Review & Giveaway: Tate by Susan May Warren

 

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour & Giveaway for Tate, the second book of The Montana Marshalls series by Susan May Warren, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Tate 

Series: The Montana Marshalls, Book 2 

Author: Susan May Warren 

Publisher: SDG Publishing 

Release Date: July 9, 2019  

Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense

What will it cost this bodyguard to save the woman he loves?

Bodyguard, Tate Marshall, has always been the family troublemaker. Maybe it’s his impulsive propensity to get into the middle of problems that don’t belong to him. But once in, he can’t stop himself from trying to solve them and that includes his recent dilemma. He’s in love with the woman he’s supposed to protect, the beautiful Gloria, “Glo” Jackson, daughter of US Senator and presidential hopeful Reba Jackson. A member of the country band, the Yankee Belles, Glo was targeted in a recent terrorist attack designed to deter her mother from running.

Glo is as stubborn as her mother, and Glo isn’t about to hide from threats, at least the kind that won’t cost her heart. Because she’s already paid a terrible price for the war on terror, and she can’t let herself love a man who might die, especially because of her.

As the campaign heats up and the threats deepen, so does the attraction between Tate and Glo. But when they’re discovered, and Tate is fired, what will he do to protect the woman he loves?

And what will Glo do to keep from losing another man to the costs of war?

The gripping second installment of the Marshall Family series.

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N | Book Depository | Christian Book

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  MY REVIEW

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Another amazing story in the Montana Marshalls series! The previous book Knox provided a great lead in to the suspenseful plot as well as introducing readers to both Tate and Glo, but only hinting at the things they have gone through, increasing curiosity and anticipation for this book. I loved the strong yet vulnerable personalities of Tate and Glo, and the chemistry and attraction they share. I've been interested in the Marshall siblings since reading Reuben's story in the third Montana Fire book, Burnin' For You. The brothers and sister have a strong family bond, but also some drama in their history and it's been great to get to know the dynamic they share and look forward to more being revealed with each book. The siblings are finding their own way in life, but have a haven in the family ranch where their mother keeps the homefire burning. The swift pace and exciting action kept me glued to the pages and the angst between Tate and Glo as they figure out their relationship was heartwrenching. Highly recommend to fans of contemporary romance and suspense! 

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

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

 

Susan May Warren is the USA Today bestselling, Christy and RITA award-winning novelist of over sixty-five novels. An eight-time Christy award finalist, a three-time RITA Finalist, she’s also a multi-winner of the Inspirational Readers Choice award, and the ACFW Carol Award.

A seasoned women’s events speaker, she’s a popular writing teacher at conferences around the nation and the author of the beginning writer’s workbook: The Story Equation.

She is also the founder of MyBookTherapy.com, and Novel.Academy, a school for aspiring novelists.

CONNECT WITH SUSAN: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of Knox & Tate, plus 2 CDs - Kelsea Ballerini (Unapologetically) and Brett Young (Ticket to LA)

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule shown below. Giveaway will begin at midnight June 10, 2019 and last through 11:59 PM EST on June 17, 2019. US only. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize.

 Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

 

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

Review: More Than Words Can Say by Karen Witemeyer

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

After fulfilling a pledge to a dying friend, Zacharias Hamilton is finally free. No family entanglements. No disappointing those around him. Just the quiet bachelor existence he's always craved. Until fate snatches his freedom away when the baker of his favorite breakfast bun is railroaded by the city council. Despite not wanting to get involved, he can't turn a blind eye to her predicament . . . or her adorable dimples.

Abigail Kemp needs a man's name on her bakery's deed. A marriage of convenience seems the best solution . . . if it involves a man she can control. That person definitely isn't the stoic lumberman who oozes silent confidence whenever he enters her shop. Control Zacharias Hamilton? She can't even control her pulse when she's around him.
 
When vows are spoken, Abigail's troubles should be over. Yet threats to the bakery worsen, and darker dangers hound her sister. Can she put ever more trust in Zach without losing her dreams of independence?

My Review

Warning: extreme gushing ahead...

Another top favorite of 2019!!! I absolutely adored every part of this book! While I've enjoyed every book by this author, I have two favorites that I just love to re-read- To Win Her Heart and Short-Straw Bride. More Than Words Can Say has now been added to that elite list- it gave me that special reading experience I crave- great characters and (I don't often use this word) *swoony* romance full of crackling chemistry, romantic tension, and longing for each other.

Zach is a hero that sacrifices for others, he's a protector. He has a troubled past but has redeemed himself, even though he still struggles with forgiving himself. He's a bit like Mr. Darcy in that he's quiet and standoffish, but personable and charming with those closest to him. He and Abby were genuinely adorable when they engage in a little flirting and teasing. I loved seeing them warm up to each other so quickly and the laughter and delight they take in each other. A marriage of convenience that is affectionate from the start, they don't rush their boundaries but also don't keep their growing feelings a secret. Zach shows his love through actions more than words (although the scene where he uses his words is, again- adorable!) and Abigail recognizes that. Abigail also struggles with a trauma in her past and the way her former BFF and current archenemy is still punishing her for it. There is a strong message of forgiveness and healing through relying on faith in God to provide answers to our challenges that they learn together. I loved Abigail's grace and compassion, which make her a perfect match for our sacrificial hero. This is a story I'm already itching to re-read, and I highly recommend it!!! It works perfectly well as a standalone, but if you can, read the first book in the series since Zach is such an important character in that story and it will add to your understanding of him when you read this one.

(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 book in the Patchwork Family series . . .

Read my 5 star review here

Synopsis

Many consider Evangeline Hamilton cursed. Orphaned at a young age and possessing a pair of mismatched eyes--one bright blue, the other dark brown--Eva has fought to find her way in a world that constantly rejects her. Yet the support of even one person can help overcome the world's judgments, and Eva has two--Seth and Zach, two former orphans she now counts as brothers.

Seeking justice against the man who stole his birthright and destroyed his family, Logan Fowler arrives in 1880s Pecan Gap, Texas, to confront Zach Hamilton, the hardened criminal responsible for his father's death. Only instead of finding a solitary ruthless gambler, he discovers a man not much older than himself with an unusual family. When Zach's sister, Evangeline, insists on dousing Logan with sunshine every time their paths cross, Logan finds his quest completely derailed. Who is truly responsible for his lost legacy, and will restoring the past satisfy if it means forfeiting a future with Evangeline?

Review & Giveaway: The Heart of a Vicar by Sarah M. Eden

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Young love is all too fleeting, as Harold Jonquil painfully discovered years ago when Sarah Sarvol, the niece of a neighboring landowner, captured his heart. After an idyllic few weeks in the throes of blossoming love, reality intervened. They could have no future. Following their disastrous parting, Harold attempted to push aside thoughts of love and regret, but Sarah has never left his heart. Now, years later, he has achieved his lifelong aspiration of becoming the local vicar. However, the role proves more difficult than he imagined. He feels hollow and uninspired—until the most important person in his past returns, challenging him as no one ever has.

When Sarah’s ailing uncle summons her back to the family estate in England, there is only one person from her past she is reluctant to see again: Harold Jonquil, the only man who has ever claimed her heart. But when she comes face-to-face with her former beau, she hardly recognizes the aloof and dull man before her. She is determined to help Harold rediscover the passion he once felt toward his chosen profession. Soon, despite their exasperation with each other, they cannot deny the stirring of feelings long buried—but is it too late for second chances?

My Review

Oh my heart! I have a new favorite Jonquil brother! Harry has been portrayed as rather sanctimonious in the previous books in the series, so it was a revelation to see his true character, why he had acted that way (it was just an act) and what his hidden vulnerabilities and struggles are. The author made him so likeable and brought him to life with the fun and supportive relationship he has with his housekeeper, his need for his mother's affection, and his secret pastime that keeps him in better shape than most of his brothers. I absolutely loved reading about his transformation thanks to Sarah's reappearance in his life and her challenge that has him examining what the role of a vicar really is. Sarah is American (though she considers England home) and has an informality about her that is endearing and brings out the best in Harry. I appreciated that she didn't hold on to the bitterness of rejection, but rather rekindled the genuine friendship that brought her and Harry together in the first place. The Jonquils face their share of trials and it was a joy to experience more with Phillip, Sorrel, Layton, Stanley, and the others. The author skillfully wove their lives together with the plot of Harry finding his footing as a brother and compassionate spiritual leader in the family and community. Highly recommend!!!

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

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Review & Giveaway: The Printed Letter Bookshop by Katherine Reay

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Love, friendship, and family find a home at the Printed Letter Bookshop

One of Madeline Cullen’s happiest childhood memories is of working with her Aunt Maddie in the quaint and cozy Printed Letter Bookshop. But by the time Madeline inherits the shop nearly twenty years later, family troubles and her own bitter losses have hardened Madeline’s heart toward her once-treasured aunt—and the now struggling bookshop left in her care.

While Madeline intends to sell the shop as quickly as possible, the Printed Letter’s two employees have other ideas. Reeling from a recent divorce, Janet finds sanctuary within the books and within the decadent window displays she creates. Claire, though quieter than the acerbic Janet, feels equally drawn to the daily rhythms of the shop and its loyal clientele, finding a renewed purpose within its walls. When Madeline’s professional life takes an unexpected turn, and when a handsome gardener upends all her preconceived notions, she questions her plans and her heart. She begins to envision a new path for herself and for her aunt’s beloved shop—provided the women’s best combined efforts are not too little, too late.

The Printed Letter Bookshop is a captivating story of good books, a testament to the beauty of new beginnings, and a sweet reminder of the power of friendship.

My Review

I can't think of a cozier setting than a bookshop! The Printed Letter Bookshop is a beloved community haven just outside Chicago, and the person who makes it that way, Aunt Maddie, has just died at the beginning of the book- it opens with her funeral. Even though she is not alive during the story, she is very much a presence and influence throughout, thanks to Claire, Janet, Madeline, and several others whose lives were touched by her. I always enjoy this author's lovely manner of using words as she brings her characters and setting to life, they are both grounding and lifting. The way the details of the lives of these three women- four, including Maddie- were slowly revealed peaked my curiosity and kept me interested in their struggles and successes, even though romance was not a main focus of the plot. It was more about the relationships they had with Maddie, each other, and themselves, becoming self-aware and changing as they realized the direction they want their lives to take. The literary references are fun and I wish the bookshop was a real place I could visit!

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

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Review & Giveaway: Sweet on You by Becky Wade #SweetonYouTour #BHPFiction

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Sweet on You

(Bradford Sisters #3)

By Becky Wade

Christian Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 368 Pages

April 30th 2019 by Bethany House Publishers

Britt Bradford and Zander Ford have been the best of friends since they met thirteen years ago. Unbeknown to Britt, Zander has been in love with her for just as long.

Independent and adventurous Britt channels her talent into creating chocolates at her hometown shop. Zander is a bestselling author who's spent the past 18 months traveling the world. He's achieved a great deal but still lacks the only thing that ever truly mattered to him--Britt's heart.

When Zander's uncle dies of mysterious causes, he returns to Merryweather, Washington, to investigate, and Britt is immediately there to help. Although this throws them into close proximity, both understand that an attempt at romance could jeopardize their once-in-a-lifetime friendship. But while Britt is determined to resist any change in their relationship, Zander finds it increasingly difficult to keep his feelings hidden.

As they work together to uncover his uncle's tangled past, will the truth of what lies between them also, finally, come to light?

Goodreads│Amazon│B&N│Book Depostiory│ChristianBook│BAM│iBooks│Kobo

My Review

Britt and Zander know how to do friendship. They are 100% there for each other, even in little ways they don't allow each other to see but are revealed to the reader in snippets from notes over the years. Unrequited love come to fruition is one of my favorite types of romance, and I've been looking forward to Zander finally getting his girl! I loved getting inside his head and experiencing the longing and yearning he has for Britt, while also fulfilling his own aspirations in the meantime. The mystery behind his uncle's hidden past and the suspense it brought to the plot was the perfect balance for the angst Britt and Zander are feeling and also providing them the opportunities to get closer together. For much of the book Britt did such a good job convincing herself that there was no romance between herself and Zander that I was convinced also, and had to make a major shift when things finally heat up between them. I would have done better with a bit more emotion or self-awareness from her leading into the new dimension of their relationship. They have such a deep connection otherwise, the chemistry that rises to the surface is just the icing on the cake. Britt and Zander each are developing their faith as well and I appreciated the insights and inspiration there. I love this series focused on a trio of sisters!

(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.

Website│Blog│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Pinterest│Instagram

Tour Schedule

Tour Giveaway

ONE WINNER WILL RECEIVE:

• Tote bag highlighting Britt’s chocolate shop, Sweet Art
• Paperback copy of Sweet on You
• $100 Visa gift card
• 1 pound box of See’s chocolate truffles
• Set of chocolate scented soap
• Box of colored pencils
• “Tattoo” coloring book

Enter on Becky's website HERE

Review: Snatching the Catcher by Rebecca Connolly, Sophia Summers, Heather B. Moore

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Grizz is about to break all of the rules for something he never imagined he would be risking . . . His heart.

Rachel Bennett has spent her entire life reaching for her dreams to dance professionally, and has come close enough that she’s content with where she is. Enter Grizz McCarthy, one of her brother’s best friends and a member of the beloved Belltown Six Pack. Ranked as one of the hottest pro athletes of the year, Rachel finds there is so much more to Grizz than that, and soon he has her reaching for more.

Rachel should be off limits for David “Grizz” McCarthy. That’s a universally accepted fact, courtesy of his bond with his brothers in the Six Pack. But the more time he spends with Rachel, the less he cares about that fact, and what it could do to his friendships.

My Review

I've been excited to read Grizz's story! As the level-headed catcher he is a leader of the faltering baseball team, and it was interesting to see how he dealt with the struggles while his other Belltown teammates found success. Rachel knows athletes and this group of players specifically since her brother is one of them, and when she connects with Grizz in Pittsburgh (he rescues her from a horrible date) their friendship naturally develops and deepens into something more. There is a great balance of humor, flirting, chemistry, and emotion as they support each other and see where the future leads. Rachel's love of dance and devotion to ballet was neat to read about since I'm currently taking beginner ballet classes for fun (and exercise) and felt like I could relate in the tiniest way ;) No excess drama or conflict here, which made the plot avoid the extreme highs and lows, but rather gave a pleasant experience with extremely likeable characters you can't help but root for. Another great addition to the fun Belltown Sixpack series! (These books can be read in any order- pick one... or all... of them up ASAP!)

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

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Welcome to Belltown! Six baseball players meet in the college town of Belltown, Massachusetts, becoming best friends, their lives intertwining as they each get called up to the Major Leagues.

Follow Sawyer, Cole, Axel, David, Ryker, and Levi in these six swoony sports romances.

Belltown Six Pack Series:
 
Hitching the Pitcher
Falling for Centerfield
Charming the Shortstop
Snatching the Catcher
Flirting with First
Kissing on Third

Review: Cards of Kindness for Courageous Girls: Shareable Devotions and Inspiration

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Courageous Girls Are Kind!

Your heart will delight in spreading kindness and inspiration wherever you go with these shareable Cards of Kindness!

Flip each page to discover a positive life message that will both uplift and inspire your heart—and the hearts of other courageous girls just like you. Once you’ve read through the devotion and pondered the message of loving-kindness, tear out the card and pass it on to another girl . . who will then be encouraged to keep the "Courageous Girls Are Kind" movement going. . .by passing the card along to yet another courageous girl!

Each Card of Kindness will spark positive, faith-building discussions with other likeminded girls. You’ll enjoy spreading kindness and God's love, page by delightful page!

Be blessed, COURAGEOUS GIRL!

My Review

The messages in this cute book are ultra-encouraging and inspiring. So much so, that I picture the words being said by a woman with a wide bright smile. Some can get a little cheesy, but overall they are heartwarming and I love the ideas and messages they shared. Each page is perforated so it can be easily removed and "passed on" to another girl. One side has a paragraph or two in a discussion-type narrative, along with a correlating scripture, and the reverse side has the main idea surrounded by illustrations and graphics which are colorful, trendy, and tasteful. I would have preferred a slightly heavier paper so the pages are more like an actual card, but they are not thin either. This would make a thoughtful gift for a girl or young woman!

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