Review, Author Interview & Giveaway: The Spinster and I by Rebecca Connolly

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis


Poor, unfortunate Spinster...

Prudence Westfall, spinster, has unexpectedly had the greatest misfortune of all: she has inherited a fortune, and is now an heiress. But as a Spinster, and a stammering shy one, nothing could be worse than having a bevy of suitors pay her attention. Opportunity strikes at a house party when the most unlikely person offers the perfect solution.

Camden Vale is no gentleman, and he’s not prone to saving anyone, but something about Prue changes all that. When his offer to befriend her extends beyond the house party, and his feelings extend beyond expectation, no one is more surprised than he. Except, perhaps, for the other Spinsters, and they have much to say on the subject.


My Review

I loved Prue! She is so sweet and unassuming, and I couldn't help but root for her as she deals with her new circumstances- a status that puts her in the spotlight of society and the focus of fortune hunters, and a formerly neglectful mother who now takes too much interest and the verbal abuse that comes with it. The support of her friends is invaluable and essential to her journey of independence and self-confidence. The personalities of the Spinsters are each distinct and vibrant, and I loved coming back to the dynamics of their group. Camden is so charming, but in a likeable way- not over the top. He sees past Prue's stammering for who she truly is, and their friendship and developing romance was a pleasure to read. Another lovely Regency romance from Rebecca Connolly!

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

Author Interview 

Can you tell us a little about yourself? 

Sure! I’m an Indiana girl and just recently moved back (WOOHOO!) for a new job in orthopedic medicine. I’m a music lover, especially movie soundtracks and fabulous orchestra parts. Period dramas are hands down my favorite movies and TV shows, especially British ones! I drink hot chocolate all year wrong, collect blankets, eat raw cookie dough, and find sweats and hoodies to be the best clothing ever created. I teach 4 year olds at church, which is a riot, and love love LOVE being an aunt!

What do you do besides writing? 

Work! Haha, I work full time in the medical setting in an orthopedic department. I love to do anything with my family, even if it’s just hanging out on the couch and watching a movie. Long walks are fabulous, and, when I have time, I love to devour a good book!

Do you have images you can share that come close to how you picture your characters? Do you like to find visual inspiration for your characters before or during your writing process? 

Sure do! I love to find visual representation when I can. I usually start off with an idea, and sometimes that changes as I write. Or a new actor will comes across my path, and I’ll think,”Oh, maybe he/she would be better!” Here’s how I picture the main characters in The Spinster and I, Prue and Camden.

What are some songs that you listened to or inspired you while writing your book? 

Oh, this book had an AMAZING song for inspiration. I have never ever had a song be so perfect for a story. We All Need Saving by Jon McLaughlin. It seriously changed everything about this book. I also have selected songs from the soundtracks of Crimson Peak and Becoming Jane in there.

What message would you like readers to ultimately take away from the book? 

I want them to see the beauty in the deeper sides of these characters, to see how people can change, and to find value in the loyalty that these characters have for each other.

What can we look forward to coming from you in the future? 

Oh, lots! I have more in the Spinster Chronicles, a few more London League books, an exciting companion series to the London League, and an intriguing little series set in Cornwall coming in the next few years!

About the Author

 Rebecca Connolly writes romances, both period and contemporary, because she absolutely loves a good love story. She has been creating stories since childhood, and there are home videos to prove it! She started writing them down in elementary school and has never looked back. She currently lives in the Midwest, spends every spare moment away from her day job absorbed in her writing, and is a hot cocoa addict.

FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | WEBSITE

Giveaway

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Blog Tour & Giveaway: At First Glance by Susan L. Tuttle

Welcome to the Blog Tour & Giveaway for At First Glance by Susan L. Tuttle, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: At First Glance  
Author: Susan L. Tuttle  
Publisher: Bling! Romance (Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas)
Release Date: November 1, 2018  
Genre: Contemporary Romance  

When it comes to love and matters of the heart, she’s got a lot to learn.

Estate planner Penny Thornton loves dusting off items others gloss over, especially since she relates to feeling tossed aside for the “bright and shiny”. When her younger sister’s approaching wedding launches Penny back into the throes of her dysfunctional family, she decides to use the festivities to close the gap in their relationships—even if it means appeasing them and finally losing the few pounds they’ve hounded her about for years.

But she doesn’t expect to meet two very different men in the process. East Fisher, the personal trainer who personifies everything she believes she could never attain, and Jonah Black, a man who reminds her so much of herself. Both men are more than they appear at first glance, and both seem interested in her romantically.

As Penny uncovers their hidden layers, she discovers when it comes to love and matters of the heart, she’s got a lot to learn about estimating value.  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon

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EXCERPT

Jonah straightened. “You look great.”

“Um … thanks.” Her hand instinctively touched her scar. In a rush she hadn’t covered it after her shower—something she rarely forgot. That very mark was the reason she hadn’t remained Mom’s belle. Without it covered, how could anyone pay her an honest compliment?

She followed him to his car where he unlocked her door and held it open, his gaze snagging hers again. “Our scars are a part of us, Penelope. Being vulnerable enough to show them only makes you more beautiful.” He tucked her inside, then he walked around and slid into the driver’s seat. “Leitzia’s?” Asked like he hadn’t just attempted to shred years of personal beliefs with two small sentences. 

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Susan L. Tuttle lives in the Mitten State where she’s a homeschooling mom of three and happily married to her best friend. Between raising her teens and leading the women’s ministry at church, she finds time to write. She’s firmly convinced that letters were meant for words, not math, and loves stringing them together into stories that inspire and encourage. Romance, laughter, and cookies are three of her favorite things, though not always in that order. Connect with Susan at http://www.susanltuttle.com.  

CONNECT WITH SUSAN: Website | Facebook | Twitter

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive (US only)

• an ARC copy of At First Glance
• $10 Amazon gift card
• book cozy from The Cozy Life
• cute bookmark

Enter via the Rafflecopter giveaway below. Giveaway will begin at midnight November 5, 2018 and last through 11:59pm November 12, 2018. US only. Winners will be notified within a week 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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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

E-book #SALE 99 cents for The Betting Groom by Taylor Hart

Grab your copy of The Betting Groom 

by Taylor Hart for just 99¢ today!

 

The Betting Groom

Last Play Christmas Romances: The Legendary Kent Brother Romances 

by Taylor Hart  

How much would you bet on true love this holiday season? 

After getting caught in a media frenzy at a charity event, Will Kent, Quarterback for the Denver Storm and five of his buddies found themselves in jail—with no one coming for them. After bemoaning their situation, Will challenges the guys to a Christmas Bet to find the woman they had always loved, the one who had gotten away…and kiss her by Christmas Eve. 

Tara Lighthouse never would have expected to find herself barefoot, on a ledge, in the middle of a snowstorm. But the recent divorce and the pregnancy test made her feel hopeless. After saying a prayer, she is shocked when Will Kent shows up at her door. And even more shocked when he offers to hire her as his PR consultant for the next four days. 

After playing Mr. and Mrs. Claus, buying Christmas for a bunch of children, skiing, and spilling secrets, both of them recognize something magic is happening between them. When the truth comes out, they are left with a choice: forgive or walk away from the only love they’ve ever wanted.    

From the Author 

Oh man, I can't even tell you how much I love Will! Not only is he fun, loving and generous-he's also...good. Really good. He has a depth that most people don't see in him because he keeps it hidden. And the love he has for Tara is inspiring! Cheers- Taylor

   

Praise from Readers 

Such a great story! She turned him down once but will she give him a second chance? Sweet romance at it's best. I’m rarely surprised by a Taylor Hart book because they are nearly always good...but this one took me by surprise...because it’s pure gold! 

Another Kent brother bites the dust in this 2nd chance love story. A sweet story of finding your HEA with your one true love. As someone who has loved, lost, and loved again, it's so nice to have stories that inspire the hope for those of us who have relationships that have ended in loss.

Grab your copy now!

 

#TFBRH Fall Colors

This book not only features fall colors on its cover, it is also has an autumn setting and the author does such a great job bringing the season to life through subtle descriptions.

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Felicity Miner is not normally an anxious person, and she’s been on her own since high school. But after a shoplifter steals from her bookshop, she calls the cops. When Officer Leo Russo shows up, Felicity has to tell herself that just because the romance novel she’s been reading has a hero police officer doesn’t mean she needs to project her imagination onto the real man. Yes, Officer Russo is unexpectedly generous, and he helps make Felicity’s home more secure when her worries won’t settle down. But the more Felicity is around Officer Russo, the more she imagines a future between them. Is he merely doing his duty, protecting and serving the citizens of Pine Valley, or is there potential for something more?

My Review

The cover of this book may seem unassuming, but it is chock full of memorable characters with quirky and likeable mannerisms and personalities! As much as I enjoyed the other books in the Pine Valley series, I do believe this one is my favorite. Bookstores, bikes, hot chocolate, and autumn! What I loved most about Leo and Felicity is how genuine they are. As themselves, and with each other. They accepted one another for who they are- quirks, flaws, and everything. The flirting and banter was cute without being cheesy or cliche, and so fun to read. Leo and Felicity both have things they are struggling with, and come from very different families. I think that helped them give each other a new perspective when supporting and encouraging through the other's issues. I really connected to their emotions and it brought depth to the story and made the romance one full of anticipation and delight. This is one that I plan to read again for sure! Highly recommend!

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

Join the challenge here!

#TFBRC Heartbreaker

I loved all the beautiful angst and longing and frustration and anticipation in this lovely and unique book! Highly recommend!

Synopsis

Kate Worthington knows her heart and she knows she will never marry. Her plan is to travel to India instead—if only to find peace for her restless spirit and to escape the family she abhors. But Kate’s meddlesome mother has other plans. She makes a bargain with Kate: India, yes, but only after Kate has secured—and rejected—three marriage proposals.

Kate journeys to the stately manor of Blackmoore determined to fulfill her end of the bargain and enlists the help of her dearest childhood friend, Henry Delafield. But when it comes to matters of love, bargains are meaningless and plans are changeable. There on the wild lands of Blackmoore, Kate must face the truth that has kept her heart captive. Will the proposal she is determined to reject actually be the one thing that will set her heart free?

Set in Northern England in 1820, Blackmoore is a Regency romance that tells the story of a young woman struggling to learn how to follow her heart. It is Wuthering Heights meets Little Women with a delicious must-read twist.

Join the challenge here!

Review & Giveaway: The Gem Thief by Sian Ann Bessey

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Gracie Miller is a small-town girl who has landed her dream job in New York City. As jewelry designer for one of the most prestigious jewelers in the world, she completed a particularly stunning piece, a custom setting for a large pink diamond. But when her billionaire client Mrs. Katsaros comes to repair a minor issue with the setting, Gracie is horrified to realize it is not the ring she created. Someone has forged her design, and the priceless diamond is gone.

Mrs. Katsaros has no desire to bring media attention to the jewelry heist, so she recruits her nephew, Quinn, and his FBI agent friend, Steve, to do some sleuthing off the record. When they discover that the missing ring is just one of many forgeries in the widow's collection, they look to Gracie for help. They need her to act the part of Quinn's fiancée. From the lights of New York to the shimmering islands of the Mediterranean, Gracie is swept into a thrilling hunt. But amid the search for the elusive thief, she and Quinn find themselves increasingly distracted by their growing feelings for each other. What neither realizes is how close the danger lies and how serious the vendetta is—because, apparently, it is worth killing for.

My Review

This romantic suspense book was just my speed. The author did a great job of letting me get to know the characters while also jump starting the plot. Gracie has a pretty amazing job as a fine jewelry designer in New York City, but she is also down to earth and genuine. I loved the world travel and seeing it through the eyes of Gracie for whom it's a first time experience. There is a perfect balance between the progressing relationship of Gracie and Quinn, and following the mystery of who is behind the stolen jewelry and forgeries. Quinn is a high-powered attorney, but appreciates Gracie for who she is and learns to bring some more balance into his life. I loved Quinn's aunt and her compassion and generosity. It was neat to see her and Gracie form a friendship throughout the journey as they support each other's vulnerabilities with their own strengths. There was a steady pace throughout the book with various climaxes as they draw closer to solving the case and the attraction between Gracie and Quinn blooms into romance. I was glued to the pages and finished the book with a happy sigh :)

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

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Nov 5: My Book a Day | Rockin' Book Reviews | Bonnie Gets a Say | Life is What It's Called

Nov 6: Brightly Street | Empower Moms | Heidi Reads... | Kindle & Me

Nov 7: LDS Writer Mom | Bookworm Lisa | Lovebugs and Postcards

Nov 8: Singing Librarian Books | LDS and Lovin' It | Getting Your Read On

Nov 9: I am a Reader | Why Not? Because I Said So | Literary Time Out | Wishful Endings | Books are Sanity

Spotlight, Excerpt & Giveaway: Star Spangled Second Chance by Christie Logan

 

Star Spangled Second Chance by Christie Logan 

They were best friends before he left town without a word. Now he's back. Will her heart be broken again? Good girl Portia Phillips always followed the rules, colored inside the lines and walked the straight and narrow. Only her best friend Raymond Alessio could ever get her to quit being "perfect Portia" for a minute and take a risk. Portia fell in love with Raymond way back in fourth grade. That love only grew stronger as years passed, but she kept it hidden, until one Fourth of July when she finally had the courage to share her feelings. That was the night he broke her heart. Since then she's kept it safe, under lock and key. Now, eight years later, he's back in town with his young daughter. His life's a mess, but his love for Portia never changed. Can Raymond convince her to give him another chance? Will Portia find the courage to risk her heart a second time?  

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EXCERPT 

Portia stood with Raymond on Lake Verona's shore and looked out at the smooth surface of the water. "Remember the last time we were here?" he asked.

"Sure I do. You showed me how to skip stones." She picked up one of the small stones at her feet and flung it out, frowning as it landed with an ungainly plop. "Guess I lost the knack."

"It wasn't flat enough." Raymond selected another stone and handed it to her. "Try this one."

As she pulled back her arm to fling the stone, he stepped behind her and gently held her arm to guide her aim. "This way. And don't forget the little flick of the wrist just before you let go."

His touch made her feel warm and safe. Protected. She wanted to sink into his arms even though her brain told her to watch her step. With Raymond guiding her she tossed the stone, adding the wrist flick, and watched it skim the water's surface one, two, three times before disappearing. She laughed in delight and cried, "Did you see that?"

Turning in his arms, she expected to find him grinning back at her. Instead his face was serious. Her smile faded as she gazed up at him. "Raymond?" His arms closed around her and pulled her toward him.    

 

Praise for Star Spangled Second Chance 

This sweet, clean, contemporary romance is well written. I love the way the author used flashbacks to fill in the history of the couples previous relationship and things that happened to it. The characters are so likable. I look forward to reading the rest of the Holidays in Applewood series. 

Wow, what a second chance story! If you love this genre this is a must read.

  

Author Christie Logan 

 Christie Logan writes sweet romance straight from the heart. She lives in upstate New York with too many pets, too many dust bunnies lurking under the bed, and too many plot bunnies bouncing around in her head. She thinks everyone deserves a happy ending and in her books, everyone gets one. 

Website * Facebook * Twitter

     

$50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Giveaway Ends 11/29/18 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. This giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.    

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Review: A Sparkle of Silver by Liz Johnson

My rating: 3 stars / I liked it

Synopsis

Ninety years ago, Millie Sullivan's great-grandmother was a guest at oil tycoon Howard Dawkins' palatial estate on the shore of St. Simons Island, Georgia. Now, Millie plays a 1920s-era guest during tours of the same manor. But when her grandmother suggests that there is a lost diary containing the location of a hidden treasure on the estate, along with the true identity of Millie's great-grandfather, Millie sets out to find the truth of her heritage--and the fortune that might be hers. When security guard Ben Thornton discovers her snooping in the estate's private library, he threatens to have her fired. But her story seems almost too ludicrous to be fiction, and her offer to split the treasure is too tempting to pass up . . .

Get ready for a romantic escapade through dark halls and dusty corners that will have you holding your breath and sighing with delight as two charming characters get caught up in the adventure of uncovering the past and finding their way to an unexpected future.

My Review

A combination of an intriguing setting, enjoyable characters with a sweet romance, and a mystery to be solved through letters and journal entries made this story a memorable start to a new series. Millie and Ben both have elements of desperation and vulnerability with the issues they are dealing with, and it was fun seeing their relationship progress as they worked together on a journey of discovery. Millie's devotion to her aging grandmother hit close to home for me, and I thought the themes of forgiveness and faith in God's grace were powerful and inspiring. This felt like a dual timeline book because of the way the diary was written, (which I'm not a big fan of because I often feel torn between the two stories), but I'm still looking forward to the next book in the series.

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