Showing posts with label 5 stars. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 5 stars. Show all posts

Friday, May 11, 2018

Review: Where I Belong by Heather B. Moore


Book Two in the Pine Valley series

Heidi Reads... Where I Belong by Heather B. Moore

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

http://www.amazon.comhttp://www.amazon.comhttp://www.goodreads.com

Synopsis

Jane Morris makes a living by cleaning the houses of the wealthy residents of Pine Valley, and she tries hard not to judge their extravagant lifestyles. But when one of her clients goes through a devastating breakup with his fiancĂ©, Jane finds herself in the middle of his emotional mess. She wants to help him, but Cameron Vance is a man she could easily lose her heart to. Jane agrees to be his date to the charity event of the year, organized by Cameron’s mother. But the magical night shows Jane that if she’s a Cinderella, then Cameron is definitely a candidate for Prince Charming.

My Review

This is definitely a sweet Cinderella story! It was a pleasure to read and was a nice escape for a few hours! I loved the rapport between Jane and Cameron, they just complemented each other so well, and the conflict in the story didn't come from their relationship or character flaws, but rather from outside sources. Cameron was never judgemental about Jane's business, but saw her for the person she is, applauded her success, and encouraged her and supported her unfulfilled dreams. Jane provided emotional support to Cameron as well in the aftermath of his bad breakup with crazytown. I liked the inclusion of each of their parents in the story, how those relationships affected Jane and Cameron, and how the interactions showcased their more admirable qualities. This is a great contemporary romance that made me smile :) Even though it's the second in the series it's written as a stand alone book and can be read out of order, no problem.

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



Check out the other books in the Pine Valley series . . .

Book One
Heidi Reads... Worth the Risk by Heather B. Moore


http://www.amazon.comhttp://www.amazon.comhttp://www.goodreads.com

Synopsis

When Alicia moves back to Pine Valley to help her mom through a serious addiction, the last person she wants to see is her teenage crush, Jeff Finch, who destroyed their friendship in one single disastrous night. But Alicia is determined to not let anything about Jeff affect her, especially since she hasn’t seen him in ten years. All she knows is that he’s living a successful and charmed life, and she is more than happy to keep anything between them in the past. But when he shows up with a date at the restaurant where she works, Alicia realizes she’s still not over her feelings, and Jeff is definitely looking at her in a way he never has before.

Book Three


http://www.amazon.comhttp://www.amazon.comhttp://www.goodreads.com

Synopsis

Clara Benson is not looking for a relationship, especially not after her losing her teaching position, followed by a disastrous breakup with her fiancé, and the sudden death of the grandma who raised her. In fact, Clara picks up and moves to escape her mess of memories. She hopes that Pine Valley will be the perfect place to heal from heartache.

When she meets her boss’s lawyer, Dawson Harris, Clara can’t deny her attraction. But she’s determined to choose herself, and her healing, over a guy who might be charming, attractive, and oh, so appealing. Easy, right? But when Dawson becomes the one person who can straighten out her mess, she realizes that finding herself doesn’t have to be mean losing Dawson.

Book Four
https://amzn.to/2HXukHm

(coming June 2018)

http://www.amazon.comhttp://www.amazon.comhttp://www.goodreads.com

Synopsis

Gwen Robbins loves her job waitressing at the Pine Valley resort restaurant, and as a single woman, she has no trouble turning down any offers of dates from the restaurant patrons. Even when her boss, Seth Owens, shows interest in her, she’s not tempted in the least, no matter how strong their attraction.

But when Seth helps her through a crisis, she begins to see him in a different light. He’s not the rich and privileged business owner she first makes him out to be, but a man who’s making huge sacrifices to follow his own dreams. As Seth encourages Gwen to mend her own divide with her family, she realizes her heart is slowly opening toward a better future.


Thursday, May 10, 2018

Review & Giveaway: The Wedding Quilt Bride by Marta Perry


Heidi Reads... The Wedding Quilt Bride by Marta Perry

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

http://www.amazon.comhttp://www.amazon.comhttp://www.barnesandnoble.comhttp://www.bookdepository.comhttp://www.goodreads.com

Synopsis

Widow Rebecca Mast returns to her Amish community with her son and a dream—to own a quilt shop. Carpenter Daniel King is determined to help Rebecca and revive their childhood friendship. But as he bonds with her son, Rebecca’s afraid the secret she’s been keeping will be revealed. Can Daniel convince Rebecca he’s a man she can trust—and love?

My Review

This sweet book had everything I wish for in an Amish romance. A comforting sense of community, strong family loyalty, and a blossoming love from a childhood friendship. I loved how Rebecca and Daniel warmed up to each other quickly even though they had both changed as time had passed. They brought out the best in each other and Daniel helped Rebecca remember what the support of loving friends and family looked like. She struggled with accepting the unconditional help, but as she began to slowly open up to those she trusted, she was able to let go of her past and see that she is not alone. The chemistry between Rebecca and Daniel is great and it was fun to see them move from friends to more. Reading this book gave me a warm feeling and I recommend it to fans of Amish fiction!

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



"Feel comforted and at peace when you read these uplifting romances of faith, forgiveness and hope from Love Inspired. There are 12 new books each month! 6 from Love Inspired for those who love contemporary romance and 6 from Love Inspired Suspense who like some danger with their romance stories."


Love Inspired Blog Tour Sweepstakes!

Tuesday, May 8, 2018

Review: The Weaver's Daughter by Sarah E. Ladd


Heidi Reads... The Weaver's Daughter by Sarah E. Ladd

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

http://www.amazon.comhttp://www.amazon.comhttp://www.barnesandnoble.comhttp://www.bookdepository.comhttp://www.goodreads.com

Synopsis

Kate's loyalties bind her to the past. Henry's loyalties compel him to strive for a better future. In a landscape torn between tradition and vision, can two souls find the strength to overcome their preconceptions?

Loyalty has been at the heart of the Dearborne family for as long as Kate can remember, but a war is brewing in their small village, one that has the power to rip families asunder --including her own. As misguided actions are brought to light, she learns how deep her father's pride and bitterness run, and she begins to wonder if her loyalty is well-placed.

Henry Stockton, heir to the Stockton fortune, returns home from three years at war seeking refuge from his haunting memories. Determined to bury the past, he embraces his grandfather's goals to modernize his family's wool mill, regardless of the grumblings from the local weavers. When tragedy strikes shortly after his arrival, Henry must sort truth from suspicion if he is to protect his family's livelihood and legacy.

Henry has been warned about the Dearborne family. Kate, too, has been advised to stay far away from the Stocktons, but chance meetings continue to bring her to Henry's side, blurring the jagged lines between loyalty, justice, and truth. Kate ultimately finds herself with the powerful decision that will forever affect her village's future. As unlikely adversaries, Henry and Kate must come together to find a way to create peace for their families, and their village, and their souls - even if it means risking their hearts in the process.


My Review

I loved the feeling of being immersed in the setting as I read this book! The author wove in details of the weavers, mills, and the politics of both sides without becoming boring, rather it enhanced the plot and showed insights into the characters and the hard work they tackled. It reminded me very much of the BBC miniseries of North and South, with industry being at the forefront of everyone's lives. Kate is a strong woman who has been raised participating in the work of the weavers, but as she is ready to take on more responsibility, she finds that her father and others only see her value in marrying to strengthen the weavers' position. She struggles with the conflict between her stubborn father and her brother Charles who has chosen to work as an accountant for the mill owners. I loved her relationship with her brother and felt bad that they were being made to choose between the life they grew up with and a brighter future. Her unlikely friendship with Henry was so sweet and as he continually shows his compassion and kindness, her eyes are opened to new possibilities for the community. The story has a steady pace as tensions mount and conflicts arise, and I was surprised by how far the weavers' protests went. I appreciated the history and learning more about this difficult time of change and transition and how it affected families and communities.

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


Friday, May 4, 2018

99 cent SALE for Edenbrooke AND Heir to Edenbrooke by Julianne Donaldson!!!



* Only 99 cents for the e-book of Edenbrooke and Heir to Edenbrooke*
 
MY MOST FAVORITE BOOK EVER! 

IMPOSSIBLE TO RE-READ THIS ONE TOO MANY TIMES! 

PHILLIP IS MY LITERARY CRUSH!

So.... get this one guys. And share with all your romance-loving friends! If you've already read Edenbrooke, but not the novella, this is cheaper than the novella on its own!


99 cent SALE for Edenbrooke AND Heir to Edenbrooke by Julianne Donaldson!!!

My rating: 5+ stars / It was amazing

http://www.amazon.comhttp://www.amazon.comhttp://www.goodreads.com

Synopsis


This edition pairs the bestselling Edenbrooke with the never-before-published novelette Heir to Edenbrooke, which is the prequel to the story, told from the point-of-view of the dashing suitor of Edenbrooke.

Marianne Daventry will do anything to escape the boredom of Bath and the amorous attentions of an unwanted suitor. So when an invitation arrives from her twin sister, Cecily, to join her at a sprawling country estate, she jumps at the chance. Thinking she'll be able to relax and enjoy her beloved English countryside while her sister snags the handsome heir of Edenbrooke, Marianne finds that even the best laid plan can go awry.

From a terrifying run-in with a highwayman to a seemingly harmless flirtation, Marianne find herself embroiled in an unexpected adventure filled with enough romance and intrigue to keep her mind racing. Will Marianne be able to rein in her traitorous heart, or will a mysterious stranger sweep her off her feet? Fate had something other than a relaxing summer in mind when it sent Marianne to Edenbrooke.

The prequel novelette, Heir to Edenbrooke, is told from Philip's point-of-view and includes his side of the story of when he met Marianne for the first time.



And I have to share the covers of the individual books because they are beautiful!


 

Tuesday, May 1, 2018

Review: Miss Wilton's Waltz by Josi S. Kilpack


Heidi Reads... Miss Wilton's Waltz by Josi S. Kilpack

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

http://www.amazon.comhttp://www.amazon.comhttp://www.barnesandnoble.comhttps://deseretbook.com/p/miss-wiltons-waltz?variant_id=155230-paperbackhttp://www.bookdepository.comhttp://www.goodreads.com

Synopsis

A follow-up to Josi S. Kilpack's bestselling Proper Romance title The Vicar's Daughter.

Lenora Wilton has spent her life hiding behind the keys of her beloved pianoforte and the vibrancy of her younger sister, Cassie. But Lenora is ready for a change and travels to Bath to live with her Aunt Gwen and teach music at an all-girls’ boarding school. She is different in Bath—more comfortable with herself—and enjoys the freedom and independence of her new life there.

When Lenora meets Aiden Asher, she finds herself attracted to him, but her unexpected feelings become more complicated when she learns that Catherine—Lenora’s newest and most troublesome student in the school—is Mr. Asher’s niece. Catherine is a difficult student, and Lenora works hard to make progress with the girl.

When the chemistry between Lenora and Aiden increases, they share a passionate kiss by the River Avon, and Lenora feels it is the beginning of a new forever—until she learns that Aiden has withheld an important detail about his life that changes everything.

Lenora closes her heart to him, and Aiden, caught between his obligation and his heart, must do what he can to make amends. And Lenora, after years of hiding from everyone and everything, faces a decision only she can make.


My Review

I love when I can empathize with the struggles of the main character. Lenora's shyness and social awkwardness is something I experienced outside my family and close friends all the way through high school. Lenora's move to embrace a new life allows her to become more confident and I felt that going to college and leaving behind the role I felt trapped in opened up a refreshing sense of freedom to be happy with myself and all the opportunities before me. I admired Lenora's fortitude with the daunting situations and people she had to deal with. Catherine is not the typical orphan from stories like these- instead of being filled with gratitude, she is manipulative, cruel, and uncaring. I felt like it was a realistic portrayal of an abused child and it was gratifying to see her layers peeled back as Aiden doesn't give up on her, but is determined to help her in any way possible. Lenora's reactions to Catherine were realistic as well, and depicted the real struggle and sacrifice it took to be a part of her recovery and success. I loved Lenora's aunt and the compassion, nurturing, and wisdom she brought to both Lenora and Catherine's lives. The sweet and tender romance between Lenora and Aiden is worth fighting for, and I was filled with tension and anticipation until Lenora reached her happily ever after.

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


Monday, April 30, 2018

Review & Giveaway: Falling for You by Becky Wade


On Tour with Prism Book Tours

https://amzn.to/2qXlH7nFalling for You
(A Bradford Sisters Romance #2)
By Becky Wade
Inspirational Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 368 pages
May 1st 2018 by Bethany House Publishers

Famously beautiful model Willow Bradford is taking a temporary break from her hectic schedule to work as the innkeeper at her family's small-town bed-and-breakfast. She was enjoying the peace of her hometown, Merryweather, Washington, right up until she came face-to-face with Corbin Stewart, the man she loves to hate. A thoughtful rule-follower by nature, Willow threw caution to the wind four years ago when she entrusted her heart to Corbin--and suffered the consequences when it all fell apart.

Former NFL quarterback Corbin is forceful, charming, and accustomed to getting what he wants . . . except where Willow Bradford is concerned. Unable to forget her, he's never stopped regretting what happened between them. When their paths unexpectedly cross again, he's determined to make her give him a second chance.

When a decades-old missing persons case finds Corbin and Willow working together, they're forced to confront their past and who they've become--and whether they can risk falling for one another all over again.


My Review

This is a book that I could just fall into, and feel a part of the world and story and characters. I love the author's subtle writing style that drew me in and allowed me to connect with Willow and Corbin without overwhelming me with description or repetition. Willow and Corbin both have big walls up that are slowly eroded when they are compelled to spend time together, helping Corbin's niece Charlotte solve a decades-old missing person mystery. Investigating the case, step by step, brought a steady pace to the book as Corbin also struggles with the inevitable death of his sick father and Willow deals with unwanted attention from fans and her own waning interest in modeling. There is a perfect balance between all the plot threads and the redevelopment of Willow and Corbin's friendship and romance. They share fun banter, even (especially) when they are at odds, their chemistry is crackling with passion, and their relationship develops greater depth as Corbin is determined to show Willow how devoted he is to her. Willow's sisters play an important role in her life and help her as she helps them. We even see a couple chapters from Britt's perspective as a lead-in to the next book, which I can't wait for! I love the spiritual themes that are woven in seamlessly of forgiveness and the importance of turning all our worries over to God and allowing him to guide our lives. Even though this is the second book in the series it can definitely be read as a standalone. Highly recommend! 

(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


Becky’s a California native who attended Baylor University, met and married a Texan, and settled in Dallas. She published historical romances for the general market before putting her career on hold for several years to care for her three children. When God called her back to writing, Becky knew He meant for her to turn her attention to Christian fiction. She loves writing funny, modern, and inspirational contemporary romance! She’s the Christy Award and Carol Award winning author of My Stubborn Heart, the Porter Family series, and the Bradford Sisters Romance series.


April 30th:
May 1st:
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May 7th:
May 8th:
Facebook Party at 8 PM EDT/5 PM PDT
May 9th:
May 10th:
May 11th:
May 12th: Grand Finale

Tour Giveaway


Celebrate the release of Becky Wade's Falling for You by entering to win a fabulous prize pack that includes some of Willow Bradford's favorite things!

One grand prize winner will receive*:
  • A model-worthy Kate Spade bracelet
  • A $100 cash card (so you can feed a housewares and home dĂ©cor addiction like Willow’s)
  • A Seattle Candle Co. candle (that smells just like the setting of the book)
  • Roasted in Seattle Rainy Day Coffee
  • A delicious scone mix (so that you can enjoy scones just like Willow and Corbin do while having high tea)
  • Cozy book-lover socks
  • And of course, a copy of Falling for You
Two runner up winners will receive*:
  • A Seattle Candle Co. candle (that smells just like the setting of the book)
  • A copy of Falling for You
*Due to shipping costs, US entrants only.



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