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It Happened at the Fair #2
Fair Play
Saddled with a man’s name, the captivating Billy Jack Tate makes no apologies for pursuing a man’s profession. As a lady doctor at the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair, she is one step closer to having her very own medical practice--until she doctors an imposing man who threatens the fulfillment of her dream.
Hunter is one of the elite. A Texas Ranger and World’s Fair guard specifically chosen for his height, physique, character, and skill. Hailed as the toughest man west of any place east, he has no patience for big cities and women who aspire to walk in a man's shoes.
But the abandoned baby Hunter discovers at the Fair finds him teaming up with the good doctor to give the foundling a better future than the slums of Chicago, where the children play on flea-infested, garbage-strewn streets. AS Billy and Hunter fight for the foundling's welfare, their hearts warm to the precious child--and to each other. Soon their concern grows to encompass the Nineteenth Ward's burgeoning population of street children. In the interest of fair play, Billy and Hunter let nothing stand in their way as they labor to build a park for them, birthing Chicago's first playground and a national movement that will sweep the nation.
But the Fair is coming to an end, posing impossible decisions for Billy and the man who has won her heart. Will they become a footnote in the Fair's history books, or will what they discovered in Chicago be longer lasting than the World's Exhibition.
Hunter is one of the elite. A Texas Ranger and World’s Fair guard specifically chosen for his height, physique, character, and skill. Hailed as the toughest man west of any place east, he has no patience for big cities and women who aspire to walk in a man's shoes.
But the abandoned baby Hunter discovers at the Fair finds him teaming up with the good doctor to give the foundling a better future than the slums of Chicago, where the children play on flea-infested, garbage-strewn streets. AS Billy and Hunter fight for the foundling's welfare, their hearts warm to the precious child--and to each other. Soon their concern grows to encompass the Nineteenth Ward's burgeoning population of street children. In the interest of fair play, Billy and Hunter let nothing stand in their way as they labor to build a park for them, birthing Chicago's first playground and a national movement that will sweep the nation.
But the Fair is coming to an end, posing impossible decisions for Billy and the man who has won her heart. Will they become a footnote in the Fair's history books, or will what they discovered in Chicago be longer lasting than the World's Exhibition.
433 pages, Hardcover
First published May 1, 2014
74 people are currently reading
1,682 people want to read
About the author
Deeanne Gist
17Ìýbooks1,945ÌýfollowersWith over a million copies of her books sold, international bestselling, award-winning author has rocketed up bestseller lists and captured readers everywhere with her original, captivating historicals. Her latest release, Tiffany Girl, was touted as a “Must Year of the Year!â€� by USA Today, was one of the Top 10 Most Anticipated Books of 2015 by Huffington Post, and one of WikiEzvid's .
Not familiar with her work? to figure out which Deeanne Gist novel you'd like best.
Published by Simon & Schuster, Gist's include a RITA for Best Long Historical of the Year, National Readers� Choice Award, Best Historical of the Year (RT Reviewers), Librarians� Choice, Book Buyers� Best, Golden Quill, Books*A*Million Pick of the Month, Seal of Excellent and Award of Excellence.
Her most recent series takes readers into the heart of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair, where USA Today says �
�The historical details are absorbing, never intrusive and always eye-opening ... The characterization is rich and authentic ... The narrative is a treat, the tempo impeccable.�
Gist's credits including People Magazine, Parents, and Parenting. Her entertaining and informative presentations have been featured on the . Deeanne lives in South Carolina with her husband. When not writing, she enjoys boating and keeping up with her readers via and her very active online community on her , , , , and on her .
Not familiar with her work? to figure out which Deeanne Gist novel you'd like best.
Published by Simon & Schuster, Gist's include a RITA for Best Long Historical of the Year, National Readers� Choice Award, Best Historical of the Year (RT Reviewers), Librarians� Choice, Book Buyers� Best, Golden Quill, Books*A*Million Pick of the Month, Seal of Excellent and Award of Excellence.
Her most recent series takes readers into the heart of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair, where USA Today says �
�The historical details are absorbing, never intrusive and always eye-opening ... The characterization is rich and authentic ... The narrative is a treat, the tempo impeccable.�
Gist's credits including People Magazine, Parents, and Parenting. Her entertaining and informative presentations have been featured on the . Deeanne lives in South Carolina with her husband. When not writing, she enjoys boating and keeping up with her readers via and her very active online community on her , , , , and on her .
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 273 reviews
May 8, 2014
I have been an avid reader of Gist's books ever since her novel debut. She has always been teetering on the edge of edgy. This one topples over that edge. I have to say as well that Gist usually does her homework when it comes to research. This one, not so much.
I am by no means a prude. I realized more than two decades ago that steamy romance was erotica and just as much pornography as Playboy. When I get uncomfortable reading a romance novel, that raises all sorts of red flags for me. I took a lot of hard work to remove the foul language from my mind so I would not spew it out of my mouth, and it took a lot of hard work to shake myself of the steamy romance habit as well.
I love well-written Christian novels. I know that they can be better than most classics if authors and editors work hard at their craft. This one starts out definitely humorous, with really good references to actual events. It not only strikes true, but rings true. Then Gist falls apart. Using the guise of the female being a doctor, and the male being the patient with a bowel movement problem, this novel goes downhill from there.
I get enough garbage from TV commercials without having to read it in a Christian novel. This was the worst of Gist's efforts. Why go there? What was the purpose? The examination scene was written as nothing short of erotica. I balk at that. If Gist want's to write that kind of junk then she needs to move away from the Christian label.
The major problem most authors have is they think readers have no imagination. Why are we reading if we do not exercise our imagination to the fullest? I do not need an author to spell out that a female hand is on the abdomen of the male character and then have the male think something erotic even while he is in severe pain and has fainted in the elevator.
I read Christian books so that I can be assured of a clean imagination ride.
I give this book one star (I may be selling this one short just a bit, but going over the edge of edgy takes away that second star.)
I am by no means a prude. I realized more than two decades ago that steamy romance was erotica and just as much pornography as Playboy. When I get uncomfortable reading a romance novel, that raises all sorts of red flags for me. I took a lot of hard work to remove the foul language from my mind so I would not spew it out of my mouth, and it took a lot of hard work to shake myself of the steamy romance habit as well.
I love well-written Christian novels. I know that they can be better than most classics if authors and editors work hard at their craft. This one starts out definitely humorous, with really good references to actual events. It not only strikes true, but rings true. Then Gist falls apart. Using the guise of the female being a doctor, and the male being the patient with a bowel movement problem, this novel goes downhill from there.
I get enough garbage from TV commercials without having to read it in a Christian novel. This was the worst of Gist's efforts. Why go there? What was the purpose? The examination scene was written as nothing short of erotica. I balk at that. If Gist want's to write that kind of junk then she needs to move away from the Christian label.
The major problem most authors have is they think readers have no imagination. Why are we reading if we do not exercise our imagination to the fullest? I do not need an author to spell out that a female hand is on the abdomen of the male character and then have the male think something erotic even while he is in severe pain and has fainted in the elevator.
I read Christian books so that I can be assured of a clean imagination ride.
I give this book one star (I may be selling this one short just a bit, but going over the edge of edgy takes away that second star.)
March 15, 2016
I have never cared much for this author's books (I have read a few), but someone recommended this one to me claiming that I was sure to love it.
The only way I could think to explain it to my sister is that it's basically a trashy romance without the explicit sex scenes. What is "Christian" fiction coming to when it makes a person so uncomfortable to even read it?! I ended up mostly speed-reading it to see if the entire book was that way... Such a disappointment.
I'm not going to say anything more because I'm afraid I'll end up going into a bit of a rant about how and why this book bothered me so much. However, let me direct you to this wonderful review: /review/show...
Aug. 2015
The only way I could think to explain it to my sister is that it's basically a trashy romance without the explicit sex scenes. What is "Christian" fiction coming to when it makes a person so uncomfortable to even read it?! I ended up mostly speed-reading it to see if the entire book was that way... Such a disappointment.
I'm not going to say anything more because I'm afraid I'll end up going into a bit of a rant about how and why this book bothered me so much. However, let me direct you to this wonderful review: /review/show...
Aug. 2015
August 22, 2014
Billy Jack is a modern city doctor. Not to mention a woman, a feminist, and a guest speaker at the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. That is, if she can get into the building where she is supposed to speak. An entrance which requires breaking in through a cellar window, scrambling—legs first—through the narrow space, and suffering the mockery of a witnessing guard.
Hunter is a Texas Ranger, temporarily on assignment guarding the Women’s Building at the fair. When he signed up for the position, his goals involved advancement. He didn’t anticipate falling for a woman with trousers for a petticoat and the ability to cure—well, some illnesses should not be spoken of ever in the presence of a lady. Even one with two men’s names.
Fair Play is a stand-alone novel by Deeanne Gist. It is her second book set at the Chicago World’s Fair and my favorite of the two. The characters take the leading role. The historical detail—much of it based around Jane Adams’s Hull House and the poverty in its surroundings—is integral to the plot. And I loved how both Billy and Hunter are forced to face the conundrum of balancing love, ambition, and family.
Hunter is a Texas Ranger, temporarily on assignment guarding the Women’s Building at the fair. When he signed up for the position, his goals involved advancement. He didn’t anticipate falling for a woman with trousers for a petticoat and the ability to cure—well, some illnesses should not be spoken of ever in the presence of a lady. Even one with two men’s names.
Fair Play is a stand-alone novel by Deeanne Gist. It is her second book set at the Chicago World’s Fair and my favorite of the two. The characters take the leading role. The historical detail—much of it based around Jane Adams’s Hull House and the poverty in its surroundings—is integral to the plot. And I loved how both Billy and Hunter are forced to face the conundrum of balancing love, ambition, and family.
April 18, 2014
I expected to like this book more than I did. This novel elaborates on the story between Dr. Billy Jack Tate and Columbian Guard Hunter Scott, who we first met in the novella Tempest in the White City. I really enjoyed the novella and was thrilled to discover we were getting a whole novel about Billy and Hunter. Unfortunately, it seems their story would have been better off left short and sweet.
Most of the reason I wasn't a fan of this book is because I really didn't connect with the characters at all. Both of them seemed very juvenile, especially for being in their 30s. They were both rather arrogant and prideful in the extreme and for some reason not only thought their respective sex was superior to the other, but thought themselves superior to most people, or so it seemed. That might be okay if they seemed to change in the end, but I didn't see much of a change in their characters after all they went through. They did compromise a bit, however circumstances kind of didn't give them much choice in that regard. Everything wrapped up rather too conveniently too, in my opinion.
The story was interesting for the most part, however I did have to force myself through several slow parts. I thought some of the events, while interesting, were rather random. I felt like the author just threw things together because she wanted a particular scene or line in a particular place, but the sequence of events or the thought process of the characters didn't always seem logical or realistic. I enjoyed most of the historical information in the novel, although some of it seemed rather forced into the storyline unnaturally just for shock value. I was disappointed to read the historical note at the back of the book and find how much (almost all) information the author had altered or rearranged for her own purposes. It made it all seem rather pointless.
Finally, the "sexual content" in this book made me uncomfortable. I use quotes because there isn't actually any real sexual content to speak of. There are just some make out sessions and one fade to black scene. Usually I would have no problem with that. However, the way that it was written and the way the characters thought about and talked about sex was what was uncomfortable and annoying. I don't know how to explain why, because it wasn't explicit, there was just a certain ick factor about it. It just seemed that obscure sexual thoughts or comments would be peppered in randomly. They didn't flow with the narrative at all and were jarring. There was also way WAY too much fixation on Billy's underwear. Paragraphs going on and on about it throughout the whole book. The same pair! And they were pantalets for crying out loud! They came down to her knees. It made me feel like the main characters were about 13 years old. It became quite ridiculous and annoying. I also had a really hard time believing characters would be talking and acting the way these two did, especially in public, in the 1890s. This book seemed like it was trying to push the limits of "clean" romance, and dance around the edges of bodice ripper territory and the result was just awkward and uncomfortable.
*I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Most of the reason I wasn't a fan of this book is because I really didn't connect with the characters at all. Both of them seemed very juvenile, especially for being in their 30s. They were both rather arrogant and prideful in the extreme and for some reason not only thought their respective sex was superior to the other, but thought themselves superior to most people, or so it seemed. That might be okay if they seemed to change in the end, but I didn't see much of a change in their characters after all they went through. They did compromise a bit, however circumstances kind of didn't give them much choice in that regard. Everything wrapped up rather too conveniently too, in my opinion.
The story was interesting for the most part, however I did have to force myself through several slow parts. I thought some of the events, while interesting, were rather random. I felt like the author just threw things together because she wanted a particular scene or line in a particular place, but the sequence of events or the thought process of the characters didn't always seem logical or realistic. I enjoyed most of the historical information in the novel, although some of it seemed rather forced into the storyline unnaturally just for shock value. I was disappointed to read the historical note at the back of the book and find how much (almost all) information the author had altered or rearranged for her own purposes. It made it all seem rather pointless.
Finally, the "sexual content" in this book made me uncomfortable. I use quotes because there isn't actually any real sexual content to speak of. There are just some make out sessions and one fade to black scene. Usually I would have no problem with that. However, the way that it was written and the way the characters thought about and talked about sex was what was uncomfortable and annoying. I don't know how to explain why, because it wasn't explicit, there was just a certain ick factor about it. It just seemed that obscure sexual thoughts or comments would be peppered in randomly. They didn't flow with the narrative at all and were jarring. There was also way WAY too much fixation on Billy's underwear. Paragraphs going on and on about it throughout the whole book. The same pair! And they were pantalets for crying out loud! They came down to her knees. It made me feel like the main characters were about 13 years old. It became quite ridiculous and annoying. I also had a really hard time believing characters would be talking and acting the way these two did, especially in public, in the 1890s. This book seemed like it was trying to push the limits of "clean" romance, and dance around the edges of bodice ripper territory and the result was just awkward and uncomfortable.
*I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 14, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, it was very well written.
It is no secret that Deeanne Gist is one of my favorite novelists, and this novel was every example of why she is so. The historic details that Ms. Gist weaves into her novels is beautiful and often heart wrenching. To know the past as it was and not the "fairy-tale" enriched version that is often portrayed makes the history of this country more eye opening.
In Fair Play, the "lady" doctor, because women just don't become doctors, is an awe-inspiring heroine. The way she can handle herself with no fear is how we train our daughters to be in present day. Even though there was a handsome Texas ranger who helped her in her causes, Fair Play was written to show that women can handle themselves and change the world while they are at it.
It is no secret that Deeanne Gist is one of my favorite novelists, and this novel was every example of why she is so. The historic details that Ms. Gist weaves into her novels is beautiful and often heart wrenching. To know the past as it was and not the "fairy-tale" enriched version that is often portrayed makes the history of this country more eye opening.
In Fair Play, the "lady" doctor, because women just don't become doctors, is an awe-inspiring heroine. The way she can handle herself with no fear is how we train our daughters to be in present day. Even though there was a handsome Texas ranger who helped her in her causes, Fair Play was written to show that women can handle themselves and change the world while they are at it.
September 2, 2016
I am...so glad I gave Fair Play a chance. Historical fiction isn't one of my normal genres but let me tell you. Gist about did me in with an incredible story of hope, heartbreak and love set during the final days of the 1893 Chicago World Fair as a lady doctor and a Texas Ranger are drawn together by an abandoned infant that sets their lives on a new course they never would have expected.
The quick of it is that Billy and Hunter have both found themselves at the World Fair. Billy--the heroine--as one of the doctors and Hunter as one of the guards. Time and time again they find themselves pulled together and after finding an abandoned child they venture into Chicago to a home that will take him only to encounter poverty, abuse, the slums and all they bring with them which sparks a need for them to do...something to change the lives of the children living there.
I really enjoyed both Billy and Hunter. Both are so incredibly honorable and always trying to do what's right. They're good people and easy to get to know and are just likable. They have a great back and forth even if they get exasperated with one another and don't see eye to eye on certain things...like a woman's role...Billy is fiercely independent. She's a medical doctor, supports herself and refuses to rely on men for anything--sometimes to her detriment. And Hunter, well, he thinks women should be cherished, protected and pretty much worshiped and can't see why they'd want to or need to be anywhere but in the home where they're safe. It was fun seeing them both dealing with their attraction and knowing how differently they felt on the issue and both eventually compromising. They've got great chemistry for sure but things are kept very clean with just a kiss here or there and one very closed door scene towards the end. So heat lovers will miss out on this one.
The historical elements. Lordy. They were hard. This one isn't a prettied up historical romance but a historical fiction mixed with romance. So many of the elements of the story were based on true facts. On actual events that happened, people that existed, cases that were documented. And they weren't all pretty things. My heart absolutely hurt from some of the things that Billy and Hunter witnessed as their lives were drawn into Chicago and it's issues. Poverty, slums, child abuse, addictions and sexual assaults. Injustices in the court system and the filth of the jails. The further I got into this one--and it's a big one being trade paperback size and over 400 pages--the more it had me feeling raw and, not battered, but just achy for everyone and what life was like. But at the same time there were so many amazing things included. Invention and advances in technology, fights for women's rights and an underlying hope to it all. One very neat aspect was at the start of many of the chapters photos were included of actual people or locations being talked about in the chapter. It really brought home how real everything was and was so interesting.
All in all, Fair Play was a phenomenal story that infused a wonderful romance and fascinating historical elements that just left me feeling emotionally ragged...but in a good way. I loved the light romance happening and seeing these two bond and become friends as new life experiences were thrown their way. My only complaint was that I wish more had been done with the World Fair. It provided a nice backdrop but I would have loved to see them actually exploring the Fair more. But...I'd not hesitate to read Gist again. It was an amazing read and one that'll definitely be sticking with me for quite some time.
Reviewed for .
The quick of it is that Billy and Hunter have both found themselves at the World Fair. Billy--the heroine--as one of the doctors and Hunter as one of the guards. Time and time again they find themselves pulled together and after finding an abandoned child they venture into Chicago to a home that will take him only to encounter poverty, abuse, the slums and all they bring with them which sparks a need for them to do...something to change the lives of the children living there.
I really enjoyed both Billy and Hunter. Both are so incredibly honorable and always trying to do what's right. They're good people and easy to get to know and are just likable. They have a great back and forth even if they get exasperated with one another and don't see eye to eye on certain things...like a woman's role...Billy is fiercely independent. She's a medical doctor, supports herself and refuses to rely on men for anything--sometimes to her detriment. And Hunter, well, he thinks women should be cherished, protected and pretty much worshiped and can't see why they'd want to or need to be anywhere but in the home where they're safe. It was fun seeing them both dealing with their attraction and knowing how differently they felt on the issue and both eventually compromising. They've got great chemistry for sure but things are kept very clean with just a kiss here or there and one very closed door scene towards the end. So heat lovers will miss out on this one.
He looked at Billy. "Did you have us walk the last leg on purpose knowing all the while that if we'd stayed on the cable car it would turn on Halstead and bring us right to the front door of Hull House?"
She tightened her mouth. "How was I supposed to know it was going to turn on Halstead? Are you trying to pick a fight?"
"Maybe."
"Why?"
"Because this are is full of dissipation and refuse and disease," he said. "And, like it or not, you're a female and he's a babe. The cable car provides protection and the both of you should stay on it for as long as possible."
Tightening her hold on the infant, she stepped into the street and wove between traffic. "Ah, but we have with us a big Texas Ranger and his ominous-looking gun."
He narrowed his eyes. "Are you baiting me?"
"Maybe."
"Why?"
"Because, like it or not, you're an overbearing male who thinks I'm made out of porcelain." Reaching the boardwalk on the other side, she squared up t him. "Well, I'm not made of porcelain or crystal or any other fragile material."
The historical elements. Lordy. They were hard. This one isn't a prettied up historical romance but a historical fiction mixed with romance. So many of the elements of the story were based on true facts. On actual events that happened, people that existed, cases that were documented. And they weren't all pretty things. My heart absolutely hurt from some of the things that Billy and Hunter witnessed as their lives were drawn into Chicago and it's issues. Poverty, slums, child abuse, addictions and sexual assaults. Injustices in the court system and the filth of the jails. The further I got into this one--and it's a big one being trade paperback size and over 400 pages--the more it had me feeling raw and, not battered, but just achy for everyone and what life was like. But at the same time there were so many amazing things included. Invention and advances in technology, fights for women's rights and an underlying hope to it all. One very neat aspect was at the start of many of the chapters photos were included of actual people or locations being talked about in the chapter. It really brought home how real everything was and was so interesting.
All in all, Fair Play was a phenomenal story that infused a wonderful romance and fascinating historical elements that just left me feeling emotionally ragged...but in a good way. I loved the light romance happening and seeing these two bond and become friends as new life experiences were thrown their way. My only complaint was that I wish more had been done with the World Fair. It provided a nice backdrop but I would have loved to see them actually exploring the Fair more. But...I'd not hesitate to read Gist again. It was an amazing read and one that'll definitely be sticking with me for quite some time.
Reviewed for .
June 3, 2014
I have slowly been losing interest in Deanne Gist books as they have derailed from what it was that initially drew in her readers. The Bride in the Bargain, Bride Most Begrudging, and Maid to Match books captivated readers with fun, clean, light, romantic reading. Then Love on the Line and the Fair books took another direction. I think Gist worked so hard to research the back story of her novels that she now spends way too much time regurgitating what she learned and less time on developing her characters and telling us their story. I find myself skimming many pages because I don't care about birds, the history if the phone lines, or every microscopic detail about the Worlds Fair, as much as I want to know about the story these characters. Fair Play was a little bit better because all of her informative babble actually involved characters in the book. I did really enjoy Hunter and Billey's story. I wish there had been more about them.
June 18, 2015
I was torn with this. First some formatting notes. At the beginning of each chapter, there is a picture and a blurb reprinted from within the chapter. That's fine, but I was listening to it and got confused a couple times before I figured it out. I switched to reading it and after each picture and blurb there is a section of text which is smaller and in a harder to read type. I was not a fan.
I have always been a fan of Deeanne Gist, but this was my least favorite book by her. It took edgy to the edge and then went over it. Honestly, the whole relationship seemed based on lust. They barely knew each other and didn't share much other than arguing about each other's job.
The book starts out with such a... hyper feminism that it immediately left a sour taste in my mouth. Of course I believe women aren't less smart or important than men -- but this went to the point where it just felt like man hating.
I liked the history -- and learning about playgrounds and Hull house. I wish there had been even more of that - and the kinds of things Hull house accomplished.
I have always been a fan of Deeanne Gist, but this was my least favorite book by her. It took edgy to the edge and then went over it. Honestly, the whole relationship seemed based on lust. They barely knew each other and didn't share much other than arguing about each other's job.
The book starts out with such a... hyper feminism that it immediately left a sour taste in my mouth. Of course I believe women aren't less smart or important than men -- but this went to the point where it just felt like man hating.
I liked the history -- and learning about playgrounds and Hull house. I wish there had been even more of that - and the kinds of things Hull house accomplished.
Shelved as 'unfinished'
July 17, 2016Dr. Billy Jack Tate has overcome so many obstacles in her life in order to get to where she is now. And she isn't about to let her emotions run away with her to get her into a position she doesn't want - i.e. give up her profession, stay home and raise kids. And although she confesses to have fallen for Texas Ranger Hunter Scott she can't imagine love being strong enough to tie her to her home and give up her medical career in favor of that. While she tries to sort out her whirlwind of emotions there is also the matter of the wild youth running about in Chicago. They need help before - or as some already have - end up in the packed and filthy jails.
I tried...I really, really, really tried. But I couldn't do it.ÌýWhat the heck is she talking about now?ÌýI gave up. At nearly 500 pages (466 to be precise) I gave up on this book 100 pages away from making the end. Believe me, it was very difficult to get as far as I did. Not only was it moving slow but I was almost sick with all the sappy sections. It seemed like the same informationÌýwas being reiterated throughout the story. And, wow, did it drag.
Billy and Hunter's on-again off-again relationship was also very annoying. Kids, either give it up or get married. You don't need to have the same discussion a thousand times over when you both know the answer; you're both bull-headed to boot. And the sappy parts? Don't even get me started. It bordered on inappropriate.
There was a little humor incorporated into the story and I recognized some of the techniques that were used in Love on the Line but there just wasn't enough good points for me to want to go any further with the story. And so there you have my pitiful review, folks.
DISCLAIMER: In accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’sÌý: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertisingâ€� we would like to note that we received an electronic copy of “Fair Playâ€� Ìýprovided by the publishers,ÌýHoward Books, inÌýexchangeÌýfor our honestÌýreview.
reetchampionbookreviews.wordpress.com
I tried...I really, really, really tried. But I couldn't do it.ÌýWhat the heck is she talking about now?ÌýI gave up. At nearly 500 pages (466 to be precise) I gave up on this book 100 pages away from making the end. Believe me, it was very difficult to get as far as I did. Not only was it moving slow but I was almost sick with all the sappy sections. It seemed like the same informationÌýwas being reiterated throughout the story. And, wow, did it drag.
Billy and Hunter's on-again off-again relationship was also very annoying. Kids, either give it up or get married. You don't need to have the same discussion a thousand times over when you both know the answer; you're both bull-headed to boot. And the sappy parts? Don't even get me started. It bordered on inappropriate.
There was a little humor incorporated into the story and I recognized some of the techniques that were used in Love on the Line but there just wasn't enough good points for me to want to go any further with the story. And so there you have my pitiful review, folks.
DISCLAIMER: In accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’sÌý: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertisingâ€� we would like to note that we received an electronic copy of “Fair Playâ€� Ìýprovided by the publishers,ÌýHoward Books, inÌýexchangeÌýfor our honestÌýreview.
reetchampionbookreviews.wordpress.com
May 13, 2014
Time was, I had a very small pool of authors I read: Janette Oke, MaryLu Tyndall...and Deeanne Gist. I'm glad I've branched out since then, but I still read every last one of Dee's books. Why? They're hilarious, adorable, and well-written.
First, though, let's gush about that cover, shall we? Who ever heard of a heroine swinging off the cover of her own book? Love it! Especially since that swing is actually in the book and the hero swings on it, too.
I loved Billy and Hunter, also. Billy, the feminist lady doctor with the man's name determined to make it in a man's world. And Hunter, the hard-core Ranger who wants nothing more than to build his career and protect Billy. What's not to love? Well, the way they meet is unconventional (and hysterical). But I've come to expect a bit of blushing from reading Dee's books, so, although I wouldn't recommend her books to younger readers necessarily, they're tactful.
What I Didn't Like As Much
What isn't totally actful is how Billy must diagnose Hunter's ailment at the beginning of the book. Oh, my, that was pretty funny, and I felt bad for the poor guy. Only Dee, really, could go there in fiction and make it work well.
One last note: I ended up liking that the Chicago World's Fair didn't play as large a role in this book as in It Happened At The Fair. I got to know Billy and Hunter better.
I recommend Dee's books for those who love historical fiction rich in romance and laughter!
First, though, let's gush about that cover, shall we? Who ever heard of a heroine swinging off the cover of her own book? Love it! Especially since that swing is actually in the book and the hero swings on it, too.
I loved Billy and Hunter, also. Billy, the feminist lady doctor with the man's name determined to make it in a man's world. And Hunter, the hard-core Ranger who wants nothing more than to build his career and protect Billy. What's not to love? Well, the way they meet is unconventional (and hysterical). But I've come to expect a bit of blushing from reading Dee's books, so, although I wouldn't recommend her books to younger readers necessarily, they're tactful.
What I Didn't Like As Much
What isn't totally actful is how Billy must diagnose Hunter's ailment at the beginning of the book. Oh, my, that was pretty funny, and I felt bad for the poor guy. Only Dee, really, could go there in fiction and make it work well.
One last note: I ended up liking that the Chicago World's Fair didn't play as large a role in this book as in It Happened At The Fair. I got to know Billy and Hunter better.
I recommend Dee's books for those who love historical fiction rich in romance and laughter!
May 14, 2019
Another Great Gist Story!
I really was drawn into the story of Dr. Billy, Hunter, and Derry. The romance was real. I liked the frustration Hunter deals with as far as Billy being a doctor. I like that Billy was a strong female that doesn't give up all she's worked for just because a man expects it. No spoilers but there is room for compromising.
The deplorable conditions of life for children of the time was very well told. Sadly, it was all too true.
I appreciate the author and publisher for including author notes, photos, and reader questions. It's always nice to see the facts that inspire parts of the story and where the author's imagination takes over.
I really was drawn into the story of Dr. Billy, Hunter, and Derry. The romance was real. I liked the frustration Hunter deals with as far as Billy being a doctor. I like that Billy was a strong female that doesn't give up all she's worked for just because a man expects it. No spoilers but there is room for compromising.
The deplorable conditions of life for children of the time was very well told. Sadly, it was all too true.
I appreciate the author and publisher for including author notes, photos, and reader questions. It's always nice to see the facts that inspire parts of the story and where the author's imagination takes over.
July 16, 2020
The first half of the book I loved. Laughed out loud and just delightful. Not sure what happened but I just lost interest half way through! Didn’t really care for the subplot of the little street children. Just sort of depressing. The hero in this one wasn’t near as charming as the one in Tiffany Girl. That book is a much better representation of what this author can do!
August 31, 2014
Dr. Billy Jack Tate isn't your ordinary doctor. In fact, "he" is actually a she, named after two her grandfathers. She has fought and clawed her way up in a profession dominated almost solely by men in 1893, so it is a godsend when she is asked to do the doctoring at the Women's Building at the Chicago World's Fair. Her clientele of patients is almost nill so she is desperate for a regular income. What she didn't expect was the pig-headed Columbian guard, Hunter Scott, to start pestering her. On loan to the fair from the Texas Rangers, Hunter Scott is a tough man with traditional views about the role of women in society. He can't let Billy walk home alone at night, and when he finds an abandoned infant at the Women's Building, Hunter starts imagining what life might be like with Billy as his wife and lots of little babies to care for. Except that she refuses to give up doctoring and he refuses to give up rangering and so they are emotionally left at a stalemate until they can reach a viable consensus about their mutual futures. Throw in Hull House, a building dedicated to caring for children while their parents work, and Hunter's passionate desire to build a playground for the waifs of Chicago, readers of Deeanne Gist's latest work are in for an interesting ride with Fair Play.
All right, I loved the 1st book in this series, . I loved the characters and I loved the setting and just everything about it. The book literally happened at the Fair, in the midst of it in almost every chapter. So, I admit to being a bit disappointed that Fair Play had less about the fair than its predecessor. I don't even really think Billy toured the fair at all in the book, although I could be wrong. If it had been me, I would have spent every spare moment wandering through that fair and she just doesn't do that. So, there wasn't enough of the actual fair in my opinion. Don't get me wrong, I loved the information about Hull House and the building of the playground, and it's all historical, just the dates are changed to make the events happen at the same time. It was great, just not at the fair.
My biggest complaint, though, is actually with the lead characters. I hate reckless women. I tend to give lower ratings to books where women are so independent that they get themselves into trouble, and Billy is a moron for much of the book, placing herself in unnecessary danger and nearly getting herself raped. I'm sorry but no matter how educated she is, she still goes off half-cocked like a complete nincompoop. At least she realizes this by the end of the book, but I spent a lot of time wanting to smack her upside the head. As for Hunter, I wanted to like him, I really did. I realize that men think about sex more than we women can even imagine, but really? Every time he's in her presence, he's thinking lustful thoughts that he should by trying to stem, not indulge. I mean, come on, admire things jiggling as she's washing her doctoring instruments? Not that anything actually could jiggle in a Victorian corset. So, he was one of those typical males who exhibits sexist tendencies. His mind is focused solely on the physical side of Billy the majority of the time and that got old after awhile. I like men with a little more conscience than he exhibited.
And that's another thing, where was their faith? All right, I don't like books to preach, but this is supposed to be a Christian romance, so where was Christ? I'm sure they must have mentioned faith fleetingly, but it was so fleeting that it disappeared into the ether. I was left with a "clean" read instead of a Christian read and that wasn't what I was expecting. So, with the book not having enough of the Chicago World's Fair in it, and the lead characters not really being to my liking, I sadly have to rate Fair Play a 3 stars. I expected more from Hunter and Billy than they delivered. I'm a huge Deeanne Gist fan so will continue to read her novels with great enthusiasm, but I hope she tries writing a gentler heroine and a nobler hero the next time around.
All right, I loved the 1st book in this series, . I loved the characters and I loved the setting and just everything about it. The book literally happened at the Fair, in the midst of it in almost every chapter. So, I admit to being a bit disappointed that Fair Play had less about the fair than its predecessor. I don't even really think Billy toured the fair at all in the book, although I could be wrong. If it had been me, I would have spent every spare moment wandering through that fair and she just doesn't do that. So, there wasn't enough of the actual fair in my opinion. Don't get me wrong, I loved the information about Hull House and the building of the playground, and it's all historical, just the dates are changed to make the events happen at the same time. It was great, just not at the fair.
My biggest complaint, though, is actually with the lead characters. I hate reckless women. I tend to give lower ratings to books where women are so independent that they get themselves into trouble, and Billy is a moron for much of the book, placing herself in unnecessary danger and nearly getting herself raped. I'm sorry but no matter how educated she is, she still goes off half-cocked like a complete nincompoop. At least she realizes this by the end of the book, but I spent a lot of time wanting to smack her upside the head. As for Hunter, I wanted to like him, I really did. I realize that men think about sex more than we women can even imagine, but really? Every time he's in her presence, he's thinking lustful thoughts that he should by trying to stem, not indulge. I mean, come on, admire things jiggling as she's washing her doctoring instruments? Not that anything actually could jiggle in a Victorian corset. So, he was one of those typical males who exhibits sexist tendencies. His mind is focused solely on the physical side of Billy the majority of the time and that got old after awhile. I like men with a little more conscience than he exhibited.
And that's another thing, where was their faith? All right, I don't like books to preach, but this is supposed to be a Christian romance, so where was Christ? I'm sure they must have mentioned faith fleetingly, but it was so fleeting that it disappeared into the ether. I was left with a "clean" read instead of a Christian read and that wasn't what I was expecting. So, with the book not having enough of the Chicago World's Fair in it, and the lead characters not really being to my liking, I sadly have to rate Fair Play a 3 stars. I expected more from Hunter and Billy than they delivered. I'm a huge Deeanne Gist fan so will continue to read her novels with great enthusiasm, but I hope she tries writing a gentler heroine and a nobler hero the next time around.
May 16, 2014
Having thoroughly enjoyed It Happened At the Fair, I was more than eager to read the latest installment from Gist. Though I don't like it as much as the first one, mostly because that story line about deafness and lip-reading really touched a chord with me, I still really liked this story.
We have a spunky woman doctor who knows how to stand on her own two feet and give back what for. Especially when she meets a manly Texas Ranger who has very set ideas about women's place.
Boy, does she manage to convert him, quickly. With her actions and her bravery, she leaves no doubt just how much women are capable of, forcing this Texas Ranger to rethink some of his thoughts about women and what they're capable of. She even helps him get better.
As always with a Gist book, there's a lot of humor and chuckles. There's no end to the interesting characters either. I sincerely hope there's a book three in this series, maybe about the women of Hull House? I'm hint dropping...
We meet not only these amazing women (who really existed!) that started a daycare/nursery in the worst part of town and ran it despite the odds and hoodlums, but we also meet some street children--not all of them bad--who've been dealt a difficult hand and have to make the most of it. The hero and heroine start a playground for them, hoping it will help keep the kids off the streets. The book also shows us how some of the immigrants lived and the appalling prison conditions. This is a fun historical novel that will teach you something. It's not fluff. There's even a trial toward the end, and I sure do love those.
Though a Christian fiction in classification, there was absolutely nothing preachy about it. Matter of fact, I think Christian fiction is the wrong category for this. It's just a clean historical romance. There is a stronger...sexual awareness...between Billy (the heroine) and Hunter (the hero) than found in most Christian fiction novels, but while I noticed and was surprised by it, I wasn't bothered by it at all. It's a fact of life, be you Christian, Atheist, or anything else; you're going to feel sexual attraction, so I applaud Gist for toeing the line a wee bit. It made it REAL. BUT there is NO nastiness.
Full review is here:
We have a spunky woman doctor who knows how to stand on her own two feet and give back what for. Especially when she meets a manly Texas Ranger who has very set ideas about women's place.
Boy, does she manage to convert him, quickly. With her actions and her bravery, she leaves no doubt just how much women are capable of, forcing this Texas Ranger to rethink some of his thoughts about women and what they're capable of. She even helps him get better.
As always with a Gist book, there's a lot of humor and chuckles. There's no end to the interesting characters either. I sincerely hope there's a book three in this series, maybe about the women of Hull House? I'm hint dropping...
We meet not only these amazing women (who really existed!) that started a daycare/nursery in the worst part of town and ran it despite the odds and hoodlums, but we also meet some street children--not all of them bad--who've been dealt a difficult hand and have to make the most of it. The hero and heroine start a playground for them, hoping it will help keep the kids off the streets. The book also shows us how some of the immigrants lived and the appalling prison conditions. This is a fun historical novel that will teach you something. It's not fluff. There's even a trial toward the end, and I sure do love those.
Though a Christian fiction in classification, there was absolutely nothing preachy about it. Matter of fact, I think Christian fiction is the wrong category for this. It's just a clean historical romance. There is a stronger...sexual awareness...between Billy (the heroine) and Hunter (the hero) than found in most Christian fiction novels, but while I noticed and was surprised by it, I wasn't bothered by it at all. It's a fact of life, be you Christian, Atheist, or anything else; you're going to feel sexual attraction, so I applaud Gist for toeing the line a wee bit. It made it REAL. BUT there is NO nastiness.
Full review is here:
April 25, 2014
Travel back in time to right after the O’Leary cow Chicago fire and attend the 1893 Chicago Worlds Fair. Deeanne Gist has us walking in their footsteps and we feel we are at the fair, with the inclusion on old pictures of the buildings, and wonderful descriptions. We put faces to the people, although fictional, we become absorbed in their lives, and those around them.
We have a young woman doctor, and of all things she has two male first names, Billy Jack, talk about confusing people. Woman doctors at that time were a rarity, and one would suppose that with that name a man. We also have a Texas Ranger, Hunter Scott, a very self-confidant man, with cute attributes. You will be chuckling when you see how these two meet, and life with them becomes very interesting.
Yes it is definitely a man’s world and Billy is trying to succeed here, but both she and Hunter have big hearts and lots of compassion. There is a lot included in this story, besides walking into the poorest parts of Chicago, and see such poverty. We visit the jail that is so crowded that people and children, yes children, have to stand up, if they sit they are in human waste. Can’t even imagine! Then there are the gangs, and in a way a lot like today, with bullies, and weapons.
Can these two opposite individuals forge a relationship, with so much going against them, along with long held convictions? Will they be able go give an inch here and there; it sure doesn’t look like it. We even have a cameo of people from previous books here, if you have read the first book It Happened At The Fair, you will recognize them, and if you haven’t be sure to pick it up, it is another keeper.
I received this book from Howard Books, and was not required to give a positive review.
We have a young woman doctor, and of all things she has two male first names, Billy Jack, talk about confusing people. Woman doctors at that time were a rarity, and one would suppose that with that name a man. We also have a Texas Ranger, Hunter Scott, a very self-confidant man, with cute attributes. You will be chuckling when you see how these two meet, and life with them becomes very interesting.
Yes it is definitely a man’s world and Billy is trying to succeed here, but both she and Hunter have big hearts and lots of compassion. There is a lot included in this story, besides walking into the poorest parts of Chicago, and see such poverty. We visit the jail that is so crowded that people and children, yes children, have to stand up, if they sit they are in human waste. Can’t even imagine! Then there are the gangs, and in a way a lot like today, with bullies, and weapons.
Can these two opposite individuals forge a relationship, with so much going against them, along with long held convictions? Will they be able go give an inch here and there; it sure doesn’t look like it. We even have a cameo of people from previous books here, if you have read the first book It Happened At The Fair, you will recognize them, and if you haven’t be sure to pick it up, it is another keeper.
I received this book from Howard Books, and was not required to give a positive review.
March 13, 2016
I have to say that this wasn't my favorite Deeanne Gist novel. It did, however, have many redeeming qualities!
What I loved:
1) Hunter - my crush on this fictional hero began from his line "Pretty much the whole time" and carried on 'pretty much the whole time' throughout the book :) Gotta love those Texas Ranger cowboys :) :)
2) learning about Chicago's history - even the seedier parts. As an English as a Second Language teacher, reading about the conditions in which immigrants of that day lived makes me appreciate my students even more and the sacrifices immigrants have made (and still make) over the years to live here in America
What I didn't love:
1) Billy's stubborn feminism about her job - it got a bit much. I grew weary of her wanting to take on the man's role while all the time insisting that wasn't what she was doing. (It was.)
2) I was surprised by how close to the "steamy" line the characters got in their PDA at times (even if some of it was in the course of a doctor's examination or their thought life). It was nothing at all close to offensive, just surprising. It's perfectly fine for this old married woman but I would hesitate to recommend a teenager or younger read it. I would like to mention, however, that NO immoral lines were crossed, and Deeanne gave these characters a beautiful gift of a marriage untainted by regret.
3) allllll the Texas slang-isms. A little is fine. A lot is not. To quote one of my favorite movies (the modern version of "Sabrina"), "More isn't always better. Sometimes it's just more."
What I loved:
1) Hunter - my crush on this fictional hero began from his line "Pretty much the whole time" and carried on 'pretty much the whole time' throughout the book :) Gotta love those Texas Ranger cowboys :) :)
2) learning about Chicago's history - even the seedier parts. As an English as a Second Language teacher, reading about the conditions in which immigrants of that day lived makes me appreciate my students even more and the sacrifices immigrants have made (and still make) over the years to live here in America
What I didn't love:
1) Billy's stubborn feminism about her job - it got a bit much. I grew weary of her wanting to take on the man's role while all the time insisting that wasn't what she was doing. (It was.)
2) I was surprised by how close to the "steamy" line the characters got in their PDA at times (even if some of it was in the course of a doctor's examination or their thought life). It was nothing at all close to offensive, just surprising. It's perfectly fine for this old married woman but I would hesitate to recommend a teenager or younger read it. I would like to mention, however, that NO immoral lines were crossed, and Deeanne gave these characters a beautiful gift of a marriage untainted by regret.
3) allllll the Texas slang-isms. A little is fine. A lot is not. To quote one of my favorite movies (the modern version of "Sabrina"), "More isn't always better. Sometimes it's just more."
May 7, 2014
ery good read but slight disappointment. There are many reviews already posted and I'll be posting a longer review on my blog. See previous reviews for the content of the story. Lots of good things in this book! But I'm going to explain why DeeAnne's fans might have a few issues with this book.
We do know DeeAnne Gist has moved over to the secular market. But to include just a small amount of Christianity in this book muddies the waters. And the hero doesn't appear to have much of a spiritual arc. I'm a CBA reader and have read every one of DeeAnne's books before this one. It is the first novel I am disappointed in. Am not sure if I will continue to read her work but she is very talented. I really don't want to read fiction that doesn't have a Christian story arc in it and as an author I only writer stories with a strong spiritual arc. That being said, I think this work should appeal hugely to people looking for a clean romance in secular fiction.
I had already purchased the prequel to this book, read it, and enjoyed it. (Disclosure, I received an electronic copy of this book through Net Galley for my unbiased review.) I also purchased a paperback copy of this book for a blog giveaway. I'd have been disappointed if I'd purchased both the prequel and the book and discovered the prequel story was in Fair Play at the beginning. Also, the epilogue at the end of the novel felt like a "tacked on" ending and isn't at all what I've seen in her other books and I found it somewhat jarring. It just didn't work for me.
We do know DeeAnne Gist has moved over to the secular market. But to include just a small amount of Christianity in this book muddies the waters. And the hero doesn't appear to have much of a spiritual arc. I'm a CBA reader and have read every one of DeeAnne's books before this one. It is the first novel I am disappointed in. Am not sure if I will continue to read her work but she is very talented. I really don't want to read fiction that doesn't have a Christian story arc in it and as an author I only writer stories with a strong spiritual arc. That being said, I think this work should appeal hugely to people looking for a clean romance in secular fiction.
I had already purchased the prequel to this book, read it, and enjoyed it. (Disclosure, I received an electronic copy of this book through Net Galley for my unbiased review.) I also purchased a paperback copy of this book for a blog giveaway. I'd have been disappointed if I'd purchased both the prequel and the book and discovered the prequel story was in Fair Play at the beginning. Also, the epilogue at the end of the novel felt like a "tacked on" ending and isn't at all what I've seen in her other books and I found it somewhat jarring. It just didn't work for me.
May 12, 2014
I'm not sure why Howard thought this was a CBA book. It is not a Christian Fiction book. There is erotic sex in it - designed to be so.
The plot is set at the Chicago World's Fair - it really only plays a small part. The most interesting and heart rending part of the story is happening in the West Side. The author does a great job of incorporating this historical part (and I dislike most historical description in my novels) into her story. It is actually the best part of the book.
The two main characters are a woman doctor and a Texas Ranger. For two very smart people, they act like two dumb teenagers. The doctors thought processes are very 20/21st century. For a supposedly very smart woman, she is blindly stupid when it comes to her safety. In the beginning of the book she is unnaturally obsessed by a pair of silky bloomers she purchases and wears. The description of this is designed to make you think of aroused crotch. Her treatment of the Ranger is for constipation, with unneeded gross description. I wanted Out of the room. She of course needs to check his abdomen, unbuttoning his pants and reaching down. Again designed to draw your mind to his crotch.
SPOILER ALERT
Throughout the whole book their one main wish is to "consummate" the relationship. When they do, the undressing part is described in step by step detail. Thankfully she stops before describing the "wonders of the marriage bed". Again, I just wanted Out of the room.
The plot is set at the Chicago World's Fair - it really only plays a small part. The most interesting and heart rending part of the story is happening in the West Side. The author does a great job of incorporating this historical part (and I dislike most historical description in my novels) into her story. It is actually the best part of the book.
The two main characters are a woman doctor and a Texas Ranger. For two very smart people, they act like two dumb teenagers. The doctors thought processes are very 20/21st century. For a supposedly very smart woman, she is blindly stupid when it comes to her safety. In the beginning of the book she is unnaturally obsessed by a pair of silky bloomers she purchases and wears. The description of this is designed to make you think of aroused crotch. Her treatment of the Ranger is for constipation, with unneeded gross description. I wanted Out of the room. She of course needs to check his abdomen, unbuttoning his pants and reaching down. Again designed to draw your mind to his crotch.
SPOILER ALERT
Throughout the whole book their one main wish is to "consummate" the relationship. When they do, the undressing part is described in step by step detail. Thankfully she stops before describing the "wonders of the marriage bed". Again, I just wanted Out of the room.
July 24, 2017
O carte care pe care am apreciat -o în mod deosebit, atât ca subiect, cât și ca mod de abordare. Mi-au plăcut și stârnit interesul temele la care se face referire în carte, cu o mare atenție la detalii și dovedind o minuțioasă documentare.
Cartea este historical-romance, având în paginile ei o frumoasă poveste de iubire, însă personajele nu fac parte din aristocrație, ci din clasa muncitoare. Acțiunea se petrece la Chicago, în anul 1893.
E una din acele cărți în care parcă vezi cum se scrie istoria, asistăm la schimbarea unor mentalități adânc înrădăcinate pe fondul mișcării feministe, care ia avânt.
Personajul principal al cărții, Billy Jack Tate (nu vă lăsați înșelați de nume, este vorba de o "ea") este medic. Una din primele femei medic. Luptase mult până să ajungă aici, era o persoană extrem de hotărâtă, ambițioasă, independentă, cu idei clare despre locul femeii în societate. Era totodată foarte drăguță și feminină.
Personajul principal masculin al cărții este Hunter Scott, polițist texan, care prin educația sudică pe care o avea în sânge respecta femeile, ce trebuiau să stea acasă, să fie protejate și întreținute de soții lor, ele trebuind să se ocupe de gospodărie și copii. Ca și Billy, avea idei clare despre rolul femeii în societate. Păcat că erau complet diferite de ale ei...
Cartea este historical-romance, având în paginile ei o frumoasă poveste de iubire, însă personajele nu fac parte din aristocrație, ci din clasa muncitoare. Acțiunea se petrece la Chicago, în anul 1893.
E una din acele cărți în care parcă vezi cum se scrie istoria, asistăm la schimbarea unor mentalități adânc înrădăcinate pe fondul mișcării feministe, care ia avânt.
Personajul principal al cărții, Billy Jack Tate (nu vă lăsați înșelați de nume, este vorba de o "ea") este medic. Una din primele femei medic. Luptase mult până să ajungă aici, era o persoană extrem de hotărâtă, ambițioasă, independentă, cu idei clare despre locul femeii în societate. Era totodată foarte drăguță și feminină.
Personajul principal masculin al cărții este Hunter Scott, polițist texan, care prin educația sudică pe care o avea în sânge respecta femeile, ce trebuiau să stea acasă, să fie protejate și întreținute de soții lor, ele trebuind să se ocupe de gospodărie și copii. Ca și Billy, avea idei clare despre rolul femeii în societate. Păcat că erau complet diferite de ale ei...
June 5, 2014
Another wonderful, fun story by Deeanne Gist! The second in her Chicago's World Fair series, this one features a feisty woman physician struggling to start her own medical practice, and a Columbian guard who just happens to be one very tough Texas Ranger on loan. Sparks fly after a funny first encounter, and their relationship grows deeper as they work together, helping needy children who cross their path, including an abandoned baby, and building the first city playground in a poor district.
I love the way this author weaves so much research into her stories, using a lot of real events and people, including authentic photos and a list of references. Historically accurate, but never dry, she makes me want to learn more about Jane Addams, Hull House and the Texas Rangers. The romantic scenes, with some swoon worthy moments, along with some funny dialogue, complete with Texan sayings and medical terms, just add to the charm of the story.
This can be read as a stand alone. The main characters from the first book are just briefly mentioned once in passing. The prequel, Tempest in White City, is actually taken directly out of this story.
Recommend! 5 stars
I love the way this author weaves so much research into her stories, using a lot of real events and people, including authentic photos and a list of references. Historically accurate, but never dry, she makes me want to learn more about Jane Addams, Hull House and the Texas Rangers. The romantic scenes, with some swoon worthy moments, along with some funny dialogue, complete with Texan sayings and medical terms, just add to the charm of the story.
This can be read as a stand alone. The main characters from the first book are just briefly mentioned once in passing. The prequel, Tempest in White City, is actually taken directly out of this story.
Recommend! 5 stars
January 4, 2016
Deeanne Gist never disappoints! "Fair Play" is a fun, fascinating story steeped in the aura of Chicago's historical World's Fair; cleverly highlighting a movement to provide indigent children with the means to recreate safely outdoors by constructing spacious, outdoor public playgrounds. Add a splash of romantic humor by pairing wildly independent Dr. Billy Jack Tate with alpha-male Texas Ranger Hunter Joseph Scott, coupled with the dialogue of the day surrounding women with careers, and heated exchanges come barreling to the forefront of this thought-provoking tale. How much should a much beloved career shape one's future? Billy Jack and Hunter are destined to find out.
Gist adeptly balances flirty banter with brutally honest conversations, so that "Fair Play" draws equal attention to its main characters and the despicable plight of Chicago's poorest. Don't miss the author's notes at the end of the book or her beautiful documented photographs that lend accuracy to the setting. What a wonderful companion novel to "It Happened at the Fair"!
Gist adeptly balances flirty banter with brutally honest conversations, so that "Fair Play" draws equal attention to its main characters and the despicable plight of Chicago's poorest. Don't miss the author's notes at the end of the book or her beautiful documented photographs that lend accuracy to the setting. What a wonderful companion novel to "It Happened at the Fair"!
June 1, 2015
I really liked this. I have read other books by this author and I usually fall between loving her books and being "meh" about them. This one falls into the former category. I like that the background of the World Fair and Hull House added to the characters and plot line of this book, they didn't take it away.
This book had a lot of themes but I think my favorite was the theme between the two leads about how Billy (a girl) wanted to stay a doctor after marriage and children and Hunter not wanting her too because females don't work if they have a man to provide for them. Watching these two grow and evolve and come to a compromise by the end regarding that issue made this book a very enjoyable read for me. I mean there was other stuff too going on (building the playground for the kids, dealing with the issues of the slums etc) but I really liked that plot line particularly.
This book had a lot of themes but I think my favorite was the theme between the two leads about how Billy (a girl) wanted to stay a doctor after marriage and children and Hunter not wanting her too because females don't work if they have a man to provide for them. Watching these two grow and evolve and come to a compromise by the end regarding that issue made this book a very enjoyable read for me. I mean there was other stuff too going on (building the playground for the kids, dealing with the issues of the slums etc) but I really liked that plot line particularly.
April 15, 2018
Hunter Scott, a Texas Ranger never wants to marry a woman in a man’s profession. Dr. Billy Jack Tate, doesn’t want to marry, give up her practice and move. Will Hunter and Billy compromise and have a happy ending or stick with their stubborn ways?
This book had me laughing from page one. I read it every chance I got, at work, at school. Deeanne never disappoints, the connection between Hunter and Billy was sweet and unexplainable.
This book had me laughing from page one. I read it every chance I got, at work, at school. Deeanne never disappoints, the connection between Hunter and Billy was sweet and unexplainable.
July 10, 2014
Another amazing book by Deeanne Gist! What I love about her books is all of the historical information she packs in her stories. It was sad to read about how horrible the slums in Chicago were!
September 1, 2020
Such a good book! I was drawn in from the very beginning and it was hard to put the book down. It is extremely entertaining and I really enjoyed both the story and the characters. The storyline is complex and there is always something new happening—much to think about and compare with our lives and attitudes today. I love the way the book is laid out with a historic photograph at the beginning of each chapter. I especially enjoyed reading the author notes at the end of the book. If you enjoy historical romance, do not miss reading Fair Play.
August 28, 2014
I was captivated by the idea of a book set against the backdrop of the 1893 Chicago World's Fair, but it was just bonus when I discovered the protagonists were a lady doctor and a Texas Ranger. This is one humdinger in its length and its scope. The story felt long, but for the life of me I can't imagine cutting one part out to shorten it because each piece of the story was interesting for various reasons.
It was lush and rich in historical authenticity, cultural elements and social issues of the time without feeling pedantic or like a textbook. The characters were real and they were flawed as well as captivating and passionate in their beliefs. The romance was sweet and took a back seat to the overall storyline, but yet it was what tied the characters together and gave them the impetus to see things through. I enjoyed how love found a way even though many times priorities, goals and emotions made it seem impossible for the hero and heroine to stand a chance.
The story is told from the third person point of view alternating between Billy and Hunter. It opens when Billy is running late to give her lecture to the Women's Congress at the Women's building at the Chicago World's Fair. The hall has filled so the guards are turning everyone away and don't believe her when she claims to be one of the guest lecturers. Billy improvises by letting a lady help her sneak in through a basement window. Her efforts give one of the guards a nice view of her bloomer clad legs when she goes in backward. She is mortified, but presses on to give her lecture. The lecture results in her being offered a position as one of the medical doctors in the women's building. This is good news because Billy hasn't had any success hanging up her shingle as a lady doctor. She has struck out on her own in a man's profession in a man's world determined to show that she is a professional and equal. Her continuing encounters with the Columbian Guardsman, Texas Ranger Hunter Scott, only make her more determined than ever, but those encounters also leave her feeling like she is missing out on just being a woman for the first time. Sharing responsibility for an abandoned baby and their concern for the tenement children in the west side of Chicago leaves her enjoying his companionship and dreaming that Hunter might just be the one man to accept a wage-earning wife.
Hunter Scott is determined to distinguish himself at the fair to further his dream to captain in the Rangers and prove to the government types that the Rangers shouldn't be disbanded. Unfortunately, he has conflicting priorities. His rescue of an innocent child from jail, his work to build a playground for the poor kids to give them somewhere to play out of the diseased streets and other dangerous idle pursuits, finding a foundling child's parent and need to investigate and help another innocent child accused of murder leaves him skating on thin ice with his temporary boss, the Colonel of the special guardsmen like himself who work the fair. His focus is also distracted by the bewitching lady doctor with the boy names, Billy Jack Tate. He is frustrated by her fierce independent spirit that insists she is man's equal and can do anything. She rushes headlong into dangerous situations when she goes into the poorer areas of town even at night to volunteer and help the families, she nearly gets arrested, beat up, molested and right dab in the middle of a murder investigation, but he tries to be there to rescue her. She challenges is thinking and what he really desires, but he knows in spite of their mutual attraction and even love that he can't give up Texas and the Rangers and she won't give up Chicago or her doctoring. That leaves them with no middle ground.
The strong personalities of the characters made me really enjoy their scenes together though they both got hard-headed at times. The scene where Hunter was brought to Billy's infirmary had me so embarrassed for the poor guy, not his finest hour for sure though there was some humor. His mulishness was understandable under those circumstances. Billy is more mulish because she always feels like she has something to prove. I suppose that's how it would have been for a gal with her ambitions back then. It got her into trouble because she was overcompensating and running around with a chip on her shoulder, but it was great when she figured out that Hunter respected her and it was okay to rely on others once in a while. It was okay to compromise too and that was something they had to both learn.
All in all, I found the story engaging and want to read more from this new to me author. Lovers of sweet Historical Romance that is strong on the historical authenticity as well as the romance should try this one. This was the second book in the series, but it is fine as a standalone as it takes place parallel to the first story and totally unconnected other than the cameo appearance of the first books protagonists in a quick scene.
My thanks to Net Galley for the opportunity to read the book in exchange for an honest review.
It was lush and rich in historical authenticity, cultural elements and social issues of the time without feeling pedantic or like a textbook. The characters were real and they were flawed as well as captivating and passionate in their beliefs. The romance was sweet and took a back seat to the overall storyline, but yet it was what tied the characters together and gave them the impetus to see things through. I enjoyed how love found a way even though many times priorities, goals and emotions made it seem impossible for the hero and heroine to stand a chance.
The story is told from the third person point of view alternating between Billy and Hunter. It opens when Billy is running late to give her lecture to the Women's Congress at the Women's building at the Chicago World's Fair. The hall has filled so the guards are turning everyone away and don't believe her when she claims to be one of the guest lecturers. Billy improvises by letting a lady help her sneak in through a basement window. Her efforts give one of the guards a nice view of her bloomer clad legs when she goes in backward. She is mortified, but presses on to give her lecture. The lecture results in her being offered a position as one of the medical doctors in the women's building. This is good news because Billy hasn't had any success hanging up her shingle as a lady doctor. She has struck out on her own in a man's profession in a man's world determined to show that she is a professional and equal. Her continuing encounters with the Columbian Guardsman, Texas Ranger Hunter Scott, only make her more determined than ever, but those encounters also leave her feeling like she is missing out on just being a woman for the first time. Sharing responsibility for an abandoned baby and their concern for the tenement children in the west side of Chicago leaves her enjoying his companionship and dreaming that Hunter might just be the one man to accept a wage-earning wife.
Hunter Scott is determined to distinguish himself at the fair to further his dream to captain in the Rangers and prove to the government types that the Rangers shouldn't be disbanded. Unfortunately, he has conflicting priorities. His rescue of an innocent child from jail, his work to build a playground for the poor kids to give them somewhere to play out of the diseased streets and other dangerous idle pursuits, finding a foundling child's parent and need to investigate and help another innocent child accused of murder leaves him skating on thin ice with his temporary boss, the Colonel of the special guardsmen like himself who work the fair. His focus is also distracted by the bewitching lady doctor with the boy names, Billy Jack Tate. He is frustrated by her fierce independent spirit that insists she is man's equal and can do anything. She rushes headlong into dangerous situations when she goes into the poorer areas of town even at night to volunteer and help the families, she nearly gets arrested, beat up, molested and right dab in the middle of a murder investigation, but he tries to be there to rescue her. She challenges is thinking and what he really desires, but he knows in spite of their mutual attraction and even love that he can't give up Texas and the Rangers and she won't give up Chicago or her doctoring. That leaves them with no middle ground.
The strong personalities of the characters made me really enjoy their scenes together though they both got hard-headed at times. The scene where Hunter was brought to Billy's infirmary had me so embarrassed for the poor guy, not his finest hour for sure though there was some humor. His mulishness was understandable under those circumstances. Billy is more mulish because she always feels like she has something to prove. I suppose that's how it would have been for a gal with her ambitions back then. It got her into trouble because she was overcompensating and running around with a chip on her shoulder, but it was great when she figured out that Hunter respected her and it was okay to rely on others once in a while. It was okay to compromise too and that was something they had to both learn.
All in all, I found the story engaging and want to read more from this new to me author. Lovers of sweet Historical Romance that is strong on the historical authenticity as well as the romance should try this one. This was the second book in the series, but it is fine as a standalone as it takes place parallel to the first story and totally unconnected other than the cameo appearance of the first books protagonists in a quick scene.
My thanks to Net Galley for the opportunity to read the book in exchange for an honest review.
Read
November 25, 2019Too much sexual content etc for me.
September 13, 2020
Owh oh no... After absolutely loving two other books by her I went into this with far to high expectations and sadly they where not met.
August 14, 2022
Echt een super lekker boek om te lezen, einde is wel erg voorspelbaar
February 18, 2020
It appears that my partial review written has disappeared as I've returned to finish it. Alas.
Almost without fail, when it comes to Dee’s books I know it’s going to be a great story and straight to the permanent keeper shelf. She is one of those authors where you’d love to have both a physical and digital copy on hand to read it whenever and wherever. Deeanne Gist is one of those authors that I tell my husband she sells well even in the general market world of fiction as well as the Christian market, and there is no wonder why.
Fair Play is the second book in the It Happened at the Fair series if you do not include the prequel in that numbering, however it stands completely on it’s own and you can read it and enjoy the fullness of it without having read It Happened at the Fair. As for It Happened at the Fair, right off the bat I was a fan of Cullen’s and so annoyed and turned off by Wanda that I did not know what to expect. Surely this could not be! Yet off to the fair we go, unsure, uncertain and a little concerned. But wait� isn’t that exactly what he was feeling? How does she do that!? It’s another example of an author grabbing your attention and emotions and placing you firmly in the time (1893) and craftily creating a world that comes to life right off the page.
In Fair Play, I was immediately taken by both Billy and Hunter. Perhaps it is all the time I spend reading Texas Rangers and Cowboys from other Christian Historical Fiction series and authors that I love, but Hunter was just plain manly and delightful. As per usual, Dee’s heroines are part delightful and part irritating to me. Her females are always a bit more feminist than I and I want to argue with them. However, she does such a good job forming them and truly bringing them off the page!
Tangent here. I’m a genealogist and I love history. Christian Historical Fiction is my genre (hence: ). One of the best parts about researching history for genealogy (family history) is seeing the remnants of buildings and life once lived. Being able to see pictures is just magical, for lack of a better word. This book is the epitome of why I love to read historical fiction. Bringing the characters and place to life and all throughout this novel we have picture after picture of location and people at the Chicago World’s Fair. It’s amazing to imagine and Dee really brings it to life.
The one other thing about this book is that there is some pretty heavy petting, for lack of a better way to put it. Both Billy and Hunter are very sensual and really “want� each other. However, if you remember back to Courting Trouble, things do not go that far and are truly avoiding until the wedding railcar� but I have read some other reviews where some people felt the affection was a bit much. However, sometimes you just need a Julie Lessman or Deeanne Gist romance (safe in the bounds of Christian Historical Fiction � knowing things are set to work out for the greater good).
Years ago when I was first getting into Christian Historical Fiction, I discovered Carol Cox and her Fair to Remember series based on the World’s Fair. Reading this one and seeing what I can see makes me want to go back and read it again. Then of course there is also another new one in the Avenue of Dreams Series by Olivia Newport. Reading them altogether and bringing a world alive! Oh and if you want to involve a younger child in the reading, you can pick up American Rebirth, a 4-in-1 collection that contains the story Emily Makes a Difference:A Time of Progress and Problems based also during, you guessed it, the Chicago World’s Fair. What a fascinating setting and what’s amazing with the amount of people that attended it’s entirely possible that stories such as these occurred and more!
I received this product free for the purpose of reviewing it. I received no other compensation for this review. The opinions expressed in this review are my personal, honest opinions. Your experience may vary. Please read my full disclosure policy for more details.
posted:
Almost without fail, when it comes to Dee’s books I know it’s going to be a great story and straight to the permanent keeper shelf. She is one of those authors where you’d love to have both a physical and digital copy on hand to read it whenever and wherever. Deeanne Gist is one of those authors that I tell my husband she sells well even in the general market world of fiction as well as the Christian market, and there is no wonder why.
Fair Play is the second book in the It Happened at the Fair series if you do not include the prequel in that numbering, however it stands completely on it’s own and you can read it and enjoy the fullness of it without having read It Happened at the Fair. As for It Happened at the Fair, right off the bat I was a fan of Cullen’s and so annoyed and turned off by Wanda that I did not know what to expect. Surely this could not be! Yet off to the fair we go, unsure, uncertain and a little concerned. But wait� isn’t that exactly what he was feeling? How does she do that!? It’s another example of an author grabbing your attention and emotions and placing you firmly in the time (1893) and craftily creating a world that comes to life right off the page.
In Fair Play, I was immediately taken by both Billy and Hunter. Perhaps it is all the time I spend reading Texas Rangers and Cowboys from other Christian Historical Fiction series and authors that I love, but Hunter was just plain manly and delightful. As per usual, Dee’s heroines are part delightful and part irritating to me. Her females are always a bit more feminist than I and I want to argue with them. However, she does such a good job forming them and truly bringing them off the page!
Tangent here. I’m a genealogist and I love history. Christian Historical Fiction is my genre (hence: ). One of the best parts about researching history for genealogy (family history) is seeing the remnants of buildings and life once lived. Being able to see pictures is just magical, for lack of a better word. This book is the epitome of why I love to read historical fiction. Bringing the characters and place to life and all throughout this novel we have picture after picture of location and people at the Chicago World’s Fair. It’s amazing to imagine and Dee really brings it to life.
The one other thing about this book is that there is some pretty heavy petting, for lack of a better way to put it. Both Billy and Hunter are very sensual and really “want� each other. However, if you remember back to Courting Trouble, things do not go that far and are truly avoiding until the wedding railcar� but I have read some other reviews where some people felt the affection was a bit much. However, sometimes you just need a Julie Lessman or Deeanne Gist romance (safe in the bounds of Christian Historical Fiction � knowing things are set to work out for the greater good).
Years ago when I was first getting into Christian Historical Fiction, I discovered Carol Cox and her Fair to Remember series based on the World’s Fair. Reading this one and seeing what I can see makes me want to go back and read it again. Then of course there is also another new one in the Avenue of Dreams Series by Olivia Newport. Reading them altogether and bringing a world alive! Oh and if you want to involve a younger child in the reading, you can pick up American Rebirth, a 4-in-1 collection that contains the story Emily Makes a Difference:A Time of Progress and Problems based also during, you guessed it, the Chicago World’s Fair. What a fascinating setting and what’s amazing with the amount of people that attended it’s entirely possible that stories such as these occurred and more!
I received this product free for the purpose of reviewing it. I received no other compensation for this review. The opinions expressed in this review are my personal, honest opinions. Your experience may vary. Please read my full disclosure policy for more details.
posted:
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