Review: A Longing for Christmas by Chalon Linton, Jennifer Moore, Tuft Karen, Alene Wecker

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

About the Book

Settle in by the fireside and savor stories of unexpected romance, second chances, and lifelong love. Featuring four novellas from some of your favorite authors, this historical Christmas romance collection is sure to capture your heart. 

Memories of Christmas by Chalon Linton—Judith Benson despises Christmas and has no interest in the festivities of London Society. But when she catches the attention of a handsome viscount, her holiday humbug is put to the test.

A Home for the Holidays by Jennifer Moore—As Captain Edgar Bryant nurses his wounds from his time in the army, he finds unexpected relief in creating Christmas cheer alongside the sparkling Winnie Larsen. 

Lady Walmsley and Foster by Karen Tuft—The holidays are approaching, and longtime widow Lady Walmsley turns to her staff for company—much to the dismay of her very proper butler, Foster. But what begins as friendship just might end in love. 

A Gretna Green Christmas by Alene Wecker—Since sharing a bumbling first kiss beneath the mistletoe years ago, Charles and Maria have been star-crossed. But this Christmas, love might finally be within their reach.

My Review

Another wonderful collection of heartwarming stories from four authors of Regency romance! I enjoyed reading these stories over the holiday season, but I think they are perfect for any time of the year. There is a good variety to the stories, and I felt like I was able to get to know the characters and their situations quickly. Frustrations and trials are overcome with sweet romance combined with the special spirit of winter and Christmas, making each story a pleasure to read.

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.

 

 

Review: Learning to Fly by Chalon Linton

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

About the Book

Ten months ago, Kasie Foster broke up with the perfect man. Andrew Stoll was kind and supportive and sported amazing dimples. When Kasie prayed about a future with him, it didn’t feel right, so she walked away to pursue her theater dreams in the UK. Instead, she finds herself putting her plans on hold to help her recently widowered brother care for his young son on a remote air force base in Texas. She has no regrets. London can wait a year. But when an awkward chance encounter with her college sweetheart resurrects memories of what could have been, she struggles to keep buried the complicated feelings that arise whenever Andrew shares his dimpled smile.

Kasie is the last person Andrew expects to see during his intense year of pilot training with the United States Air Force. Once upon a time, he was head over heels for her, and when they parted ways back then, he had no choice in the matter. But after their shocking reunion, he finds himself incessantly brought into her orbit. It’s impossible not to see their reunion as fate—a second chance at love—and he vows to fight for her affection. But navigating the path forward is no easier now than when she broke his heart in college. Because how can they build a life together when they’re still headed in opposite directions?

My Review

Kasie has had some difficult crossroads in her life. I appreciated how she worked through them with prayer and thoughtfulness, and growing through her sacrifices. God directing our paths is a major theme of this book. The introduction to Kasie involved a bit of an info dump which read like a narrative conversation. Once Andrew reappears in her life, the story takes off with the tumultuous feelings he brings out in her. He's pretty adorable, and I loved their vibe together, even when Kasie is unsure of their future. The author does an excellent job of portraying military life and this specific flight training phase, what the pilot and family both go through. As someone who has lived that life herself, I didn't doubt that any of the details she included were authentic. The pace of the book is slow but steady as Kasie assimilates to life on base caring for her toddler nephew, and develops a support system while also supporting others. Her dreams of theater production seem to be on hold, but she finds ways to share her talents and bring joy to those around her, opening up opportunities as well. My favorite part of the story is her relationship with Andrew and how they take it slow, but with purpose and intent, always seeking the Lord's will for them and finding peace with the reassurance of answered prayers.

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.

The Air Force Romance series

 

 

Review: Chiara's Choice by Chalon Linton

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Chiara Madero, daughter of an Italian baron, is the epitome of beauty and fire, and when confronted, her lovely lips reveal a sharp tongue. But her enchanting facade hides a less-than-elegant truth: her family believes her true value lies in her ability to secure an advantageous match. And there is no better place to find a wealthy, titled husband than the London Marriage Mart.

Mr. Abraham Jamison is not a firstborn son and has procrastinated choosing an occupation. Nevertheless, his honest and forthright nature immediately captures Chiara’s attention. He is unsuitable for a woman of her station in all ways, but she can’t seem to resist seeking out his company. Abraham sees through her fiery personality and refuses to play her games, yet after waging a mutual battle of wits, an unexpected friendship forms between them—a rapport that soon blossoms into something more.

Abraham’s wish is to become a man worthy of her. But when faced with her family’s determination to manipulate circumstances to their advantage, he and Chiara must face their feelings and find the strength to defy an insurmountable obstacle: Chiara’s mother.

My Review

Chiara is such an interesting character! I loved how the author challenges our first impressions of Chiara by peeling back her layers, revealing the vulnerable young woman behind the facade she has learned to use. Abraham is instrumental in provoking Chiara and making her see past the games of society. I enjoyed her sense of humor, and how she did her own provoking to get Abraham out of his reserved and often grumpy shell. They are both at an important crossroads in their lives, with the pressures of career and marriage. They seem like an unlikely couple, but their opposite natures compliment each other and their chemistry is palpable. The pace felt unhurried, which allowed me to enjoy the nuances of all the characters and the situations they find themselves in. Recommend to fans of 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.

Don't miss the other Regency novels by Chalon Linton . . .

Review: Forever Phoebe by Chalon Linton

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

At the dignified age of eighteen, Phoebe Jamison knows she should behave in a manner befitting her station, as her three loving elder brothers often tease. Unfortunately, the lively young woman has a personality every bit as fiery as her red hair, a fact brought to her attention in the criticism from the gentleman she has long pined for. But not every man is of the opinion that a woman should be decorous above all else. The newest resident of Somerset, Mr. Franklin Everly, is considered a most eligible bachelor, and he is immediately drawn to Phoebe’s spirited nature as he becomes acquainted with the delightful Jamison siblings of Primly Park.

Franklin embarks on a friendship with Phoebe that quickly deepens into a warm and thrilling connection. But even as he fights for Phoebe’s attentions, a very real danger is revealed: girls in neighboring villages have gone missing, and the kidnapper is moving ever closer to Primly Park. Despite the guard of her fiercely protective brothers and Franklin, Phoebe must rely on her own strength when she finds herself in the sights of the Bride Snatcher.

My Review

Phoebe, her brothers, and Mr. Everly are all easy to like in this sweet Regency romance. They share a fun camaraderie whether riding, shooting, dancing, or just visiting. The love triangle didn't make much sense to me since Mr. Mason was not likeable, and didn't treat Phoebe well, but she persisted in holding onto her longtime crush. It seemed a bit out of character for her to accept that kind of treatment. Her swift friendship with Franklin and their budding romance was a pleasure to read, and the kidnapping of local young women provided a bit of suspense. Overall the elements of the story were a bit disjointed, but I enjoyed the characters and their interactions as Franklin established himself at his estate and in the neighborhood.

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

Don't miss the previous connected book . . .

Review: Fly Home to Me by Chalon Linton

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

A traffic jam is the last thing Piper Holland has patience for. The dry cleaner’s will soon close, and she really hopes to wear her luxury silk blouse when she pitches her theme to the editors of the magazine she works for. But when she finally sees what’s caused the backup, she feels a pinch of guilt: a man in a military uniform is gallantly pushing a stalled vehicle off the road. Suddenly her rush to the dry cleaner’s seems incredibly unimportant. Fate offers Piper a chance to redeem herself, however, when the handsome good Samaritan crosses her path again.

Gabriel Orsini, a fighter pilot stationed at Luke Air Force Base, seems to be the perfect man, and an assignment at the magazine offers Piper the perfect chance to get to know him better. Her “Day in the Life: Hometown Heroes” article was tailor-made for the bighearted pilot. Before long, their interviews for the article enter date territory, and Piper realizes she’s falling for Gabriel. But her tragic past has taught her one thing: everyone leaves. And the transient lifestyle of a military man leaves her no doubt that Gabriel will eventually abandon her too. With her heart on the line, Piper must decide: is the risk of loss worth the possibility of forever?

My Review

This sweet and gentle romance follows Piper's healing journey as she comes to terms with how her losses and grief are affecting her relationships. Her parents and one of her brothers had been killed in a car accident several years previously, and the fear and anxiety she developed over losing those she loves influences her relationships with her remaining brothers, sister-in-law, best friend, and dating life. I appreciated that her process of awareness and change included long term work with her therapist as well as her deepening relationship with God through church and prayer. She is well put together and successful in her career, and Gabriel's sunny personality instantly draws her to him. Their rapport develops quite naturally and is refreshingly realistic. Gabriel is patient as she gets used to the idea of ditching her four-date rule and moving into a meaningful relationship. I felt like her constant worrying overshadowed the joy of their falling in love, and I found it a little difficult to connect to those feelings. The lessons she learns about reconciliation and letting go of her perceived control bring both depth and  light to her character and I was happy to see her growth by the end of the story. The pace of the book is on the slower side with plenty of details that bring each scene to life, allowing me to easily envision them in my mind.

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

 

Don't miss the first book in the Flying in Love series . . .

 

 

 

Review & Giveaway: Flying in Love by Chalon Linton

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Will Paige decide to share her heart or fly solo?

Paige Hall’s happy ending may just be in sight. She has been dating her boyfriend for months and feels confident their relationship is going in the right direction—until she catches him kissing another woman. Humiliated and hurt, Paige retreats from the dating scene and pledges to never fall hard again as she throws herself into her work as a speech therapist. Her vow is upended in a grocery store parking lot when she is nearly run over by a handsome and very apologetic air force pilot.

Captain Jake Summers is everything a girl could dream of: charming, considerate, and hardworking. Despite Paige’s determination to avoid falling into another relationship, her resolve is no match for the whirlwind romance that ensues. When Jake is not flying, he and Paige are inseparable, and Paige begins to believe in happily ever afters again. But when the couple faces a heartrending loss, they must find strength in each other and in their faith or risk losing a once-in-a-lifetime love.

My Review

I was thrilled to learn that one of my favorite Regency authors was writing a contemporary romance since I love both genres. I knew that with the author's background as a military wife, we would get an authentic story with details that really bring depth. I was not disappointed! Paige and Jake are great together, even with their flaws and mistakes, and I loved seeing how they not only fell in love, but overcame obstacles and supported each other. The tone of the book is definitely emotional and I was able to easily connect to the characters. The California setting was so fun since I live in San Diego, and it was easy to picture them in their environment. There are strong themes of insecurity, trust, family dynamics, and having a relationship with God. I loved that there was a faith element to the story that was tastefully done- no heavy preaching, but genuine and sincere. I'm excited for more sweet contemporary romance from this author... as well as her historicals!

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

About the Author

Chalon Linton was first introduced to Jane Austen by a dear friend and now she can’t get enough of handsome men in tailcoats. Her intrigue in the genre stems from a nostalgic longing for manners, wit, and true love. Fortunately, Chalon found her dashing gentleman, married him, and now lives happily ever after in Southern California.

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