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About The Book

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Book: To Choose the Longshot
Series: Kentucky's Debutantes of the Gilded Age, Book 2              

Author: Lisa M. Prysock

Genre:  Christian Historical Romance                                                                   

Release Date: November 5, 2024
 

In a world where wealth and status reign, can true love prevail?

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Miss Delia Lyndon, a young woman born into the prestigious Spencer-Lyndon family, is initially enamored with Thaddeus, the son of a prominent local stable owner, when he begins vying for her hand in marriage. She is keenly aware of how a union between the two families would seal their status as one of the most beloved couples from Lexington. However, when Jake, a handsome and charming newcomer, arrives on the scene, he catches her attention, casting doubts and fears in Delia’s heart. Torn between two suitors, Delia must navigate societal expectations, family pressure, and her own desires. Will she choose the man who seemingly has it all – wealth, charm, and a shared background in Kentucky’s elite circles – or will she follow her heart to the humble yet captivating Jake?
 

Jake Williams is determined to prove his worth in the competitive world of horse racing. Despite his humble beginnings as a farmer, he refuses to be intimidated by his rival’s malicious attempts to sabotage his chances, both on the racetrack and in winning Delia’s affections. With his trusted steed, Horizon, by his side, Jake faces each challenge head-on, guided by his unwavering faith.
 

When mysterious events begin occurring leading up to the annual Phoenix Stakes horse race, Delia must look beyond appearances and uncover the truth that lies beneath.

About the Author

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Lisa M. Prysock is a USA Today Bestselling Author who writes both Christian Historical Romance and Contemporary Christian Romance books—”Romance with a Dash of Food, Fashion, Faith, & Fun.” She writes both traditionally and indie published novels.
 

Kentucky inspires her writing and is home. Happily married to her husband of more than 24 years, she homeschooled two of their five children, now grown. When she isn’t writing, she likes to cross stitch, crochet, sew, scrapbook, read, swim, dance, take walks, travel, explore historical homes, garden, cook for her family, learn to play the piano and violin, and read great books.

More from Lisa

Hello Celebrate Lit Friends and Readers! I’m back to share a looksie at Book 2 from Kentucky Debutantes of the Gilded Age. I’ve really enjoyed my deep dive into all things Kentucky Derby and the world of horseracing in To Choose the Longshot.
 

Most of us have heard of Churchill Downs and Lexington’s Keeneland. But before Keeneland was the Lexington Association Racetrack. The annual spring race generally opened each year on that course with a featured race known as the Phoenix Stakes. It dates as far back in history as 1831! You can take a peek at the fascinating horse names of all the winners from 1831 to 2012, here. Of course, I’ve fictionalized names of winners and many events around the races in my series, but it’s fun to peek at real-life history when crafting our stories.
 

Leading up to and through the Gilded Age, the time period and setting of this series, the Phoenix race was generally sponsored by the Phoenix Hotel in Lexington. And more than Kentucky horseracing history, in Book 2, readers will get to come along for a glimpse at another course located in Baltimore, Maryland when the story takes our main characters to Pimlico. They referred to this track as the Old Hilltop in the early days of American horseracing history.
 

And atop Pimlico sits the famed weathervane. Did you know that painting the Preakness Stakes weathervane is a grand Pimlico tradition dating to 1909? The vane style is unique, commissioned by the Maryland Jockey Club, bearing the shape of a thoroughbred and jockey ever since the original arrow-shaped one was struck down by lightning. The new vane was christened by the colors of the silks carried by that year’s winner, Effendi.
 

I had a great deal of fun writing To Choose the Longshot starting with the very first page. The novel opens with a runaway bride! It’s always a wonder what makes a bride runaway, and my imagination went to work at once creating the situation that causes this bride so much consternation.
 

Readers get to learn more about Veronica’s sister in Book 2, Miss Delaney Lyndon. Everyone calls the shy and demure middle sister, Delia. And all of Lexington expects one of the Lyndon sisters to marry into the Sullivan family, since these two families are “Kentucky horseracing royalty.” But who will Delia choose to marry? Will she marry her handsome, wealthy, and daring beau, Thaddeus Sullivan, or will a rugged newcomer and underdog in their midst from the Adirondacks, Jake Williams, turn her head?
 

I cannot fail to mention that the beloved character of Aunt Mae from Book 1 makes an appearance in Book 2. She certainly has her hands full attempting to help Delia reach a decision about who she should marry, knowing it will impact the future of Velvet Brooks Farm for generations to come. But if anyone can help steer Delia to a decision, it’s Aunt Mae. As our heroine grapples with perceptions and tries to balance expectations with what’s in her heart, find out what happens next with a deeper look at the world of horseracing, sure to give horse enthusiasts plenty to cheer about.

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Happy reading!
 

Blessings!

Lisa

Devoted To Hope's Review of To Choose the Longshot

Reading To Choose the Longshot by Lisa M. Prysock is like saddling up for a race where the stakes are high, the rivalries are fierce, and faith is the ultimate dark horse. This tale of love, ambition, and self-discovery gallops through Kentucky’s Gilded Age with style, heart, and a bit of sass.

 

Delia Lyndon is caught between two very different jockeys in the race for her heart. On one side, we have Thaddeus, who looks great on paper but seems better suited for polishing trophies than hearts. On the other, there’s Jake Williams—a rugged underdog with a steadfast faith and a knack for winning over skeptics and nieces alike.

 

The book’s racetrack setting adds a layer of drama and suspense, with Horizon (Jake’s horse) stealing the show. Horizon is the true VIP here—graceful, gutsy, and unbothered by human drama. Watching Jake and his steed navigate challenges both on and off the track had me rooting harder than a Derby crowd.

 

But let’s not forget the real race: Delia’s journey to figure out what—and who—truly matters. Navigating the pressures of family, societal expectations, and her own heart, she turns to faith for answers. And faith, as always, comes through in the clutch.

 

Lisa M. Prysock weaves humor, romance, and inspiration into this story that’s as refreshing as mint julep on a summer day. Whether it’s the charming banter, the high-stakes action, or the reminder that God’s plans often involve a few unexpected turns, this book kept me turning pages and grinning.

 

To Choose the Longshot reminds us all that sometimes, life’s biggest victories come from betting on the longshot—whether that’s a scrappy horse, an underdog hero, or simply trusting in God’s perfect plan. Now, who’s up for donning a fancy hat and hitting the track?

 

I received an eARC of this book from Celebrate Lit Publicity Group. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the super writing and story’s beautiful content, ensuring transparency and reliability.

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Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Susan is giving away
the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!

Click the link below to enter.


Be sure to comment on the blog stops
for nine extra entries into the giveaway!

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