Saturday, December 31, 2022
Reading Challenges for 2023!
Monday, December 19, 2022
Book Tour & Review: The Sisters of Sea View by Julie Klassen
Some guests have come for a holiday, others for hidden reasons of their own . . .
When their father's death leaves them impoverished, Sarah Summers and her genteel sisters fear they will be forced to sell the house and separate to earn livelihoods as governesses or companions. Determined to stay together, Sarah convinces them to open their seaside home to guests to make ends meet and provide for their ailing mother. Instead of the elderly invalids they expect to receive, however, they find themselves hosting eligible gentlemen. Sarah is soon torn between a growing attraction to a mysterious Scottish widower and duty to her family.
Viola Summers wears a veil to cover her scar. When forced to choose between helping in her family's new guest house and earning money to hire a maid to do her share, she chooses the latter. She reluctantly agrees to read to some of Sidmouth's many invalids, preferring the company of a few elders with failing eyesight to the fashionable guests staying in their home. But when her first client turns out to be a wounded officer in his thirties, Viola soon wishes she had chosen differently. Her new situation exposes her scars--both visible and those hidden deep within--and her cloistered heart will never be the same.
Join the Summers sisters on the Devonshire coast, where they discover the power of friendship, loyalty, love, and new beginnings.
My Review
Julie Klassen is an auto-read author for me, and I'm so excited for a new series to devour! The Sisters of Sea View very much has the vibe of her Ivy Hill series, with a slower pace and rich details intricately weaving together the lives of her characters and immersing the reader in the setting. The story is told from multiple perspectives, and doesn't focus on one couple only, but creates an ensemble cast that I anticipate will continue throughout the rest of the books. Each sister has her own unique and vibrant personality, and I loved seeing them come into their own and develop their strengths in their new circumstances. Such a cozy read that held my interest through each page and plot development. I can't wait for the next installment!
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.
“Jane Austen fans will delight in this nimble series launch…Klassen excels at weaving her various story lines, each emphasizing the colorful qualities of her characters and allowing them the space to shine. Readers will be eager for the next installment.” —Publisher’s Weekly (starred review)
PRAISE FOR THE NOVELS OF JULIE KLASSEN
“Julie Klassen delights with a winsome love story…” —Publisher’s Weekly, on A Castaway in Cornwall
“I couldn’t put it down! It you are a historical fiction fan you need this one on your radar! It was a spooky delight full of heart. ”—Anne Mendez, The Lit B****, on Shadows of Swanford Abbey
“…a wonderfully engaging novel full of intriguing characters and storylines. I highly recommend it and can’t wait for more in the series.” —Laura Gerold, Laura’s Reviews, on The Innkeeper of Ivy Hill
Julie Klassen loves all things Jane—Jane Eyre and Jane Austen. Her books have sold over a million copies, and she is a three-time recipient of the Christy Award for Historical Romance. The Secret of Pembrooke Park was honored with the Minnesota Book Award for Genre Fiction. Julie has also won the Midwest Book Award and Christian Retailing’s BEST Award and has been a finalist in the RITA and Carol Awards. 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 a suburb of St. Paul, Minnesota.
Friday, December 16, 2022
Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: Portal Slayer: Beneath the Shadows by S.L. Dooley
Welcome to the Blog Tour for Portal Slayer: Beneath the Shadows by S.L. Dooley, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
ABOUT THE BOOK
Title: Portal Slayer: Beneath the ShadowsDarkness comes in many forms.
Raelyn is about to encounter them all.PURCHASE LINKS: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | IndieBound | BookBub
EXCERPT
Their fate in the catacombs . . .
Raelyn’s location and condition . . .
Ditimer’s betrayal . . .
The current carried each away, the water dispersing them until they were diluted and powerless.
A heat kindled in Kade’s chest. A stirring beneath the wound, deep in his heart, something in his bones. The heat flowed down his arms and to his hands. A light flickered in his palms. Pale, unnoticeable to anyone but him.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
S.L. Dooley is a fantasy author looking for a neverending story to go boldly through the wardrobe into another adventure. She's a wife and mother of two grown kids. She lives in Texas where she collects old books and new journals.
Connect with S.L. by visiting sldooley.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.
TOUR GIVEAWAY
(1) winner will receive a copy of the Realms of the Periferie trilogy, tea, and a mug!
Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight December 12, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 19, 2022. 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.
Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!
Thursday, December 15, 2022
Blog Blitz, Excerpt & Giveaway: The Last Cottage on Pinewood Lane by Melissa McClone
Welcome to the Blog + Review Blitz for The Last Cottage on Pinewood Lane by Melissa McClone, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
ABOUT THE BOOK
Title: The Last Cottage on Pinewood LaneShe’s his Christmas miracle. Now all he has to do is convince her of that…
Figure skater Tasha Ramson used to love the holidays. But with her career on the skids, she needs a break from the festive season—and Berry Lake is the perfect place to take it. Organizing a Christmas fundraiser was not on her agenda. Neither was falling for the small town’s handsome lawyer. But…she did…PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon
EXCERPT
“I haven’t skated since I was a teenager.”
“What’s stopping you now?” she asked.
“No idea. Especially with the money going to a good cause.”
She peered around him. “The line for skates isn’t long.”
Elias glanced over his shoulder. “That’s the shortest it’s been compared to earlier.”
“Nothing to stop you.”
“Except I might fall flat on my face.”
She couldn’t tell if he was making an excuse or not. “Everyone falls. I did this morning. No big deal.”
“You fell because of Higgins. You wouldn’t have otherwise.”
Ninety-nine percent true—because slips happened to everyone—but she wouldn’t admit that aloud. “Skate.”
He opened his mouth and then closed it. “If you’ll skate with me.”
Yes. Desire hit hard and fast. The joy coming from the rink was palpable. But self-preservation warned against it. “I…can’t.”
“Come on,” Elias urged in a playful tone. “I can tell you want to.”
Tasha did, but his recognizing that surprised her. The only problem? She hadn’t skated in public—outside of choreographing—in three years. Berry Lake might be a small town—with fewer people than Wishing Bay—but she no longer wanted to be in the limelight. Not that anyone would recognize her after quitting the sport after Worlds.
She struggled with what to say. “I do, but…”
“No buts. I don’t know what to do out there. It’s been that long.” The words rushed out. He didn’t even stop for a breath, but she discerned each one. “Follow me.”
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
USA TODAY bestselling, award winning author Melissa McClone writes heartwarming women’s fiction and sweet contemporary romance novels for Tule Publishing Group, Harlequin Books, and Cardinal Press. She has also optioned two screenplays. When she’s not writing relatable characters and sigh-worthy happy endings, she spends her time in the rainy Pacific Northwest reading from her Kindle’s ever-growing TBR, napping with her Norwegian Elkhound and two mini panthers, and decorating her Happy Planner. Melissa graduated from Stanford University with a mechanical engineering degree, but discovered she prefers writing happily ever afters to jet engine testing and analysis.
Connect with Melissa by visiting melissamcclone.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.
TOUR GIVEAWAY
(1) winner will receive a Christmas Mystery Prize Pack including a $10 Amazon card, a $10 Starbucks card, and Christmas items!
Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight December 14, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 21, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. No shipping restrictions. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.
Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.
Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!
Tuesday, December 13, 2022
Book Tour, Review & Giveaway: My Testimeny Tree by Sierra Wilson, illustrated by Nicole Koa
About the Book
My testimony is special.
It's the spiritual things I know.
And just like a tree,
Every day I'll help it grow.
From tiny seed to strong, fruitful tree, a testimony is something that must be nurtured and cared for your whole life through. With beautiful illustrations and poetry, this story of faith helps children understand what a testimony is and how to help it thrive, bringing them closer to Heavenly Father and the Savior.
My Review
I loved this sweet book! It takes the metaphor of growing our testimony like a tree, and focuses on simple actions children (and adults!) can do to nourish spirituality. I appreciated that it defined a testimony first, as "the spiritual things I know." The illustrations are adorable, and help visualize the connection between the two parts of the metaphor. The message that a testimony is something to be developed during a process of faithful choices is vital for our children to learn. and This is a wonderful book that is perfect for young to older Primary aged children. I'll be bringing our copy to church for my daughter to read during sacrament meeting on Fast Sundays especially. My Testimony Tree would make a great gift!
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.
Sierra Wilson is the author of several faith-filled picture books including I Can Be Like Jesus, The Atonement of Jesus Christ is for Me, and Standout Saints: Church History Heroes from Around the World. She currently lives in Alberta, Canada where she adores hiking, skiing, and adventuring with her husband and five children.
Friday, December 9, 2022
Blog Tour, Review & Giveaway: Meriden Park by Julie Daines
Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Meriden Park by Julie Daines, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
ABOUT THE BOOK
Title: Meriden ParkFollowing her childhood rescue from the gutters of Calcutta, Mary Grace’s life has been an astonishing rags-to-riches tale. The Wellings raised the half-Indian orphan with all the love and care the childless couple possessed, allowing her to grow into a beautiful and refined woman. But upon Mr. Welling’s death, it is time for Mrs. Welling to take Mary home to England―home to Meriden Park.
Despite her genial nature, Mary is received with suspicion by the villagers. For his part, however, Mr. Robert Markham is intrigued by the curious new beauty in town. Determined to make her acquaintance, he offers Mary a bargain she can’t refuse: a hot cross bun for a kiss. That seemingly innocent exchange is the first of many encounters between Robert and Mary, whose friendship blossoms into love during long walks in the privacy of Sherwood Forest. But the shadows of the forest hide a sinister secret, one Mary fears Robert might be a part of. As the mystery of the recent string of murders creeps closer and closer, Robert and Mary are drawn into a dangerous game, and unless she can unearth the truth, the couple risks losing one another forever.PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
My Review
Robin Hood meets Regency? I'm all there for it! I can always count on Julie Daines to take me away with a wonderful story, and she really delivered with Meriden Park. The characters are unique and vibrant, with admirable strengths, and I loved getting to know them as their layers are revealed. Robert and Mary develop a friendship that provides a good foundation for a deeper relationship as they choose to trust and pursue the intrigue and get caught in the action. They have great banter which is always a pleasure to read! The story is well rounded with a variety of supporting characters that brought depth and provided suspense that moved the story along at a good pace- I didn't want to put the book down! Highly recommend to fans of retellings and sweet Regency romance!
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.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Julie Daines is an award-winning and best-selling author. She was born in Concord, Massachusetts, and was raised in Utah. She spent eighteen months living in London, where she studied and fell in love with English literature, sticky toffee pudding, and the mysterious guy who ran the kebab store around the corner.
She loves reading, writing, and watching movies—anything that transports her to another world. She picks Captain Wentworth over Mr. Darcy, firmly believes in second breakfast, and never leaves home without her vervain.Connect with Julie by visiting juliedaines.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.
TOUR GIVEAWAY
(1) winner will receive a signed copy of book, $25 Amazon gift card, bookmark, stickers, and button.
Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight December 5, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 12, 2022. 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.
Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!
Wednesday, December 7, 2022
Blog Blitz, Excerpt & Giveaway: A Christmas Bargain by Mindy Obenhaus
Welcome to the Blog + Review Blitz for A Christmas Bargain by Mindy Obenhaus, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
ABOUT THE BOOK
Title: A Christmas BargainPURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookDepository | IndieBound | Christianbook | BookBub
EXCERPT
Armed with a shearing knife, he attacked his fourth tree of the morning. Moving it this way and that, he felt a bit like a swashbuckler. When he took a step back to evaluate his latest conquest, notes of Bing Crosby’s “White Christmas” carried on the gentle morning breeze.
Turning, he saw Annalise coming toward him wearing a pair of skinny jeans and a Merry Christmas T-shirt, a shearing knife in one hand and an all-too enticing smile on her face.
“I didn’t hear you drive up.”
“That’s because I’m stealthy, like a ninja.” Stepping back, she struck a silly pose, wielding her makeshift sword.
He couldn’t contain his laughter. He hadn’t seen this playful side of her before. And after all the struggles she’d faced since arriving in Hope Crossing, it did his heart good.
“I don’t think ninjas play Christmas music on their phone.”
Straightening, she stepped in front of him, close enough that he caught the aroma of what he was coming to think of as her trademark floral fragrance. “They do if they’re North Pole ninjas.” The mischief that sparkled in her blue eyes had him taking a step back. This fun, playful Annalise was way too captivating.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Award-winning author Mindy Obenhaus is passionate about touching readers with Biblical truths in an entertaining, and sometimes adventurous, manner. She lives on a ranch in Texas with her husband, two sassy pups, countless cattle, deer and the occasional coyote, mountain lion or snake. When she’s not writing, she enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, cooking and watching the Hallmark Channel.
Connect with Mindy by visiting MindyObenhaus.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.
TOUR GIVEAWAY
(1) winner will receive a signed copy of A Christmas Bargain and a $25 Amazon gift card!
Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight December 7, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 14, 2022. 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.
Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!
Tuesday, December 6, 2022
Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: Christmas at Whispering Creek by Barbara M. Britton
Welcome to the Blog Tour for Christmas at Whispering Creek by Barbara M. Britton, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
ABOUT THE BOOK
Title: Christmas at Whispering CreekPURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | IndieBound | BookBub
EXCERPT
Samantha wiped a tear from her eye and set her coffee cup on the side table. “Wow. I’m in shock. I mean…I never expected Ted to leave me his house.” She needed money to pay medical bills, not property requiring upkeep. Although knowing Ted, his house would be pristine. His late wife, Nan, always kept a tidy home. “I’m not ungrateful.” I sure sound like it. “It’s, um, I don’t have a lot of income right now. I work part-time in a floral shop.” Instead of teaching a classroom of second graders. Thank you, cancer. She laced her fingers and tried to keep the shaking to a minimum. Would this inheritance add to her debt?
Chester held up a well-manicured hand and grinned. “I imagine the last thing you expected was to be a homeowner in Tennessee.”
“The idea wasn’t even on her one-in-a-million chance list.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Barbara M. Britton lives in Southeast, Wisconsin. She writes Christian Fiction from Bible Times to modern day USA. Barbara has a nutrition degree from Baylor University but loves to dip healthy strawberries in chocolate.
Connect with Barbara by visiting barbarambritton.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.
TOUR GIVEAWAY
(1) winner will receive a Christmas at Whispering Creek book box filled with books and goodies!
Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight December 6, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 13, 2022. 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. International prize, ebook only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.
Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.
Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!
Friday, December 2, 2022
Review: The Best Intentions by Sarah M. Eden
Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for The Best Intentions by Sarah M. Eden, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
ABOUT THE BOOK
Synopsis
In the eyes of London Society, Gillian Phelps is suitable enough. Though the ton whispers about her change of residence, any speculation remains just that: ballroom gossip. No one―not even the other Huntresses, the group of ladies she calls her dearest friends―knows that she is harboring a devastating family secret. Gillian has become adept at hiding the reality of her circumstances, but the close quarters of a house party will test her ability to conceal the crushing truth. And with so many people to deceive, the late arrival of another guest is a most unwelcome surprise.
Despite his standing as a gentleman of the ton, in truth, Scott Sarvol possesses little more than two debt-riddled estates. When an opportunity arises to survey one of his properties, he travels north, only to find himself an unwitting guest at Artemis Jonquil’s house party. He is warmly welcomed by all―except the aloof Miss Gillian Phelps. But when Scott proves himself unexpectedly helpful in a crisis, his acquaintance with Gillian shifts from wariness to something warmer.
As both her charade and her feelings for Scott deepen, Gillian realizes that the truth could spell not only a devastating fall from Society but also a shattered heart.
My Review
I adore this group of young women and the bond they share! They are highly protective of each other in a society that could often be cruel. Gillian is more wary than the others since she has a secret to hide about her family. She has quite a journey as she learns to risk and trust. Scott also has baggage from the abusive uncle he inherited debt-ridden properties from. I loved the affection and comfort Mater gives him as he tries to navigate the difficult and seemingly impossible circumstances of making his estates solvent. Gillian and Scott started on rocky ground because of her wariness, but the sweet relationship they develop naturally grows in romantic chemistry. The other characters brought so much to the story and I’m always happy to revisit the Jonquils and Lancasters. There are strong themes of family, both of dealing with complicated dynamics and making family where you find kindred spirits. Loving this new series!
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 these books connected to The Huntresses series . . .
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Sarah M. Eden is a USA Today bestselling author of multiple historical romances, including AML's "2013 Novel of the Year" and Foreword Review’s 2013 “IndieFab Book of the Year” gold medal winner for Best Romance, Longing for Home, and the Whitney Award's "2014 Novel of the Year," Longing for Home: Hope Springs. Combining her obsession with history and affinity for tender love stories, Sarah loves crafting witty characters and heartfelt romances set against rich historical backdrops. She holds a Bachelor's degree in research and happily spends hours perusing the reference shelves of her local library. Sarah lives with her husband, kids, and mischievous dog in the shadow of a snow-capped mountain she has never attempted to ski.
Connect with Sarah by visiting sarahmeden.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.
TOUR GIVEAWAY
(1) winner will receive a signed copy of book, $25 Amazon gift card, bookmark, stickers, and button.
Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight November 28, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 5, 2022. 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.
Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!