Saturday, August 6, 2022

Review: Grace on the Mountain Trail by Misty M. Beller


My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it



Synopsis

This epic journey is her last hope to find her lost brother—the only family she has left.

When Lola Carson’s father died, his last words spoke of a half-brother she’d never known about. And now, to claim her own inheritance and come to terms with her father’s secret life, she must find this mysterious man—whose last known whereabouts are somewhere west of the wild Rocky Mountains. After hiring family friends to accompany her on the trek, she sets out for a wilderness few white women have ever seen. She doesn’t expect the majestic peaks to captivate her so, nor the half-dead brave they find on one of the slopes.

White Owl left his village and his broken heart behind when he set out for fresh start. His newfound faith is the one anchor in his life. He’s desperate to learn more about the God he’s committed to follow and become an interpreter for the missionaries who led him to faith. But he barely starts his journey when a hunting accident nearly kills him. The woman who discovers him in the midst of his fevered delirium seems to be a gift from above.

But the more White Owl learns about Lola’s companions and her dangerous quest, the more he realizes his own calling is clear—to take her safely to her brother. The question is, will he have to sacrifice more than his heart to accomplish that goal?

From a USA Today bestselling author comes another epic journey through breathless landscapes and adventure so intense, lives will never be the same.


My Review

I was glad to be able to read White Owl's story after he had been rejected by Watkuese in the previous book. He has a gift of discernment, and senses that all is not right with Lola's situation. He knows where to locate her half-brother, giving him the opportunity to remain with the group as their guide and provide protection and support for Lola. I admired her tenacity in seeking out her brother despite her conflicted feelings. Naturally the wilderness presents several obstacles along their journey, and true to the author's style, this group does not reach their destination without their share of danger, injury, and faith-building experiences. I enjoyed the closeness that Lola and White Owl develop, especially with their faith in common. The original group of travelers has expanded quite a bit as the series has progressed, and it was special to see one of the original members unite with their family.

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 books in the Call of the Rockies series . . .
 






Review: A Model of Devotion by Mary Connealy



My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it



Synopsis

A brilliant engineer, Jilly Stiles has been educated since childhood to help run her father's dynasty. Now with the company safe after the marriages of her two sisters, Jilly can focus on her dream of building a mountaintop railroad--and never marry.

Nick Ryder came into Jilly's life when he saved her mother from her no-good stepfather, and he's prepared to protect Jilly from anything that threatens to harm her. Haunted by the pain of his own past, Nick is determined not to get his heart involved while protecting Jilly from losing her hard-won independence.

But when a cruel and powerful man goes to dangerous lengths to make Jilly his own, marrying Nick may be the only way to save herself and her dreams.


My Review

I've really enjoyed this series and how each daughter became empowered through her skills and determination, as well as supporting and receiving support through new relationships and love. While their mother was physically abused by their stepfather, Jilly suffered from emotional abuse which has been alluded to in the first two books. We learn how this has influenced her stance on marriage, especially marriage for convenience. Nick has proven himself a devoted protector of his former boss's family, and received their trust in return. He and Jilly make a good team, continuing to build her father's lumber legacy with the latest developments in rail transportation. As sabotage becomes evident, the danger ramps up and all the daughters with their mother unite to fight back against the threat. I appreciated that Nick and Jilly had more time than her sisters to develop a foundation before diving into a deeper relationship, but I think that was necessary given her issues. I was happy to see healing and success with all the members of the family as the series wrapped up.

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 Lumber Baron's Daughters series




Review: His Amish Sweetheart by Jennifer Beckstrand


My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it



Synopsis

Fondly nicknamed “The Peanut Butter Brothers,” Andrew, Abraham, and Austin Petersheim skillfully run one of Wisconsin’s most cherished family businesses. But their mischievous younger twin siblings have a talent all their own—for matchmaking . . .

Between work and keeping his little brothers out of trouble, Austin Petersheim barely has time to think, much less court the most popular maidel in town. But if he can establish a local market to direct-sell his family’s goods, he’ll stand out as a potential husband. He’s so grateful for the help of his longtime friend, Hannah Yutzy, who has such practical ideas—and is so easy to talk to . . .

While Austin embarks on his plan, his siblings have a plan of their own: to give Austin and Hannah a little nudge to show them they’re made for each other. When their antics wreak havoc with a rival family emporium, Hannah must help Austin set things right. And as she does just that, Austin is stunned to realize his best friend could be his perfect wife. Now he’ll just need the courage and faith to find out if she agrees . . .


My Review

Another matchmaking scheme in the books for young Alfie and Benji, on their quest to get out of the cellar and reclaim a bedroom in the house! These two crack me up with their narrative and way of thinking. Their older brother Austin is in their sights, and this time the twins disagree on who should be the target of his romance. Austin is such an oblivious guy, and often made me cringe as his thoughtlessness hurt Hannah's feelings. It's a tricky time of life, where it's too easy to take friends for granted while figuring out dating and courtship. I loved how Benji sees through the facade and manipulations of Alfie's choice of girl, and Alfie's reaction when he has to eat crow and follow Benji's lead for once. Some angst and drama is woven in as Hannah learns to let Austin go, while Austin learns to appreciate and value Hannah as well as identify who he feels truly devoted to. Andrew, Abraham, the family, and community are entertaining as a strong supporting cast, and I hope we get more stories in this series!

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

Don't miss the other books in the Petersheim Brothers series . . .




Review: The Engagement Bargain by Sherri Shackelford



My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it



Synopsis

Make-believe betrothal

Rock-solid and reliable, confirmed bachelor Caleb McCoy thought nothing could rattle him--until he discovers he needs to pose as Anna Bishop's intended groom. After saving her life, his honorable code bid Caleb watch over the innocent beauty. And a pretend engagement is the only way to protect her from further harm.

Raised by a single mother and suffragist, Anna doesn't think much of marriage--and she certainly doesn't plan to try it herself. But playing Caleb's blushing bride-to-be makes her rethink her independent ways, because their make-believe romance is becoming far too real...


My Review

The suffragist message and theme was strong in this book, and it was interesting to see how Anna, raised by a borderline militant suffragist mother, could choose her own path while still staying true to the good principles of the movement. It was a journey for her to be removed from her mother's influence and develop her own opinions about friendship, relationships, and romance. I loved her hidden talent with embroidery and the small ways she defied her mother while still seeking her approval in other ways. Caleb's emotions are a bit of a mess, and it was surprising that he had allowed a rather insignificant rejection from his past to have such a long-lasting effect on his trust. I liked seeing him loosen up and give Anna and himself a chance. A great cast of community members- family and friends- rounded out this story in a delightful way.

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.


Blog + Review Tour & Giveaway: The Epic Story of RJ and York series by Susan May Warren

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for The Epic Story of RJ and York by Susan May Warren, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

 

ABOUT THE SERIES

 

It’s an epic adventure across Europe, from France to Italy, to Germany and even Russia in this riveting, fun, romantic, enthralling trilogy about true love, honor, and the cost of, well, saving the world.

Title: Out of the Night 
Series: The Epic Story of York & RJ #1 
Author: Susan May Warren 
Publisher: SDG Publishing 
Release Date: August 9, 2022 
Genre: Romantic Suspense (Clean)

The romantic trilogy ignites in book one of the Epic Story of RJ and York! 

He’s not looking for trouble… 

All former spy and current national security agent York Newgate wants is to propose to the woman he loves, RJ Marshall. Then they can move to Shelly, Washington, and start the calm, safe life he’s been dreaming of for over a year. 

Too bad trouble doesn’t agree… 

Or maybe RJ simply attracts trouble because she’s just going out for coffee when she spots a wanted, known terrorist standing in the middle of a street in Paris. At least she thinks it’s international criminal Alan Martin, the mastermind behind a plot to kill the president. But he's in jail, right? Wrong. Martin has escaped, and it’s up to RJ—and York—to keep him in their sights until he can be apprehended. But chasing down Martin means following him into the darkness of whatever plot he's cooked up now. 

Will he ever outrun trouble to find his happy ending? 

So much for York’s epic proposal. Now, he just wants to escape Europe with their lives. 

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

My Review

I was so happy that we get to read more adventures with Ruby Jane and York! He was definitely one of my favorites from the Montana Marshalls series. He's kind of like a burned out James Bond, and just wants to retire from the spy game with peace. RJ, on the other hand, still has plenty of energy to give and enthusiastically throws herself into whatever it takes to save the world. I loved their romantic moments, even though they still have things in their relationship to work on. The fast pace is full of nail-biting danger and close calls, with the book ending on a cliffhanger- so be prepared to read this series back to back! I'm so glad the author is releasing them close together so readers don't have to wait or risk losing interest over time.

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.

Title: I Will Find You 
Series: The Epic Story of York & RJ #2 
Author: Susan May Warren 
Publisher: SDG Publishing 
Release Date: August 16, 2022 
Genre: Romantic Suspense (Clean)

The gripping romantic adventure continues across Europe in this second installment of the Epic Story of RJ and York! 

The woman he loves has vanished… 

When RJ Marshall said she’d be right back, York should have objected. No, he wasn’t going to let her run off to Berlin, even if it was to save a little girl. Only problem—she’d told him this while he was unconscious. So really, it doesn’t count, and it’s not his fault that she’s gone missing. And, he didn’t know why he expected RJ not to chase danger into trouble. But now he has to find her before criminal mastermind Alan Martin tracks her down. 

She’s in over her head… 

RJ didn’t mean to leave York behind, but she’s on a mission to save a little girl caught in the crossfire of Martin’s terrorist plot. Now, she’ll have to find the girl and keep her safe while leaving clues for York to follow her. 

But who will catch up to her first—York, or the man with a vendetta?

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble 

My Review

While the action picks up right where it left off in the previous book, I especially loved the strong faith message that I found woven throughout. Secondary characters Ziggy and Roy add depth and influence RJ's perspective in good ways, and a dual timeline story brought another dimension to the story. It's inspiring to see how these characters are still developing and growing, showing that it is a lifelong process that we are continually seeking to change and grow closer to God. The epic adventure with danger and suspense doesn't slow down, and I can't wait to read the next book and see how it all wraps up!

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.
 

Title: No Matter the Cost 
Series: The Epic Story of York & RJ #3 
Author: Susan May Warren 
Publisher: SDG Publishing 
Release Date: August 23, 2022 
Genre: Romantic Suspense (Clean)

The riveting conclusion to the Epic Story of RJ and York! 

Her worst nightmare has happened…. 

RJ refuses to believe it, and until she has proof, she’s going to keep searching for answers. And most of all, for the man she loves, even if it means diving into the past he always wanted to keep secret. The kind of secrets that could have set York free. It’ll take a trip back to Russia, to the sketchy and dark history of York’s life to find the clues to the sinister plans of a global terrorist. And the answers that might lead her to a happy ending. 

Or has it? What if her happy ending is more than a dream? 

If RJ hopes to save her country—and find out the truth about York—she’ll have to become the high-action, Sydney Bristow spy that she always dreamed of being. But really, does RJ really have what it takes—with, or without the man she loves—to save the world? 

And if she does…what will be the cost? 

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
 
My Review

What an absolutely satisfying conclusion to this trilogy! Learning more about York's past and how that has influenced him peeled back more layers to this dynamic character, and his relationship with RJ deepens as they become more in sync with their desires for the future. The plot is suspenseful, with more twists, turns and surprises that had me gripping my Kindle as I read! Epic is the perfect word for this series and I loved every moment of the wild and crazy ride. I'm amazed at the author's skill in immersing me completely into the setting and emotions of the characters, feeling what they are feeling as I read- my favorite kind of reading experience! I love these characters and was so happy and relieved with their happily-ever-after.

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.
 

ALSO AVAILABLE

Knox Tate Ford Wyatt Ruby Jane by Susan May Warren


 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

 
Susan May Warren

With over 1.5 million books sold, critically acclaimed USA Today best-selling novelist Susan May Warren is the Christy, RITA and Carol award-winning author of over ninety novels with Revell, Tyndale, Barbour, Steeple Hill and Summerside Press. Known for her compelling plots and unforgettable characters, Susan has written contemporary and historical romances, romantic-suspense, thrillers, rom-com and Christmas novellas.

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

TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a paperback set of The Epic Story of RJ and York trilogy.

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight August 2, 2022 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on August 9, 2022. US only. Items may vary from image. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE


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

JustRead Publicity Tours

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.






Monday, August 1, 2022

Book Tour, Review & Instagram Giveaway: Inventions of the Heart by Mary Connealy



 
My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it



Synopsis

Her heart seeks safety. But will trouble find her even here?

After her sister's marriage, Michelle Stiles is left hiding at Two Harts Ranch with the handsome but stubborn Zane Hart. She's managed to stay one step ahead of her stepfather and his devious plans, but if he finds her, she will no longer be safe.

Zane has problems of his own. Having discovered a gold mine on his property, he must figure out how to harvest it without kicking off a gold rush. Michelle, educated and trained to run her father's business, wants to manage all aspects of the mine, but Zane thinks for a person so smart she can have some misguided ideas. Running the mining operation will be a dangerous job, and he can't risk putting her in harm's way.

But danger finds Michelle anyway when she's suddenly attacked. If they go to the sheriff, they'll reveal her location, but if they do nothing . . . their troubles have only just begun.


My Review

I enjoyed this continuation of the Lumber Baron's Daughters series with Michelle and Zane's story. It was so fun to see the way her inventor's mind works and all the ideas for improvement she has. She and Zane have good chemistry despite their bickering, and he feels protective of these heiress sisters who have landed on his ranch through interesting circumstances. Naturally there is danger around every corner and plenty of adventure as the sisters fight the hold their wicked stepfather has on the family along with the honorable men who are devoted to them. Even though Zane is tied to his ranch and the struggles there, Michelle's future becomes his own and I loved the way she became just as invested in the ranch as the lumber business. We also see the perspective of their mother on the mountain as Laura and Caleb return and the overturning of power begins. This series has the author's trademark humor, action, and faith woven together with vibrant characters and interesting plots.

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.
 
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