Thursday, March 9, 2023

Review: His Alaskan Redemption by Heidi McCahan



My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it



Synopsis

Earning her trust...
Is the start of his second chance.


Crab fisherman Gus Colman is just trying to make a living for his daughter. But when his fishing boat capsizes, he’s injured and stranded in Hearts Bay, Alaska, where he comes face-to-face with Mia Madden—his late best friend’s fiancée. As she helps him recover, he works hard to prove he’s changed. But could Mia ever love another man who risks his life at sea?


My Review

Alaska is one of my favorite book settings for three reasons- everything seems larger than life, the environment is so different from where I live (Southern CA), and visiting there is on my bucket list! Watching shows like Deadliest Catch with my husband give me an idea of the dangers of crab fishing, and the author explores that lifestyle with Mia and Gus. As a nurse Mia is a natural caretaker, and falls into that role with Gus during his recovery despite her inner warnings to avoid another fisherman- even her fiancée's closest friend. There is a definite struggle as they fall for each other- both aware of the difficulties which prevent them from holding on to hope for a future together. Learning to rely on faith is a big theme and I loved that Gus embraced his belief and allowed it to give him strength in his career and as a father. I had a hard time relating to Mia's tense personality, but she grew on me towards the end as she finally allowed herself to accept happiness.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Don't miss the previous books in the Home to Hearts Bay series . . .


Monday, March 6, 2023

Review: Safe in His Arms by Colleen Coble



My rating: 2 stars / It was okay



Synopsis

Sometimes it takes a stranger to see you as you really are.

Born and raised on sprawling Texas land, Margaret O’Brien prides herself on her competence as a rancher. But her father believes she’s made for more than just dawn-to-dusk work. He wants her to have the love of a good man, to raise children, to build a life. But Margaret gave up such dreams years ago. She’s convinced no man would have her, that the ranch is her life now.

So when Margaret’s father hires Daniel Cutler as a new foreman, she’s frustrated and suspicious. Then an overheard conversation links him with a gang of bank robbers, and she’s downright worried. Daniel swears he’s not involved, but Margaret’s not convinced. She knows the man still has secrets. But would a criminal be so kind and talk so convincingly of his faith? As a series of tragic “accidents” threatens all she holds dear, Margaret must decide what to trust: her own ears, her best judgment . . . or what her heart keeps telling her.


My Review

Historical westerns are one of my favorite genres, but this one was a miss for me. I didn't connect with the characters or find the plot very engaging. I felt like the motives and personalities shifted in ways that were not part of a character arc but seemed incongruous. Margaret's father especially did not make much sense and he seemed more like a plot device. I missed the layers I usually enjoy discovering in the characters.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.


Saturday, March 4, 2023

Review: Betting on the Boy Next Door by Melanie Jacobson



My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing



Synopsis

I’m a nurse who wants to be a rock star—a secret I don’t even tell my best friends and roommates. So when one of them—Ruby—gets it into her head to find me a man, I can’t explain why I don’t have time for her matchmaking. Ruby turns it into a bet to make sure I go along with it. I say yes, but won’t matter. My ex taught me the most important thing about men: you can’t count on them.

When Ruby picks the worst possible guy for me, I know I’ve got this in the bag. Sure, our brand-new neighbor, Josh, is hot, but he’s the privileged scion of an Austin family whose money is so old, it’s dusty. Been there, done that, and I’m not going back.

The thing is, Josh isn't easy to shake, especially not after he discovers my secret double-life. With the help of a fake dating scheme, a cursing parrot, and our late-night balcony talks, I’m starting to think he’s a risk worth taking—even when all the evidence says I better run.


My Review

What a fun book! I love Sami's rock star persona and the release she finds there creatively and emotionally. Poor Josh doesn't stand a chance since he has the same privileged upbringing as Sami's ex who inspired her angry-girl-rock lyrics. I loved his humility and determination to pursue her in long-game style, waiting for her to be ready for him, all while showing her how he can bet here for her in the ways that are most meaningful to her. Sami and Josh both have their emotional baggage, and they help each other slowly unpack it and let go during their lovely friendship and rocky romance full of chemistry and frustrating tension. I just gotta say, the scene with the snake Josh is baby-sitting is one of my favorites this year! Fans of rom-coms with depth won't want to miss this book!

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.


Thursday, March 2, 2023

Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: Beyond the Gray Mountains by Tricia Goyer

Beyond the Gray Mountains JustRead Blog + Review Tour 

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Beyond the Gray Mountains by Tricia Goyer, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Beyond the Gray Mountains Title: Beyond the Gray Mountains 
Series: Big Sky Amish #1 
Author: Tricia Goyer 
Publisher: Sunrise Publishing 
Release Date: February 28, 2023 
Genre: Christian Contemporary Amish Romance

Marianna Sommer always dreamed of a simple Amish wedding, but there’s nothing simple about marrying rock star Ben Stone. She loves him—but what about her traditions? Worse, suddenly Ben has questions—the kind that have him putting their wedding on hold.

Ben loves Marianna, but he has regrets—and fears—that are suddenly getting in the way of his happy ending. He doubts he’s going to “hear from God” in the high mountains like Marianna’s father suggests. But sure, he’ll go… 

But he might not return. Because high on the continental divide, trouble finds them. Now, it’ll take a miracle for Ben, Abe, and Abe’s brother, Ike, to make it down alive. Maybe Ben will hear from God after all…but if he does, can he become the man he needs to be to save them…and keep Marianna’s heart? 

When a runaway horse with a bloody saddle shows up, not only is the media alerted, but Marianna fears she’ll lose them all—her uncle, her father, and her beloved Ben. Suddenly she doesn’t care what the wedding looks like…as long as Ben makes it home. 

But is there more to Ben than she knows? And when she discovers his secrets, what sacrifices will she make to save…and marry…the man she loves? 

Fall in love with the first book in the cherished Big Sky Amish Collection.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes and Noble | BookDepository | IndieBound

 

Excerpt


Saturday, June 24, Kalispell, Montana

“How hard can it be to plan one wedding?” Marianna Sommer mumbled to herself as she strode down Main Street in Kalispell toward the dress shop—the Englisch dress shop. The warm spring breeze blew softly, ruffling strands of light-brown hair that, for most of her life, had been neatly secured under her kapp.

But no longer.

On one side of Marianna paced her friend Annie Johnson, wearing her typical jeans, flannel shirt, and cowboy boots. In her mid-forties, Annie was the owner of the Kootenai Kraft and Grocery. Along with providing a location where one could buy anything from bulk flour and garden seeds to fencing and fishing supplies, Annie was also known to provide a listening ear and a boost of moral support. And this was why she’d offered to take Marianna and her mother dress shopping today.

Marianna had never attended an Englisch wedding, much less planned one. Yet now that she was marrying Ben Stone—the handsome musician with his dark hair, bright blue eyes, and easy smile—many changes would be taking place.

Starting with choosing a wedding dress.

Mem padded on the other side of Marianna in a typical Amish dress, apron, and kapp. She walked with her head lowered and shoulders slumped. She crossed her arms over her chest and uncrossed them as if she didn’t know what to do with herself. It was partly because Mem didn’t have baby Joy on her hip. Yet Marianna also knew this wasn’t how Mem had planned her life. First, losing her oldest two daughters years ago in a buggy accident, and now, having Marianna marry an Englischer. Every Amish mother dreamed of her daughters growing up and following in her footsteps. For Mem, this wouldn’t be so.

Lord, help me to get through this with peace…marrying the man I love yet also honoring my family and Amish friends. Was that even possible?

Other Books In Series

On the Golden Cliffs Under the Blue Skies


About the Author

Tricia Goyer

Tricia Goyer writes out of her passion for God and her love for family and others. The author of more than 70 books, she writes both historical fiction and nonfiction related to family and parenting.

This USA Today best-selling author has won a two Carol Awards and a Retailer’s Best Award. She was also an ECPA Gold-Medallion Nominee and a Christy Award Nominee and won Writer of the Year from the Mt. Hermon Christian Writers Conference. Tricia’s contemporary and historical novels feature strong women overcoming great challenges. She is a beloved author of Amish fiction, having written the Big Sky and Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors series. Whether for fiction or nonfiction, Tricia’s writing style is vivid and heartwarming, allowing readers to take home more than engaging stories, but also messages that inspire faith and hope. Her goal is to write stories that matter. 

Connect with Tricia by visiting triciagoyer.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a print copy of Beyond the Gray Mountains and a $10 Amazon gift card!

Beyond the Gray Mountains JustRead Giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight February 27, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on March 6, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

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Sunday, February 26, 2023

Cover Reveal! A Winter by the Sea by Julie Klassen






Synopsis

When the Duke and Duchess of Kent rent neighboring Woolbrook Cottage for the winter, the Summers sisters are called upon to host three of the royal couple's male staff in their seaside house. But they soon realize they've invited mysterious secrets and the sweet possibility of romance into their home.

Meanwhile, Emily Summers approaches a local publisher in hopes of fulfilling her dream of becoming an author. When he turns her down, his dashing competitor promises to consider her novel if she will first write a new Sidmouth guidebook for him. Emily accepts and begins researching with the help of the Duke of Kent's handsome private secretary. But a surprise visitor from her past shows up at Sea View, leaving Emily torn between the desires she used to hold dear and her budding dreams for the future.

Return to the Devonshire coast with the Summers sisters, where loyalties are tested, secrets come to light, and new love emerges.

Message from Author Julie Klassen

Dear Readers,

I am excited to give you an insider’s look at my December 2023 novel, A Winter by the Sea. This is the second book in the On Devonshire Shores series. Book One, The Sisters of Sea View, has been enthusiastically received and reviewed. I am grateful for each of you who helped spread the word about it!

During my research, I learned that the Duke and Duchess of Kent and their baby daughter stayed in Woolbrook Cottage (very near fictional Sea View) during the winter of 1819-1820. I instantly knew I wanted to include them in the novel to give readers a glimpse of the early life of Queen Victoria and her parents. The royal party arrived with too many attendants to accommodate at Woolbrook, so some were lodged elsewhere. I thought it would be fun to have a few staff members stay at Sea View, including a pastry chef who invades their kitchen, a man in desperate straits, and the duke’s handsome private secretary.

It was also interesting to write a seaside novel set during wintertime (it was unusually cold and snowy that year). Because I live in frigid Minnesota, cold weather details and sensations were easy to imagine. 😊

When I began writing this series, I had not yet traveled to Sidmouth, where the series is set. I am happy to say I was able to visit in August 2022 and was thrilled to experience this delightful town in person. The highlight of that trip was meeting the staff and volunteers of the Sidmouth Museum who have been extremely helpful in answering research questions and checking setting details for me.

A Winter by the Sea focuses on beautiful Emily Summers, who finds herself caught up in two rivalries. First, while striving to further her writing aspirations, Emily is torn between her loyalty to a well-established publisher & bookseller and his flamboyant competitor. Second, despite her best intentions, she is attracted to one of their new guests, but an old love comes to town, determined to renew their courtship.

I hope you are eager to return with me to the English seaside for Book Two of the On Devonshire Shores series. Thank you for all you do to support my books, and readers everywhere!

Gratefully, Julie


About the Author
 


Julie Klassen loves all things Jane—Jane Eyre and Jane Austen. Her books have sold more than a million copies and she is a three-time recipient of the Christy Award for Historical Romance. She has also been honored with the Minnesota Book Award, Midwest Book Award, and Christian Retailing’s BEST Award. A graduate of the University of Illinois, Julie worked in publishing for sixteen years and now writes full time. She and her husband have two sons and live in St. Paul, Minnesota.



Thursday, February 23, 2023

Takeover Blitz, Excerpt & Giveaway: The Last Chance Cowboy by Jody Hedlund

The Last Chance Cowboy JustRead Takeover Blitz

Welcome to the Takeover Blitz for The Last Chance Cowboy by Jody Hedlund, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

The Last Chance Cowboy Title: The Last Chance Cowboy 
Series: Colorado Cowboys #5 
Author: Jody Hedlund 
Publisher: Bethany House Publishing 
Release Date: February 14, 2023 
Genre: Christian Historical Romance

With danger drawing ever closer, their only hope of saving their futures lies in each other.

As a midwife, Catherine Remington is successful in bringing new life into the world, but she's failed one too many times in finding true love. When she's accused of a murder she didn't commit, she's forced to flee to Colorado to honor a patient's dying wish by delivering a newborn infant to his father. 

The repentant prodigal Dylan McQuaid is finally back in Fairplay. As sheriff, he's doing his best to prove to the town he's a changed man and worthy of their trust. When a woman shows up with an infant son he didn't know he had, Dylan is left with only complicated choices on what to do next. 

Having grown attached to Dylan's son, Catherine doesn't want to part ways with the infant, but what she doesn't bargain for is how easily she'll fall for the charming sheriff, or how quickly the past will catch up with her and put their love and lives in danger.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Christianbook | BookBub

 

Excerpt


Chicago, Illinois
March 1871


“It’s a boy.” Catherine Remington held the squalling infant upside down by his ankles, making sure he didn’t inhale mucus.

The new mother managed a nod, her face pale, her eyes closed, her pretty features etched with pain.

Catherine clamped the baby’s cord in two places and then cut between. Everything about him was absolutely perfect. With each lusty intake of oxygen, his skin was turning pink. His pulse thudded steadily, and he flailed his limbs energetically.

If only the mother were faring as well, but blood continued to saturate the newsprint Catherine had spread over the dirty mattress.

“You did wonderfully, Kit.” Catherine forced cheer into her voice. She started wrapping the baby in a soft cotton blanket, wiping the remaining blood and mucus from his nose and mouth. “He’s a handsome fellow.”

If only she could transfer even just a smidgen of cheer to the mother . . .

Kit rolled to her side and faced the wall. The outline of her body was visible under the threadbare blanket, and she was thin, almost emaciated, as though she’d been wasting away long before today. She’d spoken little during the long night of labor, and Catherine knew almost nothing about her— only her name, mentioned by one of the other prostitutes.

The Last Chance Cowboy • Jody Hedlund
Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group © 2022 used by permission


More Books In Series

A Cowboy for Keeps Heart of a Cowboy To Tame a Cowboy Falling for the Cowgirl


About the Author

Jody Hedlund

Jody Hedlund is the bestselling author of over 30 historical novels for both adults and teens and is the winner of numerous awards, including the Christy, Carol, and Christian Book Awards. Jody lives in Michigan with her husband, busy family, and five spoiled cats.

Connect with Jody by visiting www.jodyhedlund.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive the full paperback set of the five books in the Colorado Cowboys series!

The Last Chance Cowboy JustRead Giveaway

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight February 22, 2023 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on March 1, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

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Wednesday, February 22, 2023

Blog Tour, Review & Giveaway: Fraser by Susan May Warren

Fraser JustRead Blog + Review Tour 

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Fraser by Susan May Warren, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Fraser Title: Fraser 
Series: The Minnesota Marshalls #1 
Author: Susan May Warren 
Publisher: SDG Publishing 
Release Date: February 14, 2023 
Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense

Fraser Marshall is pretty sure his career as a Spec Ops fighter is over. Yes, he’s gone into private security, working for Jones, Inc, but his last gig ended with him wounded and taken captive. And those wounds just won’t heal. The last thing he wants to do is stick around his family’s winery pressing grapes. But what choices does he have?

The answer comes via a panicked phone call from his kid brother, Creed. 

Help, Fraser. I’m in over my head… 

Yeah he is, because he’s run away with a princess, with her bodyguard hot on the trail. And said bodyguard, Pippa Butler is going to hunt them down, no matter the cost. 

Even if she has to join forces with a bossy, arrogant former American SEAL. But Pippa has her own set of lethal skills, and if Fraser gets in the way, she’ll leave him on the side of the road. Still, maybe he’s not a terrible side-kick. He is handsome, and he makes her laugh… 

No, no, bad Pippa! She has no room for a man—an American—in her life. And Fraser hasn’t ever considered slowing down. Even if Pippa has him wondering if there is a different future ahead. 

But there’s more to the story than a Romeo-and-Juliet runaway romance. Princess Imani has seen a murder, and the perpetrator isn’t going to let her get away. Will Fraser and Pippa find the couple first? 

And if they do, can they work together to keep them safe? 

It’ll be tough if their hearts get in the way…

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Christianbook | IndieBound | BookBub

 

My Review

5 stars / It was amazing

I loved this new installment in the exciting lives of the Marshalls! The previous series focused on the branch of the family in Montana, and this one continues the adventure and suspense with the cousins in Minnesota. Fraser had a role in the author's book Sunburst, the second book in the Sky King Ranch series, and I love when secondary characters get their own story! As a reader of all the previous books, it was great to see characters again as the network of Jones Inc, SEALs, and others are called on to help as Fraser and Pippa chase down Creed and Imani. The book can definitely be read as a stand alone; those who haven't read any or only some of the author's other books will still get the full picture. Fraser and Pippa have a bit of a rough start, and I loved seeing them warm up as they got to know and respect each other. They have great chemistry, with their differences complementing each other and the important things they have in common deepening their connection. The action is non-stop on their journey to intercept Creed and Imani with no way to communicate, yet the author skillfully weaves in the development of their relationship, personal issues, and spiritual development. I was glued to the pages as I read and felt immersed in the movie-like setting and plot. Fraser's other siblings are also introduced in small ways and I can't wait to read where the author takes them!

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

 

Also Available

Knox Tate Ford Wyatt Ruby Jane


About the Author

Susan May Warren

With nearly 2 million books sold, critically acclaimed novelist Susan May Warren is the Christy, RITA, and Carol award-winning author of over ninety novels with Tyndale, Barbour, Steeple Hill, and Summerside Press. Known for her compelling plots and unforgettable characters, Susan has written contemporary and historical romances, romantic-suspense, thrillers, rom-com, and Christmas novellas. With books translated into eight languages, many of her novels have been ECPA and CBA bestsellers, were chosen as Top Picks by Romantic Times, and have won the RWA's Inspirational Reader's Choice contest and the American Christian Fiction Writers Book of the Year award. She’s a three-time RITA finalist and an eight-time Christy finalist.

Connect with Susan by visiting susanmaywarren.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a print copy of Fraser and $10 Susan May Warren Store gift card!

Fraser JustRead Giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight February 21, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on February 28, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

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Tuesday, February 21, 2023

Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: With Me in the Storm by Karen E. Ingle

With Me in the Storm JustRead Blog Tour 

Welcome to the Blog Tour for With Me in the Storm by Karen E. Ingle, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

With Me in the Storm Title: With Me in the Storm 
Author: Karen E. Ingle 
Publisher: Trilogy Christian Publishing 
Release Date: September 19, 2022 
Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense

If she escapes her past, can she survive the storm to come?

Maddie's California dream-turned-nightmare is a perfect storm of abuse, trafficking, and unwanted pregnancy. She sees only one way out, until a network of strangers offers a solution that could save her life and her baby's. 

But escaping back to Minnesota hinges on Chris, the fiancé she rejected for the drug dealer who now owns her. After all she's done, is it too much to hope Chris will perform this generous act of love? 

And what if love isn't enough to protect Maddie when a deadlier storm closes in? 

 

Excerpt


“Chris, it’s about Maddie.”

His mouth tightened. A dose of equal parts fear and anger pumped up his heart rate. He sucked in a long breath, then let it go. “What about her?”

“She wants to come home.”

Fear evaporated. Anger alone clamped down on his chest. Home? What did that mean—now? He sat silent. Waiting.

“She has asked if we would go get her.”

Chris glanced down at his fist balled up against his thigh. “And you said...?”“I said I would ask you.” His mom was equally good at silent waiting. She probably knew he was sitting there wanting to kick something, wanting to hijack the ambulance to California, wanting to punch somebody, wanting to give in to hope. If only he’d been able to forget Maddie, to stop measuring every other woman against her. If only she hadn’t slashed his heart and left him bleeding. But he hadn’t. And she had.


About the Author

Karen E. Ingle

Karen Ingle admires women’s resilience and courage that emerge when faced with a pregnancy that rocks their world. As a freelance writer, she has interviewed such women, met them, and served them. She’s also rubbed elbows with the gutsy people who care deeply enough to support women in their journeys out of dark despair into bright hope. Now Karen is weaving those true stories into the compelling novel, With Me in the Storm, and others still to come in her Rumors of Light series.

Connect with Karen by visiting kareningleauthor.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a signed paperback copy of With Me in the Storm, $10 Amazon gift card, notecard, sticker, handmade bookmark, and a packet of "Maddie's favorite hot cocoa mix"!

With Me in the Storm JustRead Giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight February 20, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on February 27, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway


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

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