Review & Giveaway: A Proper Scandal by Esther Hatch

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Grace Sinclair has been callously cast out of her home. And though taken in as an orphaned child by the vicar and his wife, her unsurpassed beauty makes it impossible for her to remain in the vicar’s household—with two daughters of their own about to enter Society, the vicar and his wife see Grace as nothing but competition. Thankfully, Grace’s estranged Aunt Bell has agreed to take her in to her home in London. But Grace soon learns her situation has just gotten much worse.

It takes only a moment’s acquaintance for Grace to ascertain that her aunt has married a detestable rake. And Aunt Bell, recognizing the danger of having her lovely niece too near her husband, gives Grace an ultimatum: the young woman has two weeks to find a man to marry, after which she will be turned out. With no experience in the art of attracting a husband, Grace quickly realizes that a worthy suitor might not be so easy to ensnare.

My Review

Grace is in quite a mess! I loved her tenacity despite her discomfort with her circumstances. She desperately misses her parents, but realizes that nobody is there to save her, she must make the best of it and choose the path that will determine how the rest of her life turns out. She has her sights set on Nate, and even though he is determined to never be taken advantage of by a scheming woman again, he can't resist her sweet personality and genuine compassion. They had a fun meet-cute that set the stage for the informal banter they enjoy for the rest of the book. I loved the contrasts in the characters and story that makes them question what is real, what are everyone's secrets, and how on earth is everything going to turn out?! Strong characterization and the steady pace of the interesting plot made this a book I couldn't put down! Highly recommend!!!

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


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Review: The Beauty (Ladies of Miss Bell's Finishing School) by Rebecca Connolly

My rating: 3 stars / I liked it

Synopsis

Caroline Perkins cannot claim much in her life other than the dowry her uncle arranged for her and her physical beauty. Raised on the London docks, she bears the burden of being a tradesman’s daughter, and not one of respectability. In leaving Miss Bell’s School for Young Ladies, Caroline is leaving the only friends she has known and the only safe place she has lived. But she knows her companionship with Lady Ashby could give her the connections and opportunities she needs to secure a good future for herself. If her past does not return to haunt her present and future, that is.
 
Will Debenham isn’t certain what he is looking for in his life, but from the moment he sees Caroline Perkins, he is certain he has found it. Every interaction with her only enhances the feeling, and every day in her company makes him want her more. But can the son of an earl really marry a tradesman’s daughter? Or will station, birth, and Caroline’s own resistance keep them apart?

My Review

This is a sweet Regency story, but I wished for more in the way of plot and personality. The focus of the book is on Caroline's role as companion and her opportunity to find a husband as such. She was a bland character, and even as I attempted to find more interesting attributes about her, Will described her perfectly: "You are always so calm, so stalwart, so unaffected. You possess an unnatural serenity." She does feel the insults of others keenly, but instead of standing up for herself, she accepts it and even internalizes the belief that she is of less worth and undeserving. I was disappointed that she didn't have more of a backbone, although this is probably realistic of many women of the time who are victims of the precedence of status and birth in society. Will sees beyond all that and cherishes her for her beauty and grace, despite her unfortunate circumstances. My issue with him is that he observed her abuse and didn't do much to stand up for her either. He struggles with his desire to break out of his role as a gentleman, but doesn't take the opportunity to do so when she is in need of his help. I kept reading to the end to see how their happy ending would come about, and the final scene was lovely and emotional.

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

Ladies of Miss Belle's Finishing School series:

Review: Behind the Light of Golowduyn by Deborah M. Hathaway

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

She’s the keeper of Golowduyn Lighthouse. He’s the captain who shipwrecked on her watch. A marriage of convenience can save her home—if secrets don’t destroy it first.

Abigail Moore will do anything to keep Golowduyn Lighthouse shining brightly, even if she must do so alone. When a shipwreck occurs near her home one stormy evening—bringing with it a dashing captain keen to offer his aid at every turn—her days of isolation vanish.

Captain Gavin Kendricks didn’t expect to end his naval career by crashing his ship against the rugged cliffs of Cornwall. When he’s pulled from the sea by the fearless and quick-tempered Miss Moore, a tentative friendship forms between them, and he begins to realize what has been missing from his life.

Before either of them can explore these newfound stirrings, death and deception hit Golowduyn, and Abigail is left with a choice. Either she loses everything she has ever loved, or she marries the captain and accepts his help. Unable to give up the lighthouse, she agrees to the union, and they work together to see that the light does not diminish. But when her childhood secrets are unearthed, and their property falls victim to troubling defacement, their marriage threatens to crumble. Gavin fights to gain her confidence, but only Abigail can forget the crippling memories of her past to trust Gavin with Golowduyn—and her heart.

My Review

I loved the setting in this story with great character development and a riveting plot. There's something special about lighthouses as they stand as a beacon in the storms. Abigail is overworked as she unofficially takes on the role of main keeper from her uncle, but is devoted to the lighthouse and its purpose. I admired her strength and stubbornness which was tempered by her insecurity about her past. Gavin quickly becomes a good friend to her uncle, but it was interesting how Abigail felt jealousy towards their rapport and felt left out and unappreciated by her uncle. She deals with complicated emotions during this time of upheaval as secrets are revealed in the aftermath of unexpected tragedy. I loved how Gavin is a source of strength and refuge for her as she humbles herself to accept his help and open her heart to a deeper friendship and relationship. His positive personality brings light and humor to the story and balances out the darker themes. This book was a pleasure to read and I highly recommend it to fans of historical fiction!

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

Review: Spinster and Spice by Rebecca Connolly

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Spinster, sweet Spinster 
 
Isabella Lambert is a nice person. She is biddable, polite, soft-spoken, and eager to please. She also happens to be a spinster, and one of the writers of the infamous Spinster Chronicles, where she is less polite, more outspoken, and may not please anyone. Izzy also has a secret that only one person knows, and that one person may hold the key to its success.

Sebastian Morton finds Izzy Lambert fascinating. She is the perfect mentor for his younger sister as well as a capable and charming friend for him. When opportunity strikes to spend more time with her, her secret becomes his. But will this secret, and others, ruin their connection?


My Review

The Spinster Chronicles is a fun series full of friendly banter and vibrant personalities. It was nice to get to know Izzy better and learn about why she has found herself as a doormat for her family, which bled into her social life in Society as well. I loved that Sebastian recognizes that there is more to her and encourages her to stand up for herself and her feelings. It takes some effort and some practice, but eventually she is able to demonstrate to herself and others that just because she's nice doesn't mean that she can be taken advantage of. While mentoring his sister during her debut brings them together more often, it is her storytelling talent that she has turned into a secret endeavor to be published that draws them even closer together. Their sweet romance is charming and full of chemistry, but not without conflict. This installment of the Chronicles kept me entertained and happy with the development of both plot and characters.

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

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Don't miss the first two books in the Spinster Chronicles series . . .

Review: All for You by Heather B. Moore

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

She's sophisticated and doesn't put up with anything. He's fought for every thing he's got, and he's used to getting his way.

Crash and burn pretty much describes Lindsey Gerber’s last six months at her law firm where she hoped to make partner. Now, every goal she’s made is suddenly out the window. She moves to Pine Valley, looking for a new start. On day one she meets pro hockey player Tyler Nelson, who’s recovering from an injury and in a physical therapy program that includes nature things like hiking the ski resort, which he hates, and makes no secret of. He also makes no secret of his interest in Lindsey. Their lives are two worlds apart though, and it will take one of them changing everything to make a relationship work.

My Review

Such great chemistry!!! Holy foot rub batman... I enjoyed all the elements of this story that wove it together into an entertaining romance, as well as the mannerisms of the characters. Nelson is immediately endearing, with his long-suffering attitude towards his holistic physical therapist- the way he kept catching his swear words and replacing them in order to eliminate negativity went right to my sweet spot. He quickly takes on the role of defender and protector of Lindsey while she deals with the fallout of harassment at her former job, and it's very appealing. She is a smart and strong woman, and she recognizes the characteristics that make Nelson an all around good guy. I loved reading about their time together in Pine Valley, Nelson's return to hockey, and how they resolve the difficulties of their long distance relationship. Loved the variety of experiences they share together as their romance blossomed and relationship deepened. Every book in this series has been so fun to read, I want the author to keep 'em coming! Highly recommend!

(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 amazing books in the Pine Valley series! 
(They can easily be read in any order)

Review: The Paradox of Love by Teri Harman

My rating: 3 stars / I liked it

Synopsis

In 1889 in Paradox Valley, Colorado, Oakley Hallowell dresses like a boy, taking on the role left empty by her six dead brothers. Better than any cowboy, her hard work and mystic gifts are the reason Hallowell Ranch thrives—but her prideful, abusive father, Gideon, will never admit it. Despite his insults and beatings, Oakley refuses to abandon her grief-broken mother and beautiful home.

The Army killed Antero’s parents and the government forcibly removed his tribe of Utes from their beloved valley. His quest for revenge sent him down a dark path and into hiding. When he witnesses Oakley quietly, miraculously save a cow from a mud-bogged death he steps out of isolation to meet her.

Antero knows Gideon Hallowell will shoot him on sight, but this fascinating woman revives his bitter soul. How can he fight a world that despises him to keep Oakley by his side?

Oakley senses goodness and loyalty in Antero, unlike the other men in her life. But she’s afraid to get close, to trust. How can she open her heart to love, forgive her father, and forge a path to happiness?

My Review

I don't quite know what to make of this story. Oakley is a complex character- abused by her father, yet tries her hardest to be the son he never had. Cherishes her mother, but resents that she doesn't stand up for herself or her daughter. Has no interest in a relationship, but is inexplicably drawn toward a drifting Indian. The circumstances she cannot escape are difficult and trying, and there doesn't seem to be any hope or love there, until Antero shows her kindness and gentleness. I enjoyed their interactions, even though there are few before they become devoted to each other. They are each a rescuer of sorts to the other- he rescues her from harm, she rescues him from loneliness. They both struggle with the trauma they have experienced, and wonder together if forgiveness is possible. I liked the way they lifted each other, bringing light and even faith to their dark worlds. Just when I thought things couldn't get any worse, they do... and the ending was both messy and wrapped up a little too nicely. Overall, I found it interesting and was compelled to keep reading to see how everything would turn out.

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

Review: Daisies and Devotion by Josi S. Kilpack

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Timothy Mayfield is ready to marry for love, but, since his personal finances are thinner than he’d like, he knows he’ll also need to find a wife with wealth. After receiving an unexpected inheritance, Timothy’s circumstances change, and he is free to pursue his “perfect woman”—one with blonde hair, blue eyes, a light laugh, arched eyebrows, elegant fingers, and a dazzling smile, among nearly twenty other characteristics.

Maryann Morrington doesn’t match anything on Timothy’s list—except for wealth. An heiress in her own right, she is tired of men pursuing her only for her money. But at nearly twenty-two years old, and not a particularly stunning beauty, she can’t be as picky as her friend Timothy is.

The two friends end up playing matchmaker for each other. Timothy will find a decent gentleman for Maryann, and Maryann will prove to Timothy that his “perfect woman” doesn’t exist.

Until Miss Shaw comes to London.

Now, with Timothy’s heart captivated by the blonde, blue-eyed beauty, Maryann must decide if she should risk her heart and reveal her true feelings for her friend, or if she should settle for someone else. It’s an up-and-down game of “he loves me, he loves me not” with both hearts and friendship on the line.

My Review

I didn't quite know what to think about Maryann and Timothy at first- she seemed without personality and he appeared to be a light headed dandy. It made me curious, and I absolutely loved getting to know them as aspects of their personalities unfolded and characteristics were revealed. Their friendship is unique in that they are completely upfront with each other- blunt almost to a fault. They appreciate the honesty in each other... until feelings get hurt. Unrequited love is one of my favorite tropes because it has such a strong element of longing. Maryann is a lovely friend and does want Timothy's happiness, even at the expense of her own. He had to experience for himself the value of her devotion in contrast to the empty fantasy, and the final scenes in the book are oh-so-sweet and a wonderful give and take in their complex relationship. Highly recommend!!!

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

Review & Giveaway: A Welcome At Our Door by Amy Clipston

 

Welcome to the Blog Tour & Giveaway for A Welcome At Our Door by Amy Clipston with JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

 
Title: A Welcome At Our Door  
Series: Amish Homestead, Book 4  
Author: Amy Clipston  
Publisher: Zondervan  
Release Date: May 7, 2018
Genre: Amish Fiction

After a devastating loss, Cindy Riehl is still searching for peace. Will she find it in the community she calls home—or will love send her down a new path?

Over the last few years, Cindy Riehl—the youngest of the Riehl children—has watched her siblings find love and happiness in Lancaster County. But as her family has settled down and grown, Cindy has continued to grieve her mother, whose death left an enormous hole in her heart. Since that haunting day, Cindy has struggled to find peace and wonders if the community is the place for her—and if her faith in God will ever feel the same as it once did.

When a handsome and kind Englisher named Drew crosses Cindy’s path one surprising day, the two of them become fast and easy friends. Drew dreams of starting a family after some losses of his own, and before long, he and Cindy discover that their feelings for each other are romantic. As they spend more time together—often in secret—Cindy is drawn further and further away from the Amish community and the family she loves. In time, she is faced with a difficult choice that threatens to upend her world.

Will Cindy find contentment and love, and will she ever find restored comfort in God and her beloved community? In this final installment of the Amish Homestead series, we return to the charming town of Bird-in-Hand for a story of healing, family, and God’s perfect provision.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N | Book Depository | ChristianBook

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MY REVIEW

3 stars / I liked it

This is a sweet story of friendship, healing, and discovering one's path. Cindy has contrasting emotions about her life- she acts as though she is content, but is stuck in her grief and feels like no one can understand. Even though she is sweet and helpful, she also comes across as a bit immature and self-centered. Her quick friendship with Drew fills the void in her life, and they are very sweet together. The narrative is repetitious and the entire plot focuses on the dilemma of their relationship- they are forbidden to be friends because it would prevent Cindy from staying Amish... even though she still had not committed to baptism. The family members are two-dimensional and I wished there had been more depth explored, their feelings shown rather than told. The last part of the book was more interesting and I was curious to see how the author would choose to wrap everything up. I felt like it was overly simple and even though I enjoyed the happy ending, there were issues that I thought were not addressed.

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

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

 

Amy Clipston is the award-winning and bestselling author of the Kauffman Amish Bakery, Hearts of Lancaster Grand Hotel, Amish Heirloom, and Amish Homestead series. Her novels have hit multiple bestseller lists including CBD, CBA, and ECPA. Amy holds a degree in communication from Virginia Wesleyan University and works full-time for the City of Charlotte, NC. Amy lives in North Carolina with her husband, two sons, and four spoiled rotten cats.  

CONNECT WITH AMY: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
 

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a print copy of A Welcome At Our Door.  

Enter via the Rafflecopter giveaway below. Giveaway will begin at midnight May 13, 2019 and last through 11:59 pm May 20, 2019. US only. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

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