Review: A Proper Façade by Esther Hatch

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

About the Book

Mercy Rothschild has always been granted an unusually long tether by her parents, who have never pushed her to marry until she’s ready. She assumes that when the right man comes along, she will marry for love. However, even her long-suffering parents have their limits. As she embarks on her third Season, they begin to pressure her to find a match. And the Duke of Harrington is the perfect candidate.

Nicholas Kendrick, Duke of Harrington, follows the rules of the ton meticulously. When he determines that Mercy is the ideal candidate for a wife, he marches dutifully toward her along the courtship path. Desperate to extricate herself from Harrington’s advances, Mercy concludes that there is only one course of action: she must push her intended into the arms of another woman. But when Mercy becomes acquainted with the man behind the proper facade, her plans come crashing down as she realizes that stiff and proper Harrington might be the very man she’s been waiting for. If only she hadn’t been so successful in her plot to thwart her chances with him.

My Review

It was fun to see the strategies of Nicholas and Mercy as they approach the game of making a match. Nicholas thinks he just wants someone to fill the social role of a duchess, but his inadvertent meeting of an eavesdropping Mercy in a hallway awakened his senses and desire for more. Mercy has always wanted a passionate marriage like her sister's, but unexplained pressure from her parents present the conflict of compromising her dreams to please her family and society. The author's use of the game of chess reflects the back and forth between Nicholas and Mercy- presenting their polite side for society but hiding more romantic wishes. I found the struggle of Nicholas to be more genuine as he learned to embrace rather than suppress his emotions. Mercy was definitely more calculated as she and her friend enact plans to trick and mislead Nicholas. With time and experience she realizes that passion can have its downfalls when unsupported by a strong foundation, and is almost too late when she finally sees behind the facade of Nicholas. A sweet romance with complicated dynamics that take our main characters on an emotional journey.

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

Don't miss the previous books in the Proper Scandals series . . .

 

 

 

Book Tour & Spotlight: No Match for Love by Karen Thornell

About the Book

Lucas Berkeley has a secret—one he cannot risk anyone discovering. After all, a future marquess belongs in drawing rooms, not underground boxing circles. Yet with a painful past and a need to control every aspect of his life, it is his only outlet. And when his brother begins to court the one woman who could ruin everything, Lucas needs the secret diversion more than ever.

Lydia Faraday is exhausted from living a life in which she has no say. When her taciturn guardian drags her to London intent on marrying her off, she determines to thwart his plans. If she is to have freedom in any aspect of her existence, it ought to be with whom she marries. And when a solicitor turns up with new information, she thinks that just might be possible. Or it may complicate her future further. When Lucas and Lydia become entangled in a dangerous scheme, they cannot help but become closer, even as the obstacles between them grow. The last thing either is looking for is love. But their hearts have different plans.

 About the Author

 

 

 

Karen Thornell grew up reading when she should have been sleeping, but it wasn't until 2019 that she started writing. Tired of ending books and saying 'goodbye' to beloved characters, she wondered what it would be like to have her own characters that lived in her head always. It was probably a mark of sleep deprivation that she wanted people living in her head, but the idea was planted regardless. Karen lives in Utah with her husband and kids. When not writing contemporary or regency romance, she spends her free time doing endless loads of laundry, playing board games, and, yes, talking to those characters in her head.

 

Blog Tour, Character Interview & Giveaway: Tales from the Matthewsburg Manse by Kate Tompkins

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Tales from the Matthewsburg Manse by Kate Tompkins, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Tales from the Matthewsburg Manse
Author: Kate Tompkins
Publisher: ‎ The Matthewsburg Manse
Release Date: October 26, 2023
Genre: Short stories/Poetry, Christian fiction, general fiction, rural fiction, wholesome fiction

When city girl Viv's husband Mark accepts his first pastoral charge in rural Matthewsburg, she wonders what to expect, and what will be expected of her. This collection of connected fiction stories, some humorous, some suspenseful, some even romantic, explores Viv's new life as she tries to find her place in the community while dealing with local gossip, old rivalries, suspected murder, sabotaged car shows, and more. Who says life in a small town is boring? 

"This book entertains us with our own humanity, we laugh at human foibles, nod our heads in the mutual pains of life's adventures. Interspersed are poems expressing poignant moments. These provide a place to rest, ponder and even smile before we are once again taken on the life journey of being a spouse in a small town parish. I found myself laughing out loud on occasion. This book is a wonderful read and leaves us with the feeling that life is good." - Nita Kotiuga, retired pastor, Director of Spiritual Formation at Bakke Graduate University.  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

 

Character Interview

Interview with Viv Cottrell, main character from Tales from the Matthewsburg Manse

Can you tell us a little about yourself?

Viv Cottrell here, the pastor’s wife. I’m always reluctant to admit to that, because it leads to several expectations, including that I’m willing and able to play piano if the church organist is away, and that I’m an excellent cook who can be relied on for endless supplies of baking and casseroles. Neither of those lie among my talents.

I grew up in the suburbs of a mid-sized city, together with my two older brothers. I met Mark at a bible study at university. He was taking theology, I was taking art, but things clicked. Next thing I knew, we were married and Mark had accepted a job at Matthewsburg. I was looking forward to having a bigger garden, but wondering what I was going to do with all of my time. Silly me.

What are your hobbies or activities you enjoy?

When I’m not in my role as pastor’s wife? Lately, I’ve taken up Scottish Country Dancing. It’s good exercise and a good way to meet people. I love to garden and bird watch. Painting and drawing, and designing needlepoint pictures help fulfill my creative urge. And I enjoy talking to people and hearing their stories, though that often does fall into my role as pastor’s wife. One of my favourite things to do is sit out on the porch swing with Mark and watch the stars come out as we talk about our day.

What was your favorite part of the story?

Going on a road trip to Cape Breton with my friend Maddie. Spectacular scenery, friendly people, great music. I need to work on convincing Mark we need a vacation “Down East.”

What kind of music do you find inspiring?

I’m partial to old-fashioned hymns. My mom’s mom lived with us for several years and she loved to sing them. Hearing them reminds me of her.

What message would you like readers to ultimately take away from your story?

Everyone has problems in life, but with prayer and being willing to ask or give help, things generally work out. I sometimes act first and don’t think to pray until later, but God still comes through.

What can we look forward to coming from you in the future?

Who knows? Maybe I can learn to cook.

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About the Author

Kate Tompkins lives in Montreal’s West Island, where she shares a small house and a big backyard with her husband and the latest in a series of very spoiled cats. She writes short stories, poetry (yes, the non-literary, rhyming kind), and the occasional essay. When not hanging out with her church’s writing group or getting lost down an internet rabbit hole, she can be found trying out recipes from old cookbooks for her cooking blog, Kate’s Virtual Kitchen, or outside keeping the flowerbeds in order.

Connect with Kate by visiting katetompkinsbooks.ca to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $20 Amazon gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 11, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 18, 2024. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

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Takeover Blitz, Excerpt & Giveaway: Bonding with the Cowboy's Daughter by Lisa Jordan

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Bonding with the Cowboy's Daughter by Lisa Jordan hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Bonding with the Cowboy's Daughter 

Series: Stone River Ranch #3 

Author: Lisa Jordan 

Publisher: Love Inspired 

Release Date: August 20, 2024 

Genre: Contemporary Christian Romance

She’s left her old life behind

…only to find a new love waiting 

After a broken engagement, Callie Morgan decides to move to Aspen Ridge, Colorado, to fix up her late grandmother’s gift shop. But the shop is in bad shape and Callie runs out of money faster than expected. Old childhood friend and single dad Wyatt Stone comes to the rescue, offering her a job at his family’s ranch, Stone River Ranch. While their friendship is rekindled, will Callie ever risk loving again…even as Wyatt’s little girl is already stealing her heart?

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Christianbook | Bookshop | BookBub

 

Excerpt

 
The door opened, and a tall man climbed out and strode over to her, wearing aviator sunglasses and a backwards baseball hat covering short dark brown hair. His navy T-shirt emphasized his broad chest and muscled arms. Faded jeans clung to muscular thighs. And his dusty boots weren’t for show.

She was definitely in cowboy country.

“Hey, there. You the owner of the blue Volkswagen back there?” Half turning, he jerked a thumb over his shoulder.

Pulling her suitcase in front of her, she nodded. “My car stalled out on my way to the Stone River Guest Ranch. I’m renting a yurt for the week.”

“Well, then, it looks like I came along at the right time.” He pulled off his sunglasses, revealing blue eyes, and hooked the arm over the collar of his T-shirt. He held out a calloused hand.

“Wyatt Stone. My parents own this spread.”

Wyatt Stone.

Her secret crush from her early high school years.

Excerpt From Bonding with the Cowboy’s Daughter (Not for Resale) by Lisa Jordan. This material may be protected by copyright.

More Books from this Series:

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About the Author

Heart, home, and faith have always been important to Lisa Jordan, so writing stories with those elements comes naturally. Represented by Cynthia Ruchti of Books & Such Literary Management, Lisa is an award-winning, PW bestselling author for Harlequin’s Love Inspired, writing contemporary Christian romance that promises hope and happily ever after. Additionally, she is an author and the line director for Hometown Hearts, Sunrise Publishing's contemporary romance line. She is the operations manager for Novel Academy, an online writing academy powered by My Book Therapy. Happily married to her own real-life hero for thirty-five years, Lisa and her husband have two grown sons and two rascally rescue dogs. When she isn’t writing, Lisa enjoys quality family time, being creative with friends, or getting lost in a good book.

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

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of Bonding with the Cowboy's Daughter and a basket of bookish goodies, such as socks, a mug, a bookmark, and the winner's choice of t-shirt or tote bag!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight September 10, 2024 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on September 17, 2024. 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 and egift card. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

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Review: Date with Danger by Jenessa Fayeth

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

About the Book

I, Amelia Quinn, am dating again.

I must be out of practice though because I sat down at the wrong man’s table…and kissed him. And now I’m wrapped up in the middle of an FBI case… DREAM COME TRUE!

Except the super sexy agent doesn’t want my help solving this case.

I, Caleb Harris, am a stupid, stupid man. Nothing says rookie agent like kissing a civilian just to get rid of her.

But somehow that didn’t even work because she keeps showing up wherever our suspect is. And now, I’m not so sure she’s innocent in all this. Especially when someone ends up dead.

Date With Danger is a closed door, light hearted, romantic comedy with mystery and suspense.

My Review

So. Much. Fun. Earlier this year I had binge-watched all episodes of the TV show Psych, and it was awesome to get all the references the author slid into the book! There is plenty of comedy, and the author hit that perfect balance of quirky and clever, and added to it great banter, fabulous chemistry, and a suspenseful plot. An undercurrent of angst and character growth didn't take the spotlight, but added a layer of depth that I always appreciate in rom-coms since it helps me feel a connection to the emotions rather than just feel like I'm watching an entertaining fluff movie. Don't get me wrong, though- it was SO entertaining! I love when a book can make me laugh out loud, which isn't all that often. Highly recommend for readers who need some hijinks and romance with their mystery!

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

 

 

Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: A Proposal for Her Cowboy by Cari Lynn Webb

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for A Proposal for Her Cowboy by Cari Lynn Webb, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: A Proposal for Her Cowboy
Series: Three Springs, Texas #7
Author: Cari Lynn Webb
Publisher: Harlequin Heartwarming
Release Date: August 20, 2024
Genre: Clean & Wholesome Contemporary Romance

Family brought her home…  

Can love make her stay? 

Now that she’s finally back in Three Springs, Texas, Deputy Sheriff Lacey Nash wants nothing more than to reconnect with her nine-year-old daughter, Aspen. Carefree Caleb Sloan is just a distraction—even if he is surprisingly helpful. He not only pitches in to train Aspen for the junior rodeo contest, but he also makes Lacey feel both welcome in town and truly special. Though will that be enough for by-the-book Lacey…to let this fun-loving cowboy prove he’s ready for an instant family?  

USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

 

Excerpt

 

“Don’t talk to me about love,” she challenged.

“Right.” Impatience put an edge to his light, careless words. “Because what would a frivolous, reckless cowboy like me know about something as consequential and enduring as love?”

She was only saying what needed to be said. What they both already knew. Couldn’t he see that? She whispered, “I can’t be who you need.”

“Funny.” One corner of his mouth lifted. There was nothing easy or indifferent about his half grin. “I only ever wanted you to be you.”

“This is me.” She thrust her arm at the closed hospital room door. “I’m a mother. A deputy. I live to serve and protect. That’s who I am.”

“You really don’t see yourself, do you?” he asked.

She raked her fingers through her hair. “You want a happy-go-lucky cowgirl, Caleb. And that’s not me anymore.”

 

More Books in This Series

   

   

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About the Author

Cari Lynn Webb lives in Florida with her husband. She's been blessed to see the power of true love in her grandparent's 70 year marriage and her parent's marriage of over 50 years. She knows love isn't always sweet and perfect, it can be challenging, complicated and risky. But she believes happily-ever-afters are worth fighting for. She loves to connect with readers.

Connect with Cari at carilynnwebb.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will win a $25 Amazon gift card, a signed book from Cari Lynn Webb's backlist, and other fun goodies!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 4, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 11, 2024. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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