Monday, December 12, 2016

Book Tour Grand Finale: This is Not a Werewolf Story by Sandra Evans

On Tour with Prism Book Tours.

Book Tour Grand Finale for
This is Not a Werewolf Story
By Sandra Evans

We hope you enjoyed coming along with us for some fun mixed with mystery at this boarding school where everything isn't quite what it seems! If you missed any of the stops, go back and check them out now...

Launch - Author Interview

2. What do you hope readers take with them after they’ve read it?

I hope readers will want to visit Whidbey Island and Fort Casey. I hope they’ll think about the importance of preserving our national parks and the animals that seek refuge there. I hope some kids will feel reassured that even if your family isn’t 100% normal and maybe your parents and the people taking care of you aren’t doing a great job 100% of the time, that you’ll be okay, that you’ll find your people eventually, and that sometimes they are already around you. Also that, yes, we change. We change all the time, but part of us stays the same. So don’t be afraid to grow up. You’ll still be there when you get there.

The Silver Dagger Scriptorium - Newsletter, Page 1


Wishful Endings - Review & Newsletter, Page 2

"THIS IS NOT A WEREWOLF STORY is a story not to be missed! Full of endearing characters, some science, a little magic, and a whole lot of heart, it's sure to delight readers. A perfect story for tweens, especially boys ages ten to thirteen, but highly enjoyable for all. . . . This is probably one of the best middle grade books I've read."


Wishful Endings - Excerpt

I can’t believe my eyes. No kid has ever come to the school on the back of a Harley. Not in all the years I’ve been here, and I’ve been here longer than anyone. The driver spins the back wheel and a bunch of gravel flies up.

Katie's Clean Book Collection - Newsletter, Page 3



"This Is Not a Werewolf Story is a fun book filled with beautiful words and wonderful magic. I immediately loved Raul. . . . I really enjoyed reading the vivid descriptions of Raul's adventures and his surroundings. The ending of the story is surprising and I liked the angle Sandra Evans has chosen. This Is Not a Werewolf Story is a fantastic book for both children and grownups."



But then I freeze. I feel someone looking at me. And I know who it is before I even see him. When I look he’s staring at me. Mr. Tuffman.

Maybe he didn’t hear?

His jaw moves. His eyes are small. He didn’t miss a word. And Mr. Tuffman doesn’t want any more.

Beck Valley Books - Newsletter, Page 4


Falling Leaves - Excerpt

Gollum lands on his shoulder and skitters to the floor. She’s a long black streak, but Tuffman’s quick. He sprints after Gollum. Everyone stops screaming. Tuffman to the rescue. Then, at the exact same moment, we all notice the hunting knife in Tuffman’s hand. It’s huge. Everyone starts screaming again.


Mel's Shelves - Review

"I loved the ending! It wrapped up enough to satisfy me but there is also more story that can be told so I hope there is a sequel in the works. This is a thick book but a fast read as it was hard to put down once I started. I also loved reading the Author's Note and learning more about where she got the idea for her story. This is a book I would highly recommend to anyone who enjoys middle-grade fantasy and mystery!"



Life as Leels - Promo

100 Pages A Day - Review

" I loved how the mystery of the island and Raul’s transformative process took place and how it is loosely modeled after a twelfth century story called Bisclavret. Overall, an interesting and different middle-grade coming of age story with elements of beauty, forgiveness, magic and mystery that is anything but a werewolf story."



"I am happy to say that I was sucked into the story after a few pages. The characters are memorable and all have their own quirks. The ending was awesome and unique. I actually did not see the story ending the way it did. This is a great read and I say everyone should read it at least once. I like it so much that I can’t stop telling my spouse and teenage daughter to read it as well."

Books, Books the Magical Fruit - Newsletter, Page 6



"The author Sandra Evans does a wonderful job of bringing Raul's life to the hearts and eyes of the children that read this awesome story. . . . I recommend this book to other families and encourage all of you to purchase a copy today!"

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

  This Is Not a Werewolf StoryThis is Not a Werewolf Story
by Sandra Evans
Middle Grade Fantasy
Hardcover & ebook, 352 pages
July 26th 2016 by Atheneum Books for Young Readers

This is the story of Raul, a boy of few words, fewer friends, and almost no family. He is a loner—but he isn’t lonely. All week long he looks after the younger boys at One Of Our Kind Boarding School while dodging the barbs of terrible Tuffman, the jerk of a gym teacher. 

Like every other kid in the world, he longs for Fridays, but not for the usual reasons. As soon as the other students go home for the weekend, Raul makes his way to a lighthouse deep in the heart of the woods. There he waits for sunset—and the mysterious, marvelous phenomenon that allows him to go home, too. But the woods have secrets . . . and so does Raul. When a new kid arrives at school, they may not stay secret for long.



Sandra Evans is a writer and teacher from the Pacific Northwest. Her forthcoming middle grade novel, This is Not a Werewolf Story (Simon & Schuster July 2016), was inspired by her favorite 12th century French tale, Bisclavret, by Marie de France. Born in Washington state, Sandra spent her childhood on U.S. Navy bases from Florida to Hawaii, and returned to the Northwest as a teenager. Since then, she has lived and traveled in France and Europe, but has never strayed far for long from the Puget Sound region.


Tour Giveaway

A hardcover copy of THIS IS NOT A WEREWOLF STORY by Sandra Evans plus Swag
Open internationally
Ends December 16th

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Tuesday, December 6, 2016

Book Tour Grand Finale: Silver River Secrets by Linda Hope Lee

On Tour with Prism Book Tours.

Book Tour Grand Finale for
Silver River Secrets
By Linda Hope Lee

We hope you enjoyed the excerpts from Lacey's and Rory's story and readers' reviews!
If you missed any of the stops or entering the giveaway, go check them out now...

Launch - Note from the Author

I often get ideas for stories from a setting, and such was the case with Silver River Secrets. On a trip to Idaho, I visited a small town nestled between two mountain ranges and bordered by a beautiful river. An old, two-story farmhouse there caught my eye. An abandoned house, built in the ‘forties and still standing, even though in disrepair.


“SHE’S B-A-ACK,” Sam Porter announced.

“That so?” Rory Dalton didn’t bother to look up from under the hood of Sam’s ’66 Ford Mustang. Instead, he focused on installing the car’s new water pump.

“Yep. She’s just about to head over the bridge. Aren’t you gonna come look?”


Just then, she looked up to the hilltop. Rory jumped back, hoping she hadn’t spotted him. He didn’t want her to think he had the slightest interest in her return to Silver River.

Sam shoved his hands into his pockets and rocked back on his heels. “Wonder how long she’ll be here this time.”

“She never stays more than a week. Just long enough to check on her grandmother.”

I Am A Reader - Excerpt

LACEY MORGAN HEADED down Main Street with the image of Rory Dalton imprinted on her mind. She hadn’t intended to look up at his auto shop when she rounded that last curve in the highway, but she had, and there he had been, gazing down at her as though he’d been waiting for her to drive by. Which was crazy. Why should he care that she’d come to town again? He knew she made the trip from Boise to Silver River periodically to visit her grandmother. When their paths crossed, they said little more than a brief “hello.”

Heidi Reads... - Excerpt

“But to be reminded whenever you look out the window...”

“Sophie, not a day goes by that I don’t think about what happened in that house.”

“I’m sorry, honey, so sorry. But I do wish you could put the past behind you.”

Lacey shook her head and bit her lower lip. “Not possible.”


Sophie stepped close and put her arm around Lacey’s shoulders. “You know Hugh and I were friends with your parents, hon. We used to go out together. And, okay, your dad was a hothead sometimes, but we put up with him. No question we loved your mom. Nobody mourned her death more than we did. I miss her to this day. But don’t you think it’s time for you to move on?”

“If only I could prove his innocence...”

“Let it go, Lacey.”

Lacey squeezed her eyes shut. “I can’t. I just can’t.”


"This book did a good job of capturing and holding my attention. I really enjoyed the story. . . . I would definitely recommend this book to all readers. I give it a literary rating of 5/5."

Falling Leaves - Excerpt

Lacey sighed. “I just don’t feel comfortable in this town.”

“I know, honey. Sometimes, when I get to thinking about the past, I don’t, either.” Gram looked down at her hands.

“But it’s different for you. Having your son-in-law accused of murder is not the same as having your father, your flesh and blood, accused.”

“Not accused, dear. Convicted,” Gram said in a reproving tone.


"If I had just one word for this book it would probably be gentle. Harlequin Heartwarming line is perfect for a gentle, clean romance. This book has a bit of mystery thrown in but it never became heart pounding or intense. It stayed well within the gentle and calm boundaries."

Silver River SecretsSilver River Secrets
by Linda Hope Lee
Adult Contemporary Romance
Mass Market Paperback & ebook, 384 pages
December 1st 2016 by Harlequin Heartwarming

Tragedy made them strangers. The truth could change that…

Lacey Morgan's grandmother is the only reason she has to ever set foot in Silver River. Her hometown is populated with too many ghosts and memories. Too many painful reminders. Including Rory Dalton.

In all her brief visits over the past ten years, they've barely spoken. Locked on opposite sides of the tragedy that tore their lives apart, they buried their feelings along with their parents. But this trip is different. She will stay a little longer. Dig a little deeper. And try to solve the mystery that has kept them from the truth…and each other.


Linda Hope Lee writes contemporary romance, romantic suspense, and mysteries. She enjoys traveling especially to small towns in search of story ideas. She's also an artist, specializing in watercolor, pen and ink, and colored pencil. Photography provides inspiration for both her writing and her art. She lives in the Pacific Northwest, where many of her stories are set.


Tour Giveaway

- 1 winner will receive a $50 Amazon eGift Card & copy of SILVER RIVER SECRETS by Linda Hope Lee (print if US, ebook if international)
- 3 winners will receive a copy of SILVER RIVER SECRETS by Linda Hope Lee (print if US, ebook if international)
- Open internationally
- Ends December 12th

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Monday, December 5, 2016

Book Tour Grand Finale: Love for All Seasons by Stacy Henrie

On Tour with Prism Book Tours.

Book Tour Grand Finale for
Love for All Seasons
By Stacy Henrie

Love is something that is perfect for every season of the year. We hope you enjoyed finding out more about this newest novella collection set during each of the four seasons. If you missed any of the excerpts or review, go back and check them out now...

Launch - Note from the Author

In these four novellas - one for each season of the year - you'll meet four couples who overcome a myriad of obstacles to love with faith and determination. Each story takes place in a different time period and setting, one that I felt really showcased that particular season.


"I love this author's writing style and loved how well the novellas came together into stories that felt complete. For as much as I complain about certain seasons (namely winter because I hate being freezing cold all of the time...and maybe autumn because right now, I'm pretty tired of raking leaves), I LOVE having seasons. There are things that I love about each and every one and having a sweet story set in each season is truly magical."

Heidi Reads... - Review

"Love for All Seasons was a perfect reading experience! . . . It was too hard to pick a favorite from the four stories set in each of the four seasons, so I recommend reading them all and deciding for yourself ;) Can't wait to read more from this author!"


"I enjoyed each novella very much and won’t even try to pick a favorite. Love for All Seasons is filled with sweet, touching stories – perfect for any time of the year when you’re looking for a satisfying shorter read."

Bookworm Lisa - Review

"I loved this anthology! The stories are short and super sweet. I loved all of the characters and wanted to see their romances bloom. The book has a romance for each season of the year."


"If you are looking for some sweet historical romances, set in different eras, tied together with a similar inspirational thread, look no further than Love For All Seasons by Stacy Henrie. It’s a collection that easily be read in one sitting, but you’ll also find yourself wanting to savor each story, reluctant to leave the characters behind. An excellent set of novellas, all four strong and each one unique."


Samantha knew the voice without turning. It was Rex. Her best friend. Her longtime neighbor. And the boy she’d bested as many times as she’d lost to during their shared years at the one-room schoolhouse up the road. Their competitive dares hadn’t ended, either, when Rex, two years her senior, had graduated. Though Samantha had enjoyed being the shining star of the classroom for those two years.


If he stayed here long enough, maybe Mr. Whitefield would give up the idea of Rex accompanying Samantha, in this too-small sleigh, for the evening.

Not that he didn’t want to help deliver the gifts—he hated to see the older man’s traditional
Christmas Eve activity halted by illness, and Rex agreed that Samantha shouldn’t go out alone.
But tonight’s outing would make keeping his promise to stay away from Samantha impossible.

Wishful Endings - Excerpt

Tempest leapt up to find the hammer sitting innocently on top of the ledger at the far end of the counter. “Aha.” She lifted the tool off the account book and brandished it in the air in triumph. She’d remembered after all.

“Do you greet all of your customers as if you mean to bash them over the head?”


"As always, Henrie delivers lovely and wonderful stories that readers will absolutely love. I would recommend this magnificent novella collection to readers that enjoy Henrie’s previous work, as well as are fans of historical romance stories."


Bram charged into the street, heedless of the traffic, his bag of unneeded nails gripped inside his hand. He hadn’t expected his competition to be a woman. And certainly not one as passionate and pretty as Tempest Blakely. When she’d leapt up from behind the counter, brandishing that hammer like some fierce Roman goddess, he quite forgot his purpose in entering the store in the first place.

Mel's Shelves - Review

"Even though the stories are short, they feel complete. The characters and situations are so different and I enjoyed each one of them. I loved how faith and belief in God played an important role in each of their stories. This is the type of book you can enjoy in bits and pieces or all at once. I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys reading clean, historical romance!"

Bookworm Nation - Excerpt

After gathering up the bundle of towels and clean linens to deliver to the next room, Loralee slipped out the door—only to crash into a firm chest clad in a damp bathing shirt. A hand clasped her elbow to keep her from joining the towels and sheets that had spilled onto the carpet.

Don't forget to enter the awesome giveaway below as well...

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

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

A Long Winter Kiss

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

An Unlikely Spring Courtship

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

A Summer for Love

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

Romance in Autumn

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



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


Tour Giveaway

$40 Amazon eGift Card and Winner's Choice of an ebook of Any of Stacy Henrie's Books (you can see her books listed on Amazon here)
Open internationally
Ends December 8th

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Friday, December 2, 2016

Review: A Captain for Laura Rose by Stephanie Grace Whitson


Heidi Reads... A Captain for Laura Rose by Stephanie Grace Whitson

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

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

Synopsis

Laura Rose White's late father taught her everything he knew about piloting a Missouri River steamboat. He even named their boat after her. Despite that, it seems that Laura will forever be a "cub pilot" to her brother Joe, because in 1867, a female riverboat captain is unheard of. That is, until tragedy strikes and Laura must make the two month journey from St. Louis to Fort Benton and back in order to save her family's legacy, her home, and the only life she's ever known.

The only way for her to overcome the nearly insurmountable odds is with the help of her brother's disreputable friend Finn MacKnight, a skilled pilot with a terrible reputation. Laura loathes having to accept MacKnight as her co-pilot, especially when she learns she must also provide passage for his two sisters. Straight-laced Fiona has a fear of water, and unpredictable Adele seems much too comfortable with the idea of life in the rough and tumble environment of the untamed river and the men who ply it. Though they are thrown together by necessity, this historic journey may lead Laura and the MacKnights to far more than they ever expected.


My Review

I so enjoyed reading this historical novel! I was fascinated with the journey of Laura and the obstacles she overcame along the way. All aspects of the book seemed historically accurate, rich with details and scenes pulled straight from captains' logs and journals. I especially appreciated the author's note at the end of the book which shared insights into her thorough research. She brought to life the difficulty of being a woman breaking into a male-dominated profession as Laura fought to be the first female steamboat captain. One of the main focuses of the book was the indomitable spirit of Laura, even as she felt alone and hesitant to turn to God. She and Finn bonded over the support they provided as they revealed their vulnerabilities and began to trust each other. Their characters were so well-developed and there wasn't a dull moment as they battled both internal and external trials. Finn's sisters Fiona and Adele were a wonderful contrast to each other, and Dr. Ross and Laura's mother provide spiritual guidance when Laura needs it the most. I loved the loyalty of the crew, Laura's dog Logjam, and the various colorful characters that rounded out the story. A thoroughly satisfying read!

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


Review: Between Hope & the Highway by Charissa Stastny


Heidi Reads... Between Hope & the Highway by Charissa Stastny

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

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

Synopsis

Sometimes things get so messed up you have to pick up and get the heck out of Dodge. That’s what Liz Ruthersford does. Memories can be weapons, and hers have become incoming missiles. Fleeing home and her parents’ pity, she seeks refuge on a remote ranch in Montana where no one knows her tragic past. When she meets Bentley and Rawson Law, brothers with wounds of their own, life veers off course from her plans. Embers of hope and love flicker to life, but will Liz let them burn bright enough to warm her heart? Or will she hit the highway and run once again? A clean, heart-pounding romance and redemption story.

My Review

This is a great story of forgiveness and second chances. It's written in first person from three characters' points of view- Liz, Rawson, and Rawson's little brother Ben. The characters were easy to get to know, but not always easy to like. They each have their share of flaws and tragedy, and it was interesting to see how their relationships changed them and they are all the better for knowing each other. I initially thought that Ben's perspective wasn't needed and seemed out of place, but he gives important insight and incorporates clever banter (which was needed since Liz and Rawson's banter borders on cheesy). The book seems really long and the pacing lagged in a few parts, but I was invested in the characters and story from the beginning and just had to keep reading. I enjoyed the mannerisms of the characters which made them come to life and also provided some interesting tidbits throughout the book. Side note- I've never really been one for cowboy boots, but that pair on the cover is pretty darn awesome ;)

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


Freebie Alert! So Rare a Gift by Amber Lynn Perry


Don't miss this free e-book! I loved the historical setting and message of perseverance and love! Even though it's the third book in the series it can easily be read as a stand alone (I highly recommend the first two book in the series too!)http://amzn.to/2gvY5Dl

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

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

Synopsis

Escape is Anna Rone’s only option. Never again will she be trapped in a loveless marriage. A new life in America means safety—and discovering the truth behind her beloved brother’s death. But when she is nearly captured and forced to return to England, her vow to never marry for anything but love is forgotten when she must marry for protection. Perhaps the handsome man she accepts is truly as caring as he seems. If he is not, her future in America is darker than ever before.

Captain Henry Donaldson aided the colonists too many times. And now, the British army intends to make him pay with his life. Without his friends in Sandwich, he would be a dead man. He’s already changed his name, and when the kind, courageous woman he rescued offers to become his bride, he accepts despite the risks. His past taught him that women are not to be trusted and that love can cut deeper than the sword. Only time will reveal if this choice will bring the greatest pain he’s ever known.




Spotlight, Excerpt & Giveaway: Silver River Secrets by Linda Hope Lee


On Tour with Prism Book Tours.

Silver River SecretsSilver River Secrets
by Linda Hope Lee
Adult Contemporary Romance
Mass Market Paperback & ebook, 384 pages
December 1st 2016 by Harlequin Heartwarming

Tragedy made them strangers. The truth could change that…

Lacey Morgan's grandmother is the only reason she has to ever set foot in Silver River. Her hometown is populated with too many ghosts and memories. Too many painful reminders. Including Rory Dalton.

In all her brief visits over the past ten years, they've barely spoken. Locked on opposite sides of the tragedy that tore their lives apart, they buried their feelings along with their parents. But this trip is different. She will stay a little longer. Dig a little deeper. And try to solve the mystery that has kept them from the truth…and each other.

GoodreadsAmazonBarnes & NobleHarlequin


Excerpt

    Inside the house, Sophie Bennett came from around the counter with arms outstretched. “Lacey! I’ve been watching for you.”
    “Hello, Sophie.” Lacey returned Sophie’s hug, catching a whiff of her lilac-scented perfume.
    Sophie stood back and held Lacey at arm’s length. “Good to see you.”
    “You, too.”
    Sophie’s bright blue T-shirt and orange slacks fit smoothly over her trim figure. An orange scarf holding back shoulder-length blond hair revealed a hint of gray at the temples.
    Sophie returned to her post behind the counter to check Lacey in. That completed, she took a key from a drawer and motioned to Lacey. “Come on. I’ll take you up to your room.”
    They went down a carpeted hallway to the stairs. The rooms they passed offered Lacey glimpses of wood paneling and wallpaper, brocaded fabrics and patterned carpets, hurricane lamps and heavy draperies. The B and B had long been a dream of Sophie’s, and when she finally convinced her husband, Hugh, to buy the place, she fixed it up in style.
    “Sorry to hear about your grandmother’s accident,” Sophie said over her shoulder as they climbed the stairs. “How’s she doing?”
    “Determined to walk again, but agrees it’s time to be in a place where someone can look after her.”
    “There’s no better place around here than Riverview.”
    “I know. We’re so lucky the owners decided to build their retirement home here rather than in Milton.”
    On the second floor, Sophie stopped at one of the rooms and slipped her key into the lock. “Here we are.”
    Lacey followed her inside, her gaze taking in a queen-size bed with a colorful patchwork quilt, an armoire, an overstuffed chair and a round rosewood table. A Tiffany lamp decorated with yellow roses hung over the table.
    “I love it!” Lacey exclaimed.
    “Fabulous view, too. Take a look.”
    Lacey parked her suitcase next to the luggage rack and followed Sophie to the window. In the courtyard below, water gushed from a stone fountain, and walkways wound through gardens full of flowers. Beyond lay the river and neighboring farms.
Then her gaze landed on an all-too-familiar copse of willow trees and a two-story house with peeling white paint. Her stomach dropped. “Oh...”
    “What’s the matter?” Sophie’s voice rose in alarm.
    “Our old house. Gram’s house.”
    “You can see it from here?” Sophie peered out the window. “Oh, my. Lacey, I’m sorry. I never realized...” Sophie pressed her fingers to her lips and looked at Lacey.           “You don’t have to stay in this room. You can move across the hall.”
    Lacey shook her head. “No, I want this one.”
    “But to be reminded whenever you look out the window...”
    “Sophie, not a day goes by that I don’t think about what happened in that house.”
    “I’m sorry, honey, so sorry. But I do wish you could put the past behind you.”
    Lacey shook her head and bit her lower lip. “Not possible.”
    Sophie let a moment of silence pass and then said, “Okay, if you’re sure you don’t want to change rooms, I’ll let you get settled. You probably want to go see your grandmother right away.”
    “Yes, I’m having dinner with her, but that still gives me time to unpack.”
    “If you need help bringing in more stuff, Hugh is around somewhere.”
    “I’ll be fine. Thanks.” Lacey lifted her suitcase onto the luggage rack and unzipped it.



Linda Hope Lee writes contemporary romance, romantic suspense, and mysteries. She enjoys traveling especially to small towns in search of story ideas. She's also an artist, specializing in watercolor, pen and ink, and colored pencil. Photography provides inspiration for both her writing and her art. She lives in the Pacific Northwest, where many of her stories are set.





Tour Schedule

November 29th: Launch
November 30th: Mommabears Book Blog
December 2nd: I Am A Reader & Heidi Reads...
December 3rd: Zerina Blossom's Books
December 5th: Getting Your Read On
December 6th: Grand Finale

Tour Giveaway

- 1 winner will receive a $50 Amazon eGift Card & copy of SILVER RIVER SECRETS by Linda Hope Lee (print if US, ebook if international)
- 3 winners will receive a copy of SILVER RIVER SECRETS by Linda Hope Lee (print if US, ebook if international)
- Open internationally
- Ends December 12th

a Rafflecopter giveaway
Grab Our Button!





Monday, November 28, 2016

Review & Giveaway: Love for All Seasons by Stacy Henrie


On Tour with Prism Book Tours.

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

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

A Long Winter Kiss

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

An Unlikely Spring Courtship

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

A Summer for Love

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

Romance in Autumn

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


My Review

5 stars / It was amazing

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

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

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

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Thursday, November 24, 2016

Review: Special Delivery Baby by Sherri Shackelford


Heidi Reads... Special Delivery Baby by Sherri Shackelford

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

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

Synopsis

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

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

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


My Review

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

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

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


Tuesday, November 22, 2016

Review: Want Ad Wedding by Cheryl St.John


Heidi Reads... Want Ad Wedding by Cheryl St.John

My rating: 3 stars / I liked it

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

Synopsis

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

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

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


My Review

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

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