Review & Giveaway: Love for All Seasons by Stacy Henrie



On Tour with Prism Book Tours.

Love for All Seasons
(Four Inspirational Historical Romance Novellas)
Inspirational Historical Romance
ebook, 164 pages
November 9th 2016

If you like the inspirational historical romances of Deanne Gist and Lauraine Snelling, you’ll love USA Today bestselling author Stacy Henrie! With four novellas—one for each season of the year—you’ll find a heartwarming collection of couples from a simpler time in America who discover the redeeming powers of faith and love.

A Long Winter Kiss

As Samantha and Rex’s childhood friendship matured into young love, they promised their hearts to one another, even as Rex headed off to war. But their hope for a bright future was shattered when Rex succumbed to his belief that the horrors of war had made him a man no woman could love. Now he has returned, and Samantha must help Rex see that he still has much to give—and much more to gain—by replacing fear with faith and opening himself to love.

An Unlikely Spring Courtship

Tempest worked hard to secure her independence as a woman running her own mercantile, so when Bram has the audacity to open a competing shop in a town with only enough room for one, Tempest is driven to despair. And then to retaliation. But when tragedy strikes their community and threatens everything they both hold dear, will they be able to recognize that what they share is far more important than what separates them?

A Summer for Love

Loralee’s life has changed dramatically in the eight years since she’s last seen the resort town of Bayocean, but one thing that has never changed is her feelings for Wyatt, a man she promised to meet at the resort on a specific day if they were both still unattached. When Wyatt appears on that date, as hopeful and uncertain as Loralee, the two must see if an old and abiding love has outlasted the changes wrought by time—and begin to build a new life together.

Romance in Autumn

Phoebe and James grew up together but apart in the same beautiful mansion, he as the son of the owners, she as the daughter of a servant. In the years since, Phoebe’s fortunes have changed dramatically, and she carries the dream of one day owning the mansion that is still close to her heart. Until James—now a deeply compelling man—delivers the bad news that securing the purchase will be all but impossible. As Phoebe reluctantly relinquishes her dream, she will also look deep into her soul to learn that a true home might exist in her budding love for James.

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My Review

5 stars / It was amazing

I enjoy novellas for a quick reading fix when life is crazy, but I absolutely love a well-written novella that has a full story arc and characters that I connect with emotionally. Love for All Seasons was a perfect reading experience! As soon as I finished one story, I couldn't wait to start the next one. Each story was unique and imaginative, with details that helped me imagine the historical settings and mannerisms of the characters without detracting from the pacing of the plot. I felt like I cared about what happened next, and was invested in the happy ending from the first chapter of every story. There is an inspirational thread of faith woven in that was uplifting and touching. Of course, the sweet romance is what I love about these stories and the author skillfully developed chemistry and tension that builds as the main characters grow closer together while overcoming obstacles to their relationship. It's interesting that I can share the same praise for all the stories but the premises and details are so different. It was too hard to pick a favorite from the four stories set in each of the four seasons, so I recommend reading them all and deciding for yourself ;) Can't wait to read more from this author!

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

USA Today bestselling author Stacy Henrie is the author of western romances and the Of Love and War series, which includes Hope at Dawn, a 2015 RITA Award finalist for excellence in romance. She was born and raised in the West, where she currently resides with her family. She enjoys reading, road trips, interior decorating, chocolate, and most of all, laughing with her husband and kids. You can learn more about Stacy and her books by visiting her website at stacyhenrie.com.

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Tour Schedule

November 27th: Launch

November 28th

Katie's Clean Book Collection

Heidi Reads...

November 29th

The Power of Words

Hardcover Feedback

November 30th

Bookworm Lisa

Reading Is My SuperPower

Zerina Blossom's Books

December 1st

Tell Tale Book Reviews

Wishful Endings

December 2nd

Singing Librarian Books

Jessica and Gracie's Tree

Mel's Shelves

Bookworm Nation

Rockin' Book Reviews

December 4th: Grand Finale

Tour Giveaway

$40 Amazon eGift Card and Winner's Choice of an ebook of Any of Stacy Henrie's Books (you can see her books listed on Amazon here)

Open internationally
Ends December 8th

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Review: Special Delivery Baby by Sherri Shackelford

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

An abandoned baby is the last thing town founder Will Canfield expects on his doorstep. He's not the father—and the mother's unknown. But the precious little girl needs a protector. And Will never backs down from a challenge, even if it means caring for a newborn…or dealing with spitfire cattle driver Tomasina Stone.

With her father gone, Tomasina's trail life has ended. Yet becoming a polished city lady feels far out of her reach. All she wants is a place where she'll be appreciated, respected…maybe loved. And the more time she spends helping Will care for the baby, the more she wonders if she's found it. She's never wanted to settle down…but Cowboy Creek—by Will's side—might finally give her heart a lasting home.

Cowboy Creek: Bringing mail-order brides, and new beginnings, to a Kansas boomtown

My Review

This is the middle book in the Cowboy Creek trilogy, so it had some continuing plot lines from the first book and provided a set up for the next book. The town is still being harassed by a gang of outlaws and discover some paperwork problems that don't fit the gang's MO which opens the field of suspicion. Daniel and Will also order a bride for their recalcitrant friend Noah, and she arrives in the following book.

The contrast between Will and Tomasina is what stood out to me in this story. At first they butt heads but soon learn to understand and admire each other's point of view. They have great chemistry but allow their differences to get in the way of developing a relationship... until they just can't help themselves of course ;) The baby doesn't play as big of a part of the plot as the synopsis implies- Tomasina actually is involved in a wide variety of jobs in the thriving town until she finds the right one that fits. I enjoyed seeing her transformation as she searches for a new purpose and her friends help her find pleasure in becoming a lady. Her no nonsense and frank way of speaking serves the town well as she shares her opinion on how they can benefit from her ideas. I appreciated that Will respected her as an individual and didn't allow her gender to prevent him from helping her reach her potential.

(I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher; all opinions in this review are my own)

Review: Want Ad Wedding by Cheryl St.John

My rating: 3 stars / I liked it

Synopsis

When Daniel Gardner convinced the residents of his Kansas boomtown to advertise for mail-order brides, he never expected the woman he once loved to respond. But Leah Swann steps off the bride train…pregnant and widowed and in need of a husband. Drawn to protect his fragile childhood friend, Daniel proposes a marriage of convenience.

Seeing her onetime best friend waiting to meet the bride train is a wonderful shock for Leah. After her first rocky marriage, a practical partnership with Daniel sounds perfect—as long as her heart doesn't get involved. But when she starts to fall for her husband, will her plans of a fresh start be ruined…or is a real marriage to Daniel exactly what she needs?

Cowboy Creek: Bringing mail-order brides, and new beginnings, to a Kansas boomtown.

My Review

Once again I made the mistake of reading the books in a series out of order. I read the third book in the Cowboy Creek series first, so I already had the background information that this book spends a lot of time providing. It does a thorough job of establishing the setting of the growing town and introducing all the main players, which detracted a bit from the focus on Daniel and Leah's relationship. The plot fell a little flat for me since there isn't much tension, chemistry, or obstacles in their romance (though I really liked the characters), and the altercations in the town don't get resolved since those plot lines are meant to last through the entire series. I'm still excited to read the middle book to see how Will ends up with someone so different from what he planned.

(I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher; all opinions in this review are my own)

Spotlight, Excerpt & Giveaway: The Charming Life of Izzy Malone by Jenny Lundquist

The Charming Life of Izzy Malone by Jenny Lundquist

Izzy Malone isn’t your typical sixth grader. She wears camouflage combat boots and tie dye skirts; the Big Dipper and Orion are her two best friends; and she’d rather climb trees or shoot hoops than talk about boys and makeup. And after only a month of middle school she’s already set the record for the most trips to the Principal’s office. The only time Izzy feels at peace is when she’s on the open water, and more than anything else, she wants to become a member of the Dandelion Paddlers, her school’s competitive rowing club. But thanks to those multiple trips to the Principal’s office, Izzy’s parents force her to enroll in Mrs. Whippie’s Charm School, a home-study course in manners and etiquette, or they won’t let her race in Dandelion Hollow's annual pumpkin regatta—where Izzy hopes to prove to the Dandelion Paddlers she is more than qualified to be on their team. When Mrs. Whippie’s first letter arrives it’s way different from what Izzy was expecting. Tucked inside the letter is a shiny gold bracelet and an envelope charm. Izzy must earn her first charm by writing someone a nice note, and once she does more tasks will be assigned. Izzy manages to complete some of the tasks—and to her surprise, she actually finds herself enjoying the course. But when one of her attempts at doing something good is misinterpreted, she fears her chances at passing the course—and becoming a Paddler—are slipping away. With some unexpected friends there to support her, can Izzy manage to earn her charms and stay true to herself?


Praise for the Book

“Izzy’s frank, vulnerable, sassy first-person narration reveals her surprising journey from a solitary girl talking to the stars to a girl with friends to light her way…This story of an atypical girl, her family, and friends, laced with middle school drama, is indeed a charming one.” –Kirkus Reviews

“A heartwarming coming-of-age journey…Lundquist deftly portrays the pain of being odd girl out, both at school and at home.” –Publisher’s Weekly

Excerpt

The bracelet and the first charm appeared the day I punched Austin Jackson in the nose. I didn’t mean to slug him. His face just got in my way. It was a bruising end to a disastrous first month in middle school. You know that kid in class that everyone secretly (and not so secretly) thinks is weird? The one people laugh and point at behind their back, the one who gets picked last in gym class, the one you wish you hadn’t gotten stuck with for a science partner? At Dandelion Hollow Middle School, that kid is me, Izzy Don’t-Call-Me-Isabella Malone. Truthfully, my slide into loserdom started in elementary school and was pretty much an established fact by the time sixth grade started last month. It’s partly because my mouth often has a mind of its own. But I think it’s also because there are a bazillion other things I’d rather do than talk about boys, clothes, and makeup, and I refuse to wear strappy sandals and short skirts. (If you ever catch me wearing strappy sandals or a short skirt, you have my permission to kick my butt.) I do like skirts, though. Really long colorful ones I get from Dandelion Thrift. I like to wear them with my camouflage combat boots. I call the look Camohemian.

About the Author

Jenny Lundquist was born and raised in Huntington Beach, CA, where she spent her time unsuccessfully learning how to surf. When she was younger, she wanted to be either a rock star or a published author. After she taped herself singing and listened to it on playback she decided she'd better opt for the writing route. Jenny is the author of Seeing Cinderella and Plastic Polly as well as the young adult titles The Princess in the Opal Mask and The Opal Crown.

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 $100 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Giveaway Ends 12/12/16 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

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Grand Finale & Giveaway: My Father's House by Rose Chandler Johnson

On Tour with Prism Book Tours.

Book Tour Grand Finale for

My Father's House

By Rose Chandler Johnson

Suspense and romance mix in this inspiring story. We hope you enjoyed the tour!
If you missed any of the stops, go back and check them out now...

Launch - The Inspiration for My Father's House

The setting needed to play a critical part in the story as well. So, with my roots firmly planted in Georgia, I modeled my fictional town after so many small Southern towns, and I set in some of my love of nature. Being a Southerner, I had definite ideas about elements I needed for this story to come alive. Besides fascinating characters and a distinctive setting, there had to be a little crazy, eccentric, and some downright meanness, mixed with suspense, romance, and lots of southern charm. And if the story makes you long for dirt roads and blackberry picking, shade trees and front porch visiting, then I’ve done my job.

The Silver Dagger Scriptorium - A Sketch of Lily Rose’s Father, Michael Cates

Lily Rose’s relationship with her father sets the stage for her life and the story, My Father’s House. Although the reader gets only glimpses of her “Daddy”, they are telling glimpses which reveal who he is. Michael Cates takes the dominant role in his daughter’s early life and development. In that brief first chapter, the reader learns he takes particular pride and joy in his wife and daughter.

Wishful Endings - Excerpt

I followed him out onto the porch and watched him walk to the truck, stop, and turn. He fixed his gaze on me, and I knew he didn’t want to leave. I smiled then, and he nodded before getting in and backing down the driveway. He waved, and something about his smile and the gentle blue of the sky strengthened my heart. I watched him disappear down the street before I turned and walked back inside.

Falling Leaves - Excerpt

Something about his presence excited me. Maybe it was the way he lingered beside me and caressed me with his eyes. It was hard for me not to stare at his smooth olive hands as they moved back and forth around our table.

I suppose I got caught up in the moment because without thinking, I asked, “Would you take our picture?” I held the camera out at arm’s length to the dreamy eyed waiter. I smiled before saying “please” as sweet as pie.

Rockin' Book Reviews - Review

"What an excellent story! I really enjoyed reading it. . . . It was a good clean story with lots of action and suspense. I would recommend this book to all readers."

Tell Tale Book Reviews - Character Sketch of Lily Rose Cates

This dark-haired, green-eyed, slip of a girl is the protagonist of My Father’s House and the emotional heart of the story. The reader is drawn into her story that pulses with life, and can’t help feeling her joys, fears, and hopes. The development of Lily Rose’s character is central to the novel. As a child, she was nurtured and sheltered from the harsher realities of life. Innocent, good-hearted, with no experience with the evils of the world, the reader watches her struggle with her own naiveté and illusions of love.

Jessica and Gracie's Tree - The Antagonist and His Foil in My Father’s House

Sam is a foil to Manuel. Whereas Manny is controlling and harsh, Sam is soft spoken, easy-going and kind. Lily associates Manuel with cars, work, and high powered city living; whereas she constantly associates Sam with the animals, the outdoors, and community.

Don't forget to enter the giveaway below...

My Father's House

by Rose Chandler Johnson

Inspirational Romantic Suspense

Paperback & ebook, 314 pages
March 13th 2016

Growing up, life is idyllic for Lily Rose Cates due to her one constant – her father’s love. But in her sixteenth summer, all that changes without warning with her father’s sudden death. There begins Lily’s struggle to find herself and a life she thinks is gone forever.

Marriage to her prince charming promises fulfillment, but their happily-ever-after barely survives the honeymoon. Beneath the sophisticated façade lies a brooding man who hides dark secrets. When all Lily’s illusions of happiness shatter, she must make hard choices – abandon her husband or risk losing much more than her marriage. She flees their home in Detroit and sets out on a fearful journey to a house in Georgia that her husband knows nothing about.

In spite of heartbreak and regrets, will she find the strength to survive whatever comes? Or will her husband find her and shatter all her hopes . . . again. This is one woman’s compelling tale of love and survival as she finds her way back home to faith and who she’s meant to be . . . in her father’s house.

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My Father’s House is Rose’s first novel. Her devotional journal, God, Me, and Sweet Iced Tea: Experiencing God in the Midst of Everyday Moments won the Georgia Author of the Year Finalist Award in 2014. It was also awarded the Selah Finalist Award in the same year. Rose enjoys writing for her blog, Write Moments with God and engaging with her readers. A native Georgian, Rose has lived in a suburb of Augusta for the last thirty years. Before retiring from Georgia’s public school system, Rose taught English, French, and ESOL. She is currently an adjunct English instructor at a community college. In addition to reading and writing, Rose enjoys cooking, sewing, gardening, and spending time with her six children and their growing families. And yes, sweet iced tea is her beverage of choice.

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Tour Giveaway

Copy of MY FATHER'S HOUSE (signed print if US, ebook if outside the US) and a $20 Amazon eGift Card

Ends November 26th

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Book Tour Grand Finale: Healing of the Heart by Loree Lough

On Tour with Prism Book Tours.

Book Tour Grand Finale for

Healing of the Heart

By Loree Lough

Can hearts hardened by dark secrets find redemption in the shadows of the fierce beauty of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains? If you missed any of the tour stops, go back and check them out now...

Launch - Intro & Endorsements

Lies, secrets, and fear of the past take the characters in Loree Lough’s “Secrets on Sterling Street” series on heartrending and treacherous personal journeys. Their mettle—and their faith—is put to the test as they seek freedom, redemption, and love.

Katie's Clean Book Collection - Five Ways to Love Your Enemy

THINK about him. Reject any anger that might surface. Don’t focus on the words or deeds that created the gap between you. Close your eyes and chant “I’m bigger than this. I’m better than this. Holding on to these memories is only hurting me.” InHealing of the Heart, Ruby McCoy is having a tough time with this. Her father was a murdering outlaw. The shame of his crimes—and what they forced her to do—has impacted every area of her life, so really, who can blame her!

Christy's Cozy Corners - Review

"This book is totally adorable! Once I started it, I didn’t want to stop and stayed up way past my bedtime to finish it! . . . I love the setting of this book. You really get immersed in it as well as in the plot. You’re going to love it!"

Brooke Blogs - Five Books that Center around Secrets and Lies

Rebecca: Imagine waking up to your new husband and a rich new life only to find nothing is as it appeared to be before you said “I do.”

Rockin' Book Reviews - Review

"Oh I do love a good clean romance novel. I was hooked from the beginning.

I liked the setting, the plot and the characters. I was able to feel their emotions and felt like the characters were very well developed. I could easily picture myself there."

Jessica and Gracie's Tree - Five Movies that Feature Forgiveness

Desperate to provide for you motherless children, a former bounty hunter and hired killer is forced to return to his old ways in Unforgiven.

Heidi Reads... - Excerpt

An idea began to form in Rex’s mind.

If he joined the police force, and learned the things this officer already knew, he could put the knowledge to use…

…hunting down the animal who had killed his pa.

Wishful Endings - Excerpt

As she handed him a small plate, his fingers grazed hers. It lasted all of a second, yet it sent eddies of warmth all the way down to his toes. She was close enough that he could inhale the scent of lilacs, floating from her dark hair…and noticed for the first time a sprinkling of tiny freckles dotting her cheeks.

Mel's Shelves - Review

"I enjoyed getting to know these characters and felt like part of their community. This is a story I enjoyed reading and loved the role that faith, love and forgiveness played in helping two hearts heal!"

Singing Librarian Books - Review

"This is a heartwarming story that will capture the emotion of readers and keep them captivated until the very end. I would recommend this excellent story to readers that enjoy historical romance."

Bookworm Lisa - Review

"The book caught my attention and kept it throughout the story. I wanted to find out if Rex and Ruby could find healing and a future with each other. There are two adorable orphans who pulled at my heart strings. There are family secrets and mysteries revealed. There are a great many things to recommend this book to readers."

And don't forget to enter the giveaway below if you haven't already...

Healing of the Heart

(Secrets of Sterling Stree #3)
by Loree Lough

Historical Romance

Paperback & ebook, 272 pages
November 1st 2016 by Whitaker House

Ruby McCoy is haunted by her father's sins....

When Ruby McCoy arrives in Fairplay, her ornate carriage is followed by an entourage who heft steamer trunks, hatboxes, and traveling bags into the hotel…where she has booked the entire second floor. Upon her notorious gangster father's death, the now-wealthy Ruby, hiding under her mother's maiden name, set out to right her father's wrongs. Ruby is determined to spend every penny of her inherited "blood money" on those who paid the price for her father's crimes.

Sheriff Rex Truett doesn't trust Ruby and doesn't care who knows it. The keeper of Fairplay's law and order makes it his business to find out why a stranger, especially a beautiful, spoiled, rich, female stranger, would set up businesses, donate to schools, hire workmen to rebuild houses, and provide access to the best medical care. But when a typhoid epidemic sweeps through the city, he is forced to reconsider.

Will Rex blame Ruby for her father's sins? Or will he accept the possibility that she is trying to create and feel the peace her father stole?

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Praise for the Book

“Healing of the Heart, book three of Secrets on Sterling Street, makes for a brilliant conclusion to the series. Lough’s descriptive narrative and delightful, often comical, dialogue pull us into the story. Sparks fly between Rex, the hard-shelled sheriff, and Ruby, the gutsy, gorgeous heroine. This fast-paced, absorbing read will have you flipping those pages into the wee morning hours. Don’t miss it!”

—Sharlene MacLaren

Author, Tennessee Dreams series and Summer on Sunset Ridge

“Loree Lough has once again brought the emotional intensity and passion of the West to life in her riveting historical romance, Healing of the Heart. With themes of forgiveness, righting wrongs done by others, and love that can wipe away the sins the past, this book explores all of that in the midst of the fierce and deadly beauty of Colorado in in the late 1800s. A story to treasure more than once.”

—Susan M. Baganz

Author, Pesto & Potholes, Salsa & Speedbumps, Feta & Freeways, and Fragile Blessings

“Loree Lough does it again with Healing of the Heart. Another moving and uplifting story with characters so real they feel like family, a plot that keeps you turning pages, and a setting so quaint it makes you want to move to Fairplay, Colorado.”

—Joya Fields

Award-winning author, Beneath the Surface

“This just might be my favorite story by Loree Lough. Her characters, driven by noble motives, endure hardships that can’t crush their budding emotions. Healing of the Heart is romance, faith, and mystery in one page-turning story.”

—Robin Bayne

Author, The Gardner’s Gazebo series

Currency of the Heart

(Secrets on Sterling Street, #1)

by Loree Lough

Historical Romance

Paperback & ebook, 256 pages

January 1st 2015 by Whitaker House

Young widow Shaina Sterling hates living a lie. Desperate to keep bill collectors from the door, she secretly sells valuable possessions piece by piece, and hopes Denver’s elite never discover that his lavish lifestyle left her a near pauper.

She’s unaware that as her husband lay dying, successful rancher Sloan Remington made him a promise. And Sloan guards her secrets

as carefully as he looks after her safety.

When fire devours Sterling Hall, leaving her homeless and penniless, he brings her to Remington Ranch to manage his household. His kindness makes Shaina beholden to him … and threatens to expose the secret that could destroy him.

Will trials and tragedies bring Sloan and Shaina together?

Or will secrets—and the cost of exposing them—drive them apart forever?

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Book Depository

Guardians of the Heart

(Secrets on Sterling Street, #2)
by Loree Lough
Historical Romance

Paperback & ebook, 272 pages
August 3rd 2015 by Whitaker House

Nell Holstrom wanted no part of her grandfather's barren gold mine that had taken the lives of her mother, father, and younger brother; even if there may still be hidden wealth inside. Instead, she went to Denver and took a job as housekeeper at the old Stone Hill Inn.

Asa Stone was barely more than a boy when his father dragged him and his brothers to fight with Colonel John Chivington. But Asa refused to participate in the raid on the peaceful Cheyenne and Arapahoe; and when the smoke cleared, his father and brother lay among the slaughtered. Besieged by guilt, Asa wandered the West for years before returning to Denver to rebuild the old inn he'd inherited. 

Together, Nell and Asa work hard to restore Stone Hill. But when disaster hits the inn, Asa retreats into despair and Nell is forced to return to her family's mine. Asa faces the hard fact: He'll never be the man Nell deserves. Can he overcome the dark secrets of his past? And will Nell still love him when she learns the truth?

Check out the tour for Guardians of the Heart here.

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Book Depository

At last count, best-selling author Loree Lough had 104 award-winning books (nearly 5,000,000 copies in circulation and 5 titles that earned book-to-movie options), 68 short stories, and 2,500+ articles in print.

An oft-invited guest of writers' organizations, colleges and universities, corporate and government agencies in the U.S. and abroad, Loree loves sharing learned-the-hard-way lessons about the craft and the industry.

Once upon a time, Loree (literally) sang for her supper, performing alone and "opening" for the likes of Tom Jones, Dottie West, The Gatlin Brothers, and more. Though she refuses to share the actual year when she traded her Yamaha 6-string for a wedding ring, she IS willing to admit that, every now and then, she blows the dust off her six-string to croon a tune or two. But mostly, she just writes (and writes).

Loree and her husband split their time between a home in the Baltimore suburbs and a cabin in the Allegheny Mountains, where she continues to hone her "identify the critter tracks" skills. Her favorite passtime? Spending long, leisurely hours with her grandchildren...all seven of them!

She loves hearing from her readers, and answers every letter, personally. You can write her @ http://www.loreelough.com.

Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Pinterest

Tour Giveaway

2 winners will win a print copy of HEALING OF THE HEART (US only)
2 winners will win a Kindle/Nook copy of HEALING OF THE HEART (open internationally)
1 winner will win a $20 Amazon eGift Card (open internationally)

Ends November 25th

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Military Book Giveaway!

We're spreading the word about

A Merry Christmas Military Book Giveaway!

Author Donna Hatch, along with a bunch of other authors, are honoring those serving in the US Military overseas who won't be home for the holidays, by giving away books! It's a small "Thank you!" for their service.

Find out more, see what books are available, and enter the giveaway HERE.

Review: Bride by Arrangment by Karen Kirst

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Newly minted Cowboy Creek sheriff Noah Burgess doesn't want a wife—despite his friends insisting that he needs one. So when they send for a big-city single mother to be his mail-order bride, he's fit to be tied. Even if vivacious Grace Longstreet might just be the only person who can see past Noah's scars…and help him heal.

Grace needs a husband to keep her and her twin daughters out of her brother-in-law's grasp. And she'll do anything—including taking on her cousin's identity—to find one. But as the attraction between Grace and the lawman sparks higher, she begins hoping for a real marriage. So she needs to tell the truth…or a mail-order match that's meant to be could crumble.

My Review

While this may seem like your typical mail-order bride story, it's the extra layers in the plot and characters that give it added depth and interest. Grace isn't just a socialite on the run from her brother-in-law, she's a devoted mother with a history of working hard to raise herself from poverty. Noah isn't just a grumpy sheriff, he's a former soldier with physical and emotional battle scars that affect his choices and future happiness. The town isn't just a friendly community of ranchers and cowboys, it is fighting outlaws and corruption as it grows with the railroad and potential to become the county seat.

I loved the gruff kindness of Noah as he can't help falling for Grace and becoming endeared to her children. He sure puts up a good fight against his feelings and I can't blame Grace for her uncertainty about him. They have a romantic chemistry full of sparks and I loved the scenes when they let their guard down and be vulnerable with each other. There is a great cast of secondary characters from the first two books in the series and I'm looking forward to going back and reading their love stories.

(I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher; all opinions in this review are my own)

Review & Giveaway: Love's Broken Road by Julie Coulter Bellon

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

After surviving an abusive marriage, Victoria Newel needs a clean slate for herself and her son. Taking a job as a math teacher, she moves across the country to the small town of Lincoln, Utah, where no one knows her and she can start over. However, her new colleague, Drew Dalton, offers her friendship and maybe something more. But has her heart healed enough that she could trust again?

Drew Dalton lost his wife to cancer years ago and he locked his heart away, throwing himself into his teaching job. But when Victoria Newel starts working at the high school, she awakens something in him that he never thought he’d feel again. Her gentle nature and quiet strength draws him to her, but it’s obvious she’s hiding something in her past from him. Can he open his heart to a woman who harbors so many secrets of her own?

My Review

Love's Broken Road is a character-driven book and focuses on their way of processing the trials in their lives. I appreciated that examples of healthy coping strategies were used by Victoria and that receiving assistance from a therapist was portrayed in a positive light. She was a little difficult to connect with in the beginning since she is so uptight and aloof (understandably so), but she warms up as Drew and those around her provide much needed support and kindness. Drew is fun and sweet, but has his own flaws as he navigates the new feelings that Victoria brings out in him. His sister Olivia was my favorite with her sassiness and loyalty to Drew. Some other teachers in the school serve as stumbling blocks to their developing relationship and the drama seemed a little cliche, so I was happy when deeper motivations were revealed and the resolution with them didn't go the predictable route. The plot moved at a steady pace with the up and downs, and I was engaged the whole time I was reading the book.

(I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher; all opinions in this review are my own)

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Book Spotlight, Excerpt & Giveaway: Healing of the Heart by Loree Lough



On Tour with Prism Book Tours.

Healing of the Heart

(Secrets of Sterling Stree #3)
by Loree Lough

Historical Romance

Paperback & ebook, 272 pages
November 1st 2016 by Whitaker House

Ruby McCoy is haunted by her father's sins....

When Ruby McCoy arrives in Fairplay, her ornate carriage is followed by an entourage who heft steamer trunks, hatboxes, and traveling bags into the hotel…where she has booked the entire second floor. Upon her notorious gangster father's death, the now-wealthy Ruby, hiding under her mother's maiden name, set out to right her father's wrongs. Ruby is determined to spend every penny of her inherited "blood money" on those who paid the price for her father's crimes.

Sheriff Rex Truett doesn't trust Ruby and doesn't care who knows it. The keeper of Fairplay's law and order makes it his business to find out why a stranger, especially a beautiful, spoiled, rich, female stranger, would set up businesses, donate to schools, hire workmen to rebuild houses, and provide access to the best medical care. But when a typhoid epidemic sweeps through the city, he is forced to reconsider.

Will Rex blame Ruby for her father's sins? Or will he accept the possibility that she is trying to create and feel the peace her father stole?

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Praise for the Book

“Healing of the Heart, book three of Secrets on Sterling Street, makes for a brilliant conclusion to the series. Lough’s descriptive narrative and delightful, often comical, dialogue pull us into the story. Sparks fly between Rex, the hard-shelled sheriff, and Ruby, the gutsy, gorgeous heroine. This fast-paced, absorbing read will have you flipping those pages into the wee morning hours. Don’t miss it!”

—Sharlene MacLaren

Author, Tennessee Dreams series and Summer on Sunset Ridge

“Loree Lough has once again brought the emotional intensity and passion of the West to life in her riveting historical romance, Healing of the Heart. With themes of forgiveness, righting wrongs done by others, and love that can wipe away the sins the past, this book explores all of that in the midst of the fierce and deadly beauty of Colorado in in the late 1800s. A story to treasure more than once.”

—Susan M. Baganz

Author, Pesto & Potholes, Salsa & Speedbumps, Feta & Freeways, and Fragile Blessings

“Loree Lough does it again with Healing of the Heart. Another moving and uplifting story with characters so real they feel like family, a plot that keeps you turning pages, and a setting so quaint it makes you want to move to Fairplay, Colorado.”

—Joya Fields

Award-winning author, Beneath the Surface

“This just might be my favorite story by Loree Lough. Her characters, driven by noble motives, endure hardships that can’t crush their budding emotions. Healing of the Heart is romance, faith, and mystery in one page-turning story.”

—Robin Bayne

Author, The Gardner’s Gazebo series

Excerpt

He’d do anything to ease his pa’s pain, and though he had no idea why, Rex said, “All right, I forgive you.”

Calmer now, his pa lay back and gave a single nod as his big hand went limp.

Rex’s heart was racing. What would he do without this good man in his life, this man who was as much friend as father, who’d taught him just about everything he knew?

The first cop bent at the waist. “Is he gone, boy?”

Rex nodded, unable to speak past the aching sob that blocked his throat.

Straightening, the cop told his partner, “I heard that Verdell Lundgren and his gang were in the area, but never in all my days did I believe they’d be bold enough to hit Baltimore.”

“Yeah, well, we need to get the mortician down here,” the man said, wincing at the bodies, the bloody boot prints that led to the door, and a single silver dollar glinting on the threshold, like the medallion that hung from a matching chain around the killer’s neck.

The first cop shook his head. “Sorry for your loss, son.” He lifted his chin a notch to add, “You can help us catch your pa’s killers if you tell us everything you remember about them.”

In the blink of an eye, Rex relived that moment in the street.

“The one in charge had dark eyes. It’s all I saw. They wore bandannas up high and their hats down low.”

The officer’s pencil scritch-scratched across his little tablet. “What about their boots? Horses? Saddles?”

“He had a hoarse voice, deeper than any I ever heard. Same voice that gave the order to silence the whimpering of….”

Rex stood, slapped a palm to the back of his neck. “He rode a red roan mare. Never saw boots like that…grey and white snakeskin. White Stetson with a black band. And a medal of some sort around his neck.”

“Very observant,” the copper said, looking up from his notes. “We’re shorthanded at the department.” He sent Rex a halfhearted smile. “You should look into signing on.”

The comment put him back a step. “Seems a peculiar thing to say, what with my pa not even cold yet.”

The officer’s face went red. “My apologies.”

“I need to take him home. We have a lot to do.”

“We?”

Aunt Mavis. His brain reeled with disjointed thoughts. He’d need every minute of the long ride home to figure out how to break the news to the aunt who’d raised him from infancy. Then, there’d be grave to dig and a headstone to carve. Under the circumstances, maybe that tightwad McGraw would extend the loan payment, especially once he secured the hotel job. Abigail had sworn him to secrecy: no one else had applied for the job.

But what about Mavis? She’d never agree to move into town, and he couldn’t leave her all the way out there, alone on the farm, with no one to help with the chores and no protection.

“Go on, son,” the officer said, his voice soft and low. “Take your pa home.”

Rex nodded. “I’ll be back for him, just as soon as I turn the wagon ’round.”

    He wanted to get his father cleaned up, so Mavis wouldn’t have to see him this way. Maybe the undertaker would take pity on him and help. Rex wanted to do things right, the way his pa would have.

    Forgive me….

    Rex shook his head, hoping to dislodge the troubling words from his brain.

    “Don’t do anything stupid, son,” the cop said.

    “Huh?”

    “I been readin’ faces for nigh on to two decades now, and what yours is tellin’ me will only land you in the graveyard. If it turns out the Lundgren Gang was behind this….” He put his tablet and pencil away. “Let’s just say I can tell you’re not a cold-blooded killer. But Lundgren? He doesn’t have a heart or a soul. Wouldn’t think twice about putting a bullet between your eyes.”

    The man had almost done exactly that, just moments ago.

    “Your pa wouldn’t want you to end up that way.”

    “How can you tell all that, just by looking?”

    “Like I said, been doin’ this a long time.”

    An idea began to form in Rex’s mind.

    If he joined the police force, and learned the things this officer already knew, he could put the knowledge to use…

    …hunting down the animal who had killed his pa.

 

Currency of the Heart

(Secrets on Sterling Street, #1)

by Loree Lough

Historical Romance

Paperback & ebook, 256 pages

January 1st 2015 by Whitaker House

Young widow Shaina Sterling hates living a lie. Desperate to keep bill collectors from the door, she secretly sells valuable possessions piece by piece, and hopes Denver’s elite never discover that his lavish lifestyle left her a near pauper.

She’s unaware that as her husband lay dying, successful rancher Sloan Remington made him a promise. And Sloan guards her secrets

as carefully as he looks after her safety.

When fire devours Sterling Hall, leaving her homeless and penniless, he brings her to Remington Ranch to manage his household. His kindness makes Shaina beholden to him … and threatens to expose the secret that could destroy him.

Will trials and tragedies bring Sloan and Shaina together?

Or will secrets—and the cost of exposing them—drive them apart forever?

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Guardians of the Heart

(Secrets on Sterling Street, #2)
by Loree Lough
Historical Romance

Paperback & ebook, 272 pages
August 3rd 2015 by Whitaker House

Nell Holstrom wanted no part of her grandfather's barren gold mine that had taken the lives of her mother, father, and younger brother; even if there may still be hidden wealth inside. Instead, she went to Denver and took a job as housekeeper at the old Stone Hill Inn.

Asa Stone was barely more than a boy when his father dragged him and his brothers to fight with Colonel John Chivington. But Asa refused to participate in the raid on the peaceful Cheyenne and Arapahoe; and when the smoke cleared, his father and brother lay among the slaughtered. Besieged by guilt, Asa wandered the West for years before returning to Denver to rebuild the old inn he'd inherited. 

Together, Nell and Asa work hard to restore Stone Hill. But when disaster hits the inn, Asa retreats into despair and Nell is forced to return to her family's mine. Asa faces the hard fact: He'll never be the man Nell deserves. Can he overcome the dark secrets of his past? And will Nell still love him when she learns the truth?

Check out the tour for Guardians of the Heart here.

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At last count, best-selling author Loree Lough had 104 award-winning books (nearly 5,000,000 copies in circulation and 5 titles that earned book-to-movie options), 68 short stories, and 2,500+ articles in print.

An oft-invited guest of writers' organizations, colleges and universities, corporate and government agencies in the U.S. and abroad, Loree loves sharing learned-the-hard-way lessons about the craft and the industry.

Once upon a time, Loree (literally) sang for her supper, performing alone and "opening" for the likes of Tom Jones, Dottie West, The Gatlin Brothers, and more. Though she refuses to share the actual year when she traded her Yamaha 6-string for a wedding ring, she IS willing to admit that, every now and then, she blows the dust off her six-string to croon a tune or two. But mostly, she just writes (and writes).

Loree and her husband split their time between a home in the Baltimore suburbs and a cabin in the Allegheny Mountains, where she continues to hone her "identify the critter tracks" skills. Her favorite passtime? Spending long, leisurely hours with her grandchildren...all seven of them!

She loves hearing from her readers, and answers every letter, personally. You can write her @ http://www.loreelough.com.

Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Pinterest

Tour Schedule

November 13th: Launch

November 14th: Katie's Clean Book Collection & Christy's Cozy Corners

November 15th: Brooke Blogs & Rockin' Book Reviews

November 16th: Jessica and Gracie's Tree & Heidi Reads...

November 17th: Wishful Endings & Mel's Shelves

November 18th: Singing Librarian Books & Bookworm Lisa

November 20th: Grand Finale

Tour Giveaway

2 winners will win a print copy of HEALING OF THE HEART (US only)
2 winners will win a Kindle/Nook copy of HEALING OF THE HEART (open internationally)
1 winner will win a $20 Amazon eGift Card (open internationally)

Ends November 25th

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