Showing posts with label Becky Wade. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Becky Wade. Show all posts

Saturday, December 1, 2018

Review: The Christmas Heirloom by Karen Witemeyer, Kristi Ann Hunter, Sarah Loudin Thomas, Becky Wade



My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

http://www.amazon.comhttp://www.amazon.comhttp://www.barnesandnoble.comhttp://www.bookdepository.comhttp://www.goodreads.com

Synopsis

In Kristi Ann Hunter's "Legacy of Love," Sarah Gooding never suspected returning a brooch to an elderly woman would lead to a job . . . and introduce her to the woman's grandson, a man far above her station.

In Karen Witemeyer's "Gift of the Heart," widow Ruth Albright uses the family brooch as collateral for a loan from the local banker. But the more she comes to know the man behind the stern businessman, the more she hopes for a second chance at love.

In Sarah Loudin Thomas's "A Shot at Love," Fleeta Brady's rough-and-tumble childhood means she prefers hunting to more feminine activities. She never expected her family's brooch might be how a fellow hunter turns her attention from competition to romance.

In Becky Wade's "Because of You," Maddie Winslow has spent years in love with a man whose heart was already spoken for. When a church Christmas project brings them together and she stumbles upon an old family brooch, might it finally be her turn for love?


My Review

I enjoyed each of the stories in this collection by four of Bethany House's strong authors! It was neat that they took place in different eras, connected by the heirloom brooch that is passed down the maternal line. With each story I was immersed in the setting and characters, and a full story arc was achieved in the space of a novella. The romances were sweet and full of chemistry between the lead characters, making the stories come to life. This is a collection that I plan to read again in the future! It would also make a lovely Christmas gift for readers and fans of wholesome romance.

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


Thursday, November 22, 2018

#TFBRC Grateful



The type of story the prompt "Grateful" made me think of is second-chance love. Love in the Details by Becky Wade is the "Year of Weddings" novella set in November *and* a second chance love story, so it was perfect for my pick for today! The e-book is only $1.49, so if you haven't read it yet, get yourself a little reading treat ;)

https://amzn.to/2zoXtrE

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

http://www.amazon.comhttp://www.amazon.comhttp://www.barnesandnoble.comhttp://www.bookdepository.comhttp://www.goodreads.com

Synopsis


She left him to save his future, but they’ve never gotten over each other.

When Josh returns to his hometown of Martinsburg, Texas, to help his best friend get married, he didn’t intend to run into church wedding coordinator—and ex-girlfriend—Holly. He can’t help but pine after the girl he never got over.

Holly broke up with Josh years ago in an attempt to ensure his future success. But she loved him then and still loves him now. As she helps him plan his best friend’s wedding, she can’t help but feel horrible for the pain she caused him. And even though she longs to be with Josh, she doesn’t feel worthy of his big-time lifestyle when she is more comfortable in her small town world. Will Josh and Holly be able to keep things as they are when their true feelings threaten to surface at every turn?


My Review

There's something about a hero longing for the woman he's always loved but could never have that gets me every time! Josh wasn't planning to pursue Holly but after their first encounter since years of separation he just can't help himself. The clincher is that Holly never wanted to lose him but outside forces compelled her to set him free- against both their wills, and she didn't tell him why- which seriously ups the angst factor. I love how Josh conspires to spend more time with Holly and they fall back into their friendship and banter despite the palpable undercurrents of attraction and yearning. The novella is definitely character focused and was such a pleasure to read!

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



Saturday, May 12, 2018

Book Tour Grand Finale: Falling for You by Becky Wade


On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Book Tour Grand Finale for
Falling for You
By Becky Wade

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed the Facebook Chat, go check it out here. If you missed any of the stops you can see snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:

Launch - Note from the Author

...Falling for You stars both Corbin and the oldest Bradford sister, Willow. The two had a romantic relationship long ago, so when I thrust them into each other’s path again (kicking and screaming, I might add) fireworks ensued, which was so much fun to write. I enjoyed their banter. Willow’s strength. Corbin’s charm. And the chance to explore the novel's theme of reconciliation.

I hope Falling for You steals your heart!

Warmly, Becky

Amy Watson Author - Excerpt & Review

Text message from Corbin to Willow fifteen days before their breakup:

Corbin
I miss you. It feels like forever since you left.

Willow
I just left Dallas yesterday.

Corbin
Exactly. Until I met you, I didn’t know a day could feel like forever.

"'Falling For You' has twists and turns that left my mind racing almost as fast as I could turn the pages. The complex, yet beautifully woven story lines elicited visceral responses as I read. And somehow, somewhere along the way, it stopped being about just Willow’s story, it’s your story and my story...

You may shed some tears (I did!), but have no fear; there is plenty of humor! Rare are novels that produce legitimate laugh out loud moments and inside jokes amongst friends. Wade’s ability to introduce humor into her novels is really something special. Finally, the last page comes WAY too soon and I was left salivating for the NEXT novel! Watch out for another award for this beautiful story! This is a MUST READ!"

Remembrancy - Review

"A second chance romance with two likable characters—more so as details of their tumultuous past are revealed—Falling for You introduces a new romance with some familiar faces. Wade once again delivers the complications of romance with the nuances of family (how much do you love these sisters?)."


"'Falling for You' did me in. It is decidedly my favorite of Becky’s books (and you have no idea how strong the competition was!).

I loved that both Willow and Corbin had made very obvious, very heartbreaking mistakes in their past. Mistakes that influenced them negatively years later. I also loved that they, slowly, came face to face with those mistakes. And overcame them. And found forgiveness...

This book gets all the stars, all the happy tears, and my full recommendation."

Heidi Reads... - Review

"There is a perfect balance between all the plot threads and the redevelopment of Willow and Corbin's friendship and romance. They share fun banter, even (especially) when they are at odds, their chemistry is crackling with passion, and their relationship develops greater depth as Corbin is determined to show Willow how devoted he is to her. . . . I love the spiritual themes that are woven in seamlessly of forgiveness and the importance of turning all our worries over to God and allowing him to guide our lives. Even though this is the second book in the series it can definitely be read as a standalone. Highly recommend!"


"It’s not often that a book makes me reach for Kleenex but this one did...

Some hard issues were discussed in regards to their relationship and Wade did a fabulous job of weaving the descriptions throughout and heightening the emotional pull you felt towards Corbin and Willow...

Whew! What a fantastic book! You won’t be disappointed."

Radiant Light - Review

"Ms. Wade has created her own niche` in romantic suspense, and I am a huge fan! Even with the romance and mystery thread, the faith thread is not missing. It is woven beautifully and gives hope and encouragement to the reader.

Ms. Wade's mysterious thread is so good I wasn't exactly sure until later on which romance I was reading about, and I loved that!

Highly recommended!"

Cafinated Reads - Spotlight


"I loved Willow and Corbin’s story. Their past made for some great storyline for the future. The chemistry between these two is undeniable. You cannot help but fall in love with their story.

This is one book you will definitely not want to miss from Becky Wade!"


"I loved this book as much as I loved the first one! It was so good! It was deep and very thought provoking. It was just as big of roller coaster of emotion as the first book. I enjoyed revisiting all the characters from the previous book while reading Willow and Corbin’s story...

This whole book was great and I honestly can’t wait for the third! Becky is absolutely amazing and will always be a favorite! I highly recommend you read this series if you haven’t yet!"


Moments - Review

"Becky has done an incredible job with bringing Willow and the other characters to life; I felt as if they are real people. . . . It is so easy to connect with the characters and empathize with them as Becky really writes portraying the characters' hearts and their internal struggles with the various situations and their relationships. I found myself not being to put the book down once I started reading. I highly recommend "Falling for You," but encourage you to read the prequel novella and first book in the series as well. "



"For the best in contemporary romance, Becky Wade delivers every single time. I could never pick a favorite book because whatever I’m reading at the time is best, and that’s surely the case with Becky’s newest, Falling for You. In fact, it presented me with a conundrum … should I quickly read this story that totally captivated me, or proceed at a slower pace, so as to enjoy these characters longer and not miss a single nuance?

I really had no choice but to choose the latter because Falling for You is that good...

Falling for You is an outstanding story in every way and I hope we’ll see Britt’s story soon."


"As much as I related to Nora in True To You with her nerdy bookish self and the adoption themes . . . in a lot of ways I relate more to Willow. I will never be model material and only consider myself beautiful on good days, but Willow struggles with two big things that I have as well: shame from a past relationship, and growing up, the feeling that I had to be the perfect child."

I Am A Reader - Excerpt

Nora had recently acquired an excellent boyfriend named John Lawson. John’s only fault, so far as Willow could tell, was his bad taste in friends. John, who’d been unaware of Corbin and Willow’s past, had brought Corbin to Willow’s grandmother’s birthday party in July.

Since the party, Nora and John had been trying their best to keep Corbin separate from Willow. Ordinarily, Nora took pains not to breathe his name to Willow, despite that Willow knew that John and Nora hung out with Corbin. Every time she found out that Nora had seen Corbin, Willow felt a little like a high school girl whose best friend was being stolen away by her arch rival.

Willow only had two sisters, both younger. Corbin could have befriended the boyfriend of anyone else’s sister in all of America. Anyone else! In all of America! Why had he insisted on befriending hers?

Book by Book - Spotlight


"...the attraction and chemistry between Willow and Corbin was fantastic. I could literally feel it. There was a steady build of information and insight that kept me invested and interested from the first page until the end. It was so, so good. I just loved Corbin- his sense of humor, his determination, his kindness.

There was a bit of a mystery being solved in this book as well. It was light and fun and kept an added element of intrigue to the story."

cherylbbookblog - Review

"Falling For You is a wonderful work of fiction by Becky Wade. Characters and a story line that you are sure to love. If you love romance than this is the book for you."


"Falling for You encompasses so many emotions and moments of truth. Just when it seems like the characters are making progress, another layer of Willow and Corbin’s past relationship is revealed, increasing the tension and complexity of the story. I love that Becky Wade can make me laugh, cry, and swoon in a matter of pages. Mostly, I love that my own faith can be challenged through story — and what a lesson it is!"


"Falling for You is everything right in a romance novels. Becky Wade upped her game and brought me to tears a time or too, laughter (because Corbin is that hilarious), and a bunch of heartfelt sighs at the love blossoming between Corbin and Willow. I absolutely loved it!..

All in all, this was a one-nighter, page turning, gotta love Becky Wade type of read."


"...Falling for You was fabulous, as expected!

All I can say is that I enjoyed this book from start to finish. It was the perfect compliment to the previous book and the end was just what I was hoping for! Another fantastic novel by Becky Wade, but I have come to expect nothing less! If you have not had a chance to pick up this series you must!"


"Sizzling romance, heart-wrenching loss, and a faith theme woven throughout the story make Falling for You a stand-out Christian romance. A touch of mystery and epistolary chapter endings only add to the reading pleasure."


"Becky Wade writes in a way that draws a reader in, causing hope to surface, and tender love to arise. I felt like an honorary character and enjoyed being a part of this family so much. I love that this story isn't one dimensional--there are so many facets that meld together in a satisfying read that will twist your heart."


Willow had seen him in person for the first time years before when he’d sauntered into a Sports Illustrated photo shoot featuring philanthropic pro athletes, models, actors, musicians, and business magnates. She’d been holding a to-go cup of coffee by its protective sleeve in that moment. Golden sunlight had bathed the studio. His legendary status had whisked around him like a spell.

He’d been very relaxed that day. His sense of humor, charm, and easy confidence had worked like a balm on all of them. He’d won over every person in the place, including cautious her. She’d had no idea then that the quarterback with the irresistible smile would become her downfall.


"I personally love Willow (she might be my favorite of the three sisters), and I just loved this love story. True to any Becky Wade novel, this book is packed full of heart-stopping romance that just makes your toes tingle (Can we say Corbin? Mmmhmm)! There’s also a little bit of a mystery thrown in — Charlotte quickly became one of my favorite characters!"

God is Love - Review

"This story is filled with intrigue, faith, hope, and romance. As a reader, I couldn’t stop turning the pages until I reached “the end”. As a writer, I applaud Becky Wade for her masterful storytelling. She writes beautifully and tells her characters’ stories in a way that draws the reader in and makes them care about what happens in their fictional story world.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and would recommend it to anyone who needs a second chance romance in real-life or just enjoys reading a good story that will make you laugh with hilarious dialogue and smile as you share sweet moments with the characters. "


"This story made me literally laugh out loud at times, but other moments it had me thinking serious, deep thoughts about God, His love for us, grace, and forgiveness. I loved the balance this book found between humor and serious. It also included a wonderful love story - probably my favorite type - the 'reunion romance.'"


"It makes me happy to be able to recommend a book to friends that really is just that good. It’s sweet, and unpredictable, and clean, yet very romantic and real. This author doesn’t sugar coat real life situations just because it’s an inspiration read. She dives right in, but in a way that is very respectable.

Falling for You isn’t the kind of book you can “just read one more chapter in” because when you finish that chapter, you want to keep going! This is a bingeable book, an “up till 2 AM” read."

Wishful Endings - Review

"Becky Wade has written another story with lovable characters and a message that will touch readers' hearts. She delves into some difficult topics with humor, love, and grace. Add to that a sizzling romance and you have a story that is sure to be a favorite."

Mel's Shelves - Review

"It shouldn't be too surprising that I loved everything about this book, including the fabulous cover!...

This is a fabulous book from beginning to end! It's one I highly recommend and will definitely read again! Even though I wasn't familiar with the characters, I loved the setup for the next book and look forward to how that relationship will play out. "


"I LOVE how the author kept what happened in their relationship SO REAL! Couples really do face temptations and struggles in real life, especially when one person in the relationship is a Christian and another is not. Consequences, forgiveness, peace, and not becoming a victim of your past were all explored in this book, through the truth of God's Word and who He is. So well done! And, of course, the romantic tension was great ; ).

Basically...put this book, and all of Becky Wade's other books, on your To Be Read list! : )"

Jorie Loves A Story - Spotlight



"I must say that when I finished this book, it jumped to one of my all-time favorites...

Becky created a superb novel, well worth the 5 star read and a spot on your keeper shelf."


"All in all, this book seems to have a little bit of everything. Mystery! Romance! And precocious twelve-year-old girls who understand their uncles way better than anyone else. Charlotte was a really sweet addition to the cast of characters and became one of my favorites. Her small nudges certainly help get the ball rolling in the beginning, for which none of us are unhappy! :D

There are many more reasons that I could name in order to try and convince you to give this one a try. But ultimately? All I've really got is that it's by Becky Wade and that should totally be enough to convince you! So what are you waiting for? Go read it."


"For those of you sticking with me, let me tell you why I enjoyed this book so much that I began rereading it less than a month after devouring it. This is no ordinary romance though. It begins with a wounded NFL star, a precocious child, a missing person mystery AND a lost love with wounds so deep they are almost part of the characters blood. When you put all of that together and catapult the former couple back into each other’s worlds, you have yourself a serious page turner...

If you love a great romance with so much more, this is a must read."


"Falling for You, the second book in Becky Wade’s Bradford Sisters series, is a fantastic addition to the set!..

I loved the witty, and sometimes snarky, back and forth of this story. I loved observing the softening of Willow’s heart. I loved seeing Corbin becoming the hero he is meant to be. And I believe you will, too!"


"In her novel, Falling for You, book two in the Bradford Sisters Romance series, author Becky Wade has written fun and exciting clean contemporary romance that readers are sure to fall in love with. From page one, this novel comes to life off the pages...

Readers definitely do not want to miss this excellent sequel to True to You and the continued story of the Bradford Sisters!"


"What a wonderful, clean, fun, delightful, suspenseful, and romantic story...

...I highly recommend it. I believe many readers would relate to the power of forgiveness, moving from the past, and redemption."

Dawn's Dreams - Review

"This book was so much fun! I loved both Willow and Corbin! I also loved the mystery of finding Josephine. I can't wait for the next one."

Don't forget to enter the giveaway below, if you haven't already...

https://amzn.to/2rHolj1
Falling for You
(A Bradford Sisters Romance #2)
By Becky Wade
Inspirational Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 368 pages
May 1st 2018 by Bethany House Publishers

Famously beautiful model Willow Bradford is taking a temporary break from her hectic schedule to work as the innkeeper at her family's small-town bed-and-breakfast. She was enjoying the peace of her hometown, Merryweather, Washington, right up until she came face-to-face with Corbin Stewart, the man she loves to hate. A thoughtful rule-follower by nature, Willow threw caution to the wind four years ago when she entrusted her heart to Corbin--and suffered the consequences when it all fell apart.

Former NFL quarterback Corbin is forceful, charming, and accustomed to getting what he wants . . . except where Willow Bradford is concerned. Unable to forget her, he's never stopped regretting what happened between them. When their paths unexpectedly cross again, he's determined to make her give him a second chance.

When a decades-old missing persons case finds Corbin and Willow working together, they're forced to confront their past and who they've become--and whether they can risk falling for one another all over again.


About the Author


Becky’s a California native who attended Baylor University, met and married a Texan, and settled in Dallas. She published historical romances for the general market before putting her career on hold for several years to care for her three children. When God called her back to writing, Becky knew He meant for her to turn her attention to Christian fiction. She loves writing funny, modern, and inspirational contemporary romance! She’s the Christy Award and Carol Award winning author of My Stubborn Heart, the Porter Family series, and the Bradford Sisters Romance series.


Tour Giveaway


Celebrate the release of Becky Wade's Falling for You by entering to win a fabulous prize pack that includes some of Willow Bradford's favorite things!

One grand prize winner will receive*:

  • A model-worthy Kate Spade bracelet
  • A $100 cash card (so you can feed a housewares and home décor addiction like Willow’s)
  • A Seattle Candle Co. candle (that smells just like the setting of the book)
  • Roasted in Seattle Rainy Day Coffee
  • A delicious scone mix (so that you can enjoy scones just like Willow and Corbin do while having high tea)
  • Cozy book-lover socks
  • And of course, a copy of Falling for You
Two runner up winners will receive*:

  • A Seattle Candle Co. candle (that smells just like the setting of the book)
  • A copy of Falling for You
*Due to shipping costs, US entrants only.



Grab Our Button!





Monday, April 30, 2018

Review & Giveaway: Falling for You by Becky Wade


On Tour with Prism Book Tours

https://amzn.to/2qXlH7nFalling for You
(A Bradford Sisters Romance #2)
By Becky Wade
Inspirational Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 368 pages
May 1st 2018 by Bethany House Publishers

Famously beautiful model Willow Bradford is taking a temporary break from her hectic schedule to work as the innkeeper at her family's small-town bed-and-breakfast. She was enjoying the peace of her hometown, Merryweather, Washington, right up until she came face-to-face with Corbin Stewart, the man she loves to hate. A thoughtful rule-follower by nature, Willow threw caution to the wind four years ago when she entrusted her heart to Corbin--and suffered the consequences when it all fell apart.

Former NFL quarterback Corbin is forceful, charming, and accustomed to getting what he wants . . . except where Willow Bradford is concerned. Unable to forget her, he's never stopped regretting what happened between them. When their paths unexpectedly cross again, he's determined to make her give him a second chance.

When a decades-old missing persons case finds Corbin and Willow working together, they're forced to confront their past and who they've become--and whether they can risk falling for one another all over again.


My Review

This is a book that I could just fall into, and feel a part of the world and story and characters. I love the author's subtle writing style that drew me in and allowed me to connect with Willow and Corbin without overwhelming me with description or repetition. Willow and Corbin both have big walls up that are slowly eroded when they are compelled to spend time together, helping Corbin's niece Charlotte solve a decades-old missing person mystery. Investigating the case, step by step, brought a steady pace to the book as Corbin also struggles with the inevitable death of his sick father and Willow deals with unwanted attention from fans and her own waning interest in modeling. There is a perfect balance between all the plot threads and the redevelopment of Willow and Corbin's friendship and romance. They share fun banter, even (especially) when they are at odds, their chemistry is crackling with passion, and their relationship develops greater depth as Corbin is determined to show Willow how devoted he is to her. Willow's sisters play an important role in her life and help her as she helps them. We even see a couple chapters from Britt's perspective as a lead-in to the next book, which I can't wait for! I love the spiritual themes that are woven in seamlessly of forgiveness and the importance of turning all our worries over to God and allowing him to guide our lives. Even though this is the second book in the series it can definitely be read as a standalone. Highly recommend! 

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



Other Books in the Series


About the Author


Becky’s a California native who attended Baylor University, met and married a Texan, and settled in Dallas. She published historical romances for the general market before putting her career on hold for several years to care for her three children. When God called her back to writing, Becky knew He meant for her to turn her attention to Christian fiction. She loves writing funny, modern, and inspirational contemporary romance! She’s the Christy Award and Carol Award winning author of My Stubborn Heart, the Porter Family series, and the Bradford Sisters Romance series.


April 30th:
May 1st:
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May 8th:
Facebook Party at 8 PM EDT/5 PM PDT
May 9th:
May 10th:
May 11th:
May 12th: Grand Finale

Tour Giveaway


Celebrate the release of Becky Wade's Falling for You by entering to win a fabulous prize pack that includes some of Willow Bradford's favorite things!

One grand prize winner will receive*:
  • A model-worthy Kate Spade bracelet
  • A $100 cash card (so you can feed a housewares and home décor addiction like Willow’s)
  • A Seattle Candle Co. candle (that smells just like the setting of the book)
  • Roasted in Seattle Rainy Day Coffee
  • A delicious scone mix (so that you can enjoy scones just like Willow and Corbin do while having high tea)
  • Cozy book-lover socks
  • And of course, a copy of Falling for You
Two runner up winners will receive*:
  • A Seattle Candle Co. candle (that smells just like the setting of the book)
  • A copy of Falling for You
*Due to shipping costs, US entrants only.



Grab Our Button!





Wednesday, January 10, 2018

Favorite Books of 2017: Contemporary Romance


I had a hard time narrowing this list down, but here it is- my top 10 contemporary fiction books that I gave 5 stars in 2017, along with my reviews- why I thought these books were AMAZING!


Love's Shadow by Nichole Van

Heidi Reads... Love's Shadow by Nichole Van

http://www.amazon.comhttp://www.amazon.comhttp://www.barnesandnoble.comhttps://www.bookdepository.com/Loves-Shadow-Nichole-Van/9780996893626?ref=grid-view&qid=1515474443907&sr=1-1http://www.goodreads.com

The first book in the series, Gladly Beyond, was pretty amazing and made my list for favorites of 2016. This second book did not disappoint and I loved it just as much! Full of emotion, heartache, love, and hope, it brings out all the feels and I shed a few tears while reading. I loved the connection between Bran and Lucy, despite both of them thinking they harbored an unrequited love for each other. There are so many fun quirky details that really make their relationship come to life. The paranormal aspect of the plot isn't too over the top and is based in the family's history, so the modern setting wasn't too much of a contrast for the things Lucy and the D'Angelo family are experiencing, perhaps because it's set in Italy. The supernatural gift/curse that the brothers have form a bond between them and the dynamics are complicated and fascinating. I already can't wait to read more!!!


Paige's Turn by Jennifer Peel

Heidi Reads... Paige's Turn by Jennifer Peel

http://www.amazon.comhttp://www.amazon.comhttp://www.goodreads.com

This is a pretty special book. I loved Paige's character, especially her unique blend of grace and moxie. As confident as we are as adults, there's something about returning to a hometown that makes us remember or relive those feelings of vulnerability associated with our youth. I also feel this way on the rare occasion when I get together with friends from high school. My life now is so separate from my life then, I wonder if people who grow up in the same place and with the same people avoid this experience. Anyway, back to the book! Paige is compelled by the death of her aunt to return and follow Mitzi's wishes that she run the bookstore and reconnect with Sam, her former crush and current landscaper. The notes she leaves Paige are hilarious and heartwarming, making her a definite presence and influence in the book. There are a variety of community and family members that are vividly portrayed and I loved my experience spending time with Paige as she navigates the minefields of gossip, misunderstandings, and jealousy. She has cathartic and healing experiences and even some vindication when her confidence and success is accepted as her true self instead of being seen as the person she once was. A lovely journey with fun, drama, angst, and of course romance!


Rescue Me by Susan May Warren

Heidi Reads... Rescue Me by Susan May Warren

http://www.amazon.comhttp://www.amazon.comhttp://www.barnesandnoble.comhttps://www.bookdepository.com/Loves-Shadow-Nichole-Van/9780996893626?ref=grid-view&qid=1515474443907&sr=1-1http://www.goodreads.com

I can hardly believe it, but I just might have loved this second book in the Montana Rescue series even more than the first!!! (And that's saying a lot...) The action is way ramped up throughout the entire book, and I was literally biting my fingernails at times. (It was like watching a movie in my head!) I love the author's method of including two romances in the story- the main one between Sam and Willow, and also one between team members Jess and Pete, Sam's younger brother. The characters are strong, yet flawed, and all their journeys- physical and emotional- are compelling and human. I think that's why I connected with this story- each character has some major hang-ups, but it made them easier to relate to as they struggled and tried their best to do what they felt was right. The romances were both very "will they/won't they" and kept me turning pages and invested in the outcome. 


True to You by Becky Wade

Heidi Reads... True to You by Becky Wade

http://www.amazon.comhttp://www.amazon.comhttp://www.barnesandnoble.comhttp://www.bookdepository.comhttp://www.goodreads.com

True to You is oh-so-good! It totally made me cry... and that's a good thing. By the end of the book I felt so much compassion for John and his struggle to accept and overcome some pretty tough things. As a mother who adopted her children, I completely related to the theme of adoption and was fascinated by Nora and John's search for his biological parents. The contrasts between Nora and John were stark, but their differences complemented each other and the chemistry between them was awesome. I loved the emotional journey they went on as they learned to trust God and rely on Him for peace and resolution. Nora's sisters were a fun and integral presence and I can't wait to read their stories!


Right Next to Me by Rachel Ward

Heidi Reads... Right Next to Me by Rachel Ward

http://www.amazon.comhttp://www.amazon.comhttp://www.barnesandnoble.comhttps://deseretbook.com/p/right-next-to-me?variant_id=153207-paperbackhttp://www.bookdepository.comhttp://www.goodreads.com

Right Next to Me was a pleasure to read! It alternated between two times of transition in Sydney's life, and the comparison was intriguing. In her early high school days she struggles through her parents' divorce and takes on more responsibility in her family, which influences her later priorities when she graduates high school and begins college. The sweet beginnings of her relationship with Gavin show how hard it is to let go when they take separate paths. I loved her friendship with James and it's pretty much obvious to everyone except Sydney how they belong together. The author was skillful in showing (instead of telling) the supportive nature of their relationship and how much they enjoyed each other's company. It was easy to connect to the characters' emotions and the angst they are feeling as their relationship dynamic becomes more complex. A great young adult novel about growing up, navigating difficult circumstances, and the importance of friendship and forgiveness.  


The Promise of a Letter by Kathleen Fuller

Heidi Reads... The Promise of a Letter by Kathleen Fuller

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I absolutely loved Leanna! She is a unique character that owns her eccentricities and enjoys her independence. I admired her confidence, yet in this story her confidence is deeply shaken when her life is turned upside down in more than one unforeseen way. The manner in which she deals with her new circumstances and new friendship with Roman shows her compassion and ability to forgive. I enjoyed seeing Roman's journey as he is searching for his place and purpose despite being the black sheep of the family. We also see the struggles of Roman's brother Daniel and his wife Barbara which are heartbreaking but also full of hope and God's grace. Even though Roman and Daniel's grandmother has passed away, she is a major influence in the book and the lives of these men as she encourages them via letter to reconcile and support each other. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and connecting with the characters!


A New Shade of Summer by Nicole Deese

Heidi Reads... A New Shade of Summer by Nicole Deese

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After Davis was let down by Willa in the previous book of the series, I was so hoping that the author would give him his own story of finding love. And she did! And it is fabulous! I love how different Callie is and exactly what Davis and Brandon need. Her personality shines right off the page and yet has complexity woven in. Her connection to Brandon's artistic side draws him out which makes Davis take notice, in more ways than one. I loved how she was able to perceive people and their strengths, and communicate that to others. There are so many awesome nuggets in this book, but I want you to discover them for yourself! The chemistry between Davis and Callie is palpable and I loved how their romance budded naturally. Because Callie is so carefree in many aspects of her life, is seems that she is also free of fear, but her perceptions of herself and her innate characteristics are shaded by her father's choices and his words of legacy to her. Davis also has fears but he is an example to Callie in overcoming them by processing feelings of grief and anger through turning to God, allowing him to live life to the fullest. This book is full of light and humor, depth and compassion. 


Hometown Girl by Courtney Walsh

Heidi Reads... Hometown Girl by Courtney Walsh

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I just love this author's writing style! She has a way of drawing me into the lives of people who are struggling against the darkness and as their stories weave together the light emerges and hope shines brightly on its way to a happy ending- which really seems more like a new beginning. The contrasts and similarities between Beth and Molly as sisters really stood out to me, and it was interesting to see the characteristics they embraced and which ones they left behind as they were influenced by their parents and the people around them. I loved that they both rediscovered qualities about themselves that they believed didn't apply anymore. It's reassuring that it's never too late to decide to change and pursue a new focus in life. Beth and Drew are both holding on to painful secrets, and the process of loosening up around each other shakes the secrets out of dark corners where they can now be released... although Drew required a little more shaking ;) It was nice to see how they supported each other and yet had a realistic dynamic based on their very defined personalities. They had fabulous chemistry, and that first kiss- wow. I admit I read that scene a few times over (fans self). It was gratifying to see how the long time mystery unfolded and also watch the community band together to work hard for a new Fairwind Farm.


Once Again in Christmas Falls by Becky Monson

Heidi Reads... Once Again in Christmas Falls by Becky Monson

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This was my favorite book of the Return to Christmas Falls series, bar none. I absolutely loved the "childhood friends reunited" angle to the romance, especially when each character is so easy to like! London was so fun and interesting, and the author really delved into what made her tick and how her transformation affected her. Andy is lovable and charming and of course unrequited love gets me every time! They had such great chemistry together and even when the inevitable conflict came, I was rooting for them the whole time. I felt connected to the emotions of London and Andy which is one of my favorite things about reading a well-written book. This is one I'll definitely re-read and since it's the first book I've read by the author it made me add all her other books to my list! (This would be fine to read as a stand-alone even though it's in the middle of the series).


The Austen Escape by Katherine Reay

Heidi Reads... The Austen Escape by Katherine Reay

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At first I wondered if this book would be similar to others that have the characters dressing up and playacting in Regency form, but I needn't have worried- while there is a bit of that, it is taken to a higher level by Katherine Reay's unique writing style. This is a book that you just *feel*. While there is a great focus on the complex dynamics of the relationships Mary has with Isabel and Nathan, I loved that it delved just as deeply into her struggles with her job as an engineer and the part of her identity that is tied up in it. I loved her father and the influence he is on her life and creativity, he is such a great addition to the story and made it richer. I could relate to Mary's mixed feelings of resentment and love that she has for Isabel. There's something about growing up with a longtime friend that gives you so many experiences of good, bad, and in between that it's almost like family in how it shapes your personality. It was fascinating to see how Mary becomes more aware of Isabel's struggles and the way that she deals with the fallout of secrets that come to light. The simmering attraction between Nathan and Mary was delicious because the reader can tell how much they like the other but they are unaware of each other's interest... until they slowly become more brave in expressing that interest. It's not without conflict of course, and the anticipation while they worked things out was killing me- I just LOVED it!!!


Have you read any of these books? 
What are some of your favorites?