE BLUE remind us how only humans keep a hierarchy of sins, it’s all the same to the Lord. If you’d like to enter the contest, please include your name/email address so I can contact you if you win.
Hi!
Vivian’s story is very close to my heart, and a theme about which I feel quite passionate. Thanks so much for your interest in THE BRIDE WORE BLUE, and for your passion about God’s Amazing Grace.
Blessings,
Mona
If you haven’t read the books on th Sinclair Sisters you are missing a treat. I’m reading “The Bride Wore Blue” now and the books are good, Mona shows their faith witout being preachy but by the way they live their lives and care about others. The book covers are beautiful and I recommend Mona’s books.
I love the Sinclair Sisters, too. I guess they fulfill my life-long desire for sisters. 🙂 Thanks for stopping by, Pat. Would you like to enter the contest?
Hi Pat! What a sweet fan you are. I am thrilled that you’re enjoying the Sinclair Sisters. You are a blessing! Mona
My sister passed away 6 years ago. She was a special needs person. I liked it when she told people I was her sister.
angela from KY
angelachesnut246@gmail.com
I’m sorry for your loss, Angela. Siblings share a special bond and your sister sounds like she was very loved. Thank you for sharing your story.
Hi Angela!
Good to see you here. So sorry to hear about the loss of your sister.
Blessings to you!
Mona
I have 3 half sisters, but since today is my sister Lori’s birthday, I will choose to comment about her. She is crazy fun!She’s a nurse and has no filter when it comes to finding veins on strangers that she’d like to stick an IV in. Doesn’t sound so bad, enless you are a restaurant with her, and the waiter sets a plate in front of you, but doesn’t get his arm back, because she has to feel all his veins. Like I said, she is crazy fun! Happy birthday to my sister Lori.
Love it, Tammy! It sounds like one of those lovely quirks we like to give our book characters. Your sister sounds like a lot of fun. Thanks for stopping in and for sharing the contest on your blog.
I’m laughing, Tammy! Sounds like there’s never a dull moment with your sisters. Fun! Blessings, Mona
I come from a family of 9, 5 girls of which I am the youngest and four brothers. In ’68 at the age of four my brother closest in age, Shawn, died in a fire when our house burned to the ground. This has impacted my family since then, turning many away from God. In ’71 my parents took in our little brother Eric, and although never adopted, definitely one of us. I have special stories about all my siblings but I am going to share about my sister Sharon. In 2008 at the age of 56 she had her third massive stroke which has left her totally paralyzed down one side, loss of one eye and hearing but she continues to be an encouragement and gift to me. When I call her, minimum of 3x per week, she always gives me something to smile at or think about. Her speech is very limited but her gift of laughter is definitely there. We were not close growing up as she is 13 years older than me, but when she had her stroke it just seemed natural for me to take on being her cheerleader, I was already full time caregiver to our parents dad with Parkinsons, mom after a third massive heart attack that left her with 20% heart. It takes so little to make Sharon happy, and her smile, her smirk, sometimes her limited speech just gives so much back. I am blessed to have her in my life, and so enjoy our monthly visits when I get to see her face to face. God has brought us so much closer during these times and I am blessed to say as with our parents, I will have memories to hold on to that are just my own.
Shan Hogan shcreative@sympatico.ca
Hi Shan,
What a blessing your testimony is of God’s grace…His amazing ability to sustain us through unimaginable hardships. Thanks for sharing your story.
God bless you!
Mona
Thank you for sharing your beautiful story, Shan. Blessings to your family.
I have no sisters. My only brother was seven years older than I. I was the troublesome kid sister growing up. We had loving parents, however, and my brother and I became quiet close as we grew up. He remains one of my best friends.
Ann Gaylia O’Barr
anngaylia@hotmail.com
Hi Scribbler!
I have three younger sisters, and always wanted a brother. Thanks for sharing your sweet story.
Blessings,
Mona
Ann, Isn’t it amazing how siblings can become friends after they’re grown? I used to fight all the time with one of my brothers when we were children. As soon as he moved out, we suddenly became friends. It felt odd–but wonderful. (And Mona–we’re opposites! You had three younger sisters, I had three older brothers.)
I have 4 adopted sisters and I love them all to pieces. My 10 year old sister is a lot like me. We enjoy doing the same things. When she grows up she wants to be what I am in school to become a missionary teacher. She has such a joy about her and she is fearless. To be honest her honesty is an inspiration to me. If she knows that their is something not right she has to come clean about it. I love my sisters so much and my life wouldn’t be the same without them. I can’t even imagine how empty it would be. They all make me smile.
Katie
katie.rudd@hotmail.com
Katie,
Thank you for stopping by and sharing your story about your sisters. I took a peek at your blog–your cakes look amazing! I like decorating cakes, too. I love crafts we can EAT when we’re done! 🙂
Hi Katie,
Good to see you hear. I love your story. Thanks for sharing. I also love that you’re training to become a missionary teacher.
Blessings!
Mona
I don’t have any siblings. The person that I admire is my mom. She is such a strong, kind and generous person and has taught me so much.
forgot to leave email address.
Katie J. (johnsonk133@yahoo.com)
Thanks for stopping by and sharing about your mom, Katie! My mom has always been a special blessing in my life, as well.
Hi Katie,
What a blessing that your Mom is your “person.”
Good to see you here.
Blessings,
Mona
thanks for the chance to read this story 😉
karenk
kmkuka at yahoo dot com
I’m glad you could stop by, Karen!
Hi Karen K!
I appreciate your interest in my Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek novels.
Happy Reading!
Mona
WOW!! This is genuinely a hard question for me. I have 5 sisters so it’s hard to pick one. Almost all of us are so close it’s hard to pick. So I’ll pick the one I know the least. It’s a crazy reason I don’t know her as well. She is a half sister from a marriage before my mom. Long story short she and her mother disappeared and my father never saw her again until 10 years ago when she sent lost parent finders. We had a family reunion and all of us other 5 sisters got to meet her for the first time. It was so unreal how much she looked like us, acted like us, talked like us thought like us, etc…We’re now in constant contact and the love I have for her is just as strong as for the other 4. My sisters are my confidants, mentors, teachers, students and best friends. I can’t imagine life without one.
Thanks for the opportunity!!
What an amazing story, Kristie! I’m so glad God brought you and your sister back together. What a blessing!
Hi Kristie!
Good to see you here. Thanks for sharing your story. You are a blessing!
Mona
Ooops I forgot to post my name and email on the comment above about sisters.
Kristie Truett
kristie(at)connectionlifechurch(dot)org
I don’t have a sister, but someone who is very special to me is my brother. He’s very forgiving and is just an awesome person!!
I would love to win this book!
marissamehresman(at)aol(dot)com
Hi Marissa!
Good to see you here. I always wanted a brother. Yours sounds super special.
Blessings!
Mona
Thanks for sharing about your brother, Marissa. Brothers are special, too! That’s what I have. 🙂
The contest is now over, and the winner is Ann Gaylia O’Barr. Thanks for entering, everyone!