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

Saturday, December 22, 2018

Review: Until We Kissed by Heather B. Moore


Heidi Reads... Until We Kissed by Heather B. Moore

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

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

Synopsis

Livvy knows Dr. Slade McKinney is the perfect man for her, but when she keeps running into Mason, Livvy discovers fate has a different plan.

USA Today bestselling author Heather B. Moore welcomes you to Pine Valley!


Pine Valley librarian Livvy Harmon has big dreams, which include marrying Dr. Slade McKinney. Trouble is, he’s only kissed her once in their four months of dating, and it wasn’t all that great. But Livvy isn’t ready to give up yet on hooking such an amazing man, even though Slade seems to have time for everyone but her.

When Livvy keeps running into writer Mason Rowe, who seems to be camping out in her library to finish his book under strict orders from his agent, Livvy at first keeps him at arm’s length. But the more their friendship grows, the more she finds that her dream relationship with her doctor boyfriend isn’t so dreamy after all.


My Review

Another fabulous book in the Pine Valley series! Each time a book comes out it's my new favorite ;) This one has a librarian and author... with the best first kiss scene I've read in a while! I loved the character-driven plot, the dynamics of the relationship between Livvy and Mason, the humor and emotion. I do have one argument- I don't think Dr. Slade was ever Livvy's "boyfriend". They were casually dating. He was in no way behaving the way a real boyfriend does. (They would go two weeks without talking or seeing each other!) So I don't think she was cheating on him when she began a relationship with Mason. Which is why I didn't have those icky "eww, she's cheating" feelings. ANYWAY.... Mason is such a contrast to the preoccupied doctor that Livvy can't help but fall in love with him, even though he doesn't fit the future she has planned out for herself. This is a fun story with emotion, humor, and great romantic chemistry!

(The books in the Pine Valley series are only loosely connected and can be read in any order)

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


Thursday, December 20, 2018

Review: The Secretive Wife by Jennifer Peel


Heidi Reads... The Secretive Wife by Jennifer Peel

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

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

Synopsis

I have a famous secret, but it's not the biggest one I keep.

From an outside view, my life would be the definition of boring. I'm married to a landscaper, albeit a very attractive one, I drive an old cheap car, and I write articles for an online magazine. So, maybe I've been a constant fixture on the New York Times Best Sellers list for the last few years, but that secret is locked safely in my attic.

Here's a word of advice. If you want to keep a secret, don't tease your mother-in-law about what's in that attic, especially when her life goal is to save her son from you. Now that my famous secret is out, past acquaintances willing to do anything to get their own fifteen minutes of fame are lying to the media about me. But my biggest problem isn't the lies in the press, it's the truth I'm forced to face. The secret I've kept from everyone, even my husband, the man I love, the first person who made me feel like I belonged somewhere.

Now I have no other choice but to tell the truth and face my biggest fear, that Peter and I were never meant to be together and my secrets could take him away too.


My Review

Make me ugly cry, why don't you Jennifer Peel! The character of Delanie is someone I cannot relate to at all, but that doesn't matter, because the author does such a skillful job of getting me in her head and feeling her emotions and understanding why she is the way she is. The story begins four years into her marriage, and she's living in a kind of oasis with her perfect husband. Her life before Peter was complicated and intense, and her life after her secrets begin to unravel is also complicated and intense, but now her relationship has to weather the storm. I appreciated the way the author built the backstory and let us get to know and like Delanie, Peter, and his family (at least certain members) before unleashing the real angst. The mother-in-law drama in the first part of the book is just a warm up. I'm doing my best to not reveal any spoilers while still persuading you to read this compelling book! Just know that by the end I was streaming healing tears as the story made me think about circumstances in my own life... but I did far more laughing than crying while reading the book overall. I loved the way Delanie and the other characters are real and flawed, accepting of themselves but also trying to improve. Delanie's individual sense of humor came across in her voice and I enjoyed more of Sam from the previous book in the series, The Sidelined Wife, who is also pretty funny. The books don't have to be read in order but I was glad I did and I highly recommend reading both!

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


Wednesday, December 19, 2018

Review, Excerpt & Giveaway: My Brother's Bride by Rachael Anderson


Heidi Reads... My Brother's Bride by Rachael Anderson

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

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


Synopsis

Abigail Nash leads a lonely existence. Her mother died giving birth to her, her father’s business dealings took him away more often than not, and her ailing great-aunt, unable to provide much in the way of companionship, was a lack-luster guardian at best. So when her dear friends offered to launch her into London society, it appeared Abby’s life was taking a turn for the better, with suitors and social engagements aplenty. When she marries a proclaimed darling of the ton, it seems she will at last settle into the life of her dreams. But appearances aren’t always what they seem, and dreams often become disappointments. Just months into her marriage, Abby finds herself widowed, penniless, increasing, and determined to never hope again. But when her late husband’s brother, the Earl of Brigston, attempts to thaw the numbness surrounding her heart, Abby must decide if she has it in her to risk another chance at happiness, knowing the odds are not in her favor.

My Review

I loved this sweet Regency romance and the way the two main characters began as brother and sister-in-law, developed a friendship, and began to rely on each other during a difficult and grief-filled time in their lives. The dynamics of the family were interesting and the story kept moving forward as things shifted and changed between Abby and Morgan. I loved how gentle their romance was! There is a bit of a mystery why Jasper (the younger brother) and Abby eloped in the first place, and the layers are revealed slowly, increasing the anticipation and revealing new difficulties for the future. This author is a skilled storyteller and I was glued to the pages until the very end. Highly recommend!

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

   
Excerpt
 
When Brigston entered the kitchen, Abby’s back was partially to him, so she didn’t immediately see him. Her brow was furrowed in concentration as she whipped something in a bowl. She paused to lift the spoon, only to frown at the white liquid dripping from it.

“Are you certain this will thicken into a cream?” she asked.

A flash of irritation crossed Monsieur Roch's face until he spotted Morgan and seemed to think better of it. He managed a patient tone in his accented French. “It takes time, my lady.”

Morgan stifled a chuckle as Abby examined another spoonful of the liquid. “I’ve been whipping it for several minutes, but it doesn’t seem even a little thicker to me. Have I forgotten to add something?”

“No,” said the cook in clipped tones.

Morgan stepped forward and leaned in close. “If your arm is tired—”

Abby jumped, and what liquid remained on the spoon splattered across Morgan’s face. She spun around, her eyes growing wide with horror when she saw what she’d done.

He wiped a dab from his nose and tasted it. “A little more sugar, perhaps?”

“Brigston! I’m so dreadfully sorry.” She dropped the spoon into the bowl and grabbed a rag from a nearby wash basin, dabbing it across his face.

“Not that rag!” cried the cook. “It was only just used to mop the floors.”

Abby dropped it as though it had burned her, and Morgan tried not to cringe at the thought of filthy water coating his face.

Monsieur Roch retrieved a clean rag and held it out to him, appearing apologetic. He flicked another irritated glance at Abby before returning to his work.

As Morgan wiped the cream from his face, he wondered what Abby would do or say next. Offer another fumbled apology? Make her excuses and flee? Pretend the incident never happened and return to her labors? He never knew what to expect from her.

Her face scarlet, she cleared her throat and lifted her adorably determined chin. “You are most welcome, my lord.”

He raised a brow. “For what, my lady?”

“I have heard that cream does wonders for one’s complexion, and it seems the rumors are correct. Your skin appears much . . . creamier.”
   

Praise for My Brother's Bride   

I haven't read a book by Rachael Anderson that I didn't absolutely love and this awesome book didn't fail to meet that grade. ~Vicki 

Enjoyed reading this book. The characters, dialogue, and plotline kept me entertained. Highly recommend this book to those who enjoy clean romances. ~Michele 

This is the first full-length novel I've read by Rachael Anderson, but it definitely won't be the last. I really enjoyed the story--the writing was really good with no annoying parts or awkwardness, the plot was interesting, the characters were endearing (I loved the banter between Brigtson and Abby!), and this book was just really good. Highly enjoyable. Great choice for those who like clean, well-written Regency romances. ~AE2 

This forbidden Regency romance was excellent! Once I started, it was hard—almost impossible—to put down. The characters—Abigail and Brigston—were super well done. I became invested in their lives, their troubles, their hearts really fast, and the author did a superb job of not letting me go. The plot twist was unique. ~Charissa 

A lovely, well-written story. Highly recommended. ~Linda 

I always enjoy Ms. Anderson's books! This one is wonderful, filled with great story and characters. Beautiful story of love, family and forgiveness. ~Nichee 

I can not praise this author's books enough. I have loved every single one. I love the characters! I love the development of the romance! I love the story line. I love the fun dialogue. I know when I start one of her books I will have a hard time putting it down until I am done and then I am sad the book is over. I love that each story is unique. ~Nari    

Author Rachael Anderson


A USA Today bestselling author, Rachael Anderson is the mother of four and is pretty good at breaking up fights, or at least sending guilty parties to their rooms. She can’t sing, doesn’t dance, and despises tragedies. But she recently figured out how yeast works and can now make homemade bread, which she is really good at eating.

       


Giveaway Details $25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 1/1/19 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.    

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Friday, December 14, 2018

Review & Giveaway: From Ash and Stone by Julie Daines



Heidi Reads... From Ash and Stone by Julie Daines

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

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Synopsis

Lady Margaret Grey of Hartfell wants for nothing. The daughter of a knight, she has a loving family, wealth, and even a secret romance with the blacksmith's son. But all that is torn from her one fateful night when her home is attacked and her family killed. She is left with nothing but bitterness, an unwavering mistrust of men, and a strange and mysterious curse that allows her to feel the thoughts of anyone who touches her.

Now, after six years away, Margaret is returning home for one reason: revenge. She hopes that by avenging her family's deaths, she will somehow be freed from her curse. But it won't be easy. The identities of the raiders are still unknown, she has little left to her name, and traveling alone in the Northumbrian hills during the border wars is dangerous. Matters are further complicated by handsome Angus Robson, a Scotsman whose charm threatens to distract her from her plans. But the raiders are closer than she knows, and Margaret soon realizes that what she believed to be a curse may be the key to finding those she seeks. One touch will reveal the truth.


My Review

I can always count on this author to have me completely captivated from page one. I loved the medieval setting and the element of fantasy that seemed real because the environment of the characters was so realistic. Margaret goes through some pretty tough obstacles and trials, and it was gratifying to see her development through the challenges and the influence of Angus. I loved the variety in the supporting cast and they gave an added dimension to the story. The swift character-driven plot is full of adventure, intrigue, romance, and thought-provoking themes of forgiveness and loyalty. Highly recommend!!!

Thursday, December 13, 2018

Review: A Timeless Romance Anthology: A Yuletide Regency by Regina Scott, Sarah M. Eden, Jen Geigle Johnson, Annette Lyon, Krista Lynne Jensen, Heather B. Moore


Heidi Reads... A Timeless Romance Anthology: A Yuletide Regency by Regina Scott, Sarah M. Eden, Jen Geigle Johnson, Annette Lyon, Krista Lynne Jensen, Heather B. Moore

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

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

Synopsis

From the publisher of the USA TODAY bestselling & #1 Amazon bestselling Timeless Romance Anthology series in Clean & Wholesome Romance, comes A YULETIDE REGENCY.

Six brand new Regency romance novellas by Regina Scott, Sarah M. Eden, Jen Geigle Johnson, Annette Lyon, Krista Lynne Jensen, and Heather B. Moore

ALWAYS KISS AT CHRISTMAS by Regina Scott
Mary Rose has one goal for her mother’s annual Christmas Eve party: convince her childhood friend Julian Mayes to marry her. She has always admired Julian. Surely one moment under the kissing bough will convince him they were meant to be together. Newly hired by a prestigious London law firm, Julian is ready to shake the dust of the countryside off his polished boots. But he’s always had a soft spot for Mary. As the danger to her future becomes clear, will one kiss be enough to prove to him how far he will go to protect her?

A YULETIDE MATCH by Sarah M. Eden
Famed matchmaker to the ton, Adelaide Northrup cannot imagine a more perfect way to spend Christmas than answering the desperate call of Mr. Porter Bartrum: widower, young father, dunderhead. The young gentleman’s first marriage was an arranged one and he hasn’t the first idea how to find a wife on his own. His dear friend, Chloe Munson, has watched his attempts with amusement and finds this latest approach, the clandestine hiring of a matchmaker, his most entertaining yet. If Adelaide plays her cards right, and she always does, she might very well manage to secure two happy endings.

THE FORBIDDEN DUKE by Jen Geigle Johnson
They weren’t supposed to meet, but now that they have, nothing will ever be the same. The Duke of Salsbury blames her family. Lady Catherine blames his. Will an age-old dispute between the Salsburys and Asters rip apart any hope they have to be together? In this game of secrets and lies, can their love for each other conquer even the most tightly held family prejudices?

MISTLETOE AT WILLOWSMEADE by Annette Lyon
On Christmas Eve, Eleanor Hadfield, who works as governess at her childhood home of Willowsmeade, is stunned to learn that the love of her youth, Julian Phillips, is coming back after a decade’s absence. Once the gardener’s son, he has elevated his station to navy captain. Making a match with a mere governess would lower his position, if he were to still love her as he did as a young man, which is unlikely. Unable to bear the idea of noble Julian keeping an old promise out of obligation or pity, Eleanor decides to leave the only place that has ever been a home.

FOLLOW THE RIVER HOME by Krista Lynne Jensen
With her beloved home entailed away to a wealthy cousin, spirited Arabelle Hyatt has resigned herself to marry the arrogant man, if only to save her family from destitution. But before an understanding is reached, a childhood friend returns from war, wounded in more ways than one. With Christmas coming—what may be their last at Hybrigge—holiday traditions are celebrated, memories are revisited, and Arabelle learns what lies in a man’s words is not always what lies in his heart.

THE NEW EARL by Heather B. Moore
Celia Thompson knows she can’t live with the new earl who’s come to take her brother’s place. Before she can pack her belongings and reconcile herself to a fate of living as a spinster in her aunt’s home, the new earl arrives. Yet, Aaron, now Lord Banfield, is not the pompous, arrogant man she’d imagined. In fact, he’s quite . . . interesting and handsome. Celia decides to help the man acclimate to his new role. But the longer she stays on at Banfield, the more she realizes the new earl might be the answer she’s been looking for.


My Review

What a great collection of stories!!! I enjoyed them all and had several favorites. As much as I love Regency romances, I love *Christmas* Regency romances even more! There's something sweet about the traditions that are specific to the era, like the yule log, and the ones that have stood the test of time that we still celebrate today, like mistletoe and Christmas trees. While some of the plots had more drama than the others, for the most part the novellas were pleasant and compelling, and I loved the feeling of connecting to the characters quickly and experiencing the season with them as they overcame personal and societal struggles to achieve a lovely happily-ever-after. A wonderful anthology that is perfect for reading during the busy holiday season!

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


Tuesday, December 4, 2018

Review & Giveaway: Wager for a Wife by Karen Tuft



Heidi Reads... Wager for a Wife by Karen Tuft

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

http://www.amazon.comhttp://www.amazon.comhttp://www.barnesandnoble.comhttps://deseretbook.com/p/wager-for-a-wife?variant_id=170146-paperbackhttp://www.bookdepository.comhttp://www.goodreads.com

Synopsis

William Barlow's life has been forever altered: his estranged father is dead, and William has inherited the title of Viscount Farleigh. Along with the title comes a neglected estate, an enormous amount of gambling debt, and one astounding acquisition that will turn William's world upside down . . .

It is her first London Season, and Lady Louisa Hargreaves could not be more pleased. She has attracted the attention of the Earl of Kerridge, and the two are on the cusp of an official betrothal. That is, until she learns of a generations-old family debt: her grandfather gambled her hand in marriage and lost, and now Louisa must pay the price. She will marry not the earl but a man she just met, who has taken her freedom in one fell swoop. Even as she struggles to understand the handsome and aloof man she is to wed, Louisa is irresistibly drawn to him—and he to her. But she soon realizes he is harboring secrets, and as her wedding day approaches, she must discover what her future husband is hiding before she makes the gravest mistake of her life.


My Review

I enjoyed this Regency romance and the characters that came to life in their unusual circumstances. I loved the premise of the plot- the difficulties that both Louisa and William are dealing with, and the relationship that slowly develops between them, despite their differences. I learned some new details about the Regency era as new plot twists surfaced. A lovely romance with emotion, angst, tension, and a wonderful ending!

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

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Saturday, December 1, 2018

Review: The Christmas Heirloom by Karen Witemeyer, Kristi Ann Hunter, Sarah Loudin Thomas, Becky Wade



My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

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Synopsis

In Kristi Ann Hunter's "Legacy of Love," Sarah Gooding never suspected returning a brooch to an elderly woman would lead to a job . . . and introduce her to the woman's grandson, a man far above her station.

In Karen Witemeyer's "Gift of the Heart," widow Ruth Albright uses the family brooch as collateral for a loan from the local banker. But the more she comes to know the man behind the stern businessman, the more she hopes for a second chance at love.

In Sarah Loudin Thomas's "A Shot at Love," Fleeta Brady's rough-and-tumble childhood means she prefers hunting to more feminine activities. She never expected her family's brooch might be how a fellow hunter turns her attention from competition to romance.

In Becky Wade's "Because of You," Maddie Winslow has spent years in love with a man whose heart was already spoken for. When a church Christmas project brings them together and she stumbles upon an old family brooch, might it finally be her turn for love?


My Review

I enjoyed each of the stories in this collection by four of Bethany House's strong authors! It was neat that they took place in different eras, connected by the heirloom brooch that is passed down the maternal line. With each story I was immersed in the setting and characters, and a full story arc was achieved in the space of a novella. The romances were sweet and full of chemistry between the lead characters, making the stories come to life. This is a collection that I plan to read again in the future! It would also make a lovely Christmas gift for readers and fans of wholesome romance.

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


Friday, November 16, 2018

Review: Lies, Love, and Breakfast at Tiffany's by Julie Wright




Heidi Reads... Lies, Love, and Breakfast at Tiffany's by Julie Wright

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

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

Synopsis

The Lie
Women in Hollywood are just pretty faces. But Silvia Bradshaw knows that’s a lie, and she’s ready to be treated as an equal and prove her worth as one of Hollywood’s newest film editors.

The Love
She and Ben Mason had worked together as editors before Silvia got her big break, so he’s the perfect person to ask for feedback on her first major film. But even as their friendship begins to blossom into something more, a lawsuit surfaces, jeopardizing both Ben and Silvia’s jobs—as well as their fledgling romance. Audrey Hepburn once said: “The most important thing is to enjoy your life—to be happy—it’s all that matters.” Silvia agrees. Or she used to. It’s one thing to risk her job and her heart, but can she really risk Ben’s, too? Does she have the right to make decisions for her own happiness when they affect so many other people?

The Breakfast
With everything to lose, Silvia meets Ben for breakfast at his favorite diner, Tiffany’s, for one last conversation before the credits roll on true love.


My Review

This book is a hoot! And with wonderful depth! Isn't that a great combination? First of all, I will forever remember the unique main character- Silvia had cancer as a five year old which left her with inner scars as well as outer- she lost her eye and has a glass eye she named Audrey (the little details about her vision and glass eye as an adult are fascinating!) Her fears stemming from her experiences in the hospital influence her relationships and priorities. I loved that she is strong and ambitious in a cutthroat Hollywood career, but also struggles with vulnerability and confidence at times. Ben is pretty awesome, and unrequited love (that is eventually rewarded) is one of my favorite tropes! He and Silvia have a comfortable friendship, fun banter, and quirky mannerisms that really made them come to life. It was interesting to see Ben as the vulnerable one as he shares his long-time angst over his romantic feelings and sadness when they had drifted apart. Their chemistry is amazing and only grows as Silvia sorts through her feelings for Ben. She has a loyal friend in Emma and her grandmother, and I enjoyed the dynamic they each brought to Silvia's life. She learns important lessons through the obstacles she faces and grows as she begins to model her life into one of compassion like the real-life Audrey Hepburn. This is a book not to miss!

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