Review: Almost a Bride by Jody Hedlund

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Always close, but never a bride.

Longing to find true love, Kate Millington arrives in British Columbia on a bride ship. With countless men waiting to snag a bride, Kate has no trouble getting engaged. It’s staying engaged that’s the problem. After traveling to the remote mining town of Williamsville to marry her newest fiancé, she finds herself single again.

As the prosperous owner of a gold mine, Zeke Hart has everything he’s ever wanted except for a wife. At Kate’s arrival, he takes it upon himself to protect his childhood friend from the men clamoring to court her. The more he renews her friendship, the more he wants to win her for himself. But as much as Kate admires Zeke, she’s resolved not to marry someone who doesn’t share her faith.

When Zeke begins receiving anonymous threats, he unwittingly puts them both in grave danger. In the midst of peril, the past rises up to haunt them both, and Zeke realizes the fight for Kate’s affection may be his biggest challenge yet.

My Review

I've loved the Bride Ships series! Each woman has come from a different background and faces a variety of challenges. Kate thinks she is eager to get married, but at the last minute, fear grips her and she breaks things off. She has a connection to Zeke through characters from the previous books, and he takes on the role of her protector when she moves to his remote town. She has a bit of a naive stubborn streak though, and they butt heads several times even while developing and deepening their friendship. Zeke's strong physical attraction to Kate battles with their unmatched spiritual goals, and they struggle to share a visualization for their future. The unrest in the town with vandalism and danger brings an added element of tension and suspense, and the theme of giving our fears over to the Lord is one that both Kate and Zeke explore with their own inner turmoil. A strong conclusion to a compelling series!

 

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

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Don't miss the other books in The Bride Ships series . . .

Review: The Pathways to the Heart by Mandi Ellsworth, Paula Kremser, E.B. Wheeler

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Finding love is a journey in these Regency and Western romance novellas.

The Courtship Cure
Mary Worthington has been raised in sheltered circumstances by her grandfather the duke, but now that her brother has inherited the title, he wishes her to marry well. Doctor Tyndale, a recently made baronet, is intrigued by elusive Mary, but he assumes she is the same social level as his patients and therefore not high enough to meet his father's approval. Can the two discover the truth - and love - in this Regency comedy of errors?

Hiding Gems
Matthew just wants to live in peace on his Oregon ranch. Pearl is seeking shelter for herself and two Chinese children after the 1886 riots drive them out of Seattle. The two are drawn together by their gentle hearts, but they will have to decide if they are willing to stand up and fight against fear and prejudice to find love.

Bootleggers and Basil
Helen Botsari arrives in 1920s Utah as a Greek picture bride, excited for a new life in a land of opportunity. When she discovers that her prospective groom was killed in a railroad accident, she finds herself alone in a foreign land that is increasingly hostile to immigrants. It is up to fellow immigrant Dimitrios Nikolaidis to convince her that America still holds a bright future for her.

My Review

I really enjoyed these stories! I'm always up for a good Regency, and it was fun to have a lady and a baronet both hiding their status while they serve in the local village. The second story was my favorite, and while it was a bit jarring to go from the manners of England to the backwoods of Oregon, with a switch to first person POV, I quickly grew to love Matthew, a gentle giant, and Pearl, the compassionate pillar of strength. Their friendship and romance bloomed naturally as they cared for the two young children and experienced the love of a family. They had such sweet chemistry! The last story shared a bit of history that I was unaware of- the Greek immigrants in the Salt Lake Valley of Utah. They experienced discrimination from a small part of the community, but I appreciated that the author pointed out that the Mormons also knew what it was like to be outsiders and didn't condone the racism. The two main characters are each feisty in their own ways, but learn to overcome their differences.

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

Review & Giveaway: The Gentleman Spy by Erica Vetsch

 

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

He only wanted a duchess for a day―but she's determined to make it a marriage for life

When his father and older brother suddenly pass away, the new Duke of Haverly is saddled with a title he never expected to bear. To thwart the plans of his scheming family, the duke impulsively marries a wallflower. After all, she's meek and mild; it should be easy to sequester her in the country and get on with his life―as a secret agent for the Crown.

But his bride has other ideas. She's determined to take her place not only as his duchess but as his wife. As a duchess, she can use her position to help the lowest of society―the women forced into prostitution because they have no skills or hope. Her endeavors are not met favorably in society, nor by her husband who wishes she'd remain in the background as he ordered.

Can the duke succeed in relegating her to the sidelines of his life? When his secrets are threatened with exposure, will his new wife be an asset or a liability?

My Review

Charlotte is the kind of character that I find easy to relate to in fiction. She loves reading, wants to do what is right but also speaks up, even when it is unpopular, and is compassionate and sacrificial. I loved her newfound passion for helping unfortunate women and the way she developed confidence in herself and in her new role. Marcus has quite a bit on his plate being an unexpected duke, an undercover agent, and new groom. I wish we knew more about his emotions in the early stages of his relationship with Charlotte, but he was just too good at repressing and compartmentalizing. The intrigue of the mystery he is trying to solve comes and goes throughout the book and seems to slow the pace rather than increase it. I enjoyed the focus on Charlotte and the way she navigates the new relationships in her life- husband, difficult mother-in-law, genuine friends, secret half sister, and converted former madam. There is a faith element woven in that is not often emphasized in Regency fiction, and I appreciated the way it gave hope and inspiration to the characters. I hope there will continue to be more in this series!

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

GIVEAWAY

Review: A Well-Trained Lady by Jess Heileman

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Arabella Godwin is an Incomparable in London Society—elegant, wealthy, and meticulously trained. Yet, she has nothing to show for her efforts aside from her pretentious reputation and a collection of disappointed suitors. When her plan to secure a promising offer of marriage is temporarily delayed, she must bide her time in the company of an estranged childhood friend—the much-too-endearing, but regrettably untitled, Augustus Brundage.

As the friends’ tattered relationship returns to familiarity, Arabella must prevent herself from fully regressing into the carefree, impressionable young lady who once foolishly trusted Augustus with her heart. To make the same mistake again would ruin everything she has worked for—and certainly more.

But, can a heart be so easily trained?

My Review

Arabella drove me a just little crazy! Once she slowly sheds the insincere society persona she had embraced due to her mother's influence, she becomes actually likeable, and I could see why Augustus had fallen in love with her and was willing to give her another chance. She reminds me a bit of Jane Austen's Emma as she gives lessons to Ruth, trying to help improve her manners, when really Ruth has the important characteristics Arabella would do well to emulate. Augustus and Arabella have such fun banter, which were my favorite parts. Family secrets come to light and complicate Arabella's future, right when she was so close to grasping happiness. I was all tied in a knot as Arabella is caught between her parents and their own private agendas. This book had plenty of ups, downs, and twists leading to a perfectly satisfying happily-ever-after.

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

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Don't miss the other books in the Seasons of Change series . . .

Review: Love's Mountain Quest by Misty M. Beller

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Young widow Joanna Watson is struggling to make a new home for her five-year-old son, Samuel, in the little mountain town of Settler's Fort. When she returns home from work to find Samuel and the woman watching him missing, with no lawman in town, she enlists a man she prays has enough experience in this rugged country to help.

Isaac Bowen wants nothing more than a quiet, invisible life in these mountains, far away from the bad decisions of his past. But he has a strong suspicion of who's behind the kidnapping, and if he's right, he knows all too well the evil they're chasing.

As they press on against the elements, Joanna fights to hold on to hope, while Isaac knows a reckoning is coming. They find encouragement in the tentative trust that grows between them, but whether it can withstand the danger and coming confrontation is far from certain in this wild, unpredictable land.

My Review

Boy, this one jumped right into the action! I felt like I quickly got to know Joanna and Isaac quickly through their actions and thoughts as they desperately search for her kidnapped son and friend. We experience the author's trademark perilous journey through the wilderness with various dangers and trying conditions. I was surprised that tracking the outlaws took up so much of the book, but it turned out that this was a long game situation since Isaac had a secret past that gave them an advantage in the pursuit. It's a mixed blessing since it brings more issues for Joanna to deal with after she's fallen for the rugged mountain man- overcoming mistrust and relying on the good man he is now. The scenes with the outlaws and Laura, the young woman they are holding captive, are a bit disturbing, which heightens the tension and suspense. I appreciated the spiritual message of turning to God in faith during our darkest hours, and also the theme of redemption and forgiveness. I'm glad that the next book in the series is about Laura so we can see her healing process from all she went through.

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

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Don't miss the other books in the Hearts of Montana series . . .

Review: A Secret Arrangement by Heather B. Moore

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

What happens when two women race to spend their inheritance? An epic Grand Tour.

Evelyn Tucker has finally graduated from finishing school, but dreads living with her widowed aunt. On the appointed day, Aunt Margaret comes to collect Evelyn, and Margaret informs her that they’re going on a Grand Tour to spend as much of the estate money they can before a distant cousin inherits all. When Henry Gaiman discovers he’s inherited his distant uncle’s estate, he loathes the thought of returning to England since he’d rather continue with his archaeology dig in Egypt. Return he must, and there, he meets Evelyn, a woman who will change his world in more ways than one.

(This novella was previously published in Timeless Victorian Collection: A Grand Tour)

My Review

This was a fun and exciting adventure that took us from the trains of England to the camels of Giza. Evelyn has been pretty sheltered and doesn't want to leave her best friend Beatrice at the boarding school. She gets quite the surprise to find her aunt so changed, and does her best to take the spontaneous travel plans in stride. Evelyn seems like the type where not much ruffles her, but she has so many feelings about the unexpected opportunities placed in her lap. I loved that she was such a history buff and surprises Henry with her knowledge of the ancient Egyptians. They are a perfect match, but Henry's fear of offending the woman bankrolling his dig leads him to make a surprising announcement about his relationship with Evelyn. The new complicated dynamics bring light drama to Evelyn's adventure and anxiety to Henry's hopes for the future. I enjoyed the characters in this novella and hope that the author will write Beatrice's story in a future Timeless Victorian Collection.

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

Review: The Danger with Fireworks by Robin Daniels

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Garland's love life took a rocky ride when his roommate started dating the girl he liked. It was inevitable, really. Somehow he always makes friends with "that guy"--the one who can get any girl he wants. It sucks, always feeling like the third wheel. So, when he's offered a position as a summer camp counselor, he jumps at the opportunity. It's the perfect chance to escape... in a place where he's not tied to best-friendship with a chick magnet.

However, from the moment he arrives, Garland realizes that the grass won't be any greener. He meets Chloe, a beautiful, energetic co-worker and they hit it off right away. Naturally, her ex--who's desperate to win her back--happens to be "that guy". Except this time it's different because there's nothing likable about Chloe's ex. And since there's no rule saying Garland has to be best buds with the resident lady bait, he decides it's time to challenge the status quo. For once, he's going to get the girl.

NOTE: This story can be read as a standalone, but it's better if the series is read in order.

My Review

Summer camp. So many words, feelings, stereotypes associated with it! I was surprised it was the setting for Garland’s story, but it was so fun. It definitely gave a summer vibe! There's a great cast of characters, and it was great to see Garland come into his own. The story is told from his perspective only, and I feel like the author nails the male mindset. Chloe is a bit of a spaz and I didn't really know how to take her at first, but she quickly grew on me as she and Garland get to know each other and have fun banter and chemistry. Some misperceptions keep Garland from acting on his feelings, bringing  angst and drama to the friendly dynamic. There's a good balance and steady pace as the antics of the campers and counselors provide a reading experience that is just plain fun.

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

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Don't miss the previous books in the Holiday Romance series . . .

Review: The Reunion by Amy Matayo

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

It’s been quite the year for the Hayes/Gamble family, but now things are looking up. When you’ve survived a tornado, a concert shooting, and being stranded on a deserted island, what else can possibly go wrong? After all, isn’t that the rule—three strikes, and you’re out?

That should totally be the rule.

Dillon Hayes has dreamed of her wedding day since childhood. Now, after months of planning, the chapel is booked, the invitations are sent, and the dress is ready and waiting. In only a few days’ time, Dillon will become Mrs. Liam Gamble in front of God, Tennessee, and everyone she loves.

But when a rare blizzard dumps piles of snow on Nashville and the entire southern region three days before the wedding, all that planning goes up in, well…snow. Businesses close. Flights are grounded. Roads are nearly impassible. Even the chapel now has a gaping hole in the middle of the roof and a giant mound of white powder blocking the aisle.

Dillon can feel her dreams dying one by one…and there’s nothing she can do to stop it. A year filled with one mishap after another can wear a person down. But what Dillon soon discovers is this: the death of one dream isn’t necessarily the end.

Sometimes it can lead to an even better beginning.

My Review

This final book in the Love in Chaos series brings us full circle as Dillon and Liam are just days away from walking down the aisle... and chaos ensues. It was great to revisit the couples from each book in the series as they are trying to support and get ready for the wedding while battling the elements. I especially enjoyed the parts with Riley and Chad since they were my favorite couple. She's in charge of baking the wedding cake then transporting it several hours as they drive to the wedding location. Nothing could go wrong there, could it? ;) Dillon's mom is drama as usual and Dillon has to find the strength in herself to stand up for what she really wants and what's most important... which is to be married to Liam. A great concluding novella to this exciting series!

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

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Don't miss the previous books in the Love in Chaos series . . .