Book Tour, Review & Giveaway: His Frontier Christmas Family by Regina Scott



On Tour with Prism Book Tours

His Frontier Christmas Family

(Frontier Bachelors #7)
by Regina Scott

Christian Historical Romance

Paperback & ebook, 288 pages

December 1st 2017 by Love Inspired Historicals

A Family Made at Christmas

After taking guardianship of his late friend’s siblings and baby daughter, minister Levi Wallin hopes to atone for his troubled past on the gold fields. But it won’t be easy to convince the children’s wary elder sister to trust him. The more he learns about her, though, the more he believes Callie Murphy’s prickly manner masks a vulnerable heart…one he’s starting to wish he was worthy of.

Every man in Callie’s life chose chasing gold over responsibilities. Levi—and the large, loving Wallin family—might just be different. But she can tell he’s hiding something from her, and she refuses to risk her heart with secrets between them. Even as they grow closer, will their pasts keep them from claiming this unexpected new beginning?

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My Review

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

This has been a wonderful series and I've enjoyed following the Wallin family as each member finds love. Levi's story is one of redemption as he tries to make up for the mistakes of his past and learns about forgiveness. His match with Callie is perfect as he partners with her to care for her brothers and baby niece, and they grow to depend on each other emotionally as well. Their romance grows sweetly and Callie helps Levi overcome his struggles. She also learns to accept her differences and see that she is loved and respected for who she is. Her rascally twin brothers are funny and their shenanigans show the patience and compassion Levi and Callie have for them. The holiday setting brings warmth to the story as well as the family devotion shared by all the Wallins. There is a bit of a mystery with the death of Callie's older brother, two strange miners hanging around, and ransackings of Callie's old home and Levi's church.

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions expressed in this review are my own)

Other Books in the Series

About the Author

Regina Scott started writing novels in the third grade. Thankfully for literature as we know it, she didn't actually sell her first novel until she had learned a bit more about writing such as vocabulary, sentence structure, and plot. After numerous short stories and articles in magazines and trade journals, she got serious about her novel writing. The Unflappable Miss Fairchild was her first novel to be published (March 1998).

Besides her novels, Regina Scott has had published three Regency novellas ("The June Bride Conspiracy" in His Blushing Bride, "Sweeter Than Candy" in A Match for Mother, and "A Place by the Fire" in Mistletoe Kittens). Two of her novels, A Dangerous Dalliance and The Twelve Days of Christmas, have been translated into German. A Dangerous Dalliance and The Incomparable Miss Compton have been translated into Italian. Starstruck and Perfection have been translated into Dutch.

Regina Scott and her husband are the parents of two sons. They reside in the Tri-Cities of southeast Washington State and are members of the Church of the Nazarene. Born in 1959 and raised in the Seattle area, Regina Scott is a graduate of the University of Washington. She comes by her writing talent naturally--both her parents are excellent writers in their vocations as teacher and electrical technician. Her mother envisioned the plot for "Sweeter Than Candy," the novella which was written as a tribute to her.

Regina Scott is a devout Christian and a decent fencer; owns a historical, fantasy, and science fiction costume collection that currently takes up over a third of her large closet; and has been known to impersonate an independent consultant specializing in risk communication.

Website│Blog│Goodreads│Facebook│Pinterest

Tour Schedule

December 4th:

Launch
underneath the covers
Becky on Books
Author Kathleen Denly
December 5th:
Nicole's Book Musings
Rockin' Book Reviews
Book Lover in Florida
Heidi Reads...
Jorie Loves A Story
December 6th:
Deal Sharing Aunt
Hearts & Scribbles
Mello & June, It's a Book Thang!
December 7th:
Reading Is My SuperPower
Paulette's Papers
Christy's Cozy Corners
I Am A Reader
December 8th:
Tell Tale Book Reviews
Backing Books
Locks, Hooks and Books
Inside the Mind of an Avid Reader
Janices Book Reviews
December 9th: Grand Finale

Tour Giveaway

1 winner will win an autographed print copy of His Frontier Christmas Family along with a set of rustic burnt-wood Christmas decorations the Wallin family would be pleased to own.

US only

Ends December 13th

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Review: The Secret Life of Sarah Hollenbeck by Bethany Turner

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Becoming a Christian is the best and worst thing that has ever happened to Sarah Hollenbeck. Best because, well, that's obvious. Worst because, up to this point, she's made her very comfortable living as a well-known, bestselling author of steamy romance novels that would leave the members of her new church blushing. Now Sarah is trying to reconcile her past with the future she's chosen. She's still under contract with her publisher and on the hook with her enormous fan base for the kind of book she's not sure she can write anymore. She's beginning to think that the church might frown on her tithing on royalties from a "scandalous" book. And the fact that she's falling in love with her pastor doesn't make things any easier.

With a powerful voice, penetrating insight, and plenty of wit, Bethany Turner explodes onto the scene with a debut that isn't afraid to deal with the thorny realities of living the Christian life.

My Review

I loved this book for the humor and the various perspectives on modern mainstream Christian life, from the new convert (Sarah), to the lifelong member (Piper), to the young pastor (Ben). It was written in a way that had me hooked to not just the story, but the characters, and how they dealt with  the drama in their lives. The romance between Sarah and Ben developed quickly but I enjoyed the time we got to spend *in* the romance, not just leading up to it, and all the great and important conversations and interactions that took place. A great debut novel!

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

Review: A Dangerous Legacy by Elizabeth Camden

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Lucy is determined to keep working as a telegraph operator at a news agency, even though the arrival of Sir Colin Beckwith threatens her position. When she discovers Colin's shocking secret, she agrees to assist him if he helps her find her family's stolen inheritance--not realizing that the trail leads into a web of treachery, danger, and conspiracy.

My Review

I was not expecting the character of Lucy to be what she was in this book- I think the pearls on the cover threw me off. (While there are pearls in the story, I don't believe she ever wears them). Lucy is one determined woman, holding tightly to her values but willing to get a little down and dirty when battling unscrupulous people. Her strength is admirable, and I loved how the author also portrayed her flaws, exhaustion, and yearnings for a different life. She is complex in that way since she loves her work for the Associated Press and the glimpse it gives her of the world that she will never explore, as long as she is fighting the lawsuit with her uncle.

Colin is quite charming and also has a realistic balance of traits which made him come to life. He brings joy and love into Lucy's life, however temporary, and supports her in the war she is waging even when they struggle through their own rough patches. The insights into the events and politics of the time was fascinating, especially the workings of the telegraph office and the underground plumbing of Manhattan. I would have enjoyed more emotion in the romance between Colin and Lucy, but the plot and historical details made this a standout book.

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

Review & Giveaway: More Trouble in Loveland by Jennifer Peel

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Charlee Jensen-Carter has been looking forward to her first Christmas with her new husband, Ryan, and her adorable stepson for weeks. Not only is her dad tying the knot, but she’s looking forward to two weeks of no exes, no drama, and especially no trouble. At least that’s what she thinks.

First, she gets talked into wearing red hooker heels again. Next, she finds herself trying to save her dad’s wedding. And if that isn’t bad enough, more than one ex shows up, and she's suddenly in the middle of more trouble than she ever bargained for.

Will she ever find the right moment to give Ryan the best Christmas present ever? Or will her Christmas hopes and dreams die a fiery death in this comical holiday tale?

My Review

I love the voice of Charlee with her humor and sass! This is such a fun sequel to Trouble in Loveland, and I definitely recommend reading it first! (Although not necessary- the author does a good job weaving the backstory into the narrative) It's always a treat when the continuing story of great characters is available, and even better when that story lives up to the first book. There is plenty of drama from family and friends, which only adds to Charlee's load as she is finishing up psychology finals and papers for her degree. An unexpected surprise throws her for a loop and it's great to read her thoughts as she tries to wrap her head around the big changes in her future. I would have liked more relationship stuff with Ryan, but those scenes were brief and not the focus of the plot. Recommend to fans of contemporary romance!

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

Other Timeless Romance Singles:

From Cairo, With Love by Nancy Campbell Allen

Sophia's Leap-Year Courtship by Kristin Holt

Starting Over at Steeple Ridge by Liz Isaacson

The Matchmaking Game by Donna Hatch

The Heart Only Grows by Michele Paige Holmes

Don't miss the first book in this series, Trouble in Loveland!

Synopsis

Charlee Jensen had what she considered the idyllic childhood growing up in a town named for that most prized emotion of all, Loveland, Colorado. At seventeen, her teenage crush, a man eight years older than her, marries and she naively thinks this is the worst thing that would ever happen to her. Then her parents divorce and her world crumbles. She finds herself being whisked away from her beloved home and estranged from her father.

Now eight years later, with two degrees that she never wanted in hand, and no job prospects, her father offers her a position with his CPA firm. With no other options available, Charlee accepts his offer and returns to the hometown she loved. While rebuilding her relationship with her father, she discovers that perhaps a romantic relationship is in the cards for her, with her old teenage crush, Ryan Carter, who just happens to still live next door and is now a partner in her father’s CPA firm.

Newly divorced and single dad, Ryan Carter, isn’t quite sure what to make of the girl next door, who’s all woman now. He finds himself having a hard time resisting this beautiful yet annoyingly charming woman, but their age difference and his complicated relationship with his ex-wife cause quite a bit of trouble for the couple. Ryan finds himself torn between keeping the peace with his ex-wife and mother of his child and his feelings for Charlee.

Can they successfully overcome their troubles in Loveland? Find out in this clean romance filled with sparks, humor, and of course, a little bit of trouble.

About the Author

Jennifer Peel is the award-winning bestselling author of the Dating by Design and Women of Merryton series, as well as several other contemporary romances. Though she lives and breathes writing, her first love is her family. She is the mother of three amazing kiddos and has recently added the title of mother-in-law, with the addition of two terrific sons-in-law.  She’s been married to her best friend and partner in crime for a lot longer than seems possible. Some of her favorite things are late night talks, beach vacations, the mountains, pink bubble gum ice cream, tours of model homes, and Southern living. She can frequently be found with her laptop on, fingers typing away, indulging in chocolate milk, and writing out the stories that are constantly swirling through her head.

Website - Twitter - Facebook

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November 28th, 11:00 am MST (10 am Pacific)

Follow the Blog Tour!

Nov. 27 - Heidi Reads... / KJ’s Book Nook

Nov. 28 - Wishful Endings / Joy in the Moments / Empower Moms

Nov. 29 - Getting Your Read On / Bubble Bath Books

Nov. 30 - Why Not! Because I Said So / My Book a Day / Bookworm Lisa

Dec. 1 - Katie’s Clean Book Collection

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Review & Giveaway: A Gift for Santa by Beth Carpenter



On Tour with Prism Book Tours

A Gift for Santa
(Northern Lights #2)
by Beth Carpenter
Contemporary Romance

Mass Market Paperback & ebook, 384 pages

December 1st 2017 by Harlequin Heartwarming

It’s the season for giving…and starting over?

A reindeer farm without Santa wouldn’t be Christmas in Marissa Gray’s Alaskan hometown. Luckily Chris Allen’s there to pinch-hit, although for Marissa, seeing her ex-fiancé again brings back memories of what might have been.

Ten years after their breakup, the feelings between the wildlife biologist and blue-eyed fisherman are stronger than ever. Only now there’s a foster kid in the mix, as well as the shocking crime that cost Marissa her job and her family’s security. She and Chris need to find their way to a meeting of minds and hearts to make this truly a season for second chances…

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Harlequin│Kobo│Google Play│iTunes

My Review

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

I loved the Alaskan setting in this book, especially at a reindeer farm! The author wrote with authority of the various aspects of Alaskan life and I loved the details that opened my eyes to the realities of living in snow... or without it when it's needed. Chris owns a snow plow business and with a snowless forecast he was struggling with making ends meet. It was great to read the story of Dana's brother and she and Sam from the first book in the series were incorporated into this story seamlessly. You don't need to read them in order, but I loved The Alaskan Catch so don't miss it!

Marissa has a Type A personality, but laid-back Chris was the yin to her yang. They have a history fraught with angst over disagreements about children in their future and a broken engagement. They have both matured over the years though, and when Chris volunteers to take over playing Santa for her ailing uncle, they have ample opportunity to get reacquainted. I loved that Chris was so helpful and compassionate with Marissa's family and also Ryan, his neighbor's foster child. It really showed the way he was changing. He and Marissa have good chemistry and banter, it was fun to watch them grow closer together again.

(I received a complimentary copy of this book; all opinions expressed in this review are my own)

Other Books in the Series

The Alaskan Catch
(Northern Lights #1)
by Beth Carpenter
Contemporary Romance

Mass Market Paperback & ebook, 368 pages

August 1st 2017 by Harlequin Heartwarming

Where life's currents take you…

Dana Raynott just traveled 3,600 miles to reunite with the brother who changed his name and fled to Alaska nineteen years ago. It's impossible not to be moved by this wild, breathtaking state, even if Dana's no closer to finding the answers she came here for.

Her brother's best friend, Anchorage engineer Sam MacKettrick, might be able to help her. He's strong and kind—a six-foot, irresistible blend of diverse cultures. He's also haunted by a tragic family history with a startling connection to Dana's past…

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Harlequin│Kobo│Google Play│iTunes

About the Author

Once upon a time ...

when Beth Carpenter was a little girl, she read everything she could get her hands on, and entertained herself on the school bus by making up stories in her head. Not a lot has changed. She's still consuming books like M&Ms, and spends her days creating happily-ever-afters for her imaginary friends.

She lives in Alaska and Arizona with her husband and an aggressively affectionate fifty-pound lap dog. She loves to hear from readers.

Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Pinterest│The Alaskan Catch Pinterest Board

Tour Schedule

November 27th:

Launch

Paulette's Papers

Hearts & Scribbles

Heidi Reads...

A Night's Dream of Books

November 28th:

Celluloid Diaries

Book Lover in Florida

Reading Is My SuperPower

Nicole's Book Musings

November 29th:

It's All About the Romance

underneath the covers

Inside the Mind of an Avid Reader

Teatime and Books

November 30th:

Brooke Blogs

The Bookworm Chronicles

Deal Sharing Aunt

December 1st:

Mello & June, It's a Book Thang!

I Am A Reader

Janices Book Reviews

Rockin' Book Reviews

December 2nd: Grand Finale

Tour Giveaway

Reindeer Prize Pack (US only), which includes:

• Large handcrafted quilted reindeer tote bag
• Signed Copy of The Alaskan Catch
• Reindeer Cookie Cutters
• Inflatable Reindeer Antler Ring-toss Game

$25 Amazon Gift Card (open internationally)

Ends December 6th

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Review: A Marchioness Below Stairs by Alissa Baxter

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Escaping from Bath and the news that her former love is about to marry another, Isabel, the young widowed Marchioness of Axbridge, accepts an invitation to her cousin’s house party. Yet, instead of finding respite, she stumbles into a domestic crisis of majestic proportions: The kitchen servants have succumbed to the influenza.

If that weren’t bad enough, her former sweetheart arrives with his fiancée, seeking shelter from the increasingly hazardous snow storm. Trapped inside Chernock Hall with a volatile mix of house guests, including abolitionists and slave owners, Isabel wishes she could hide below stairs for the duration. But, alas, she cannot. While helping in the kitchen, Isabel is cornered by her cousin’s disreputable friend, Marcus Bateman, who challenges and provokes her at every turn.

At last, the storm subsides. However, the avalanche of repercussions cannot be undone. Caught in the grip of the terrible winter of 1813, will Isabel’s greatest threat come from the weather, her abolitionist views, or from falling in love again?

My Review

There are a lot of things I liked about this book. Isabel's passion for abolition, her humility in helping her cousin by cooking for his house party, her sacrifices for her family, and her love of independence. The setting was easy to imagine and I appreciated the historical and period details sprinkled in. I didn't quite know how to take Mr. Bateman for a while (like Isabel) but as he proves himself devoted to her and supports her in ways nobody else did I came to like him more. He challenges her and is confident  enough to stand up to her. I didn't feel a connection to the emotions of the characters however, and felt a bit detached, even though the plot and banter were entertaining. Overall a great story and one I would recommend to fans of Regency romance.

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

Review: 365 Classic Bedtime Bible Stories: Inspired by Jesse Lyman Hurlbut's Story of the Bible by Jesse Lyman Hurlbut, Daniel Partner (Editor), Alessia Girasole (Illustrations)

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Story Time--The Most Important 10 Minutes in a Child's Day!
 
Your children or grandchildren will delight in this fully-illustrated storybook that brings 365 read-aloud classic Bible stories to life for impressionable young hearts.

Beginning with the creation story, "God Creates the Earth," and ending with "In Eternity with God,” your children will develop faith in an almighty God who is the same yesterday, today, and forever, while journeying alongside Bible characters like Samuel, Jonah, Esther, David, John the Baptist, Mary, Joseph, and many more.

365 Classic Bedtime Bible Stories promises to make bedtime reading a delightful learning and faith-building experience for your kids 3 and up.

My Review

This is a great book to read to children! I appreciated that there are lesser-known stories included, and I feel like reading one or two stories each day will give children a deeper knowledge of the entirety of the Bible. The illustrations are simple and colorful, perfect for younger children. Each page is a summary of a story in the Bible, and while they are portrayed in an age-appropriate manner, I wish that the quotes from what the people said were not put into a modern day narrative, but the actual words spoken from the King James version of the Bible. I think it is important for children to get used to the language of the Bible for when they begin to read it on their own. Overall this is a valuable resource for developing a love of the scriptures in children. There is even a ribbon bookmark attached to hold your place!

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

Review: 12 Days at Bleakly Manor by Michelle Griep

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

When Clara Chapman receives an intriguing invitation to spend Christmas at an English manor home, she is hesitant yet compelled to attend—for if she remains the duration of the twelve-day celebration, she is promised a sum of one thousand pounds. That’s enough money to bring her brother back from America and reinstate their stolen family fortune. But is she walking into danger? It appears so, especially when she comes face to face with one of the other guests—her former fiancé, Benjamin Lane.

Imprisoned unjustly, Ben wants revenge on whoever stole his honor. When he’s given the chance to gain his freedom, he jumps at it—and is faced with the anger of the woman he stood up at the altar.

Brought together under mysterious circumstances for the Twelve Days of Christmas, Clara and Ben discover that what they've been striving for isn't what ultimately matters. What matters most is what Christmas is all about . . . love.

My Review

I didn't quite know what to expect when I started this book, which is always fun because I start out with an open mind and enjoy the surprises on my reading journey. Clara and Ben and the other characters that are invited to Bleakly Manor don't know what to expect either which enhanced the mysteriousness of the event and the secret benefactor. While Clara and Ben's reunion is a bit rocky, I loved seeing them reconcile and reignite their love, while the rest of the plot turns into a cozy mystery with increasing danger and mishaps that threaten the occupants. A fun holiday story with elements of suspense and romance!

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)