Rave Reviews forKaren's Wiesner's Family Heirlooms Series
Baby, Baby, Book 1
Shadow Boxing, Book 2
Foolish Games, Book 3
Glass Angels, Book 4
Shards of Ashley, Book 5
Worlds Collide, Book 6
"All couples go through different phases of their relationship. From loving newlyweds to empty nesters, life is constantly changing. Karen Wiesner offers readers a story that demonstrates how a marriage can not only survive, but also thrive in face of change. Tamara and Robert also demonstrate that the physical intimacy of marriage can continue throughout the years. I enjoyed the story, especially the Christian slant. Christian women will enjoy this new romance by Karen Wiesner."
~reviewed by Debra Gaynor for ReviewYourBook.com http://www.reviewyourbook.com/review.cfm?reviewid=818
Top Read of Excellence!
"Normally I don't like to read books that have a religious tone to them, but I am very glad to have read this book. I enjoyed this book very much. Karen Wiesner has penned a fabulous read and I highly recommend this to everyone. I think that anyone who is married, thinking about marriage or just thinking about long-term relationships should read this book. This book shows the work inherent in keeping a family/marriage whole. Its not just the job of one person, but of the entire family. After reading this book, I felt the need to go hug my family and let them know that I loved them dearly. Any book that can make me do that is a powerful read indeed."
~reviewed by Breia Brickey for WRDF Review http://blog.lyndacoker.net/2009/03/16/wrdf-review-of-baby-baby-book-1-of-the-family-heirlooms-series.aspx
5 Wings!
"BABY, BABY by Karen Wiesner is a heart-warming inspirational that addresses the problem of adhering to biblical teaching in a modern world. Ms. Wiesner takes the reader expertly through Tamara Wolfe’s desire to accept God’s will, her desire to create a home-based business out of something she loves doing, and her desire to have a loving relationship with her husband, the love of her life. I could feel Tamara’s struggle and how unhappy Robert’s attitude made her. She becomes fearful that he will be like his father, a man who wanted to control every aspect of his wife’s life—including when she would have children. BABY, BABY shows the reader how God can change our attitudes, our lives, and our circumstances. All Tamara and Robert had to do was accept God’s will and wait for His timing. Thank you, Ms. Wiesner, for writing a charming book with insights that can help all of us in our daily struggles."
~Classic Romance Revival http://www.classicromancerevival.com/blog/?p=1438
4.5 Stars!
"Marriage is a dance and when the two dancers work harmoniously; leading and following becomes the most natural thing. Following your partner or taking the lead when you feel he has the wrong rhythm for this dance is a dilemma not easily solved. The realism and sincerity of this book and the way its author discloses the story from both points of view make this novel not only marvelous romantic reading but also a great input about marriage relationships. Karen Wiesner really excels at developing such an enchanting story that will captivate you from beginning to end, making you feel like more than just reading the story you had experienced it. I highly recommend this book."
~reviewed by Rocio Rosado for Ecataromance http://www.ecataromance.com/index.php?p=478
4 Stars!
"In this first book of Wiesner's Family Heirlooms series, a number of couples are having marital problems. Their belief in God and his ability to see them through makes this a heartwarming and inspiring romance. The message of love and faith is presented in an entertaining and non-preachy way. "
~reviewed by Susan Mobley for Romantic Times BOOKreviews
4 Cups!
"I cannot express how loving BABY, BABY is with all the emotions that encircle in this moving relationship with Tamara and Robert. I enjoyed reading how they undergo so many different levels in their marriage. Watching them finally come together and reach that mark makes it all worthwhile. With well-developed players, and a love that tugs at the heart, Karen Wiesner remarkably brings believable people and a town to life. They are able to stay close-knit and work through matters, even with many obstacles. I love how she demonstrates how the years in a marriage can still hold faith, hope, charity and forgiveness in this tender story."
~reviewed by Cherokee for Coffee Time Romance http://www.coffeetimeromance.com/BookReviews/Babybabyfamilyheirlooms.html
"In BABY, BABY, Karen Wiesner creates a heartwarming family and a sweet couple in Tamara and Robert. BABY, BABY does a great job showing a romance changing and growing even after years of marriage. Both Tamara and Robert look beyond their own wants and examine God’s will for their lives. This is truly a heartwarming story."
~reviewed by Lisa for Romance Junkies http://romancejunkiesreviews.com/artman/publish/contemporary/Baby_Baby.shtml
"Wiesner throws her characters headfirst into the Refiner's fire. To keep their marriage intact, Robert and Tamara have to overcome pride, trust and a bad parental role model. Wiesner shows the raw side of misplaced trust. Before the end, you'll be wincing at mistakes made and rejoicing at the choices made as a marriage emerges--newly formed--under God's grace."
~Diane Lesire Brandmeyer, author of Hearts on the Road http://www.dianabrandmeyer.com/
“BABY, BABY by Karen Wiesner is a story about what happens when a wife starts a successful home business from what she’s made in the past for friends and relatives. The main characters, Tamara and Robert, have realistic problems that many married couples face. As they struggle with what’s the right thing to do in their lives, Robert and Tamara never forget their love for each other. Their prayers are poignant and revealing. I think Wiesner did an outstanding job of portraying a wonderful role in Tamara as a strong woman who wants to please God and keep her family intact. I highly recommend this inspirational romance. I look forward to reading more books by Karen Wiesner.”
~multi-published author Diane Craver http://www.dianecraver.com
"A refreshing look at family conflict wrapped in a sweet story of love, faith and forgiveness. I look forward to the next book in the Family Heirloom Series."
~author Robin Bayne http://www.robinbayne.com
Rating of 83
"I debated with myself for a while about whether I should read, much less review, Karen Wiesner's BABY, BABY. You see, this is an inspirational romance and in the past I have a very hard time identifying with the principles of the main characters in inspirational romances. Maybe I was just unlucky, but most of those inspirational romances that I'd attempted to read in the past make my blood boil, especially those where the hero was free to act like an *&^ as he judged and condemned a perpetually guilt-ridden and self-loathing "sinner" heroine whose sin would always turned out to be ridiculously minor for the amount of crap everyone gave her. BABY, BABY however turns out to be very different from those creepy inspirational romances. Fortunately for my blood pressure, Ms Wiesner's position in this story is that Robert is not absolutely correct. In fact, Tamara will not meekly submit to the husband like a timid little doormat but instead correctly views Robert's behavior as a lack of trust on his part on her ability to play her role as a wife and mother. I like Tamara and the secondary characters in this story. They are smart and reasonable characters. Thanks to them, the story turns out to be a well-written and even heartwarming read. I am not exactly a religious person but I find BABY, BABY a pleasant read nonetheless. This is mostly I can easily accept the actions of the main characters and the message behind the story. I can't say how this one will work for a reader of inspirational romances since I am not one of them, but I can say however that I do like this one and who knows, if you are like me, you may just do so too."
~reviewed by mrsgiggles.com http://www.mrsgiggles.com/ebooks/wiesner_baby.html
"This story was a nice, quick read. It wasn’t complicated; it wasn’t meant to confuse you; it was simply meant to be a nice story. Karen Wiesner does a great job giving her readers one of those books that is very light on the heart and a great summertime read. This is a simply a story of faith, love, and trust. This is a story is very real in the fact that couples get into arguments all the time and it’s how you handle them that decides the fate of your marriage. I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a light read. This would be especially good for Christian women. I myself am not a religious person, but still found this a pleasant read. I got a little angry at Robert’s ignorance and stubbornness when it came to the issue of women earning an income, but the end result put a contented smile on my face. This is definitely a great beach read!"
~reviewed by Ashley Merrill for Front Street Reviews and Ashley's Booktopia http://ashleysbooktopia.blogspot.com/2008/09/babybaby-karen-wiesner.html
5 Hearts!
"Ms. Karen Wiesner has, once again, exceeded my expectations with her novel. This author had my attention from the first page and she never lost it. The series of poignant scenes and tumultuous soul searching was incredibly heart-wrenching. She wrote as if she knew the subject from first hand knowledge. She wrote as if she had this extraordinary desire to see the couple find a happily-ever-after. To read this story was a highlight of my weekend and this is a book I will treasure. It will definitely go on my keeper shelf. Wiesner took these two main characters and expanded them so that it was impossible not to love them. This book was an uplifting story with several surprises. There were tears, laughter, and unique conversations. I highly recommend that you read this book. It’s appropriate for any reader who loves inspirational reading. Great job, Ms. Wiesner."
~reviewed by Brenda Talley for The Romance Studio http://theromancestudio.com/reviews/reviews/shadowboxingwiesner.htm
4.5 Stars!
“Justine Samuels, a lawyer in a small town, has been married to Joshua for eighteen years. She has always wondered why he agreed to marry her; was it purely because she was pregnant and he felt it was his duty? She has never mustered the guts to ask him, fearing his answer. Joshua Samuels has wanted to express his feelings to Justine throughout their marriage, but had always felt there was a wall between them When their daughter prepares to leave for college, the tension between Justine and Joshua becomes more intense. Both are unable to read each other’s thoughts, but are to scared to reveal their true feelings. To complicate the already troubled marriage, Justine finds herself considering separating from her husband for his sake, thinking this is what he wants. Joshua finds himself in a difficult situation fending off unsolicited advances from another woman, add in a health issue for Justine and you have a marriage unraveling that you desperately want saved. What transpires is a delicate tale of raw emotions from a complicated marriage that is striving to succeed. Through the power of prayer and faith in one another, Justine and Joshua are able to find that love can conquer all. Karen Wiesner has written a riveting story about a married couple trying to find their way back into each other’s lives. I thought this was beautifully written with an inspirational message throughout. The struggles facing Justine and Joshua are extremely well written with extraordinary detail of their vulnerabilities. Highly recommended.” ~Emily for Single Titles http://singletitles.com/?p=2971
4 Stars!
"This second installment in Wiesner's Family Heirlooms Series is an affecting story that takes a realistic look at a troubled Christian marriage. The hero and heroine's determination to do the right thing, and the lack of communication between them, is believable, and the reason for their actions is understandable." ~Susan Mobley for RT Book Reviews http://www.rtbookreviews.com
4 Stars!
“There is a definite Christian theme throughout this book. The characters are real. The situation is real. This is a great, realistic read.”
~reviewed by Stephanie Rollins for ReviewYourBook.com http://www.reviewyourbook.com/review.cfm?reviewid=1600
4 Cups!
"SHADOW BOXING is an incredible read. The emotions are wide-span throughout with in-depth characters that cling to the reader. This endearing, poignant story makes the heart leap with joy. Justine and Joshua, make it a realistic read as they try to work out their marriage. To me it was like perhaps their guilt eating away at them for their sin, and they were afraid to open up to each other. I know when I read a book by Karen Wiesner I will never be disappointed. She composes captivating stories that enthrall and leave a lasting impression that is hard to forget. This story pricks at the heart and gives one hope that no matter how hard some matters appear, there is a solution. This book is an extraordinary read and a gem to be treasured."
~reviewed by Cherokee for Coffee Time Romance & More http://www.coffeetimeromance.com/BookReviews/Shadowboxingbook2.html
“Do not attempt to read SHADOW BOXING without a box of tissue within reach. I cried and ached for both Justine and Joshua as I read. Karen Wisner is a master of manipulating your heart strings as you are drawn deeper and deeper into the sad love and marriage of Justine and Joshua Samuels. Eighteen years of loving and living with someone you are not confident loves you would be a miserable existence and that was just where Justine and Joshua are in their lives. The glue in their marriage was their only child, Vashti. The conflict in SHADOW BOXING is one I believe couples who get married because of an unexpected pregnancy face more often than we realize. Leave it to Karen Wiesner to take a sensitive subject and write a beautiful, romantic novel.”
~Dawn Myers for Writers Unlimited Reviewer http://www.writersunlimited.com/
5 Hearts!
“Once again Karen Wiesner has written a book with a great plot. She has touched on subjects I have not found in most inspirational books. I am a fan of hers and appreciate the fact that she has chosen to address these things which we deal with in today’s world. There are spiritual truths mentioned, but the subject of sexual encounters and thoughts are also explored. These two main characters were supported by a myriad of others. The entire Samuels family was involved throughout the entire book. The strengths and weaknesses were emotionally charged and Wiesner handled the subjects flawlessly. I applaud her for her insight into today’s lifestyles. The uplifting story of God’s love is evident. It is not, however, done in a fanatical manner. This author definitely knows how to capture the readers and keep our interest. I highly recommend this book to everyone.”
~reviewed by Brenda Talley for The Romance Studio http://theromancestudio.com/reviews/reviews/folishgameswiesner.htm
4 1/2 Books!
"Wiesner introduces FOOLISH GAMES through Peter’s certainly melancholy eyes. Still, the setting she creates of a picturesque Wisconsin winter is near-poetic. The scenery is a wonderfully evocative parallel to our main character’s emotions. His heart is largely dwelling in the past. Kimberly, his dear friend, is just that – a friend first and foremost. They do mean something special to one another, and in many ways, it is lovely that their relationship and future decisions, are based on their value of that friendship. Wiesner introduces both characters, and the challenges before them, in a clear and straightforward manner. Her refreshing approach carries throughout the work. There are no contrived intrigues or insinuated disloyal acts, no trumped up troubles. This tale is the story of two people who share already, a wonderful level of friendship and understanding. They have doubts to deal with, past hurts, and obvious other issues to cope with. Neither have spent their lives in a bubble-wrap: each have certain haunting issues to overcome, and more. Their faith and concepts of what is both right and good, for each of them, also present them with challenges throughout the work. Wiesner delicately explores some of the physical levels of emotion as well. The impact of a hug is never so well presented as here: “Embrace. Peter’s memory of holding Kimberly—wrapped in his suit jacket—on his parents’ porch collided with his dream, bringing him back to abrupt consciousness. Darkness, quiet…emptiness greeted him. He closed his eyes tight again, memories of the dream he’d been so recently immersed in…” We are made to feel the touch itself, as well as the tangle of emotion that accompanies it. This thorough exploration of the senses brings us closely into the work. The clarity of being able to see the concerns of each, directly, makes the work all that much more evocative. Multiple points of view here are never confusing. The writing style always is warm and clear. This book is both plausible and unpredictable, pleasant and affirming. Fans of the inspirational romance should put this on their must-read list."
~Snapdragon for Long and Short Reviews http://longandshortreviews.blogspot.com/2009/09/foolish-games-by-karen-wiesner.html
Rating: You Need to Read!
"The third book in this series brings the author's intent into focus. I understood the reluctance of Peter and Kimberly to surrender to the love they felt for one another because of his wife's death a year ago. The circumstances and different situations concocted by Ms. Wiesner were nothing short of brilliant. I particularly appreciated the alternate plot that was sprinkled throughout involving Peter's sister, Samantha. Her dilemma was handled with finesse and tact that is rare in any genre let alone inspirational romance. The reader will definitely be compelled to turn page after page to find out if the characters indeed turn their lives and loves over to one another and whether the minor characters in the book straighten out their lives as well. The third installment of the Family Heirloom Series was well worth reading." ~Laura for You Gotta Read Reviews http://yougottareadreviews.blogspot.com/2009/07/review-foolish-games-by-karen-wiesner.html
4 Stars!
“This is a very deeply written story of how one person can take the Bible out of context and apply it to one’s family. Kimberly grew up thinking that God hated all women except for His chosen few. That a man was created to have dominion over the woman and should submit to the man. The doubt is always there in the back of her mind, wondering if she’s a good Christian because of her feelings toward her father. Will all men treat her as her father treated her mother? There’s a strong message in the storyline that shows just how one can, by taking verses out of context and without reading the verse before and after, can alter one’s life dramatically.”
~Book Reviews By Debra http://www.bookreviewsbydebra.com/
4 Stars!
"This romance has a deeper Christian message. The plot is entertaining but not a fast read. The characters are delightful." ~reviewed by Debra Gaynor for ReviewYourBook.com http://www.bookreviewsbydebra.com/index.php/reviews.html?review=1944-Foolish-Games-Book-3-Family-Heirloom-Series
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